Celebrating Fanny Jackson Coppin’s 189th Birthday and Enduring Legacy

Annual wreath-laying ceremony honors the pioneering educator's commitment to educational opportunity, perseverance and service.

BALTIMORE — Coppin State University celebrated the 189th birthday of its namesake, Fanny Jackson Coppin, on October 15 with an annual wreath-laying ceremony honoring the pioneering educator whose determination to expand educational opportunities for African Americans continues to shape the University's mission.

Held at Fanny Jackson Coppin Plaza during I Love Coppin Week, the celebration brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni and University leadership to reflect on her life, accomplishments and the responsibility of carrying her vision forward.

Born into slavery in Washington, D.C., in 1837, Fanny Jackson Coppin overcame racial and gender barriers to pursue higher education, graduating from Oberlin College in 1865. She later became a pioneering educator and principal of the Institute for Colored Youth in Philadelphia, where she expanded educational opportunities and advocated for the advancement and economic independence of African Americans.

The program included a welcome from Mister Coppin Dayquan Pier, Miss Coppin Danielle Stafford and Dorothy Parrish-Harris, JD, assistant vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs and dean of students.

During her remarks, Parrish-Harris reflected on three defining aspects of Coppin's life: her determination to overcome limitations, her pursuit of academic excellence despite societal expectations and her commitment to using education to create opportunities for others.

"We inherit a responsibility to advance her vision," Parrish-Harris said, encouraging students to remain persistent in the face of challenges and recognize the broader impact of their education.

Student Government Association President Trinia Holt expanded on that message, emphasizing that Coppin's achievements were not simply personal milestones but opportunities to uplift others.

"Leadership is service," Holt said, challenging students to consider the impact they will have beyond graduation. "Who did I help? Who did I inspire? Who did I change? What became better because I was here?"

Coppin State University President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., reflected on the significance of Fanny Jackson Coppin Plaza and the intentional design of the statue, which stands at ground level rather than on an elevated pedestal.

"I wanted her to be ground level so that students and Eagle Nation could come up to stand next to her," Jenkins said.

He also explained the symbolism of the diploma held in the statue's left hand, representing both the educational opportunities awaiting incoming students and the accomplishments of graduates completing their academic journeys.

"She welcomes and she salutes," Jenkins said.

Among those attending the celebration was University System of Maryland Board of Regents member Dana B. Stebbins, Esq., whom Jenkins recognized for her family's longstanding connection to Coppin State. Both of Stebbins' parents are Coppin alumni and made financial contributions toward the construction of Fanny Jackson Coppin Plaza, helping create a lasting tribute to the University's namesake.

Following his remarks, Jenkins and Holt laid a wreath at the statue in recognition of Coppin's life and contributions to education.

Founded in 1900 as a teacher training institution for African Americans in Baltimore, the University was renamed Fanny Jackson Coppin Normal School in 1926 to honor her achievements as an educator and advocate. Today, Coppin State continues that work through academic excellence, student development and community engagement.

As the celebration concluded, Jenkins encouraged the Coppin community to continue honoring her through education, service and the pursuit of excellence.

More than a century after her passing, Fanny Jackson Coppin's influence remains woven into the University's identity and the generations of students who carry her name into classrooms, careers and communities. Her legacy is not only something to remember, but a responsibility to carry forward.