Jermel President, a former College of Charleston men’s basketball player, has been named the 2026 Cougar Trailblazer by College of Charleston Athletics. The recognition comes as part of the university’s Black History Month celebrations. President will be honored at two upcoming basketball games: the men’s game against North Carolina A&T on February 5 and the women’s game against UNCW on February 6.
President is known for founding the DAE (Delores and Estelle) Foundation in 1999, an organization that supports student-athletes in developing skills both on and off the court. The foundation, named after his mother and grandmother, offers programs focused on character development, academics, nutrition, and mental health. In recent years, its social competency training program has expanded to serve all students through schools and community initiatives.
“Being recognized as a Cougar Trailblazer is an honor especially during the year that the DAE Foundation marks our 25th anniversary – a quarter century of empowering student athletes,” said President. “As I reflect on my personal journey, I’m humbled by the many young lives we’ve had the honor to serve.”
President acknowledged those who influenced his path. “What began as a vision to give back to the Charleston community has grown into a legacy of impact. That legacy started with those who shaped me, my mother, Delores, my grandmother, Estelle, and countless teachers, community mentors, and coaches including Reverend Dallas Wilson (Midnight Basketball), Coach Earl Brown (Burke High School), Coach Fletcher Arritt (FUMA), Coach John Kresse (College of Charleston), and NBA Hall of Famer Rick Barry,” he said.
“Their influence and support blazed a trail for me, and it is my great privilege to continue paving a way forward for the next generation of Lowcountry student athletes who learn how to handle life through the great game of basketball.”
During his time at Burke High School and later with the Cougars from 1995-1999, President made significant contributions to his teams. His jersey was retired in TD Arena in 2011. As point guard for College of Charleston, he helped lead three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances—including their first tournament win in 1997 over Maryland—and finished his collegiate career with notable statistics before playing professionally.
