Coppin State University Celebrates Women's History Month with Month-Long Programming, Annual Forum

BALTIMORE — Coppin State University will host a series of events throughout March in celebration of Women’s History Month, organized under the theme “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” The programming spotlights the achievements of women past and present while driving conversation around wellness, innovation, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment. 

The centerpiece of the month is the Women’s History Forum 2026, the university’s annual forum hosted by the Women’s History Committee on Friday, March 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Talon Center, 2nd Floor Atrium. 

Sustainability, as the Forum defines it, extends far beyond the environment. It encompasses sustaining institutions, wealth, health, culture, and the leadership pipelines that determine who gets to lead next — and whether the work women are doing today will still be standing, and still expanding, a generation from now. 

“Women’s History Month provides an opportunity to recognize the remarkable women who have shaped our university and our communities,” said Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins, President of Coppin State University. “Through these events, we celebrate their contributions and inspire our students to carry that legacy forward.” 

“Our goal is not only to celebrate women’s contributions, but to institutionalize support for their leadership and advancement,” said Dr. Chanta Haywood, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “By investing in spaces like this Forum, we are strengthening pathways that ensure women’s leadership continues to shape the academic, cultural, and economic future of our institution and our community.” 

The day opens with a keynote address by Dr. Frances Draper, CEO and Publisher of the AFRO-American Newspapers, whose work has long centered on building systems of lasting change. The Forum then moves into one of its most anticipated features: a leadership panel composed entirely of Black female university presidents. At a time when Black women remain underrepresented in the top ranks of American higher education, the panel offers a rare and timely platform for the leaders shaping that landscape. 

The afternoon shifts from inspiration to application through four interactive workshop tracks — Well-Being, Innovation, Cultural Preservation, and Wealth & Legacy — each designed as a working session rather than a lecture. Facilitated table talks create space for candid, cross-generational exchange. The Forum closes with an Awards & Recognition Ceremony honoring women whose contributions have helped shape Coppin State and the city of Baltimore. 

The Forum is open to the Coppin State University community. Registration is available at Women’s History Month Forum. 

PRE-FORUM EVENTS 

Throughout March, the Women’s History Committee will host four events leading up to the Forum, each offering a distinct entry point into its core themes. 

Monday, March 3 | 6–8 p.m. | Blueprinting Your Life 

Invitation only 

A leadership experience for influential women and senior administrators, centered on the intentional design of career, purpose, and legacy. 

Sunday, March 8 | 2–5 p.m. | Your Scalp, Your Skin 

Open to the public 

An interactive session bringing together health and beauty professionals, physicians, and community stakeholders around holistic wellness. 

Thursday, March 12 | 6–8 p.m. | Moo Moo’s & Mocktails 

Open to the community 

A community gathering built for candid conversation and authentic connection. 

Tuesday, March 24 | Noon–1 p.m. | Her Future Forward: An Interactive AI Lunch & Learn 

Hybrid — Open to the public 

A session exploring how emerging technology is reshaping the leadership landscape, available in-person and virtually. 

“Leading the change requires courage, collaboration, and continuity,” said Dr. Yolanda Savoy, Chair of the Women’s History Committee. “Sustainability means ensuring that the work we do today strengthens opportunities for generations to come. I invite our campus and community to join us throughout March as we shape that future together.” 

For more information and event details, visit Women’s History Month. 

Media inquiries and interview requests may be directed to CherRae Dickerson at cdickerson@coppin.edu.