BSU Homecoming’s Somewhat ‘Pep-less’ Rally By Nanyamka A. Taliaferro Walking into the Leonidas S. James Gymnasium Physical Education Complex at Bowie State, you could feel the excitement in the air. Music blasted from speakers. Students, staff and faculty were on their feet dancing. “This is the best pep rally I have ever seen in my seven years as president,” quipped Bowie State University President Mickey L. Burnim. Despite his remark, was it really the best pep rally the students had ever seen? Despite the excitement in the air, was the pep rally really a “pep” rally? The pep rally began with faculty and students doing the “Cupid Shuffle,” a line dance that is always a pleasure to watch. DJ Trav kept the atmosphere energetic with the pulsing beat of his music as BSU’s Golden Girls practiced their upcoming routines nearby. Following the constant dance flow of faculty and students, the dignified presence of the SOS Band was announced. They strutted into the gymnasium as if they owned the place. Their presence was absolutely dynamic; however, they seemed to cut the music short. One student was overheard to saying, “Is that it?” It took the performance of the Golden Girls to bring more excitement to the crowd. As they performed, students shouted out the names of those they knew. Students cheered. Faculty cheered. The Golden Girls brought the most excitement to the crowded pep rally. The football team was introduced following the recognition of the class leaders. “Why are they introducing the entire team? Just give us the starting lineup!” one student shouted. The introduction of the entire team killed the crowd’s excitement despite the athletic director’s and coaches’ enthusiasm. After the football team left the stadium, the Bulldog mascot made a fashionably late appearance. He shook hands with people in the stands, poked fun at others and danced to the music. The Bulldog mascot is always a joy to watch, so the pep did manage to come back, if only for a while. So, was the pep rally a total success? Based on students’ reactions, it could have brought more spice, flavor and fire to the spirit of Bulldog Nation. | 
In October 2008, Nikki E. Owens, a junior at Bowie State University, received a Milton Pericles Darden III Memorial Scholarship from the Scott Lee Foundation during its First Annual Nicole Lynette Scott Lee Memorial Scholarship Awards Reception. 
Dr. Clarence E. Knight, Jr., chairman of the Fine and Performing Arts Department at Bowie State University. Under his leadership, the Department has grown considerably with new and exciting programs and an increase in the majors in each of the Fine and Performing Arts concentrations. 
Donna Broadway launched her writing career at Bowie State when she first became a contributor to The Spectrum newspaper, where she rose through the ranks to become Deputy Managing Editor during her senior year. 
