Presidential and Fanny Jackson Coppin Scholars Celebrate Academic Excellence

The University presented blazers and cardigans to 121 students during the Fanny Jackson Coppin and Presidential Scholars Brunch.

BALTIMORE — Coppin State University celebrated 121 students during the Fanny Jackson Coppin and Presidential Scholars Brunch on Oct. 17, 2026, honoring their academic achievement and commitment to excellence, leadership and service.

President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., presented blazers to 58 Presidential Scholars and cardigans to 63 Fanny Jackson Coppin Scholars. The deans of Coppin’s colleges joined President Jenkins as students from their respective colleges received their academic dress.

President Jenkins personalized the presentation by recognizing each scholar’s hometown as the student left the stage. After receiving their academic dress, the scholars recited a commitment to scholarship and excellence in unison, led by senior Honors student Micah Smith.

The Presidential Scholarship, Coppin State’s highest merit award, recognizes distinguished academic achievement, leadership and service. The Fanny Jackson Coppin Scholarship honors the University’s namesake and her legacy of academic excellence, campus engagement and community service.

For Presidential Scholar Gabriella Garibaldi, receiving her blazer represented both her accomplishments and the people who supported her.

“It represents the hard work and dedication that I put in to receive my scholarship,” Garibaldi said. “It is a reminder of how far I have come and the people who supported me throughout my journey. It also motivates me to keep striving and to make myself, my parents, my friends and the University proud.”

Fanny Jackson Coppin Scholar Cyrus Henry reflected on the responsibility that accompanies the recognition.

“Receiving my academic dress meant taking on new responsibilities and having the ability to move with pride with every step I take,” Henry said.

Amir Hayes, a Presidential Scholar from Milwaukee, described receiving his blazer as a moment of pride, accomplishment and belonging.

“Listening to President Jenkins speak reminded me that this opportunity was not simply given to me; it was something I worked hard to earn,” Hayes said. “This experience has motivated me to continue striving for excellence throughout my college career.”

The brunch reminded the scholars that their blazers and cardigans represent more than academic achievement. They also symbolize a responsibility to lead, serve and uphold the standard of excellence associated with being a Coppin State scholar.

2026 Fanny Jackson Coppin Scholars

2026 Presidential Scholars