Bowie State University officially inaugurated the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center. The landmark facility is designed to foster creativity and inspire students to harness their voices for social change. Costing $166 million and spanning 192,000 square feet, the center is set to become the heart of BSU’s communications and humanities programs.
The grand opening ceremony attracted state and local officials, university leaders, and project partners to witness the ribbon-cutting event.
BSU President Aminta H. Breaux emphasized the center’s significance, stating, “Every student receiving a BSU education will pass through this building at some point in their curriculum. The cutting-edge tools and resources found here will elevate instruction of the liberal arts and enable students to find their own voice and develop skills to navigate real-world challenges in their future careers.”
Accordingly, elements inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s powerful words are central to the building’s design. Abstract impressions of vocal sound waves from his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize speech are incorporated into the façade and main entrances, echoing his message of courage and resilience.
The two-year construction project was collaborative between architect Perkins & Will and construction manager Whiting-Turner. The design emphasizes visibility, connectivity, and storytelling, creating an environment where community and dialogue thrive.
Honoring 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III
Among the noteworthy features of the center is the 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III Alcove. The tribute honors the slain BSU student killed in a hate crime in 2017 shortly after his Army commissioning. This dedicated space serves as a site for reflection and collaboration, drawing inspiration from Collins’s commitment to service.
His mother, Dawn Collins, expressed what the tribute means to the family. “The Collins family is overwhelmed with gratitude and inspiration by this tremendously powerful gesture to honor the memory and legacy of our beloved son, 1st Lieutenant Richard W. Collins III. “We want to thank President Breaux, along with her faculty and staff, for bestowing upon us this very high honor,” says Collins.
The center houses innovative learning environments tailored to study communication and humanities disciplines. Facilities include advanced television studios, streaming and podcasting studios, digital editing labs, and a custom-designed vocal recording booth. Additionally, the center accommodates specialized classrooms, including two-tiered rooms seating 150 students each.
Designed with community engagement in mind, the center features a versatile 1,500-seat auditorium capable of hosting events. It also supports the university’s ROTC program with dedicated training spaces.
Artwork integrated throughout the center pays homage to Dr. King’s ideals and BSU’s rich history. This includes a mural titled “Conversation” by Washington, D.C., artist Victor Ekpuk.