Fall Convocation 2026: History Makers in the Making

The annual Fall 2026 Matriculation Convocation marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for students beginning their collegiate journey at Bowie State.

The powerful Sept. 9 event officially launched the academic semester, formally welcoming the class of 2030 to a university known for cultivating excellence and empowering leaders.

Bowie State University President Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, along with her cabinet, faculty and staff, uplifted freshmen, transfer students and current Bulldogs with inspiring words in their quest for higher learning. Keynote speaker Travis Mitchell, senior vice president and chief content officer at Maryland Public Television (MPT), delivered a rousing message encouraging Bulldogs to seize the moment and become history makers.

The ceremony also marked the beginning of celebrations of 10 years of excellence and impact under Dr. Breaux’s leadership. Notable accomplishments during her tenure include:

• 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification 
• Historic private giving of $128.5 million, increasing the endowment from $7 million to $89 million 
• Capital projects: Entrepreneurship Living Learning Community, Tubman Hall renovations, swimming pool and A.C. Jordan Arena renovations, the new Martin Luther King, Jr. Center 
• Signed on for transit-oriented development in partnership with State of Maryland, Prince George’s County, MDOT and MTA to develop Bowie MARC station 
• Expanded academic programs: Ph.D. in Nursing Education, bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence, and Immersive Media, Entertainment and Gaming 

During the program, Princstin Bailey, president of the Student Government Association and Earl Nimley, representative of the Graduate Student Association, offered greetings. Bailey shared words of advice and encouragement. 

“Do not play small, shrink or dim your light. We are all meant to shine, and when we do we give those around us the permission to do the same.”  

Nimley expressed a similar sentiment. 

“The only limit is the one we place on ourselves. Dream big, work hard and believe in your capacity to make a difference.” 

Following these greetings, Mitchell approached the lectern and began his address, recounting his early days joining his mother on Shaw University’s campus. During this time, she pursued her degree to set a standard for her children. He said that observing his mother and the dedication required to achieve goals sparked a drive in him.  

“It was on those grounds of Shaw where I learned that excellence was expected, not seen as the exception.” 

Mitchell went on to say that adversity is a part of the journey; however, building community while in school is significant to keep moving forward. He invited first-year students to make connections and celebrate one another’s wins without envy. In doing so, the lifelong friendships cultivated will return in value when those very same friends become part of a support system and the biggest cheerleaders. 

Mitchell encouraged students to boldly walk into their destiny. He reminded them that they are now part of a rich HBCU history and legacy and challenged them to see themselves as future leaders, Nobel Peace Prize winners, entrepreneurs and captains of industry. He emphasized that Bowie State and other HBCUs teach students how to become history makers, not just how to make history.

“You are history makers in the making. Making history is a moment in time, whereas being a history maker, you ignite a movement beyond the moment. History makers change the fundamental rules of the game.” 

He continued by sharing his vision of what a history maker is.  

“It’s the identity of a person whose character, vision, and leadership redefine society. It's a lifelong journey of movement or a permanent shift in culture that requires a deep purpose, resilience and the ability to inspire others, making history.”

In closing, Mitchell particularly challenged freshmen to speak up or get swallowed up, emphasizing the need to use their voices for change. He also shared words of wisdom on how procrastination can kill progress, and that students need to be mindful of how they use their time. His final words of advice encouraged each student to tap into faith in themselves.

“When people tell you can’t do something, I want you to respond with, ‘I can and I will.’ With this faith, you will turn obstacles into opportunities. Trials into triumphs. Pain into gain. Roadblocks into roadmaps. Stumbling blocks into stepping stones.” 

Watch the Fall 2026 Matriculation Convocation video below.

View the Fall 2026 Matriculation Convocation slideshow below.