Coppin State University Announces Honorees for Annual Gala

Coppin State University is thrilled to announce the distinguished honorees for its upcoming Coppin State University Gala. Scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel, this event will shine a spotlight on exceptional individuals whose contributions have profoundly influenced the Coppin community. 

Among the esteemed honorees are Brian D. Pieninck, President and Chief Executive Officer of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield and Carim V. Khouzami, President and Chief Executive Officer at Baltimore Gas & Electric. Additionally, Coppin alumni Joseph H. Lewis and Coppin alumnae and College of Business Professor Dr. Tammira Lucas will be celebrated for their remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to fostering positive change. 

The Coppin State University Gala promises a memorable evening that will feature dinner, valuable networking opportunities, music, and dancing. More than a celebration, this gala serves as a crucial platform to garner support for Coppin State University's mission of empowering students and transforming lives through education. Coppin State is grateful for the sponsors that generously support this mission.  

“Coppin State, our beloved hometown university, stands as a beacon of opportunity and continues to transform lives and promote economic empowerment,” said President Anthony L. Jenkins. “Through unwavering commitment to our students, mission, and core principles, Coppin State remains unparalleled in its ability to cultivate leaders and foster positive change within our urban community. We take pride in our legacy of excellence and our enduring impact on the lives of all those we serve."  

2024 Honorees  

Brian D. Pieninck, President and Chief Executive Officer of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield will receive the Blue and Gold Impact Award, which recognizes a corporation or business that has created a culture of philanthropy.  The organization has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to Coppin State University through its financial support, leadership involvement, volunteer participation, and serves as a role model for other businesses in our community and nationwide. 

Carim V. Khouzami, President and Chief Executive Officer at Baltimore Gas & Electric will receive the Wings of Excellence Award. This recognition celebrates either a corporation or an individual who has fostered a culture of philanthropy by advancing innovative solutions and achieving significant advancements within the community. This honor is bestowed upon those who have shown exceptional dedication to Coppin State University through their leadership, financial contributions, volunteerism, and their broader impact on the region.

Joseph H. Lewis (‘72) will receive the Eagle Legacy Award, which acknowledges the cumulative efforts of an individual who, spanning ten or more years, exemplifies exceptional civic and charitable responsibility. His generosity not only inspires but also fosters leadership within the Coppin State University community. 

Dr. Tammira Lucas (‘09) will receive the Eagle of the Year award which recognizes the outstanding achievements of Coppin State University graduates who have made an important contribution to Coppin State University and the local, national, or international community through their achievements. Dr. Lucas is the founder of The Cube, Cowork, the largest Black woman-owned coworking space in the United States that provides babysitting services.  

Learn more about the Coppin State University Gala by visiting https://www.coppin.edu/gala.