Enrollment falls at Bowie State as budget strain and campus dissent deepen

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Bowie State University is confronting financial strain, declining enrollment and internal dissent, marking a sharp shift from the optimism expressed by its president just a few years ago.

In July 2022, President Aminta Breaux said the historically Black university was on an upward trajectory, citing increased enrollment and forecasting continued growth.

“People are finding Bowie State University,” Breaux said at the time.

But data from the University System of Maryland now shows enrollment has steadily declined since that period.

Coupled with reduced state and federal funding and rising operational costs, the university is projecting an $18 million deficit in the upcoming fiscal year.

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In response, the administration has announced layoffs affecting 79 employees. The decision has intensified concerns among faculty, culminating in a recent vote of no confidence in Breaux’s leadership.

“We’re concerned about the future of the institution,” said Tyesha Burks, president of the Bowie State University Faculty Senate.

Burks said faculty members fear the consequences of inaction could be severe.

“We as the Bowie State community are seriously afraid that if someone does not step in to investigate or help or hear what we’re saying is going on, there may not be a Bowie State for much longer,” she said.

Despite the criticism, Breaux retains support from some students. Kenyon Evans, a junior finance major, described her student focused.

“She’s an amazing leader. I’ve had numerous conversations with her, and she really puts students first, with strong initiatives for the campus,” Evans said.

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Breaux declined an interview request, citing preparations for commencement ceremonies. In a statement, the university acknowledged the faculty’s no-confidence vote but raised concerns about how it was conducted.

The statement emphasized that the institution is undergoing a period of transition and that “difficult decisions” are being made in the interests of both students and faculty.

On campus Thursday, students packed up for the summer break. When they return in the fall, they are expected to find a smaller university, with fewer students and fewer staff members.