Chess in the Schools Celebrates 30th Anniversary with NYC's Largest Outdoor Tournament; 2016-17 Events Announced

As New York City kids go back to school this September, Chess in the Schools celebrates three decades of empowering New York City's most underserved schools and students.

Chess in the Schools is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to improving academic performance and building self-esteem among inner-city public school children through chess.

NYC'S LARGEST OUTDOOR CHESS TOURNAMENT IN CENTRAL PARK, SEPT. 17:

The 30th Anniversary celebration launches on Saturday, September 17 in Central Park with The 16thAnnual Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open. With 2,000 expected participants and spectators, the annual event is the city's largest outdoor chess tournament. Organized by Chess in the Schools and NYC Parks, nearly 800 chess players ranging from 5 to 95 years in age will compete at the foot of Bethesda Fountain for this free event. Following check-in beginning at 9:00AM, the tournament runs from 11:00AM - 4:00PM. Each round is 20 minutes.

Beyond the tournament, highlights of the event will include an exhibition game with Grandmaster Maxim Dlugy and International Master Yuri Lapshun.

To register, visit www.ChessInTheSchools.org. For more information (and in case of rain), visit www.nyc.gov/parks or www.ChessInTheSchools.org. For e-mail inquiries contact tournaments@chessintheschools.org.

"The Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open has served as our 'Back-to-School' launch event for 16 years and we look forward to it every year," says Debbie Eastburn, the new President & CEO, Chess in the Schools. "This is our one annual event designed for all ages, and thousands of New Yorkers and others across the nation come to join in the fun. Whether you are chess champion, an aspiring champion, or a novice, all are invited to play, learn and enjoy this special day."

CHESS IN THE SCHOOLS WELCOMES A NEW PRESIDENT & CEO:

As it enters its third decade, Chess in the Schools announces a new President & CEO, Debbie Eastburn. Passionate about education, Eastburn has previously worked as a professional, Board member and volunteer in fundraising, marketing and finance for schools, educational programs and other nonprofit organizations. She has a BA from Williams College and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

"I'm honored to work with our dynamic educators, forward-thinking Board, generous donors, committed city officials, wonderful staff, and so many other supportive partners," says Eastburn. "What I most look forward to is what everyone at CIS focuses on, and counts most: working with our students."

Eastburn assumes the position of President & CEO of Chess in the Schools as Marley J. Kaplan retires from the position after serving 23 years in the position. Kaplan's retirement will cap more than two decades of achievement and growth for Chess in the Schools. She will continue to serve as Senior Advisor during the transition.

"I am grateful to have spent 23 years with this great organization and am deeply honored to have had the opportunity to lead it for the last 16 years," says Kaplan. "I love Chess in the Schools and all the wonderful people I have worked with and will always treasure the millions of memories - some funny, some sad, and some just remarkable. I will be forever grateful for the wonderful students I have had the privilege of getting to know and watch grow up."

CALENDAR OF CHESS IN THE SCHOOLS 30TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS IS ANNOUNCED:

The Chess in-the-Park Rapid Open is just one of over 30 events on a calendar of tournaments, in-school events, college-prep programs, summer camp and gala events. This year, Chess in the Schools embarks upon a special partnership with the 2016 World Chess Championship to take place in New York City from November 11-30. One of the most prestigious chess events in existence, the near month-long contest will take place between current World Champion, Magnus Carlsen and Sergey Karjakin. On the opening day of the World Championship (November 11th), Chess in the Schools will host the New York City Junior Championship. Other event highlights include:

Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open

Saturday, September 17, 2016

The 30th Anniversary celebration launches on Saturday, September 17 in Central Park with The 16th Annual Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open. With 2,000 expected participants and spectators, the annual event is the city's largest outdoor chess tournament.

Columbus Day Chess Challenge

Monday, October 10, 2016

One of our major holiday tournaments, hundreds of NYC students will compete at this event, held on Columbus Day at PS 11 in Manhattan.

30th Anniversary Fund Annual Appeal

November 2016

In celebration of our 30th Anniversary, Chess in the Schools invites current and potential supporters to join this special opportunity to give to the work of Chess in the Schools, including the very first Ten for $10 social media campaign.

Heisman Chess Challenge

Saturday, November 5, 2016

We are thrilled to host this tournament, made possible through the generosity of the Heisman Trust, which has for decades bestowed the renowned Heisman Trophy, given to those who epitomize great ability combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work.

Chess in the Schools & World Chess New York City Junior Championship

Saturday, November 11, 2016

In partnership with the 2016 World Chess Championship, Chess in the Schools will host the highly sought-after New York City Junior Championship on the very same day that the World Championship commences in New York City!

Andrew Cramer Chess Challenge

Saturday, November 19, 2016

This event will be held in special recognition of the generosity of up-and-coming young philanthropist, Andrew Cramer to Chess in the Schools.

30th Anniversary Chess Challenge

Saturday, January 7, 2017

Chess in the Schools kicks-off the second part of its 30th Anniversary year with this very special chess challenge.

Chess in the Schools New York City All Girls Chess Challenge

Saturday, March 4, 2017

For the first time in nearly two decades, Chess in the Schools will hold the New York City Chess Challenge in celebration of women and girls in chess.

March 2017

Women's History Month Luncheon - details and date TBD

In celebration of Women's History Month and the All Girls Chess Challenge, a special luncheon will be held in March 2017, featuring several inspiring women from various industries.

Monday, May 8, 2017

30th Anniversary Chess in the Schools Benefit Celebration

Our largest and most important fundraiser, the annual Benefit Celebration is a wonderful evening attended by some of New York City's most generous philanthropists and features entertainment, cocktails, silent auction, dinner and more!

City Council Tournaments:

Chess in the Schools is deeply grateful for the unwavering support of many of our New York City Council Members. Several Council Members have made the following tournaments possible:

CM Daniel Garodnick Chess Challenge - Saturday, December 17, 2016

CM's Richie Torres/Fernando Cabrera Chess Challenge - February 11, 2017

CM Marc Levine Chess Challenge - Saturday, March 11, 2017

CM Ben Kallos Chess Challenge - Saturday, March 18, 2017

CM Mathieu Eugene Chess Challenge - April 22, 2017

For more details about these and other upcoming Chess in the Schools events, visit www.ChessInTheSchools.org.