News & Highlights
Where STORMERS Make Headlines
For media inquiries, please contact A Step Ahead Chess’ communications and marketing lead shawnaprince@astepaheadchess.org.
At A Step Ahead Chess, the moves we make go far beyond the board—and the world is taking notice.
Welcome to our News & Highlights page: your hub for staying connected with our mission in motion. Here, you'll find:
Our Latest Newsletters
Press & Media Coverage
Our Latest Newsletters
Stories of growth, grit, and game-changing moments straight from the heart of our community.
Press & Media Coverage
See how our STORMERS, coaches, and programs are capturing attention and inspiring change.
ASAC in the Press
A Step Ahead Chess: Creating The Next Generation of Critical Thinkers
“We’re kicking things off by meeting a group that’s creating the next generation of problem solvers, critical thinkers and future leaders. “A Step Ahead Chess” is enriching Chicago’s youth on and off the board teaching the value of hard work and improving communication skills."
CPS students in chess program prepare for tournament in New York City
Chicago Public Schools students from A Step Ahead Chess program are heading to New York City for a five-day trip to compete in a chess tournament at Bryant Park, marking their first tournament travel since the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Step Ahead Chess ABC 7 Highlight with BMOA and VLA
"We're excited to share that the Black McDonalds's Operator Association is partnering with and supporting A Step Ahead Chess as they highlight organizations having an impact in our communities for #BlackHistoryMonth."
Greater than Zero Podcast
"In this episode we interview Coach Shawn Sorsby, Executive Director of A Step Ahead Chess. A Step Ahead Chess is on a mission to encourage. To leave a lasting impact on the lives of children by addressing their physical, mental and emotional needs with quality care and compassion."
October 2022: ASAC Featured in Chicago Reader
“…More than 100 kids…[participated] in one of the only free, rated chess tournaments for youths in Chicago. It was organized by Shawn Sorsby of A Step Ahead Chess and the Chicago Chess Foundation.”
February 2019: From Chicago to Cali
Coming away with individual and team trophies, the only girl player to win a trophy in her section, and another 1st place winner in the advanced rated section, I am truly proud of these young players and future leaders.y you tell your story online can make all the difference.
April 2018: Aliv becomes a Gold Sponsor
After hearing the team’s story, Aliv committed to donating a generous $3,000 to the team…they believe in youth, believe in passion, believe in education and believe in the best within everyone.
July 2017: Five Top Place Trophies in NYC
A great chess player learns to plan for the future and think ahead, on the chessboard and in life. One of the things we want to do with the program is give young people a true education by exposing them to various places and cultures.
December 2016: Chess Coach Receives Distinguished Honor
Studies show students that play chess do better academically because it helps with their problem-solving. It will help them with their math, with their critical thinking, and also their patience…the great thing about it is stormers are developing all of these skills playing a game that they enjoy.
March 2016: Thankful For Our First International Journey
"I was really nervous and scared that I was going to lose. I expected the person I played to whoop me, but after I got my victory I gained a confidence I didn’t know I had."
December 2015: 4 Months After Inception, We Secured Our First Global Partnership
Chess is a popular game throughout the world and is able to connect people, even across language barriers, which makes it a great tool to bring people together.
Sister Cities Global Chess Partnership Unites Students Around The Globe In Intellectual Competition
Aliv Donates To BMES Chess Club
Pawnstormers Return Home With Valuable Treasures
Pawnstormers Return Home With Valuable Treasures
BMES Pawnstormers Took In New York And Claimed Top Place In The Process
Whether you’re a parent, donor, partner, or chess enthusiast, this is where you’ll see how every move we make is building something bigger.
Because when young minds are empowered, the world pays attention.