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Exploring Excellence: A Journey Through Bowie State University’s Historic Campus

HBCU Original, we are honored to celebrate and amplify the rich history and vibrant culture of Bowie State University

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Exploring Excellence: A Journey Through Bowie State University’s Historic Campus

Welcome to HBCU Original, where we are dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Today, join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the storied campus of Bowie State University, a beacon of excellence in Maryland’s higher education landscape.

Bowie State University: A Brief Overview

Founded in 1865, Bowie State University holds the distinction of being one of the oldest HBCUs in the nation. Nestled on a picturesque campus in Bowie, Maryland, Bowie State has a rich legacy of academic achievement, social activism, and community engagement.

The Campus Tour Begins

Our journey begins at the entrance gates of Bowie State, where we’re greeted by the sight of the iconic “Bowie State University” sign and the university’s motto: “Excellence in Everything.” As we step onto the campus grounds, we’re immediately struck by the sense of history and pride that permeates the air.

Our first stop is the historic James E. Proctor Jr. Building, named in honor of Bowie State’s first African American president. With its grand architecture and timeless charm, the Proctor Building serves as the administrative heart of the campus, housing offices, classrooms, and meeting spaces.

Next, we make our way to the Martin Luther King Jr. Communications Art Center, a state-of-the-art facility that houses the university’s renowned communication and media studies programs. Inside, we’re greeted by the hum of activity as students collaborate on multimedia projects, hone their broadcasting skills, and engage in lively discussions about social justice and community activism.

As we stroll along the pathways that wind through the campus, we’re struck by the beauty of the landscape—the towering oak trees, the lush greenery, and the vibrant flowers that dot the grounds. Everywhere we look, we see evidence of Bowie State’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Our tour also takes us to the Fine and Performing Arts Center, where we’re treated to a showcase of talent from Bowie State’s renowned arts programs. From theatrical productions to musical performances, the arts are alive and thriving at Bowie State, enriching the campus community and inspiring creativity and expression.

We conclude our tour at the Thurgood Marshall Library, a modern facility that serves as a hub of learning and research for students and faculty alike. With its vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources, the library is a vital resource for academic excellence and intellectual inquiry.

As we bid farewell to Bowie State University, we’re filled with a profound sense of awe and admiration for this institution and its enduring commitment to excellence, diversity, and inclusion. At HBCU Original, we are honored to celebrate and amplify the rich history and vibrant culture of Bowie State University, and we look forward to continuing our journey of exploration and discovery across the landscape of HBCUs.

We are dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to provide a platform that honors the invaluable contributions of HBCUs to higher education, social justice, and community empowerment. Through insightful articles, engaging narratives, and meaningful dialogue, we strive to amplify the voices, experiences, and achievements within the HBCU community. By fostering awareness, appreciation, and support for HBCUs, we aspire to inspire current and future generations to pursue excellence, equity, and inclusivity in education and beyond.

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💸 Over 80% of Americans Have No Emergency Savings — Let’s Talk About It

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When life throws you a curveball—a medical bill, a car breakdown, or even a job layoff—how ready are you?

According to recent financial studies, over 80% of Americans have no emergency savings at all, and most don’t even have $5,000 saved for unexpected expenses. That means millions of people are one crisis away from serious financial trouble. It’s a quiet crisis, but one that affects everyday folks, especially young adults and college students.

At HBCU Original, we believe in keeping it real—and real talk means getting serious about your money.


💡 Why Emergency Savings Matter

Emergency savings are your financial safety net. They help you avoid high-interest credit card debt, loans, or having to ask others for help when a financial emergency strikes. Whether it’s a surprise hospital visit, a missed paycheck, or emergency travel—having money stashed away gives you peace of mind and control.


🎓 If You’re in College, Start Now

College students, this message is especially for you. Between tuition, books, and late-night food runs, it might feel impossible to save—but this is the perfect time to build the habit.

You don’t need to start with $1,000. Start with $10.
Open a separate savings account.
Put something in there every week.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have not only money saved, but the discipline and mindset that will carry you forward in life.


🗣️ Let’s Be Honest… How Much Do You Have Saved?

This isn’t about shaming—it’s about growing. We’re starting the conversation because change starts with awareness.

So how much do you have saved for an emergency?
Comment on our latest video, share your savings goals, or DM us your plan. Let’s hold each other accountable and normalize saving—even in a system that doesn’t always teach us how.


✊🏽 Culture. Community. Confidence.

At HBCU Original, we believe that financial wellness is part of Black excellence. We’re here to uplift, inform, and grow together. Whether you’re in college, recently graduated, or building your empire—start saving, stay consistent, and stay empowered.

