Coppin State University: A Legacy of Education and Community Engagement
Coppin State University (Coppin) stands as a model urban, residential liberal arts university, strategically located in the northwest section of Baltimore City. As an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), Coppin boasts a culturally rich history, characterized by its commitment to providing quality educational programs and impactful community outreach services. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs across the arts and sciences, teacher education, nursing, graduate studies, and continuing education, with 53 majors and nine graduate-degree programs available to its students.
The Genesis of Coppin State University
Coppin State University's roots trace back to 1900 when the Baltimore City School Board recognized the need for trained African-American elementary school teachers. The Board initiated a one-year training course at the Colored High School (later renamed Douglass High School) on Pennsylvania Avenue. This marked the humble beginnings of an institution that would grow to become a cornerstone of education and community empowerment in Baltimore.
In 1902, the training program expanded into a two-year Normal Department within the high school. Seven years later, it gained independence with its own principal, setting the stage for further development. This early focus on teacher training laid a strong foundation for Coppin's future as a comprehensive institution of higher learning.
Honoring a Pioneer: Fanny Jackson Coppin
In 1926, the teacher training facility received a new name: Fanny Jackson Coppin Normal School. This renaming honored Fanny Jackson Coppin, an extraordinary African-American woman who was a pioneer in teacher education. Born into slavery in Washington, D.C., Fanny Jackson Coppin's life story is one of triumph over adversity. She not only gained her freedom but also graduated from Oberlin College in Ohio. Further cementing her legacy, she founded the Philadelphia Institute, a precursor to Cheyney State University. Naming the school after her was a fitting tribute to her dedication to education and her impact on the African-American community.
Expansion and Evolution
By 1938, the curriculum of the normal school underwent significant expansion, growing to a four-year program. This expansion granted the institution the authority to award Bachelor of Science degrees, leading to another name change: Coppin Teachers College. This marked a crucial step in Coppin's evolution from a teacher training school to a comprehensive college.
Read also: GPA and Coppin State University
In 1950, Coppin became integrated into Maryland's higher education system under the State Department of Education and was renamed Coppin State Teachers College. Two years later, Coppin relocated to its present 38-acre campus on West North Avenue, providing a permanent home for its growing student body and academic programs.
Broadening Horizons: From Teachers College to University
A pivotal moment arrived in 1963 when the Board of Trustees acknowledged the evolving goals and objectives of the college. They ruled that the institution's degree-granting authority would no longer be limited to teacher education. This decision paved the way for Coppin to expand its academic offerings and serve a broader range of students.
Following this landmark ruling, Coppin officially became Coppin State College. In 1967, the college conferred its first Bachelor of Arts degree, signifying its transition into a comprehensive liberal arts institution. This expansion allowed Coppin to cater to the diverse interests and career aspirations of its students, solidifying its role as a vital resource for the Baltimore community. In 1988, the College became part of the newly organized University of Maryland System (now the University System of Maryland.)
Leadership and Vision
Throughout its history, Coppin State University has been guided by visionary leaders who have shaped its trajectory and fostered its growth. Dr. Miles Connor was appointed as Coppin's first president in 1950, setting the stage for the institution's expansion and development. In 1956, Dr. Parlett Moore succeeded Dr. Connor, continuing the work of building Coppin into a respected center of higher learning.
Dr. Calvin W. Burnett, appointed as Coppin's third president in 1970, served the institution for 33 years. Dr. Stanley F. Battle was appointed as Coppin's fourth president on March 3, 2003. Dr. Reginald S. Avery was appointed as Coppin’s fifth president on January 14, 2008. Dr. Mortimer H. Neufville was appointed as Coppin’s sixth president on July 9, 2013. Dr. Maria Thompson was appointed as Coppin’s seventh and first woman president on July 1, 2015. Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins was appointed Coppin’s eighth president on May 26, 2020.
Read also: Coppin State Requirements
Commitment to Community Engagement
Coppin State University has a longstanding commitment to serving the needs of the Baltimore community. Fulfilling its unique mission of primarily focusing on the problems, needs and aspirations of the people of Baltimore's central city and its immediate metropolitan area, Coppin took over nearby Rosemont Elementary School in 1998, becoming the first and only higher education institution in Maryland to manage a public school. Rosemont Elementary, located in the Greater Rosemont Community adjacent to the University, had been declared "below acceptable standards" by the Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) in 1997.
