A Message from the President

January 10, 2021

Condolences on the Passing of Former Bowie State University President

 It is with great sadness that I share news of the passing of Dr. Samuel L. Myers, Sr., who served as the fourth president of Bowie State University from 1968 – 1977. Under his leadership, the university saw tremendous growth in enrollment, curriculum enhancements and a new program in social work. He also moved the university to the next level with the first offering of a graduate degree, the master of education, and establishment of a Graduate Division.

After retiring from BSU, Dr. Myers remained a champion for historically Black colleges and universities, serving as president of the National Association For Equal Opportunity in Higher Education for more than 20 years. He later joined Minority Access, Inc. to promote diversity in universities and corporate workplaces.

Dr. Myers has maintained his connection with Bowie State, participating in the university’s 150th anniversary celebration in 2015. I was most pleased with his attendance at my inauguration in 2018.

All of us working in higher education today owe a great deal to Dr. Myers. I ask all members of the BSU community to join me in offering condolences to his family during this sorrowful time.

A memorial service is being planned for the spring. The family is also planning to establish endowed scholarships in Dr. Myers’ name at Bowie State University and Morgan State University. For contributions to the Samuel L. Myers Memorial Fund at Bowie State University, go to bowiestate.edu/give. Donors may put in the comment box: Designated for Samuel L. Myers Memorial Fund. More information will be forthcoming soon.