Bowie State University Celebrates 159th Founders Day

Former Football Player Delano Johnson Delivered Inspiring Keynote Address

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thompson, [email protected], 301-860-4311 Jonathan Saxon, [email protected], 301-860-3607 Elijah Taylor, [email protected]

(BOWIE, Md.) - Former professional football player and Baltimore business owner Delano Johnson ('11) served as the keynote speaker for this year's 159thcelebration of Founders' Day for Bowie State University sharing how the legacy of his BSU experience shaped the resilience and determination that guides his life.

He had an opportunity to demonstrate that resilience when the program was interrupted by an accidental fire alarm. Despite the disturbance, Johnson was still able to share some encouraging words with the crowd in attendance and a call and response affirmation that boosted his determination as a student. In the tradition of Baptist preaching, he encouraged a call-and-response chant with the crowd throughout his speech as ne noted points of challenge and success during his life.

"I am," said Johnson. And the crowd responded, "I do."

Noting the long history of Bowie State, Johnson reminded everyone why they could sit in the auditorium that day.

"Somebody sacrificed their life for you to be here," said Johnson, who played football in the NFL, CFL and Arena leagues before opening his barbershop, which is called Finao Love. "Do not take this opportunity for granted."

Earlier in the program, Bowie State President Aminta Breaux offered her own take on what it meant to celebrate the founding of Maryland's first HBCU.

"For over 150 years, Bowie State University has been unlocking those doors for our graduates to learn, find their sense of purpose, and to take your place in workplaces across the nation and around the world."

Dr. Breaux emphasized the importance of understanding what it meant that the university is still standing and how important it is to continue building on the foundations that were established by the first set of educators who came together to start the school that would become Bowie State University.

"We pause and reflect on the past and honor the memories of those who have travelled this way before. And to remind ourselves of the responsibility we bear to their legacy by also paving the way for the next generation of learners," she said.

The occasion was also a time to recognize Dean's List students from the Fall 2023 semesters who demonstrate the continuing commitment to academic excellence by earning a 3.5 GPA for the semester. More than 800 students received medallions honoring their achievement.

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About Bowie State University
Bowie State University is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds, seeking a high-quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The university places special emphasis on the science, technology, cybersecurity, teacher education, business and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

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