Dr. David Kwabena Wilson
David Kwabena Wilson, Ed.D., is the 10th inaugurated president of Morgan State University— Maryland’s Preeminent Public Urban Research University. For more than a decade, Dr. Wilson has not only been a transformative president at Morgan but has emerged as a leader among university presidents nationwide, as well as an effective advocate for HBCUs and the role they play in developing leaders and serving the needs of their community, state, and nation.
Dr. Wilson has a long record of accomplishment in his more than 30 years in higher education administration. He is a nationally recognized 2023 Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education winner and a newly elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAA&S) and the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U). Dr. Wilson also serves on the Lumina Foundation Board of Directors, the T. Rowe Price Charitable Board, the TIAA Board of Directors, the Excelsior University Board of Trustees, and the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) Board of Directors. Dr. Wilson is the former chairman of the HBCU/China Network, and in 2010, he was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the Board of Advisors on HBCUs.
Dr. Wilson has also served on the NCAA Board of Governors and Division I Board of Directors, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Visiting Committee on Advanced Technology, the Board of the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU), and as a member of the National Science Foundation Committee on Equal Opportunities in Science and Engineering.
Among the many recognitions received throughout his professional career, he has been awarded the Maryland Senate’s First Citizen Award and the Ghanaian Transcendent Order of the African Eagle Award. In addition, Dr. Wilson has been named as a Baltimore Business Journal Top 10 CEO, an AFRO Newspaper ‘Person of the Year,’ a Baltimore Sun Business and Civic Hall of Famer, and one of the Maryland Daily Record’s ‘Power 30’ in Higher Education and a 2024 “Most Admired CEO.” To his credit, Dr. Wilson was named in Forbes as a “Top Black Higher Ed CEO to Watch in 2023.” He has also authored two books and over 20 articles in scholarly journals and other publications.
Prior to assuming his current position, Dr. Wilson served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Colleges and University of Wisconsin Extension; vice president for University Outreach and Associate provost for Auburn University; assistant and associate provost for Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (Camden); and director for the Office of Minority Programs at the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation in Princeton, New Jersey.
Dr. Wilson received his bachelor’s degree in political science and master’s in education from Tuskegee University, as well as a master’s and doctorate in education from Harvard University. He was also bestowed with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from his alma mater, Tuskegee University.
His educational philosophy is to prioritize the student experience. As a leader, he builds consensus and strongly believes in transparency of the process. Dr. Wilson aims to make Morgan a leader in producing the next wave of innovators in the U.S., further cementing its call to action of Growing the Future and Leading the World.https://youtu.be/NwTMIU7vfEQ?si=IQ6nGVZkYKTsOU9f
Earl Davis played football for the Bears and served Morgan State for 46 1/2 years, before retiring in 2020.
During his tenure at Morgan, Davis coached in the MEAC for more than 30 years, served five presidents, seven athletics directors and eight head coaches.
From establishing the first television studio in Banneker Hall to serving as the photographer to produce black and white passport photos for the football team to attend the first Pioneer Bowl in 1976 in Tokyo, Japan between Morgan State and Grambling State, Davis did it all.
On the field as an assistant coach, Davis developed nine First-Team All-MEAC selections, including seven at the running back position.
As an administrator, he served as the coordinator for the weight training programs for all sports from 1984-2000. He was on the administrative committee for both the 1995 renovation/extension of Hill Field House and for the 1997 renovation of Hughes Stadium.
Davis served as instructional developer and facilities manager in Hurt Gymnasium from 1991 until his retirement in 2020.
Dedication to Earl Davis Video #1
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16SgVvvKwZ/
Earl Davis Live Interview Video #2
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EiXLxTtmC/
Earl Davis Family & Friends Video #3
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CBeqX64qd/
Honoring a Legend: Arno Adams, Morgan State's Equipment Master, Leaves an Unforgettable Legacy at 87
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Arno A. Adams, a distinguished Morgan State Hall of Famer, who left us at the age of 87.
A proud son of Turner Station, Maryland, Adams embodied the spirit of resilience and academic excellence. After successfully navigating his education at Baltimore's Dunbar High School, he sought to further his learning at Morgan State University, where he embarked on a lifelong commitment to the institution that would shape his future. His time at Morgan not only provided him with an undergraduate degree but also initiated a profound connection that would see him contribute significantly to the university and its community over the years.
Adams' influence and commitment to the Morgan State University athletic program are undeniable and profound. For over half a century, he has been an integral part of almost every athletic championship won by the university, serving as a steadfast presence behind the scenes as the Head Equipment Manager. Since first stepping into this pivotal role in 1957, Adams poured his heart and soul into ensuring that each Morgan athlete is equipped not just with the physical gear required to excel, but with the confidence derived from being professionally prepared. Adams' legacy is etched in the very fabric of Morgan State's athletic achievements, highlighting the profound impact of dedication, service, and teamwork that often goes unrecognized yet is essential to the spirit of competition.
Adams served during the legendary Eddie P. Hurt and Earl C. Bank eras, the transition from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division-II to Division-I level, and the current "resurgence" era.
The love and support Adams has given to the Morgan State University athletic program and its student-athletes is immeasurable. Without question, he has left an indelible mark on not only the great athletic heritage of Morgan State University, but also on the lives of countless young men and women that have been so honored to wear a Morgan State athletic uniform.
Adams was a beacon of inspiration, revered not only for his athletic prowess but also for his dedication to uplifting others and nurturing the next generation. His journey from the humble streets of Turner Station to the hallowed halls of Morgan State is a testament to his determination and hard work. He was a pioneer who paved the way for many aspiring athletes and students, always advocating for education and opportunity.
As we remember Arno A. Adams, we celebrate not only his impressive achievements but also the enduring legacy of kindness and mentorship he leaves behind in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his impact will forever resonate within the Morgan State community and beyond.
Adams is survived by his wife Peggy. He is the proud father of son Arno A. Adams, Jr., daughter Sharon Adams and step-daughter Donna Penzel.
Morgan State University Athletics Mourns the Passing of Sterling Steward
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news regarding the passing of Sterling Steward, Senior Associate Athletics Director/Chief Revenue Officer, on February 26, 2025. Since joining the Morgan State University Athletics Department in December 2022, Sterling played a vital role in advancing our programs, fostering partnerships, and strengthening the department's financial and operational success. His leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on our student-athletes, staff, and the entire Morgan community.
"Sterling was more than a colleague—he was a respected leader, mentor, and friend," said Dena Freeman-Patton, Vice President and Director for Intercollegiate Athletics. "His passion for athletics and his commitment to elevating Morgan's programs were evident in all that he did. He worked tirelessly to ensure our student-athletes had the resources and opportunities to excel, and his impact will be felt for years to come. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, especially his three sons and sister, as we mourn this tremendous loss."
Sterling's time at Morgan was marked by strategic growth and collaboration, particularly in his work with the Division of Institutional Advancement, where he helped expand opportunities and build lasting relationships to support the University's athletic programs. His contributions and legacy will continue to inspire us.
Morgan State University Athletics extends its heartfelt sympathies to Sterling's loved ones, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We will honor his memory in the days ahead and ensure that his work and passion for Morgan Athletics are never forgotten.