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June 10, 2026

FEATURE STORIES

Bowie State Celebrates Largest Graduating Class in History at Spring 2026 Commencement


Renowned scholar Dr. Michael Eric Dyson delivered the keynote address to 696 undergraduate students, 160 master’s degree recipients and 31 doctoral graduates, encouraging them to pursue excellence and lead with purpose in a complex, evolving world.

BSU Alum Carolyn Alston '26 Wins Grand Prize at HBCU Pitch Competition in Times Square


Alston won the $5,000 grand prize at the inaugural HBCU Pitch Competition during New York Tech Week, building on her earlier success at Bowie State's Bulldog Pitch Competition.

Bowie State University Earns 2026-2027 Military Friendly® School and Spouse Designation


The designation reflects Bowie State's ongoing commitment to supporting military-connected students through comprehensive services, strong outcomes and a culture of inclusion. 

Nursing Graduates Cap an Exemplary Year


A tradition-rich pinning ceremony marked the Nursing Class of 2026 as they transitioned into the profession, with 21 undergraduate and three graduate students recognized.

Philanthropy Fellowship Class Honored


Six College of Business graduate students were recognized at a completion ceremony for their successful yearlong placements in philanthropic organizations nationwide.

TJ Gunter Named 2025-26 CIAA Sports Information Director of the Year


As Media Relations Coordinator for Bulldog Athletics, Gunter is one of the youngest recipients of the prestigious Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association award. He is responsible for communications and media operations for all 14 NCAA Division II varsity programs at BSU.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Bulldog Battalion Commissions 18 Officers at Spring 2026 Commencement


Eighteen Army ROTC cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army in a ceremony that underscored the program’s continued excellence in developing disciplined, service-oriented military leaders.

Half a Century Strong: Class of 1976 Golden Graduates Honored


There was a special shine at commencement, thanks to the presence of 23 members of the BSU Class of 1976.

Caps Off! Catch the New Graduation Podcast: Redefining Success After Bowie


The latest episode of A Bold Take has just dropped. Listen to a critical conversation exploring the journey from student to professional by unpacking the identity shifts, career pivots and real-world lessons shaping life after graduation.

Future Entrepreneurs Impress at High School Pitch Competition


The Entrepreneurship Innovation Center brought students from Prince George's County area high schools to campus for a high-energy pitch competition showcasing innovative business ideas.

BORN TO BE BOLD

The Born to Be Bold Q&A series highlights the inspiring students, faculty, staff and alumni who help shape the vibrant community at Bowie State University. Through personal stories, career insights and unique experiences, the series offers an inside look at the people behind BSU’s success and the impact they are making on campus, in their professions and throughout their communities.

Meet Shawn Washington


Shawn Washington is an electrician in the Office of Facilities Management. What keeps him here is his powerful love for the BSU community. In his free time, he brings joy to family and children's events through his pony ride business.

Meet Robert "Zack" Zackery


Robert Zackery '90 is a force on campus. He's an equipment and facilities manager for Bulldog Athletics with a rich backstory of his own. From his days as a student-athlete and his service in military and law enforcement, Zack is a part of his family's legacy at the university.

BOLD RESEARCH

A Mission to Shape New Mental Health Advocacy for Children of Incarcerated Parents


Dr. Avon Hart-Johnson, a doctoral student in Bowie State’s Counselor Education and Supervision program, is advancing research on how to best integrate Afrocentric, social justice-centered frameworks into counseling practice.

Hip-Hop as Healing: Graduate Students Advance New Therapy Research


Yohannes Girma and Caleb Floyd are advancing research that positions freestyle rap and hip-hop culture as powerful, culturally responsive tools for emotional expression and therapeutic engagement.

Doctoral Student Uncovers Critical Support Gaps for Black Teen Girls


Carolyn Thorpe is developing research on how Black girls navigate self-identity and mental health challenges, drawing on her experience as a middle school counselor to design more impactful group counseling interventions.

GRADUATE SPOTLIGHTS

Jared Achuff '26


Although Achuff came to Bowie State to continue his football career, he also gained broader experiences through the university's strong community-focused approach. In 2026, he earned a master’s degree in organizational communications and his path highlights his personal growth into a well-rounded leader.

Elijah Jordan '26


Jordan's 2026 degree in health services administration demonstrates his commitment to healthcare equity and reflects his educational pathway. While at Bowie State, he developed the skills and confidence to pursue a career in the Air Force while advancing opportunities for underserved communities.

UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF MARYLAND HONORS

Two Bulldogs Earn USM Student Excellence Scholarships


Arielle Johnson ’28 and Jordon Hurley ‘29 were cited with the highest honors presented by the University System of Maryland's Board of Regents. They're part of a cohort of twelve students across the USM system who were recognized for academic achievement.

Three Bowie State Standouts Recognized with USM's Top Faculty and Staff Honors


Bowie State is the only HBCU represented in the past two years of the system’s most prestigious accolades across its 12 institutions. These honors mark another milestone in the university's legacy of excellence.

STAFF RECOGNITION

Steve Stephens II

Philanthropy Officer, Division of Philanthropic Engagement


Driven by a passion for service and leadership, Steve is committed to giving back to the BSU community.

Marsha Swindell

Executive Administrative Assistant II, Division of Administration & Finance


Marsha is a dedicated professional who has served Bowie State University in several roles, including Executive Administrative Assistant in the Division of Administration and Finance. 

CAMPUS EVENTS

June 1 - July 19, 2026

National Exhibition Celebrating HBCU Impact

June 11, 2026

Pride Month Professional Development Training

July 20 - July 24, 2026

Faith-Based Leadership Training Initiative

July 23, 2026

BSU Women's Forum Annual Crab Feast

View more campus events >


Support our student athletes: See Bulldogs Athletics
news and the fall calendar >


BSU IN THE NEWS

HBCU Founders To Make History With First Pitch Competition In Times Square


May 29, 2026
Black Enterprise


A first-of-its-kind HBCU startup pitch competition will come to the center of New York City during New York Tech Week in June. Carolyn Alston of Bowie State University, founder of the conversational card game Communic8 It!, and a top winner of BSU's Bulldog Pitch contest, is a competitor.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Bowie State and Bulldog Pitch Contest


May 28 2026
The Marissa Mitchell Show


Bowie State University Entrepreneurship Innovation Center Executive Director and Founder Johnetta Hardy joined the Marissa Mitchell Show on FOX Washington, D.C. to discuss entrepreneurship and innovation as well as the recent Bulldog Pitch contest. Two top contest winners, Carolyn Alston, and Widenerson Moise appeared with her to discuss their projects.

The Work Behind the Numbers at Bowie State

Michael Eric Dyson inspires Bowie State graduates as university marks record commencement


May 23, 2026
The AFRO


Bowie State University graduates, their families, friends and BSU faculty and staff packed the school’s A.C. Jordan Arena on a rainy May 22 to celebrate 887 graduates: the largest graduating class in the school’s 161-year history, according to university President Aminta H. Breaux.

Massive new studio aims to bring Hollywood to Prince George’s Co.


May 28, 2026
WTOP News


A massive warehouse in Laurel, Maryland, is being transformed into a high-tech film and TV production facility expected to attract major film, commercial, and streaming projects. The effort includes a partnership with Bowie State University, giving immersive media, entertainment and gaming program students hands-on experience and access to industry-level facilities typically found in cities like Atlanta or New York.

View the latest news coverage featuring the Bowie State community.

The next issue of the BSYou newsletter will be published on July 15, 2026. 

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