Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played a vital role in the higher education landscape of the United States. In Maryland alone, there are four HBCUs that have contributed immensely to the academic and cultural fabric of the state. These institutions represent the legacy of African American education and have been instrumental in fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among those who attend them.

The four HBCUs in Maryland are Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Each institution has its unique history, culture, and strengths that have made them an essential part of Maryland’s higher education system.

Bowie State University is one of the oldest HBCUs in the country and the oldest in Maryland. The institution was founded in 1865 and has grown to become a comprehensive university with over 6,000 students enrolled. The university offers over 20 undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and natural sciences.

Coppin State University was founded in 1900 and is located in Baltimore City. The institution initially served as a teacher’s college but has since expanded to offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including psychology, criminal justice, and public health. The institution is known for its commitment to providing opportunities for underrepresented minority students.

Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is the largest of the HBCUs in Maryland. The institution has over 8,000 students enrolled and offers over 100 academic programs ranging from engineering to journalism. Morgan State has a strong commitment to research and has been designated by the Carnegie Foundation as a research university with “high research activity.”

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore, located in Princess Anne, was founded in 1886 as the Delaware Conference Academy. The institution became a land-grant college in 1948 and has since grown to become a comprehensive university with over 4,000 students. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as agriculture, business, and education.

All four HBCUs in Maryland have a long-standing commitment to providing access to higher education for underrepresented minority students. These institutions have played a critical role in narrowing the achievement gap, driving economic growth, and promoting diversity and inclusivity in the state.

In recent years, the HBCUs in Maryland have faced challenges due to a lack of state funding and institutional support. However, there have been ongoing efforts to address these issues and ensure that these institutions receive the financial and administrative resources needed to continue their mission of providing high-quality education to all students.

Additionally, there have been calls for the Maryland legislature to provide HBCUs with reparations for past discrimination and underfunding. These efforts seek to recognize the significant contributions HBCUs have made to the state’s higher education system and provide a more equitable funding structure for these institutions moving forward.

In conclusion, HBCUs in Maryland have contributed immensely to the state’s higher education landscape and the broader society. These institutions represent the legacy and continued commitment to African American education, community, and opportunity. By supporting these institutions, Maryland can foster a more diverse and inclusive higher education environment that benefits all students and promotes social and economic progress.