Coppin State Advances Male Student Success

University builds on strong gains in male enrollment and retention with focus on mentorship and graduation outcomes 

BALTIMORE — Coppin State University highlighted its continued success in increasing male enrollment and retention while outlining a forward-looking vision to further support male student achievement through the development of a Coppin Male Initiative. 

During a campus gathering focused on student success and leadership, university leaders and students reflected on Coppin’s measurable progress. Over the past several years, the university has achieved significant growth in male enrollment and improved retention outcomes, positioning Coppin as a leader in advancing success for Black men in higher education. 

“Coppin is demonstrating what is possible when institutions are intentional about supporting students,” said President Anthony L. Jenkins. “We are not only Maryland’s leading HBCU for male enrollment growth, but we are also retaining our male students at a rate that is 20 percentage points above the national average. As a national leader in this space, our focus is also to ensure that every student completes this journey and is positioned for long-term success.” 

Building on this momentum, Coppin is advancing plans to launch a comprehensive Coppin Male Initiative designed to provide structured support, mentorship, and engagement opportunities for male students throughout their academic journey. 

The initiative will focus on: 

“Mentorship and accountability are crucial to success,” Jenkins added. “When students are connected to one another, to faculty, and to a broader purpose, they are more likely to persist, graduate, and lead.” 

"Coppin State University has built real momentum in growing and retaining our male student population — and now we are taking the next step," said Bryon Jefferson, Coordinator of Student Conduct & Community Standards and Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Student Affairs. "The Coppin Male Initiative is about more than persistence; it is about transformation. We are committed to developing men who graduate with not only a degree, but with the leadership, discipline, and integrity that employers seek and communities need. Through ONE Coppin, we are ensuring our men don't just meet expectations — they define them." 

Students participating in the discussion emphasized the importance of community, representation, and shared responsibility in achieving academic success. 

James Chandler, a junior Sports Management major, reflected on the experience, noting, "The most impactful part of the event for me was the focus on resilience and discipline. It reinforced that you don't have to be ashamed when things aren't right. It doesn't take too much time to attend, but it helps you dig deeper when you make mistakes and challenges you to have a plan or strategy to overcome," highlighting the impact of mentorship, peer accountability, and engagement in shaping student outcomes. 

The conversation also reinforced the importance of creating positive associations with the university experience and encouraging students to represent Coppin beyond the classroom through service and civic leadership. 

The initiative aligns with Coppin’s broader commitment to student success, equity, and workforce preparation, and reflects the university’s continued focus on building pathways that support students from enrollment through graduation and beyond.