Building Bridges of Justice and Hope

Honoring Lt. Richard Collins’ Legacy

Students, faculty and community members gathered in the Beacon on Oct. 24 for Rich With Love: Building Bridges of Justice, Memory and Hope, jointly hosted by Bowie State University and the University of Maryland through the BSU–UMD Social Justice Alliance and the 2nd Lt. Richard W. Collins III Foundation. The annual event honored the life and legacy of 2nd Lt. Richard W. Collins III while reaffirming a shared commitment to justice, unity and hope. 

The gathering created space for reflection and healing through film, discussion and remembrance. Attendees viewed a documentary on Lt. Collins’ life and impact, then joined open conversations about continuing his legacy across both campuses. The event featured Omar Lugones, a six-time Emmy Award-winning producer and documentary filmmaker who is collaborating with the University of California, Berkeley on a film centered on Lt. Collins’ story. Lugones invited students from both universities to contribute to the project, emphasizing their voices as the next generation of storytellers and advocates for social justice. 

“Our goal through this project is to give voice to the next generation, those who will carry Lt. Collins’ legacy forward through action and storytelling,” Lugones said. “It’s about preserving memory while also inspiring change.” 

For many attendees, the experience was both emotional and empowering. Jesse Kelly, a senior sociology major, reflected on the deep connection between love, justice and healing. “Being here today shows that love can truly be a bridge,” Kelly said. “Hearing about Lt. Collins’ life reminds us that our strength as a community comes from choosing empathy over hate and hope over fear.” 

Dawn Collins, Lt. Collins’ mother and founder of the 2nd Lt. Richard W. Collins III Foundation, spoke about the importance of unity between the two institutions. “Every time we gather, we are building on my son’s dream of a world that is kinder and more just,” Collins said. “Seeing these students come together gives me hope that his legacy will continue to grow through their hearts and actions.” 

The Rich With Love event strengthened the long-standing partnership between Bowie State University and the University of Maryland. Through continued collaboration, education and dialogue, both institutions remain committed to creating inclusive communities grounded in love, justice and understanding. These programs continue to inspire ongoing action toward equity, remembrance and change. 

For more information about the BSU–UMD Social Justice Alliance and the foundation’s initiatives, visit the BSU Social Justice Alliance webpage.