A Legacy of Leadership and Philanthropy: Dr. Tammira Lucas, Class of 2009

A proud West Baltimore native, entrepreneur, and Coppin State University professor, Dr. Tammira Lucas exemplifies Coppin’s commitment to leadership, resilience, and community empowerment. Her recent philanthropic contribution to the university—recognized with a named space in the College of Business—reflects her enduring dedication to Coppin and its future students.

Growing up near campus, Dr. Lucas could never have imagined the impact Coppin would have on her life. As a Black woman navigating the challenges of West Baltimore, she credits Coppin’s faculty with pushing her to achieve excellence through academic rigor and personal support.

Her leadership journey began at Coppin, where she launched her first business as a student. This early experience ignited a passion for entrepreneurship, particularly in supporting women and mothers balancing multiple roles.

Dr. Lucas’s experience managing multimillion-dollar investments as the leader of the Ward Foundation instilled in her a deep appreciation for intentional philanthropy. Today, she is committed to ensuring that future Coppin students have access to the same transformative opportunities she received.

She believes Coppin’s strength lies in its ability to “meet students where they are,” offering both support and high expectations. This powerful combination enables students to thrive academically while contributing meaningfully to their communities.

Dr. Lucas’s legacy continues to inspire—through her teaching, her philanthropy, and her belief in the mission of Coppin State University. Her story illustrates the lasting value of education rooted in purpose and community, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.