Full Circle: Bang Paylor’s Vision for Models Inc. and Bowie State’s Bright Future

 

MEDIA CONTACT: media@bowiestate.edu

(BOWIE, Md.) — Iran "Bang" Paylor stands at the helm of Models Inc., a beacon of possibility at Bowie State University. From his days as a freshman in 2006 to mentoring students featured in Vogue, Bang has woven a legacy of empowerment. Now, as Models Inc. thrives on campus, his sights are set on a future where every student can soar—and he’s calling on the Bowie State community to make it happen, with Aaron Handy, the president of Models Inc. D.C. and a Delaware State University graduate, as the "magician" driving this work. Alongside Bang, who created the partnership with designer Romeo Hunt, Handy serves as the lead liaison, opening doors for students. 

All of this has been possible because of Bowie State alumnus Aaron Jackson Mackey, the charter founder of Bowie State’s Models Inc. Known as Lincoln (BMI), he previously served as junior class vice president and as the president of Models Inc. He knew that officially bringing the organization back to BSU would help students become stronger leaders and create more opportunities. 

Bang’s achievements are dazzling. As the first Black modeling organization to secure a residency at the Kennedy Center’s REACH facility, Models Inc. has partnered with icons like Debbie Allen for National Dance Day workshops. "It’s about giving young choreographers and students a stage," Bang says, praising the Kennedy Center’s support in providing rehearsal space. Back at Bowie State, his program has transformed lives—think Mr. and Miss Bowie State, once shy, now bold leaders thanks to Models Inc.’s nurturing. 

Mr. Bowie State, Chief Wesley Bentil — stage name GQ (BMI) — and Miss Bowie State, Nalani Dior Byrd — stage name Jourdan Dunn (BMI) — are prime examples of how the program builds confidence and poise. 

Since 2022, 90% of Bowie State University’s Royal Court has consisted of students who came through the Models Inc. program. Drawn by fashion shows and mentorship that instill pride in their HBCU roots, these students are now standing taller. Partnerships with designers like Romeo Hunt have landed students in New York Fashion Week, delivering garments to celebrities and strutting runways themselves. 

"We’re building go-getters," Bang said. "They graduate knowing their worth as African American leaders." 

His vision? A Models Inc. that’s a permanent fixture at Bowie State, expanding opportunities in fashion, theater, and beyond. "Imagine a funded program—buses to New York, paid internships, alumni workshops," he dreams aloud. September’s Fashion Week trip is already on the horizon, with designers clamoring for more Bowie talent. But sustainability is the challenge. "We’ve bootstrapped this," Bang admits. "Faculty could integrate us into curricula, students could join, and alumni could donate—$5 or $500, it all counts." Be the catalyst for this future and watch Bowie State talent redefine the world. 

The ripple effect is clear: when Models Inc. thrives, Bowie State’s visibility soars, attracting talent and prestige. "This is our cry for support," Bang urges. "Together, we can create a legacy that echoes globally." To get involved or support, contact Incmodel@yahoo.com or visit www.modelsincdc.org to learn more. The future is bright—let’s build it together. 

Missed the start? Revisit part 1 and part 2 of this series online in previous BSYou Newsletters. 

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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.