Maryland Public Television (MPT) will celebrate historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in September during its sixth annual HBCU Week, a slate of programs sharing informative and inspiring stories about HBCUs and the people who attend, graduate, administrate, and advocate for these important institutions of higher learning.
During the week of September 8-14, MPT will offer 30 hours of content – including 12 MPT program premieres – across TV, social media, and online platforms exploring the past, present, and future of HBCUs in the statewide public TV network’s viewing area and throughout the United States.
The 2025 HBCU Week lineup is anchored by the local premiere of MPT’s newest national PBS film, Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect. The one-hour documentary traces Marshall’s journey from his birth in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1908 to his formative years at HBCUs Lincoln University and Howard University School of Law to his groundbreaking career as a lawyer championing civil rights and dismantling segregation.
With a combination of oral history, animation, and evocative sound design, Becoming Thurgood brings Marshall’s story to life not as myth, but as a man of action — strategic, courageous, and deeply committed to justice. Through his work, Marshall held the nation accountable to its founding promises, redefined what was possible through the law, and helped move America closer to its highest ideals.
Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect will premiere exclusively on MPT-HD and the MPT livestream at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9. Then, at 10 p.m., the film will make its national debut on PBS stations throughout the country, including MPT.
Other MPT productions premiering as part of this year’s HBCU Week lineup are special episodes of State Circle and Direct Connection, four 30-minute One On One programs featuring interviews with presidents of HBCUs in the state, Artworks: The Art of HBCU Art, and Inside the CIAA: Her Story.
In Title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965, Congress defined an HBCU as a school of higher learning that was accredited and established before 1964 and whose principal mission is the education of African Americans. The six HBCUs in MPT’s viewing area are Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Howard University, Morgan State University, University of the District of Columbia, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
MPT’s 2025 HBCU Week lineup is made possible in part with support from Coppin State University, HBCU Week NOW, HBCU GO, STEM City USA, Fulton Bank, and the CIAA.
HBCU Week 2025 premieres
Direct Connection Special: Welcome to Coppin State – Monday, September 8, 7-8 p.m.
From the campus of Coppin State University in Baltimore, this one-hour special features conversations with Coppin State students and leaders, explores the institution’s academic programs, and provides a sneak peek into the 2025 HBCU Week program lineup.
One On One: Dr. Anthony Jenkins, Coppin State University – Monday, September 8, 8-8:30 p.m.
MPT’s Jeff Salkin, news anchor, visits Coppin State University for an in-depth interview with President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D. The episode also features reports about how Coppin State students are learning to procure, protect, and analyze patient health records and introduces viewers to the university’s youngest student, 14-year-old rising sophomore West Muhummad.
Local, USA | HBCU Week: Changemakers – Monday, September 8, 8:30-9 p.m.
HBCU Week: Changemakers illustrates the power and success of peaceful protests led by students. Witness how Morehouse College’s youth leaders exemplify social grace during demonstrations against social injustices in the U.S., and at Morgan State University, the untold story of how this HBCU became one of America’s fastest-growing universities following the largest student-led protest in Maryland.
Local, USA | HBCU Week: Innovation – Monday, September 8, 10:30-11 p.m.
HBCU Week: Innovation explores how HBCU programs are changing and saving lives. Howard University is making history with the only Division One swim program at an HBCU while also teaching the Black community to swim. Claflin University’s SmartHOME technology connects a person’s physical state to actions to help mitigate health risks, hoping to combat healthcare disparities in minority communities.
One On One: Dr. Heidi Anderson, UMES – Tuesday, September 9, 7-7:30 p.m.
Jeff Salkin visits the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) for an in-depth interview with President Heidi M. Anderson, Ph.D. Viewers also observe a unique program in the university’s Fine Arts department that’s drawing students from across the state and beyond and witness a UMES art exhibit featuring important works on loan from the Chrysler Museum in Norfolk, Virginia.
Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect – Tuesday, September 9, 9-10 p.m. (local)
This landmark documentary explores the life and legacy of Thurgood Marshall, from his trailblazing legal battles to his historic role as the first Black Supreme Court justice. Featuring rare archival materials and interviews with leading HBCU voices, the film reveals how Marshall helped America confront its deepest contradictions – and how his vision for justice continues to shape the country today. Following its 9 p.m. MPT premiere, Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect will air on PBS stations nationwide (including MPT) at 10 p.m. Check local listings for additional showings.
One On One: Dr. David Wilson, Morgan State University – Wednesday, September 10, 7-7:30 p.m.
Jeff Salkin visits Morgan State University for an in-depth interview with President David K. Wilson, Ed.D. Next, viewers learn about a new one-year master’s degree program designed to help teachers meet state certification requirements and provide an alternative career path for displaced federal workers. Then, audiences meet Donal Ware, a Morgan State alumnus and national sportscaster.
Artworks: The Art of HBCU Art – Wednesday, September 10, 8-8:30 p.m.
This episode of the MPT original series Artworks surveys the talents, institutions, and creativity found at HBCUs throughout the region. From the worlds of Jasmine Barnes and Reginald F. Lewis to the inner workings of Howard University’s dance company, Complexions, Artworks: The Art of HBCU Art reflects on the creative impact of HBCU art.
One On One: Dr. Aminta Breaux, Bowie State University – Thursday, September 11, 7-7:30 p.m.
Jeff Salkin visits Bowie State University for an in-depth interview with President Aminta H. Breaux, Ph.D. The episode also features reporting on how students are blending the technical precision of computer science with the creative expression of visual arts through Bowie State’s virtual reality and gaming bachelor’s degree program.
Inside the CIAA: #Her Story – Thursday, September 11, 8:30-9 p.m.
This Inside the CIAA episode celebrates 50 years of women athletes shaping the long-standing legacy of the CIAA Tournament.
State Circle Special: HBCUs in Washington, DC – Friday, September 12, 7-8 p.m.
With interviews and reporting from the Washington, D.C., campuses of Howard University and University of the District of Columbia, this one-hour special edition of State Circle explores the rich history of HBCUs in the nation’s capital.
Opportunity, Access & Uplift: The Evolving Legacy of HBCUs – Saturday, September 13, 8-8:30 p.m.
This half-hour documentary focuses on the changes, misconceptions, and current state of HBCUs through the personal stories of students and insights from experts. Hosted by HBCU graduate Brandis Griffith-Friedman, the program follows five students from two HBCUs located on opposite sides of the country to explore the rich history and current issues facing HBCUs nationwide.
About Maryland Public Television
Maryland Public Television (MPT) is a statewide, public-supported TV network and Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) member offering entertaining and educational content delivered by traditional broadcasting and streaming on TVs, computers, and mobile devices via its online video player and the free PBS app. A state agency operating under the auspices of the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission, MPT also produces local, regional, and national programming and frequently earns regional Emmy® awards for its work. MPT’s commitment to educators, parents, caregivers, and learners of all ages is delivered through its Maryland Center for Media Literacy & Education and Thinkport.org. MPT’s year-round community engagement activities connect viewers with resources covering a wide range of topics.
