On Dec. 7, students, ROTC cadets and veterans from Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University and the University of Maryland traveled to the Power of Love Farm II in West Baltimore to participate in a community-driven event. Service day In honor of 1st Lt. Richard Collins III. The event coincided with Collins’ 31st birthday on December 12. It was intended to both celebrate his life and address food insecurity in the local area.
He was a former student at Bowie State University He was tragically killed in 2017a few days before his graduation. To commemorate his legacy, the 2nd Lt. Richard W. Collins III Foundation and the Social Justice Alliance (an initiative between Bowie State and the University of Maryland) organized a day of service. The collaboration underscores these institutions’ commitment to promoting social justice and honoring Collins’ memory.
Remembering to Give Back
Strength to Love II Farm serves as a beacon of hope in the community. It transforms wasteland into a thriving urban farm that produces fresh, organic vegetables like spinach, kale and beets. On Saturday, volunteers carried out vital tasks including clearing fields, building greenhouses and improving irrigation systems. Their collective efforts aim to ensure that nutritious products reach those facing malnutrition.
Richard W. Collins III Leadership with Honors Scholarship
Among the enthusiastic participants was Bowie State student Adonis Soul. He expressed a personal connection to the cause, sharing how the Richard W. Collins III Leadership Emeritus Fellowship has eased his financial burdens, allowing him to focus on his education in broadcast journalism. “It’s made a huge difference in my life, and helping out with this urban farm is my way of giving back,” Soul said.
Dirichi Nvanegwo, a junior at the University of Maryland, echoed similar sentiments about the scholarship’s impact on his educational path. “The Collins Scholarship, valued at $10,000, allowed me to go to school and pursue my degree in mechatronics without the cost of college finances and to better myself as an Army Officer,” he said.
“It is absolutely imperative that the Alliance for Social Justice honors Lt. Collins’ legacy,” said Bowie State Professor Matasha Harris, co-chair of the alliance. “This event brings together SJAs from Bowie State and the University of Maryland to work together on a project to help students at the institutions better understand the importance of giving back and service.”
Dawn Collins, mother of Richard Collins III and co-founder of a foundation dedicated to his legacy, said she was proud of the community’s efforts to come together. “My son, 1st Lt. Richard Collins III, was dedicated to serving others through his dedication to the United States Army. By coming together to serve as a community, we not only honor his memory, but also carry forward his vision to make a tangible difference,” he noted.
