Photo courtesy Bowie State University Athletics
Members of the Bowie State men’s basketball program recently volunteered at the Bowie Interfaith Pantry.
.
Bowie State Men’s Basketball Volunteers at Bowie Interfaith Pantry Food Drive
By PRESS OFFICER
Bowie State University Athletics
BOWIE, Md. (May 21, 2026)—The Bowie State men’s basketball program recently volunteered its time at the Bowie Interfaith Pantry and Emergency Aid Fund, Inc., as part of the organization’s Post Office Food Drive, supporting efforts to combat food insecurity in the local community.
The Bulldogs assisted with sorting, organizing, and distributing donated food items during one of the pantry’s largest annual community service events.
The Bowie Interfaith Pantry expressed appreciation for the team’s involvement, noting the group’s positive impact during the drive.
“Thank you for your donation of time to the Bowie Interfaith Pantry and Emergency Aid Fund, Inc. We truly appreciate your support and generosity,” the organization said. “The Post Office Drive is a massive event, and we could not have done it without your help. The team was extremely helpful, kind, and respectful. Donating your time to volunteer is appreciated, and your efforts help us fight food insecurity in our community.”
Assistant coach Anthony Carpenter said the experience was meaningful for both him and the program.
“Volunteering to help Julie and the Bowie Interfaith Food Pantry made me feel like a better person,” Carpenter said. “Seeing the amount of canned foods they receive from the community to serve those who are in need is nothing short of amazing. I love what she is doing for the Bowie/Prince George’s Community, and I would love to help out again if needed. I appreciate her for allowing some of my players and me to participate in this kind of community service.”
Junior guard Jailin Landis echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of giving back.
“Doing community service at the food pantry was a great experience because I enjoy helping people,” Landis said. “Coming from Suitland, my community always had my back, so giving back means a lot to me wherever I am. It also showed the Bowie State University community that we are more than just basketball players.”
The volunteer effort reflects the program’s continued emphasis on service and engagement beyond basketball, as the Bulldogs continue to represent the university both on and off the court.
For the latest news and updates on Bowie State Athletics and its varsity sport programs, visit bsubulldogs.com.
TOP OF PAGE
Commissioner Dr. Billy Okoye, GRI Named Vice Chair of the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board
Darryl Barnes Resigns from M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board
By PRESS OFFICER
M-NCPPC
LARGO, Md. (May 18, 2026)—On May 14, 2026, the Prince George’s County Planning Board of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) elected Member Billy Okoye as Vice Chair with a 3–2 vote. Vice Chair Okoye succeeds Planning Board Member Manuel Geraldo in this position who served as Vice Chair since November 2025. Geraldo will remain on the Board with Members Brittany Jenkins and Lori Matthews. In the Chair’s absence, Vice Chair Okoye assumes duties of the Chair in overseeing Planning Board meetings and completing other Board business.
“I look forward to the continued collaboration with my Planning Board colleagues on development review, planning and policy recommendations, and supporting the Commission’s mission in long-range planning, preservation, and encouraging healthy lifestyles,” said Okoye. “We will continue our work to elevate Prince George’s County through equitable approaches that address housing, neighborhood revitalization, sustainability, transportation, and economic vitality.”
Effective May 16, 2026, Darryl Barnes resigned as Chair of the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board. In Prince George’s County, members of the Planning Board are appointed by the County Executive, subject to approval of the County Council. The County Executive will appoint the next Planning Board Chair to fill the vacant position, with a four-year term set to expire in June 2029.
The Prince George’s County Planning Board meets weekly to review subdivisions, site plans, and other development applications and develop and make recommendations to the County Council on land use policies to guide the growth and development of the County. In addition, the Planning Board provides managerial oversight of the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Department and the Department of Parks and Recreation. Together, with fellow colleagues from the Montgomery County Planning Board, they guide M-NCPPC’s bi-county mission to manage physical growth and plan communities; protect and steward natural, cultural, and historic resources; and provide leisure and recreational experiences.
About Vice Chair Billy Okoye
Dr. Billy Okoye, GRI was appointed to the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board in November 2025 by County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy.
