Coppin State University Unveils Eagle Achievement Center, Announces $2 Million Grant from Truist for Black Economic Mobility Hub

BALTIMORE – Coppin State University, today, unveiled the Eagle Achievement Center (EAC), a centralized resource hub that will support the academic, personal, and professional success of students, as well as enhance their experience on campus. The Eagle Achievement Center will feature collaborative workspaces, innovative technology, and new processes that will assist Coppin in improving holistic student development, student retention, and student success. 

“The Eagle Achievement Center will allow us be more proactive and strengthen efforts that support student success,” said Coppin State University President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D. “The new process and structure that comes with Eagle Achievement Center invites stronger student-focused collaboration and coordination that will drive better student retention outcomes and allow for more students to realize a return on their investment, by leaving Coppin with a degree, and an education that sets them up for success.”

Ribbon cutting for the Eagle Achievement Center on Thursday, February 16, 2023.
Left to right: Vice President for Institutional Advancement Joshua Humbert; Truist Maryland Regional President, Gregory Farno; President Anthony L. Jenkins; First Lady Toinette Jenkins; University System of Maryland Chancellor Jay A. Perman; Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, Stephan Moore; and Student Government Association President, Justin Evans.

During the unveiling, President Jenkins also highlighted a $2 million grant from Truist to establish the Truist Hub for Black Economic Mobility. The hub, located inside of the EAC, will enhance the quality of advising, programming, and technology related to educational opportunities and career pathways for Coppin students, as well as opportunities to engage members of the community. 
“At Truist, we aim to create sustainable wealth-building opportunities and level the playing field by investing in strong organizations and institutions, like Coppin,” said Truist Maryland Regional President Greg Farno. “This grant reflects the commitment we have to West Baltimore and to our purpose, to inspire and build better lives and communities. It also reflects our steadfast belief that all individuals and communities should have an equal opportunity to thrive.”
 

Team members from Truist present a $2 million check to Coppin State University on
Thursday, February 16, 2023. The funds will support the Truist Hub for Black Economic Mobility.

The $2 million grant by Tuist is the largest corporate commitment in Coppin’s history.
"Now more than ever, there is a growing need to reinforce the academic journey for our students and the community in West Baltimore said Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Joshua E. Humbert. This partnership with Truist will advance students' and community members' ability to receive support in navigating career pathways, professional development, and upskilling initiatives to make positive progress and achieve success."
The EAC will be housed on the fourth floor of the Parlett L. Moore Library. The newly renovated space will serve as a convenient, comfortable, and inviting space for students to study, access academic and career resources, and collaborate with one another.

The EAC is designed to provide more accessibility and support for students as they navigate life and learning at Coppin State University through a number of services, including:
•    Military Student Support Services;
•    International Student Support Services;
•    Career and Professional Services;
•    Math Lab;
•    Writing Lab;
•    Academic Advising Coordinators;
•    Academic Outreach Coordinators;
•    First Year Experience;
•    Second Year Experience; 
•    New Student Orientation; and
•    Mentoring Programs
In addition to providing a modern academic common for students, the EAC will develop new plans and programming to boost student engagement and involvement on campus from the time students are accepted, through graduation. 

“When I talk about the EAC I want students, faculty, and staff to know this is the place where they can come for help,” said Associate Vice President for Student Development and Achievement, James G. Stewart, Ph.D. “When the journey gets a little rough, as it does for us all sometimes, the EAC and our staff are here for them.  We are the team designed and dedicated to empowering our students, so they can succeed.”

President Jenkins (center) with members of the Coppin State University 2022-2023 Royal Court.