BALTIMORE, MD, August 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) — Morgan State University, Maryland’s preeminent public urban research university and the state’s largest Historically Black College or University (HBCU), has been recognized in Newsweek’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026, a national distinction honoring institutions that foster environments where women can thrive academically, professionally and as civic leaders.
The recognition reflects Morgan’s longstanding commitment to preparing women for leadership across every sector while cultivating an inclusive campus environment that supports achievement, innovation and service. From nationally recognized academic programs and research opportunities to leadership development and civic engagement, Morgan continues to expand pathways that empower women to excel and lead with purpose.
“While this recognition celebrates Morgan’s success in advancing opportunities for women, it also reflects a broader institutional philosophy that has defined our University for generations,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan. “We believe that excellence flourishes where inclusion is intentional and where individuals — regardless of gender or background — are empowered to realize the fullness of their potential whether enrolled as a student or a member of dedicated faculty and staff. Diversity of thought, experience and expertise is welcomed here at Morgan and valued as an institutional strength.”
The University’s commitment has earned national recognition before. Morgan has twice been honored by the Executive Alliance for gender equity, receiving awards for advancing women into senior leadership positions and for institutional excellence in promoting gender diversity across its workforce.
Beyond the classroom, Morgan’s vibrant student organizations reinforce that commitment by providing leadership, mentorship, professional development and civic engagement opportunities. Organizations including E.V.O.L.V.E. (Elevating Voices of Leadership Virtue and Excellence), For College Girls, the Society of Women Engineers, Women in STEM, the National Council of Negro Women, the League of Women Voters, and the nation’s first collegiate chapter of Black Girls Vote are open to all students interested in advancing their missions. Together, they cultivate leadership, encourage collaboration, and expand pathways to success, with a particular focus on supporting women in academia, industry and public service.
America’s Best Colleges for Women is a ranking developed by Newsweek in partnership with Gender Fair to highlight institutions that support gender equality and empower women. The methodology is rooted in the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPS) and evaluates colleges across four key areas: leadership, pay and policies, safety, and opportunity.
The ranking identifies colleges that have established the structural elements necessary to foster education and employment for women by drawing on data from the U.S. Department of Education — including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the Campus Safety and Security Database — as well as additional desk research. Only institutions meeting specific criteria for size and academic roles are included, ensuring the results reflect meaningful progress toward gender equity in higher education.
“Choosing a college is a defining moment for many young women, and it’s about more than academics alone,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Editor-in-Chief of Newsweek. “America’s Best Colleges for Women highlights institutions that are making measurable progress in leadership, equity, safety, and opportunity, helping students identify environments where women are supported and positioned to succeed.”
As one of the nation’s leading public HBCUs, Morgan remains dedicated to creating an educational experience where women are empowered not only to earn degrees but also to shape industries, strengthen communities and drive positive change around the world.
About Morgan State University
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering more than 150 baccalaureate, master’s degree, doctorate and certificate programs. As Maryland’s preeminent public urban research university, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit morgan.edu.
About Newsweek
Newsweek is the global digital news organization built around the iconic 93-year-old American magazine. Newsweek reaches 100 million people monthly with its thought-provoking news, opinion, images, graphics, and video delivered across a dozen print and digital platforms. Headquartered in New York City, Newsweek also publishes international editions in EMEA and Asia. For more information, visit www.newsweek.com.
Media Contact
Dell Jackson
william.jackson@morgan.edu
+1 443-885-3022
Larry Jones
larry.jones@morgan.edu
Cheryl Stewart
cheryl.stewart@morgan.edu
SOURCE: Morgan State University
