James J. Maguire to Receive Honorary Degree From Bowie State

Insurance Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Supports Higher Education

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thompson, dlthompson@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311

(BOWIE, Md.) – James J. Maguire Sr., founder and chairman emeritus of Philadelphia Consolidated Holding Corporation, will receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters degree from Bowie State University at the school’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 24, for his unwavering support of the school and its students. 

Maguire has supported various nonprofit and educational institutions in Philadelphia and created the Maguire Academy of Insurance and Risk Management at Saint Joseph’s University, Gallaudet University, and Bowie State University to help diversify future insurance professionals. He founded the Maguire Foundation with his wife, which focuses on supporting education through the Maguire Scholars Program for early learners through college scholars and has endowed a scholarship at Bowie State, its first HBCU partner. 

Since 2018, 13 Bowie State scholars have received Maguire scholarships for up to four years of matriculation. BSU President Aminta Breaux, says the scholarships have provided the funding to support students from Philadelphia to be able to attend Bowie State to pursue their dreams.  

“For the past six years, Maguire Scholars have been able to grow and develop at BSU with academic, cultural and professional experiences preparing them for successful futures.  said Breaux. “The university is indebted to the Maguire Foundation for providing our students with the financial support they need to graduate, hone-in on their careers and begin building wealth for their families and communities.” 

Two Bowie State University Maguire Scholars will receive the honorary doctorate degree on behalf of the philanthropist.  

A business innovator, academic supporter and humanitarian, James Maguire built The Maguire Insurance Agency, which specialized in insurance solutions for the automobile industry, into the holding company that today includes several subsidiaries that offer coverage in over 80 niche markets across all 50 states and advanced the insurance industry in America. 

Maguire began his academic career at Niagara University and later worked with Reverend Hunter Guthrie at Saint Joseph’s University, where he overcame dyslexia and graduated with a 3.0 GPA in 1958. A Korean War veteran, James J. Maguire is a recipient of the Horatio Alger Award that recognizes outstanding individuals who personify the American dream. His autobiography “Just Show Up Every Day,” chronicles the history of Philadelphia Insurance Companies, the Maguire family and his struggle with dyslexia.

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About Bowie State University
Bowie State University is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds, seeking a high-quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The university places special emphasis on the science, technology, cybersecurity, teacher education, business and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.