As operator of Rosemont, Coppin hired staff and developed the school's educational program. In 2000, Rosemont Elementary first-graders led Baltimore City in largest percentile gains in First Grade Reading. In 2003, Rosemont was removed from MSDE's "watch list" citing that Rosemont has made enough progress to exit the school improvement program.
Another vital community outreach program operated by Coppin is the Coppin State University Community Nursing Center, a fully equipped medical clinic that offers affordable health care for children and adults. The Community Nursing Center is located on the 1st Floor of the Health and Human Services Building. By providing accessible healthcare services, Coppin directly addresses the needs of the community and promotes the well-being of its residents.
Coppin State University Today
On April 13, 2004, Coppin officially became Coppin State University, a testament to its growth and comprehensive academic offerings. The university holds accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, ensuring the quality and rigor of its programs. In addition, its undergraduate and graduate academic programs are accredited by a number of specialized agencies. Teacher education programs are accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and are approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. The nursing program is approved by the Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The Social Work and Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, respectively.
Coppin's faculty members are well-qualified, with many holding terminal degrees in their respective fields. They come to Coppin from diverse ethnic backgrounds, with outstanding credentials from leading universities throughout the country and abroad. The student population is comprised of students who are enrolled in day, evening and weekend undergraduate/graduate courses. Many are Baltimore residents from very diverse ethnic, religious and socio-economic backgrounds.
Read also: Legacy of Coppin State University
Coppin State University is classified among "Master's Colleges & Universities: Small Programs" and institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Specific programs are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE), the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE), the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), and the Commission on Accreditation of Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). Coppin has offered a selective honors program since 1981 for high-performing undergraduate students.
Coppin State Eagles: Athletics and School Spirit
The Coppin State Eagles compete in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and in the NCAA Division I, fostering school spirit and providing opportunities for student-athletes to excel. In 1997, the Coppin State men's basketball team achieved a historic victory, defeating the University of South Carolina in the opening round of the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship and becoming just the third #15 seed to defeat a #2 seed. Under the direction of Coach Leon Stewart, Coppin State began breaking school records in bowling, which is one of its newer teams. In 2012, the Eagles signed two premier women bowlers, Kache Woods and Kristen Sharpe. The 2013 recruiting class included Woods and Sharpe, along with Erica Washington, Loren Johnson, and Heather Josker. With this influx of talent, the 2013 Eagles broke the school record for most wins.
Celebrating Black History
Coppin State University actively participates in the national commemoration of Black history. The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), founded on September 9, 1915, by Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson, George Cleveland Hall, William D. Hartgrove, Jesse E. Moorland, Alexander L. Jackson, and James E. Stamps, institutionalized the teaching, study, dissemination, and commemoration of Black history.
Dr. Carter G. Woodson's establishment of Negro History Week in 1925 has evolved into Black History Month, a tradition that has become deeply ingrained in American culture and increasingly recognized globally. The observance encourages reflection on the impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world.
Coppin State University invites all to join in the planned activities in observance of Black History Month as we reflect on the accomplishments, history, and culture of African-Americans.
Coppin's Ascent in National Rankings
Coppin State University has been recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and student success. In the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges, Coppin State University is ranked as the 27th best Historically Black College and University (HBCU) among over 100 HBCUs, marking a remarkable ascent from #53 in 2019 to #35 in 2023 and now to #27 in 2024.
“This ranking is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our faculty, staff, and students to academic excellence, community engagement, and student success. Over the past four and a half years, we have worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of education and the overall Coppin experience,” said President Anthony L. Jenkins.
Coppin State has distinguished itself through its innovative programs in business, healthcare, psychology, social work, criminal justice, teacher education, and STEM attracting students from all over the world. These programs offer cutting-edge research, experiential learning, and community-driven projects that prepare students to excel in their careers and as global leaders.
The university's determination to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment has been instrumental in this journey. By prioritizing student success and community engagement, Coppin State University has created a dynamic and nurturing educational environment that empowers students to achieve their full potential.
In addition to stellar academic programs, Coppin State offers a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities, student organizations, and leadership opportunities. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty mentorship, and a network of successful alumni making a difference around the globe.
tags: #coppin #state #hbcu #history
