Each year, Bowie State University brings its community together to find solutions for 21st century challenges in education. Considering how effects of this year’s pandemic have rippled across schools all over the world, Bowie’s 2020 annual forum is more necessary than ever.

Titled the James E. Proctor Jr. Forum on Education, Leadership & Innovation, those putting on the event have always had high standards to uphold. The Honorable James E. Proctor Jr., who the forum was named after, was a Democrat who remained very committed to his alma mater Bowie State University. Over his career, he went to great lengths to support the mission of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in general. The Maryland Delegate’s support lead to Bowie receiving approximately $200 million in state funding over the course of his tenure in the Maryland legislature. His family and friends ultimately came together to establish an endowed scholarship in his honor at Bowie State University.

Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Sun

According to Bowie, the James E. Proctor Jr. Forum on Education, Leadership & Innovation honors the life and legacy of the late Delegate Proctor, one of Bowie State University’s most distinguished alumni. The event during American Education Week celebrates outstanding educators, strengthens the pipeline of students interested in the profession and showcases education as a lifelong career. Each year, the forum offers meaningful opportunities for students and educators alike to find inspiration and solutions for modern challenges in education.

This year’s forum was virtual, and took place on Wednesday November 18, 2020 at 3-4 pm EST. Key speakers included Bowie State University President Aminta H. Breaux, and also Montgomery College President DeRionne P. Pollard.

According to Bowie, the James E. Proctor Jr. Forum on Education, Leadership & Innovation honors the life and legacy of the late Delegate Proctor, one of Bowie State University’s most distinguished alumni. The event during American Education Week celebrates outstanding educators, strengthens the pipeline of students interested in the profession and showcases education as a lifelong career. Each year, the forum offers meaningful opportunities for students and educators alike to find inspiration and solutions for modern challenges in education.

You can view this year’s forum here.