🔗 Follow us on social
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📧 Join our newsletter at www.hbcuoriginal.com for tips, resources, and giveaways!

#EmergencyFund #HBCUOriginal #StartSaving #CollegeTips #FinancialFreedom #BlackExcellence #BudgetWisely #SaveSmart #RealTalk

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Former HBCU Star Steve Settle III Signs NBA Deal with Miami Heat

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Steve Settle III, a former standout at Howard University, has agreed to an Exhibit 10 contract with the Miami Heat following the 2025 NBA Draft, according to DraftExpress’ Jon Chepkevich.

Settle, a 6-foot-11 forward from Glenarden, Maryland, will report to the Heat’s summer training camp with the opportunity to earn a roster spot or a two-way contract. The Exhibit 10 deal also includes the possibility of a bonus if Settle spends time with the team’s G League affiliate.

Settle launched his college career at Howard University, where he became a cornerstone of the program. During the 2022–23 season, he started all 32 games, averaging 11.1 points and leading the team in rebounding with 5.7 boards per game. His contributions helped power the Bison to both the MEAC regular season and tournament championships, earning him All-MEAC Second Team honors.

Following his time at Howard, Settle transferred to Temple University to finish out his collegiate eligibility. With the Owls, he elevated his game, averaging 12.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.0 blocks, and 1.0 steals per contest in the 2024–25 season. He also demonstrated a reliable perimeter shot, knocking down 41.6% of his attempts from three-point range. His size, versatility, and ability to space the floor made him a compelling prospect for NBA scouts.

What Is an Exhibit 10 Contract?
An Exhibit 10 contract is a one-year, non-guaranteed NBA deal that allows teams to convert it into a two-way contract. If a player is waived and later joins the team’s G League affiliate for at least 60 days, they can earn a bonus of up to $75,000. It’s a flexible path for players like Settle to prove their value during training camp and beyond.

What’s Next for Settle?
Settle will join the Miami Heat’s Summer League roster, giving him a national stage to display his skills against top-tier talent. His journey—from an HBCU to the American Athletic Conference and now the NBA—reflects the growing recognition of HBCU athletes and their readiness for the professional level.

For Settle, this is more than just a contract—it’s a testament to his growth and determination, and a beacon of hope for HBCU players aspiring to reach the league.


Story by Kyle T. Mosley | Originally published June 28, 2025 | © HBCU Legends via Sports Illustrated
Images courtesy of Imagn Content Services

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Detroit Pistons Add HBCU Standout TJ Madlock to Summer League Roster

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The Detroit Pistons have added a rising HBCU talent to their Summer League lineup with the signing of guard TJ Madlock, following the 2025 NBA Draft.

Madlock, a standout from Alabama State and son of head coach Tony Madlock, brings a solid résumé to the Pistons’ Summer League squad. He started all 32 games during the 2024–25 season, averaging 13.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. His efforts helped lead the Hornets to their first SWAC Tournament appearance since 2019.

Known for his consistency, Madlock reached double figures in 28 games, including a standout 30-point performance on the road against Prairie View A&M. His blend of scoring, rebounding, and facilitating made him a go-to leader in his senior campaign.

Madlock’s college journey began at South Carolina State, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman with averages of 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. After transferring to Alabama State, he earned SWAC Newcomer of the Year honors during his sophomore season, averaging 11.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.

With three years of HBCU hoops under his belt, Madlock has showcased a versatile skill set that includes scoring, defending, and creating for others. His addition to Detroit’s Summer League roster represents the continued growth of HBCU athletes in the professional basketball pipeline.

As NBA franchises increasingly tap into HBCU programs for talent, Madlock’s opportunity with the Pistons marks another step forward. The Summer League will give him a national stage to prove that players from historically Black colleges belong in the NBA conversation.

For HBCU supporters, Madlock’s presence on the Pistons’ Summer League team is a moment of pride and progress—a signal that the legacy of HBCU basketball is alive and thriving.


Originally published by Steven J. Gaither for HBCU Gameday. © HBCU Gameday 2012–2025. Read more at: Sacramento Bee

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Boston City Council Eyes Bringing HBCU Presence to the City

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Boston could soon see the establishment of its first historically Black college or university (HBCU) presence, as city leaders take steps to explore the creation of a satellite campus.

City Council Vice President Brian Worrell recently introduced a proposal calling for a hearing focused on bringing an HBCU satellite campus to Boston. The effort, he said, would not only expand educational opportunities but also serve as a beacon for young Black students in the city.

