By Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editor Bowie State University received notification of a $50 million grant from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott on Nov. 14. The unrestricted grant represents the largest philanthropic gift in Bowie State’s history and doubles the size of a $25 million gift Scott granted to Bowie in 2020. “Her generosity arrives at a pivotal moment […]
Category: HBCU
Posted inHBCU
National HBCU Orator Competition open to current HBCU students
The HBCU Oratorical Challenge, a national competition highlighting the public-speaking talents of students attending historically Black colleges and universities, is now accepting submissions through Dec. 15, 2025. The event offers HBCU students opportunities to strengthen communication, leadership and creative expression across four categories, with national finals set for April 18–19, 2026, in Atlanta.
Posted inCommentary
Homecoming and the spirit of unity: What HBCUs teach America
Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston is president of Norfolk State University, chairwoman of the Mid Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and a member of the Board of Governors for the NCAA; and Dr. Tony Allen is president of Delaware State University, vice chairman of MEAC, and the chairman emeritus of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. In their joint commentary, the pair celebrates the spirit and legacy of HBCU homecomings as more than festive gatherings—they are affirmations of cultural pride, resilience and unity.
Posted inCollege
Morgan State alum launches platform to level NIL playing field for underrepresented athletes
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com Since the NCAA lifted its ban on name, image and likeness (NIL) deals in 2021, the industry has grown to be worth nearly $1.67 billion, according to a report from Opendorse, a leading NIL marketplace and technology company. But, it’s far from a fair playing field. Division I men’s basketball […]
Posted inHBCU
UMES President Heidi Anderson files lawsuit in the wake of plagiarism allegations
University of Maryland, Eastern Shore President Dr. Heidi Anderson faces plagiarism accusations and files defamation lawsuit. MacKenzie Scott donates $38M.
Posted inHBCU
Morgan State University and Anne Arundel Community College begin partnership to help transfer students graduate within four years
Morgan State University and Anne Arundel Community College have launched the “Transfer Pathway” program to help AACC graduates seamlessly complete their bachelor’s degrees at Morgan within four years. The partnership aims to expand access, improve affordability, and better prepare students for Maryland’s evolving workforce.
Posted inPrince George's County News
A legacy in motion: Bowie State’s 90th Homecoming ignites joy, family and Bulldog pride
Bowie State University celebrated its 90th annual homecoming with a week of spirited events, including a parade led by Tony Award-winning alumnus Myles Frost and a lively football game that ended in a narrow 28-27 loss to Elizabeth City State. The festivities highlighted Bulldog pride, community spirit, and the university’s ongoing commitment to safety and student success.
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland Bankers Association, Coppin State address credit equity gaps
The Maryland Bankers Association and Coppin State University hosted a Community Conversation on Credit Equity to address financial literacy gaps in Baltimore. Students and community leaders emphasized accessible education and practical strategies for building credit and economic opportunity.
Posted inBaltimore News
Coppin State University celebrates 125 Years of legacy, leadership and service
Coppin State University celebrated its 125th anniversary with a black-tie gala, honoring its legacy of resilience and brilliance, and raising over $500,000 to support scholarships and student success.
Posted inHBCU
Coppin State University celebrates 125 years of service
Baltimore’s Coppin State University celebrates 125 years of educating and empowering the city’s majority-Black community. Its programs and community initiatives continue to benefit future generations of youth.
Posted in!Front Page Baltimore News
Annual Masked Ball returns to Charm City
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com With the assistance of individuals like Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) remains committed to transforming the historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across Baltimore City On Saturday, Nov. 1, beginning with a 7 p.m. reception, UNCF will return its fundraising event, the […]
Posted inHBCU
Bowie State hosts 90th annual homecoming activities
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Bowie State University is currently hosting its 90th annual homecoming. Activities began on Oct. 26 and will take place through Nov. 2 under the theme “It’s Off the Chain!” The celebration brings together students, alumni and community members for a celebration “filled with pride, connection and Bulldog spirit,” according to […]
