Bowie State University Receives $6.5 Million Gift from Elior to Transform the Student Experience and Advance Campus Innovation

Bowie State University has received a landmark $6.5 million gift from Elior Collegiate Dining that will significantly transform the student experience and drive campus innovation and modernization - two cornerstone priorities of the university's newly launched Boldly Forward FY26-29 Strategic Plan.

"This extraordinary gift from Elior is a powerful affirmation of Bowie State University's mission and impact," said Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State. "This investment will expand opportunities for our students, modernize our campus and strengthen the 160-year legacy of excellence at Bowie State. We are grateful for Elior's partnership and commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders."

The unrestricted gift will support key institutional priorities, including expanding access and affordability through student scholarships and renovating student dining and learning spaces to create collaborative environments that inspire community engagement and academic excellence.

"At Elior, we are honored to partner with Bowie State University in advancing student success and campus transformation," said Travis Young, senior president of education for Elior North America. "Our investment reflects a shared commitment to access, innovation and community. We are proud to support Bowie State as it enhances the student experience and creates environments where every student can thrive academically and be healthy."

The gift comes at a pivotal time for Bowie State, strengthening the university's mission to foster student excellence, advance innovation and shape leaders who make meaningful contributions in their communities and beyond.

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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: Kelly Alexander, [email protected], 301-860-4311