In 2025, Bowie State University will proudly celebrate its 160th anniversary. Founded in 1865, it stands as Maryland’s first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) and is among the oldest in the country. Bowie State is dedicated to empowering students through innovative academic programs and meaningful experiences.
This February, the university will host the CIAA Basketball Tournament in Baltimore from February 25 to March 1. This event isn’t just about the games; it’s a chance to showcase how Bowie State students and athletes positively impact their communities.
The Bowie State women’s basketball team recently held a Special Olympics clinic, introducing individuals with intellectual disabilities to the joy of basketball. Coach Shadae Swan noted, “It was a good opportunity. The players displayed leadership by conducting drills and encouraging participants. We plan to do this again.”
Mentorship and community service are key values in Bowie State athletics. Student-athletes are encouraged to engage with their communities, emphasizing that their roles go beyond competition.
This commitment to excellence is personified by junior Sydney Edmond, a political science major and standout softball player. In 2024, she was named a Fannie Angelos Scholar, an honor for aspiring law students. “This means so much to me. It brings me closer to my dream of becoming a lawyer,” she said. Balancing academics and sports has taught her valuable lessons about hard work and perseverance.
Former student-athlete Keith Johnson exemplifies the university’s dream-big mentality. In 2024, he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, thanks to years of dedicated training and community support. Head football coach Kyle Jackson expressed pride in Johnson’s accomplishments, saying he has represented himself and the program well both on and off the field.
Students like Beulah Odiong, a business major and team captain, illustrate that life at Bowie State is about more than just sports. Between classes and basketball, she runs her own hairstyling and piercing business. “Being on the team has taught me discipline and teamwork,” Odiong shared, reflecting on the responsibilities of her role.
These stories are part of Bowie State’s rich legacy. For 160 years, the university has fostered a community of leaders ready to make a difference. The upcoming CIAA Tournament is a platform to celebrate not just athletic achievements but also the broader impact student-athletes have.
Bowie State offers more than 65 programs across various fields, including arts, sciences, technology, and business. It is dedicated to providing high-quality and affordable education in a supportive environment where students are encouraged to think critically and embrace leadership roles.
To learn more about Bowie State University, visit BowieState.edu.
