Historic Achievement: Morgan State University’s Groundbreaking Milestone at HBCUs in Venice

Breaking New Ground

Morgan State University has made history as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to lead a solo pavilion at the prestigious Venice Architecture Biennale in 2025. This significant achievement reflects a growing recognition of diverse voices in the architecture field.

The pavilion, named “ReCall & Response,” is designed by Assistant Professor Coleman A. Jordan. It draws inspiration from West African traditions, particularly the talking drum. The installation becomes an immersive space highlighting themes of rhythm and memory, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage.

The structure is crafted from sustainably sourced timber and involved collaboration with students and alumni from Morgan State University, Tuskegee University, and Clemson University. It opened on May 10, 2025, at the Giardini della Marinaressa in Venice and will remain on display until November 24, 2025.

The Magnificent Marching Machine Takes Center Stage

Alongside its architectural accomplishment, Morgan State’s famous marching band, the Magnificent Marching Machine, made waves in Venice on June 21, 2025. They performed during Art Night Venezia, showcasing a lively procession that combined music, spoken word, and traditional African ceremonies. This vibrant event celebrated cultural heritage and underscored the university’s commitment to artistic expression.

Earlier, the band had made history in June 2024, being the first HBCU band to perform in the D-Day memorial parade in Normandy, France. These international experiences highlight Morgan State’s dedication to providing its students with transformative opportunities.

Emphasizing Global Engagement

This Venetian showcase is part of a larger trend at Morgan State University. The institution is increasingly focused on global engagement, offering students various study abroad and performance opportunities. This emphasis enhances students’ educational experiences and fosters cultural understanding.

In recent years, many educational institutions have recognized this importance. According to data from the Institute of International Education, U.S. students studying abroad increased by 2.8% in 2021, showing a growing interest in global learning experiences. Morgan State is at the forefront of this movement, aiming to enrich its community through diverse cultural exchanges.

As Morgan State continues to broaden its global presence, it remains committed to celebrating cultural heritage and showcasing the talents of its students and faculty on the international stage.

For more about the Venice Biennale, visit the [official Biennale website](https://www.labiennale.org/en/architecture/2025). This event marks a significant step forward in recognizing and promoting diverse architectural narratives.

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