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 from the desk of
Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D.
Dear Eagle Nation:  
As we move deeper into the spring semester, the energy across our campus reflects what has always been true about Coppin State University: we are a community that shows up, lifts each other, and leads with purpose.

This March, we turn our attention to honoring the women who have shaped our university, our city, and our world. Women's History Month holds special significance at Coppin, an institution named for Fanny Jackson Coppin, a woman whose life embodied the belief that education is the most powerful tool for change. With women making up 76 percent of our student body, this month is not simply a time for reflection; it is a celebration of who we are. The women of Coppin are driving academic excellence, leading student organizations, excelling as student athletes, conducting groundbreaking research, and preparing to take their place as the next generation of changemakers. Their legacy reminds us that leadership rooted in service creates impact that endures across generations.
Scene from last year's Women's History Month Forum. 
That spirit will be on full display at our annual Women's History Month Forum on Friday, March 27 in the Talon Center. Under this year's national theme, "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future," the Forum brings together some of the most dynamic voices in higher education, health, media, and community leadership for a day of dialogue, learning, and celebration.

We are honored to welcome Dr. Frances Murphy Draper, fourth-generation publisher of the AFRO-American Newspapers and the State of Maryland's 2024 "First Citizen," as our keynote speaker. The afternoon features a landmark leadership panel, "At the Helm: Maryland's Women University Presidents Leading Change That Lasts," with Dr. Aminta H. Breaux of Bowie State University, Dr. Valerie Sheares Ashby of UMBC, and Dr. Annesa Payne Cheek of Frederick Community College, moderated by our own Provost Dr. Chanta Haywood. On a personal note, I have the privilege of working alongside these remarkable women as we collectively lead institutions of higher education across Maryland. Their vision, determination, and commitment to student success inspire me, and I am proud that our students will have the opportunity to hear directly from leaders who are shaping the future of higher education in real time.

From workshops on AI and innovation to conversations on Black women's health, financial empowerment, and cultural preservation, this Forum reflects the full scope of what sustainability means: sustaining institutions, wealth, health, culture, and the leadership pipelines that determine who leads next.
Thank you, Eagle Nation, for continuing to show up, lead with purpose, and carry forward the legacy of the extraordinary women who built this university.

Women's Histoy Month at Coppin

Your Scalp, Your Skin Community Day
March 8 | 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.  
Tawes Ballroom
Coppin State University is proud to host the co-founders of S.T.R.A.N.D.™, Dr. Chesahna Kindred and Susan L. Peterkin, for an inspiring discussion on their journey to creating the nation’s first dermatologic salon. By uniting the expertise of dermatologists and cosmetologists, they aren't just changing hair—they’re saving lives through early detection and comprehensive care.
Come hear how these two innovators are transforming the industry and learn how a collaborative approach to wellness is the future of the healthcare journey.

 Light Refreshments | Networking Opportunity

MooMoos & Mocktails: Let’s Mentally Exhale
March 12 | 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.  
Designed to empower women to own their personal and financial stories. From digital branding to wealth management, these sessions focus on building a foundation that lasts for generations.

Facilitated by Tiffany Hembry, LCSW-C, Certified Financial Social Worker, Certified Grief Therapist, and Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT Practitioner).

Registration Required. 
Her Future Forward: An Interactive AI Lunch & Learn

March 24 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Henrietta Lacks Health & Human Services Building Room 202 & Online

Focused on "future-proofing" leadership, this track demystifies emerging technologies. Participants will move from theoretical understanding to hands-on application, ensuring women remain at the forefront of the digital revolution.

An interactive session regarding artificial intelligence in its foundational form. Her Future Forward empowers women leaders to navigate emerging technologies with confidence, clarity, and ethical grounding. This foundational session demystifies AI by explaining what it is, how it works, and how to use it responsibly in academic, professional, and community contexts. Participants will explore practical applications, common concerns, and strategies to ensure technological tools support, not replace, human expertise. Centered on sustainable leadership, this session equips women to future‑proof their skills, lead thoughtfully, and remain at the forefront of innovation in a rapidly evolving digital world. 
 
View All Women's History Month Events
Take care, be well, and Go Eagles!
Dr. Jenkins New Headshot 2022

Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D.
President
Coppin State University

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