Maurice Ashley

Maurice Ashley is an internationally renowned chess grandmaster, one of the first African Americans to hold the title, and a motivational speaker and author. He is also a commentator for the World Chess Championship and the US Chess Championship and a chess instructor for both children and adults.

Born in Jamaica in 1966, Maurice Ashley began playing chess at the age of 12 and quickly rose to become one of the world's top players. He earned the title of International Grandmaster in 1999, making him the first African American to do so. He has won numerous tournaments, including the U.S. Open, Pan-American Intercollegiate Team Championship, and the National Open. He is also a four-time National Chess Champion.

In addition to his chess accomplishments, Ashley is also a highly sought-after motivational speaker, author, and commentator. He wrote the book “Chess for Success, " a motivational guide to success through chess. He also wrote the book “Chess for Success: Utilizing an Old Game to Build New Strengths in Children and Teens” which encourages kids to use chess to develop their critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and self-confidence.

As an educator, Ashley has been a chess instructor for adults and children alike. He has taught chess classes at various universities and schools, including Harvard, Princeton, and the University of Massachusetts. He also leads chess camps, lectures, and interactive seminars.

As a commentator, Ashley has provided analysis and commentary for the World Chess Championship and the US Chess Championship. He is also the commentator for the National and World Chess Championships on ESPN2 and for the United States Chess Federation's Chess.com.

Maurice Ashley is an inspiring example of how hard work and dedication can result in achieving one's dreams. He is a true champion of the game of chess and a role model for young players.

Maurice Ashley is an advocate for chess as a tool for education and is committed to promoting the game to new generations of players. He has also been an ambassador for chess, traveling the world and speaking to audiences about the importance of chess in education, self-improvement, and the development of critical thinking skills.

In 2010, Ashley was inducted into the United States Chess Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the game. He currently serves as the Senior Chess Advisor for the US Chess Federation and is the Harlem Chess Center Executive Director in New York City. Ashley’s work is helping to make chess more accessible, and his passion and enthusiasm for the game are inspiring more and more people to take up the game of chess.