At Bowie State University’s spring commencement, a record-breaking class of 887 graduates celebrated earning their degrees as keynote speaker Michael Eric Dyson challenged students to “stay woke” by pursuing excellence, civic engagement and social responsibility. The historic ceremony came as the university faces an $18 million budget deficit and planned staff cuts, adding urgency and resilience to the celebration for many graduates.
Category: HBCU
Posted inHBCU
Sen. McCray addresses graduates, closing banner year for UMES
Maryland state Sen. Corey V. McCray urged graduates at University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s 139th spring commencement to embrace challenges and seize opportunities as they pursue success. The ceremony also celebrated UMES’s expanding academic programs, international growth and major investments under President Heidi Anderson.
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Morgan State University sets new graduation records amid enrollment boom
Morgan State University has achieved record enrollment and graduation outcomes, with 1,876 graduates in the 2025-26 academic year, reflecting the university’s sustained growth and commitment to student success and public impact.
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HBCU pride on display at new Union Station concept store
The HBCU News Store has opened in Washington, D.C.’s Union Station, offering apparel, books, and memorabilia celebrating historically Black colleges and universities. Owned and founded by entrepreneur Sandra Long, the Black-owned concept shop has quickly gained attention for highlighting HBCU culture, attracting alumni, students, and families who see it as a space of pride, identity, and community connection.
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Bowser faces cheers and protests while addressing Howard, UDC graduates
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s commencement addresses to both Howard University (HU) and the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) on May 9 seemed like a page out of a Charles Dickens classic: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” That’s because […]
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Susan Young Browne, DSU’s oldest living graduate celebrates 108th birthday
By Delaware State University More than 130 people gathered on May 2 to celebrate Susan Young Browne’s 108th birthday with a special dinner at Whatcoat United Methodist Church of Dover, Del. Attendees included Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer, and Levy Court Commissioners Joanne Masten and Terry Pepper. Those present expressed profound amazement and heartfelt admiration for […]
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Local professor uses GoFundMe to help Howard University students reach finish line
Help Howard University students graduate! Donate to the GoFundMe fundraiser and support seniors with outstanding bills. Every contribution counts!
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HBCU presidents announce collaboration to expand research and innovation
By Dr. Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editordbailey@afro.com Leaders at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the nation have declared an initiative to invest in the future of research and discovery. Fifteen of America’s HBCUs high-capacity research institutions have announced the Association of HBCU Research Institutions. The umbrella organization has a mission to expand world-class research, […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Coppin State hosts economic inclusion conference, highlights West Baltimore revitalization efforts
Coppin State University brought together elected officials, business leaders and community advocates for its 2026 Economic Inclusion and Innovation Research Conference, focusing on strategies to expand economic mobility and investment in West Baltimore. Panelists highlighted ongoing revitalization efforts along the West North Avenue corridor, including housing redevelopment, small business support and workforce development initiatives aimed at strengthening neighborhood wealth-building opportunities.
Posted inBaltimore News
Morgan State hosts inaugural caregivers conference focused on wellness and support
Morgan State University’s School of Social Work hosted its inaugural Caregivers Conference on April 25 to highlight the mental, emotional and physical well-being of caregivers. The event emphasized resilience, shared experiences and access to resources for those supporting loved ones with serious health needs.
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Coppin State University Ball hosts ‘powerful’ night of Black excellence
By Kendra BryantSpecial to the AFRO Coppin State University (CSU) hosted its annual ball, “An Ode to Black Excellence,” on May 2 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, celebrating 126 years of nurturing potential and transforming lives. Each year, the ball serves as a time to honor the past, while also drumming up financial support for […]
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Morgan State’s Delta Sigma Theta chapter marks 100 years of sisterhood and service
Morgan State University’s Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Alpha Gamma Chapter celebrated 100 years with its Centennial Gala on April 25 at Student Center Ballrooms. Honorary speakers included Frances “Toni” Draper, CEO and publisher of the AFRO-American Newspaper; Rosie Allen-Herring, first vice president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; and Thelma Daley, 16th national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
