Baylor Opportunity Fund

Growing up in the 1940s and ‘50s in Washington D.C., Elgin Baylor was shut out from many of the nearby gyms because he was black. Despite finding a way to play and excel at basketball in high school, Elgin wasn’t recruited to play in college. That is until a friend helped Elgin find The College of Idaho in 1954. 1954 was the year of Brown v. Board of Education. Very few colleges had black players on their rosters. At The College of Idaho, Elgin led a team of six black players – paving the way for diversity at every level.  Elgin wasn’t looking for anything special, but his journey to Idaho and his experience at The College of Idaho set the tone for one of the more remarkable stories of change, perseverance, and success.  Elaine Baylor charted her own path as well, passing on a full-ride scholarship to study chemistry at an HBCU, to instead attend Newcomb in New Orleans as one of their first students of color. Elgin and Elaine were both trailblazers who dedicated their lives to creating paths for others. For nearly fifty years, Elgin dedicated his professional life to the sport of basketball; as a player, coach, and front office executive. He received numerous awards and commendations throughout his career, while also being vocal about the importance of education. He and his wife Elaine gave generously to support youth and educational institutions throughout his lifetime. Sadly, Elgin passed away in March 2021.  Now, nearly 70 years after Elgin attended The College of Idaho, his and Elaine’s legacies are being honored in a way suitable only to the character and determination they showed throughout their lives.