about US

Smiling man sitting at a table with multiple chessboards, playing chess, in an indoor setting.
Two children playing chess using tournament-style boards with black and white pieces, seated at a wooden table.

CHESS IS AN INFLUENTIAL TACTIC IN BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS. 

We believe chess is more than a game - it’s a portable classroom that builds the foundation for lifelong learning. On the board, students develop core competencies like critical thinking, focus, patience, resilience, and decision-making - skills they carry with them into school, work, and life.

But too many children in Western Pennsylvania - and beyond - don’t have access to the environments where these skills are nurtured. Without after-school support or enrichment opportunities, many students struggle to stay engaged in school, and far too many fall behind or drop out altogether.

That’s where we come in. Our free, accessible chess programming offers a powerful, adaptable, and inclusive approach to education. Designed to meet students where they are—both geographically and developmentally - our model ensures that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead.

Because when you teach a young person to think strategically, you teach them to shape their own future.

A group of elementary school children and one adult teacher in a classroom, some holding chess boards, smiling for a photo.

Our Story

SINCE 2014, WE HAVE PROVIDED QUALITY PROGRAMMING TO THE COMMUNITY THROUGH INTENTIONAL PARTNERSHIPS. 

Queens Gambit was founded in 2014 by Ashley Lynn Priore, then a high school freshman with a bold vision: to make chess more inclusive, accessible, and relevant for today’s world. She began by teaching chess in local libraries and schools, using the game as a tool to build confidence, strategy, and leadership in young people - especially girls and students of color. What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a nationally recognized organization known for its innovative programming, powerful partnerships, and commitment to equity.

As both a respected chess player and advocate, Ashley is reshaping the future of the game—ensuring that every young person has a seat at the table, and the power to make their next move count.

By the numbers

2,080

hours teaching chess in 2024

2,000

youth reached yearly 

75+

partners & collaborators

The image has a transparent background with a pattern of small, light green squares arranged in a checkered pattern.
Children playing chess in a classroom with a large digital screen that says, "Let's Learn Chess" and an instructor watching. The room has white brick walls, windows, and multiple chess boards on tables.

DISCOVER THE IMPACT

When young people learn chess, they gain far more than game skills - they unlock a powerful set of tools for life.

Our Profile of a Chess Player illustrates the impact of chess education. As students develop their understanding of the game, they also grow into strategic thinkers, confident leaders, empathetic teammates, and resilient decision-makers. These are the core qualities that shape not just strong players - but strong people.

  • Chess players imagine a position they hope to achieve and creatively establish a way to get there. They respect the logic and rules of the game while embracing the freedom to innovate and create unique positions.

  • Rather than accepting what they see, chess players ask challenging questions and explore different options to achieve the best outcome. They are able to take what they learn on the chess board and apply it to the real world.

  • Chess players visualize their opponent's moves and understand the challenges they face and opportunities they can chase. They effectively and succinctly describe future situations and possible outcomes.

  • Chess players are able to sit and focus for long periods of time during stressful and challenging times. Their remarkable stamina and heightened focus allows them to navigate the intricate web of moves and countermoves.

  • Chess players, thinking first and acting second, are able to balance multiple considerations, weigh options, and brainstorm specific actions and consequences. They are constantly offering new ideas and methods to pivot in any position.

OUR GOALS

A classroom with a group of students, with a girl in a rainbow tie-dye shirt raising her hand at the center. Other students are seated around the table, some also raising their hands. A girl in the background is sitting on a desk holding a yellow book.

01

Chess is widely recognized for its ability to cultivate decision making skills and adopted in more youth programs.

Group of six children holding certificates and a rolled-up poster in a classroom.

02

Historically underserved communities are represented by skilled leaders with shared lived experiences and create social capital that can be passed down to future generations.

Two girls playing chess at a dining table inside a living room.

03

New connections are formed to catalyze community innovations and meaningful relationships.

People playing chess in a room, with one person raising their hand, others watching and participating.

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

#chessmatters, an initiative spotlighting the educational advantages of chess. 

Your support can make a significant impact on spreading awareness about the transformative power of this timeless game in fostering valuable skills and learning experiences.

Donate now