Questions & Answers with Commencement Speaker Angela Alsobrooks

As she prepares to address the Class of 2026 at Coppin State University Commencement 

As Maryland’s junior United States Senator and one of the state’s most influential public leaders, Angela Alsobrooks has built a career centered on public service, leadership, and expanding opportunity for communities across Maryland. Before her election to the U.S. Senate, Alsobrooks served first as State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County, and then as County Executive. She was the first woman to be elected to both positions in the county’s history, and she was the first Black woman to be elected county executive of any county in the state of Maryland.  

Ahead of her address to the graduating Class of 2026 at Coppin State University, Senator Alsobrooks shared reflections on leadership, resilience, public service, and the future facing today’s graduates. 

Question: What message do you hope Coppin graduates carry with them as they leave the university and enter their next chapter? 

Answer: 

I want graduates to understand that where you start does not determine where you can go. That kind of perseverance matters. 

I hope they leave Coppin knowing they are capable of leading in every space they enter. The world does not just need talent; it needs people with resilience, compassion, integrity, and the willingness to serve others. Those qualities are just as important as any degree. 

And I hope they remember that success is not only about personal achievement. It is also about lifting communities, creating opportunities for others, and using your gifts, voice, and skills to make a difference. 

As someone who has broken barriers throughout your career, what advice would you give students who may be questioning whether they belong in certain spaces or leadership roles? 

You belong in every single room you walk into. There will always be moments when you walk into rooms where you may feel underestimated or overlooked. I have experienced that myself throughout my career. 

But leadership is not about fitting into someone else’s expectations. It is about being prepared, being authentic, and understanding the value you bring to the table. 

I have learned, in Congress, our policies are more complete when there are more diverse experiences at the table. We need you. Be bold.  

Coppin State University has placed a major focus on student success, access, and economic mobility. Why are institutions like Coppin so important right now? 

Institutions like Coppin are essential because they change lives every single day. They provide opportunity, support, mentorship, and pathways for students who may not always see themselves reflected in traditional systems of higher education. 

Historically Black colleges and universities have always done more with less, while producing generations of leaders, innovators, educators, scientists, entrepreneurs, and public servants. Coppin’s commitment to access and student success reflects the true purpose of higher education. 

At a time when so many communities are searching for economic opportunity, to create wealth, and to truly thrive, universities like Coppin remain engines of transformation, especially for students and families seeking upward mobility and a stronger future. 

Public service can be demanding and unpredictable. What has kept you grounded throughout your career? 

I first ran for office when I noticed the world my daughter was growing up in was less safe than the world I grew up in. I was venting about it to a friend, and that friend said, “Well if you aren’t going to do anything to change it, let’s not discuss it anymore.” And that changed my entire life. Because it was right then that I knew if there was change I thought was needed in my community, it was my responsibility to go farther and do better. My community and my faith continue to keep me grounded. Public service is not about titles. It is about people. You have to love people, and I will admit I love people, especially Marylanders.  

I have always believed leadership requires listening, empathy, and accountability. Some of the best lessons I have learned came from conversations with students, parents, and everyday people who just want to be heard. 

That connection to people is what keeps the work meaningful. 

What does it mean to serve as commencement speaker for the Class of 2026 at Coppin State University? 

It is truly an honor. Commencement is one of the most meaningful moments in a student’s life, not only for graduates, but for the families, mentors, faculty, and communities who helped them reach this point. 

Coppin State University has a proud legacy of preparing students to lead and serve, particularly here in Baltimore and across Maryland. To stand before this graduating class at such an important moment in their journey is something I deeply appreciate. 

These graduates represent promise, determination, and the future of our communities. I am excited to celebrate them and all they have accomplished. Our future is looking very bright with these students as our future leaders.