“An HBCU presence would provide role models for current Black students by showing them a tangible pathway to success,” Worrell said. “Boston led the way in educating Black students in the first half of the 19th century, with the opening of the Abiel Smith School, and we need to discover that trailblazing spirit once again.”

Despite being home to more than 25 colleges and universities, Boston currently lacks an HBCU. Worrell hopes to change that with support from initiatives like the Building Bridges HBCU program, which is actively working to attract a historically Black college to open a satellite campus in the city. An update on those efforts is expected later this year.

“There are more than 100 historically Black colleges and universities in the country, with the vast majority of them located in southern states as a response to Jim Crow laws,” Worrell noted in his council order. “The need for more culturally sensitive schools, such as HBCUs, has grown in the past decade based upon current rulings and the actions of the current federal administration.”

Worrell emphasized the vital role HBCUs play in Black advancement, stating that while HBCUs make up just 3% of colleges nationwide, they produce 40% of Black engineers, 50% of Black lawyers and doctors, 70% of Black dentists, and 40% of Black members of Congress.

Cory McCarthy, Chief of Student Support for Boston Public Schools, echoed the importance of this initiative.

“The appetite for a HBCU has grown immensely within the last five years,” McCarthy said. “An opportunity to bring a HBCU to Boston would further highlight the commitment and dedication of our city to create an educational ecosystem that values, elevates and develops opportunities for Black students to be successful.”

The City Council has referred the proposal to the Committee on Education, with a hearing expected to take place in the fall.


Story credit: Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald ©2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Visit bostonherald.com

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Tennessee State University Secures $96M Financial Lifeline with State Support

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Tennessee State University (TSU), the state’s only publicly funded historically Black land-grant university, has signed a landmark agreement with the state of Tennessee to stabilize its financial future.

After months of uncertainty and scrutiny over budget shortfalls and rising operational costs, TSU and state officials finalized a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Tuesday that allows the university to redirect $96 million in previously earmarked capital improvement funds toward operations over the next three years.

This move comes just days after TSU’s Board of Trustees approved a 6% tuition and fee increase for the upcoming academic year, amounting to a $270 bump per semester for students.

The MOU, signed in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration and the State Comptroller’s Office, activates a new state law that permits TSU to repurpose unspent capital funds for operational costs—under strict conditions. Originally, the state allocated $250 million to TSU for campus infrastructure improvements, excluding dormitory projects, despite TSU’s well-documented student housing crisis.

Under the new agreement, $55 million of the original capital funds will still go toward much-needed campus improvements—such as upgrades to electrical grids and the construction of new buildings—while the remaining $96 million will help fund operational needs, including payroll, student services, and academic programming.

Interim TSU President Dwayne Tucker hailed the deal as a critical step forward.

“It not only provides crucial cash flow to ensure the university’s financial sustainability, but also allows us to invest in enriching the student experience and strengthening our capacity to attract both students and qualified employees,” said Tucker.

Last November, the State Building Commission already approved an emergency $43 million allocation from the capital funds to help TSU meet payroll and finish the budget year.

State Comptroller Jason Mumpower, who has been closely monitoring the university’s financial challenges, expressed confidence in TSU’s new leadership and supported the tuition hike.

“I believe in their ability to understand and navigate the institution’s challenges,” said Mumpower, who previously suggested controversial cost-cutting ideas like selling the university’s Avon Williams Campus and land at John Tune Airport—proposals that TSU firmly rejected.

Tensions between TSU and the state escalated last year after a spike in enrollment strained the university’s resources. At its peak in Fall 2022, enrollment surged to over 8,000 students. To accommodate them, TSU resorted to housing students in nearby hotels and churches, prompting state Senate hearings and eventually contributing to the resignation of then-President Glenda Glover.

The university’s aggressive scholarship program, funded by $37 million in COVID-era federal relief grants, had driven the enrollment boom. But once the federal money dried up, TSU struggled to maintain the same level of support. It relied on other sources, including $19.6 million in tornado insurance funds, to stay afloat.

Amid these financial strains, leadership changes followed. After Glover’s departure, an interim president stepped in but later resigned when it was revealed he had signed two $800,000 consulting contracts with Glover—further shaking confidence in the university’s governance.

Now, with a new agreement in place and fresh leadership at the helm, TSU is aiming for a reset. The university is also advocating for additional funding, pointing to long-standing underfunding issues. A federal study found TSU was shortchanged by $2.1 billion over the past 30 years, echoing a previous state report citing a $544 million gap over a century.

With the new deal, TSU looks to stabilize its finances, improve campus infrastructure, and continue its mission to serve as a vital educational institution for Tennessee’s Black community and beyond.

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