Half a Century Strong: Class of 1976 Golden Graduates Honored at Commencement

Spring 2026 Commencement took on a special shine thanks to the presence of 23 members of the Bowie State University Class of 1976. The Office of Alumni Engagement & Stewardship welcomed these Golden Graduates to campus as they celebrated their 50th class reunion at a luncheon and received pride of place at Commencement ceremonies.

This distinguished group of Bulldogs includes alumni who have devoted their lives to education, business, social work and many other fields of service and leadership.

The luncheon was held in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center, where Brent Swinton, vice president of the Division of Philanthropic Engagement praised the trailblazing journeys of the cohort.

Bowie State University President Aminta H. Breaux also offered remarks at Commencement honoring the Golden Graduates.

“As we reflect on the year 1976 — a year our nation celebrated the United States Bicentennial and a renewed sense of pride, progress and possibility — we also celebrate a class whose legacy continues to shape communities and inspire future generations.”

President Breaux emphasized that the Class of 76’s Bulldog pride did not end at graduation.

Along with the Class of 1977, she noted that the alumni established a scholarship endowment in 2021 that has grown to nearly $57,000, including more than $8,000 raised in the past year to support future Bowie State students.

“Their commitment to giving back reflects a deep and lasting investment in Bowie State University and in the success of the students who will follow in their footsteps. Please join me in congratulating and celebrating the remarkable Class of 1976 on this extraordinary milestone.”

Karen Hatcher Thomas ‘76 said her experiences at Bowie State shaped her evolution from student to steward as she entered the professional world.

“Standing here today as a Golden Graduate, I reflect with immense pride on the journey from orientation in 1976 to this celebration today. Through it all, the mission has remained the same: helping one another become the best versions of ourselves.”

Read personal stories about members of the Class of 1976.