Coppin State University Hosts Third Annual Bridging Communities Conference

State leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community partners convene to strengthen collaboration and expand opportunities across Maryland

BALTIMORE — Coppin State University welcomed nonprofit leaders, state agencies, philanthropic organizations, and community advocates from across Maryland on June 30 for the Third Annual Bridging Communities Conference, hosted by the Office of the Comptroller of Maryland in partnership with Maryland Nonprofits and Coppin's Nonprofit Leadership Program.

Held under the theme "Building Stronger Partnerships Between Nonprofits and State Government," the conference focused on strengthening collaboration, sharing resources, and equipping nonprofit organizations with practical strategies to better serve communities throughout Maryland.

Participants engaged in keynote presentations, panel discussions, and breakout sessions exploring nonprofit sustainability, state funding opportunities, compliance requirements, community development resources, and wealth-building initiatives.

"Coppin State University is proud to serve as a convener for conversations that strengthen communities and create meaningful partnerships," said Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., president of Coppin State University. "Bringing together leaders from government, higher education, and the nonprofit sector reflects our shared commitment to advancing opportunity, expanding access to critical resources, and improving the quality of life for Maryland residents."

The conference opened with remarks from Maryland Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman, who emphasized the essential role nonprofit organizations play in supporting communities across the state. A featured plenary session examined the challenges facing nonprofit organizations amid changing economic conditions, increased service demands, and evolving public policy.

Breakout sessions provided attendees with practical guidance on:

The event also featured representatives from numerous state agencies and organizations, including the Maryland Department of Commerce, Maryland Department of General Services, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Maryland Historical Trust, Maryland Saves, the Greater Washington Community Foundation, and the Comptroller of Maryland.

"The Bridging Communities Conference reflects the power of collaboration," said Tenyo Pearl, Ed.D, CNP, Campus Director of the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance and Program Coordinator, Nonprofit Leadership Program. "By bringing together nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and higher education, we are building stronger partnerships that create lasting solutions for the communities we serve."

Hosting the conference aligns with Coppin State University's mission of community engagement and civic leadership by providing a platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration that supports nonprofit organizations and strengthens communities throughout Maryland.