Bowie State University Hosts Disney on the Yard, Connecting Students to Career Pathways Across Media, Entertainment, Technology and Business

Bowie State University welcomed representatives from The Walt Disney Company, including Drum Major Mickey Mouse, to campus on September 15 for Disney on the Yard. This daylong career exploration experience was designed to connect students with internships, mentorship opportunities and early career pathways across one of the world's leading entertainment companies. Programming highlighted opportunities spanning storytelling, media, sports, technology, communications, business and entertainment.

"Disney on the Yard exemplifies transformative partnership that helps prepare our students to lead and thrive in a global workforce," said Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State University. "By connecting our students directly with industry leaders, accomplished alumni and career opportunities at The Walt Disney Company, we are advancing Bowie State's commitment to student success, experiential learning and career readiness. Experiences like this expand students' professional networks, inspire new possibilities and reinforce that their talent, creativity and leadership are valued in every industry."

Held as part of Disney's Maryland HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Tour, the event brought Disney recruiters, professionals, alumni and industry partners to Bowie State for a series of panels, networking opportunities and career-focused discussions. Students learned how their academic preparation and leadership experiences can translate into careers across Disney's many brands and business units.

Throughout the day, students participated in sessions featuring National Geographic, Disney technology professionals and recruiters, as well as representatives from ESPN, Entertainment Industry College Outreach Program (EICOP) and UNCF. Discussions focused on internships, scholarships, professional development opportunities and strategies for launching successful careers in competitive industries.

The event concluded with the Disney on the Yard: HBCU Yard Takeover in front of the University Student Center, where students connected with recruiters and program representatives while learning about Disney internships, the Disney College Program, the Innovation Challenge, National Geographic Content Scholarship opportunities and other career development resources.

A highlight of the celebration was a special appearance by Drum Major Mickey Mouse, who performed with Bowie State University's renowned Symphony of Soul Marching Band, creating an electrifying showcase of school pride, musical excellence and HBCU culture. The performance served as the centerpiece of the afternoon festivities, bringing together Disney traditions and Bowie State spirit while celebrating career exploration and student achievement. Disney on the Yard has become a signature initiative designed to strengthen connections with HBCUs by expanding access to internships, mentorship, professional development and career opportunities for HBCU students and graduates.

The visit reflects Bowie State University's ongoing commitment to cultivating strategic partnerships that provide students with access to leading employers, experiential learning opportunities and pathways to meaningful careers after graduation.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the 'Research College and University' designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Stacie Burgess, [email protected], 301-860-4311