Coppin State University President Anthony L. Jenkins Inducted into West Virginia State University ROTC Hall of Fame
U.S. Army veteran and former West Virginia State University president recognized for leadership, service and contributions to higher education
BALTIMORE – Coppin State University President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., has been inducted as an honorary member of the West Virginia State University (WVSU) Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Hall of Fame, recognizing his distinguished military service, transformational leadership and contributions to higher education.
The induction ceremony took place Friday, October 2, 2026, during West Virginia State University's Homecoming celebration in Institute, West Virginia. Jenkins was among three honorees inducted into the Hall of Fame, joining retired Major William F. Laney Jr. and Lieutenant Colonel Jason R. Lathey.
A United States Army veteran and first-generation college graduate, Jenkins served as the 11th president of West Virginia State University from 2016 to 2020 before becoming the eighth president of Coppin State University in May 2020.
The honorary induction recognizes Jenkins' contributions to WVSU and his continued commitment to leadership, service and educational opportunity.
"This recognition is especially meaningful because West Virginia State University will always be an important part of my personal and professional journey," said Jenkins. "My military service helped shape my understanding of leadership, discipline and service to others. Those values continue to guide my work in higher education. I am deeply honored to join the ROTC Hall of Fame and grateful to West Virginia State University for this distinction."
During his presidency at West Virginia State University, Jenkins led efforts to strengthen the institution's national profile, expand opportunities for students and position the university for long-term growth and sustainability.
At Coppin State University, Jenkins has continued that record of institutional transformation. Under his leadership, Coppin has experienced historic enrollment growth, expanded its academic offerings, strengthened student success initiatives and increased its national visibility.
The university has also achieved significant milestones in fundraising, endowment growth, corporate partnerships and campus development. Since 2021, Coppin's endowment has grown by 126%, while the university has advanced more than $100 million in major capital investments, including the College of Business and the new Thurgood Marshall Hall.
In fall 2026, Coppin welcomed a record incoming undergraduate class and surpassed 3,600 students in total enrollment, further strengthening its position as Baltimore's hometown university.
Established in 1980, the West Virginia State University ROTC Hall of Fame honors graduates and supporters who have distinguished themselves through military service, professional accomplishments and leadership.
More than 175 service members have been inducted since its founding. Jenkins' induction adds to a growing list of recognitions celebrating his leadership and commitment to advancing higher education, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
