Bowie State University Launches First-Ever Behavioral Health and Public Policy Summer Symposium

(BOWIE, Md.) — Bowie State University’s Philanthropy Fellowship Program showcased its new Behavioral Health and Public Policy (BHPP) Summer Symposium with the American Psychological Association (APA) from June 2–3. The in-person event brought together 28 master’s and doctoral students from the Behavioral Health and Public Policy program, along with professionals in behavioral health, for a two-day intensive orientation hosted by Bowie State. 

The APA is collaborating with Bowie State to prepare its minority graduate students in psychology and other behavioral health disciplines with the training necessary to better comprehend, analyze and act upon the policy implications of these and other issues affecting people of color. 

Virtual classes will be offered during the university’s second summer session with some students already selecting topics for their capstone projects, which are due in the summer of 2026. The students were thrilled to be part of the groundbreaking opportunity. Members of the American Psychological Association’s professional staff have already inquired about eligibility for next year’s program. 

“This would never have happened without the unwavering support and encouragement of Dr. Guy-Alain Amoussou, provost and vice president for academic affairs,” said Dr. James B. Hyman, assistant professor of public administration and founder of the Bowie State University Philanthropy initiative. “What a blessing. The BHPP Summer Symposium represents a new pathway for students and professionals committed to solving real-world challenges through behavioral health and public policy.” 

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

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