Coppin State University Surpass BE MORE Goal, Raising $25.5 Million at 125th Gala
BALTIMORE — Coppin State University marked 125 years of resiliency, transformation, and community impact with a sold-out gala at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel on Saturday, October 18. Hosted by media personality Chey Parker, the milestone event brought together alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends for an evening where elegance met purpose—ultimately propelling the University beyond its BE MORE capital campaign goal and raising $25.5 million, the largest campaign total in university history. The record-breaking result affirms Coppin’s enduring impact as a university that is irreplaceable and invaluable to residents of Baltimore and Maryland.
President Jenkins challenged attendees to reflect on why they chose to attend the gala, noting that their presence symbolized leadership, and a profound belief in the mission, purpose, progress, and promise of Coppin State University. “Our BE MORE campaign is more than a campaign; it is a call to action. When we say BE MORE, we are committing to a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a more prosperous future for our students,” said President Jenkins.
The evening opened with a VIP reception and continued with a seated dinner and a moving program in which student leaders shared their BE MORE stories—underscoring the life-changing impact of donor support on access, academic achievement, and career pathways. Carl Thomas delivered a soulful performance, and DJ Jazze Pha kept energy high throughout the celebration.
Dignitaries and public officials in attendance included U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Representative Kweisi Mfume, and Maryland State legislative leaders Antonio Hayes, Shaneka Henson, Marlon Amprey, Stephanie Smith, Melissa Wells, and Senate President Bill Ferguson, reflecting broad support for Coppin’s momentum and mission.
Honorees & Awards
Blue and Gold Impact Award — Truist Financial Corporation
Recognizes a corporation or business that has created a culture of philanthropy. Truist’s outstanding commitment to Coppin through financial support, leadership involvement, and volunteer participation serves as a model for businesses across our community and the nation. The award was presented with special recognition of Thomas “T.J.” Hughes, Executive Vice President and Greater Washington & Maryland Regional President for Truist.
Wings of Excellence Award — Thompson Hospitality
Celebrates a corporation or individual who fosters a culture of philanthropy by advancing innovative solutions and achieving significant community impact. Warren Thompson, President and Chairman of Thompson Hospitality Corporation, was honored for exceptional dedication to Coppin through leadership, financial contributions, volunteerism, and broader regional influence.
Eagle Legacy Award — Michael Lee and Brenda Ann Barland
Acknowledges cumulative, decade-plus commitment that exemplifies exceptional civic and charitable responsibility. Their generosity inspires giving and fosters leadership within the Coppin community.
Eagle of the Year Award — Brittany Bagley
Honors a Coppin State University graduate whose achievements have significantly benefited the University and the local, national, or international community. Bagley is the founder of B. Luxe Event Rentals, a luxury event production company based in Baltimore serving Fortune 500 companies and cultural institutions across the East Coast.
A Legacy of Impact
A multimedia retrospective traced Coppin’s journey from its 1900 founding as a teacher-training school to its present role as a leader in urban higher education, empowering more than 2,700 students annually. Archival images and student testimonials highlighted Coppin’s role as a catalyst for social mobility and a steadfast anchor for West Baltimore.
BE MORE Campaign Impact
$25.5 million raised, exceeding the campaign goal
Investments to expand access through scholarships and student success services
Funding to elevate academic excellence, including faculty innovation and signature programs
Resources to cultivate transformative leaders via experiential learning, research, and career development
“As we celebrate this milestone, led by my VP for Institutional Advancement Joshua Humbert and this entire team, we also recommit to the work ahead,” President Jenkins added. “BE MORE is our promise—to our students, our city, and our state—that Coppin will continue to rise, lead, and serve.”
Thank you to the host committee, our Talon Sponsors: CareFirst, Thompson Hospitality, BGE, Eskaton, The SAX Agency, B. Luxe Event Rentals, our Nest Sponsors: Truist, The West North Avenue Development Authority, PNC Bank, the University System of Maryland Foundation and our media sponsor, The AFRO.
