By Ericka Alston Buck
Special to the AFRO
The Baltimore Marriott Waterfront shimmered in blue and gold on Saturday Oct. 18 as Coppin State University marked its 125th anniversary with a black-tie gala brimming with pride, purpose and philanthropy. Alumni, students, faculty and community leaders gathered to honor a university that has shaped generations of Baltimore’s dreamers and doers.
“Coppin raised me,” said alumna Dr. Vaness Cooper. “Tonight feels like a family reunion, one that honors 125 years of resilience and brilliance.”
A family introduction for a beloved leader
Before President Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins took to the stage, guests were moved by an introduction from his daughters Alicia and Ashley Jenkins.
“Our dad has given all of himself to create an environment where people can succeed regardless of income or background,” Ashley said. “He’s accomplished in five years what many would take decades to do and he’s done it with heart.” Alicia added, “He wasn’t supposed to be here, statistically. Yet, here he stands, leading an institution that changes lives everyday.”
Their tribute drew tears and applause.
“Those girls said exactly what we all feel,” said Tanya Graham. “ His leadership has revived Coppin’s soul.”
A night of purpose and giving
This year’s gala took on an auction style format, with guests raising numbered paddles high to support scholarships and student success. By the night’s end, Coppin surpassed its goal, more than $500,000 was pledged. Overall, the university’s fundraising campaign has raised $25.5 million.
“It was beautiful watching those paddles wave like Eagle wings,” said Marcus Jennings. “Every raise of a paddle represented a life that will be changed because of Coppin.”
Among the dignitaries in attendance was 10th District Baltimore City Councilwoman Phylicia Porter, who underscored the broader meaning of the evening.
“I attended the Coppin state Gala because Historical Black Colleges and Universities are the cornerstone of our communities,” Porter said. “As government leaders, we must use our influence not only to show support but also to provide financial assistance to the young people who attend HBCUs. As a proud HBCU graduate, I understand the power, storytelling and cultural importance these institutions bring to policy and everyday life in Baltimore.”
A president’s call to kindness
When Jenkins took the podium, the ballroom rose to its feet. His remarks blended gratitude with challenge.
“I want you to take a look around your table and ask yourself, why am I here?” he urged. “Your being here is about leadership. It’s about the courage to advance the human condition.” He paused, then added, “An act of kindness is the most valued currency in the world. When leaders like you lean in, you are not just restoring faith in humanity – you are offering life to a student, to a family, to a community.”
Honoring excellence
The program spotlighted those whose work reflects Coppin’s enduring mission, Thompson Hospitality received the Wings of Excellence Award; Truist Corporation earned the Blue and Gold Impact Award and Michael Lee Barland and Brenda Ann Barland were honored with the Eagle Legacy award for decades of civic leadership.
The Eagle of the Year Award went to Brittny Bagley, who said, “Coppin gave me my start. Everything I’ve built since then is rooted in what I learned here – faith, service and perseverance.”
A celebration of hope
Between awards, pledges and an unforgettable meal came a soulful performance by R and B Icon Carl Thomas, followed by an all-out dance floor celebration with DJ Jazze Pha and DJ Ryan Kersey. Shouts of “Heeeeey Coppin!” rang out well past 11pm.
As the evening closed Jenkin’s words were heavy on hearts and minds.
“Our university has stood for 125 years on a promise to nurture potential and transform lives. We take students others might overlook and help them soar. When we say Be More for Coppin. We mean building a stronger Baltimore, one student at a time,” he said.
Blue and Gold beamed with pride as the Eagles of Coppin State University celebrated not only their rich history, but the boundless promise of the next 125 years.