Bowie State University Honored with National Climate Luminary Award

BOWIE, Md. - Bowie State University has been recognized nationally for its leadership in sustainability and climate action as a recipient of the 2026 Climate Luminary Honors from Second Nature, a national nonprofit dedicated to accelerating climate action in and through higher education. The university received the Community category award for its Peace Park Restoration Project, an initiative that transformed an underutilized memorial site into a vibrant green space dedicated to reflection, environmental learning and climate resilience.

"This honor affirms Bowie State's commitment to sustainability and care for our students and community," said Jabari S. Walker, MPA, sustainability & energy coordinator and insurance manager. "Our students, faculty and staff are turning vision into tangible impact, from solar innovation and resilient design to hands-on learning that prepares the next generation to lead."

Originally, the memorial site consisted of a simple peace symbol in the grass, a plaque and a few tables and chairs that served as a place for reflection. Over time, the area became underutilized and no longer reflected its original purpose. Walker saw an opportunity to revitalize the space with three key goals: to create a memorial honoring Bulldog students who passed away while attending the university - including 2nd Lt. Richard Collins III; to develop a welcoming outdoor space where the campus community could reconnect with nature; and to establish an environmental learning site incorporating stormwater management practices and interpretive signage.

"Over the seasons, we planted more than 100 native plants and flowers," added Walker. "We also included several trees, the campus' first and only solar powered streetlight, a swinging bench and a BSU logo created from natural brick and stone."

The Peace Park Restoration Project was made possible through the efforts of Bowie State students and volunteers, the university's grounds and maintenance teams and an external partnership with the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay.

Bowie State's commitment to sustainability extends across campus through a range of innovative environmental initiatives. The university operates a campus-based solar panel system that generates nearly 20% of its power and has incorporated environmentally responsible building practices across campus. The Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics & Nursing achieved LEED Platinum certification, while the Student Center and Entrepreneurship Living Learning Community are both LEED Gold-certified facilities. Bowie State was also among the first campuses to install solar charging bus stations through the SolGreen® Casini™ Power Hub.

"Climate Luminary Honors recognizes what's possible when institutions pair ambition with action," said Tim Carter, president of Second Nature. "This year's recipients reflect the diversity of the higher education sector and demonstrate that impactful climate leadership can take many forms, across institution types, geographies and focus areas. We are proud to celebrate their work and the real-world impact they are creating."

The annual Climate Luminary Honors program recognizes institutions that are advancing bold, effective and equitable climate solutions on their campuses and in partnership with surrounding communities. Honorees will be recognized at the 2026 Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit, where they will share best practices and lessons learned with peers from across the higher education sector.

###

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 University 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