Dr. Okoye possesses more than 20 years of experience in business, community advocacy, real estate, and technology. As founder and principal broker of Sold 100 Real Estate, Inc., he led a team of more than 50 agents and oversaw more than $250 million in closed real estate transactions. Additionally, he serves as group managing director of BMO General Contractors and founder of Autograph Solar where he has advanced innovation in both the construction and clean energy sectors. Dr. Okoye has received numerous awards as a committed community activist and volunteer.
Dr. Okoye earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology from Abia State University and a certificate in information technologies from the International Computer Institute. He received a professional doctorate in business administration from the Chartered Institute of Business Managers.
The Prince George’s County Planning Board, together with the Montgomery County Planning Board, make up The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission—a bi-county agency set up under State law in 1927 to acquire, develop, maintain, and administer a regional system of parks and administer a general plan for the physical development of both counties. In Prince George’s County, the agency also administers the public recreation program. The Planning Board’s responsibilities include supervising preparation of land use plans and comprehensive zoning maps, advising the County Council on zoning map amendment and special exception applications, and reviewing and approving site plans. The Board also oversees the Commission’s work in the County, as carried out by the Parks and Recreation and Planning Departments. Visit www.pgplanningboard.org.
TOP OF PAGE
Council Members Attend ICSC Conference to Recruit Retailers, Bring Economic Development to Prince George’s County
By PRESS OFFICER
Prince George’s County Council Media
Prince George’s County Council Chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7) and Council Members Shayla Adams-Stafford (District 5) and Edward Burroughs III (District 8) recently attended ICSC Las Vegas, the world’s primary commercial marketplace and real estate conference. From May 18–20, alongside more than 25,000 elected officials, business leaders, and workforce development professionals from across the country, the Council Members worked to advocate for new retail businesses and secure economic development opportunities for Prince George’s County.
The Council Members were joined at the dealmaking and networking event by County Executive Aisha Braveboy, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Economic Development Tracy Benjamin, Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Ingrid S. Watson, and other Economic Development Corporation representatives, as well as elected officials and business leaders from across the state and region.
“Prince George’s County Council Members have been advocating on behalf of the community at ICSC Las Vegas for well over a decade,” said Chair Oriadha. “Targeted advocacy at networking and recruiting conferences like this has played a key role in bringing major developments to the county, including Sphere at National Harbor and Sprouts Farmers Market in Westphalia. I’m excited to see the investment in our community that will come as a result of this event.”
At this year’s conference, Council Members were focused on securing commercial investments for the Blue Line Corridor, Kevin Durant’s mixed-use development at the former Six Flags site in Bowie, the Westphalia Town Center, and more. Additionally, Council Members met with Sphere owners to discuss workforce development opportunities for Prince Georgians at the new Sphere at National Harbor, as well as regional and national brokers and retailers to create an economic development roadmap that responds to residents’ concerns.
“We’ve had some amazing meetings where I’ve been able to advocate to property owners and retailers for the types of stores and businesses we want to see in our shopping centers and mixed-use developments,” said Council Member Adams-Stafford. “I’m feeling confident about the types of deals our Economic Development Corporation will be able to negotiate to bring new development to District 5 and the entire county.”
ICSC Las Vegas also includes an educational component, helping Council Members and other county representatives stay on the cutting-edge of retail development. This includes regional and national conversations about asset mapping and generating local investment despite current economic pressures.
“The nature of retail and shopping is changing across the country. Big box stores and malls are on the decline and community spaces and marketplaces are on the rise,” said Council Member Burroughs. “We have to adapt our zoning code and county policies to stay ahead of that change. This conference has been incredibly helpful in sharing fresh perspectives and generating new ideas. I’m eager to get home and begin the legislative work required to put those policies into action.”
TO OF PAGE
Andrews Federal Credit Union Announces Successful Merger With HUD Federal Credit Union
The combined institution will provide enhanced digital resources and expanded global access for more than 155,000 members.
By PRESS OFFICER
Andrews Federal Credit Union
SUITLAND, Md. (May 12, 2026)—Andrews Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the successful completion of its merger with HUD Federal Credit Union, effective April 30, 2026. This strategic partnership brings together two institutions with a shared commitment to member-first service and community empowerment.
The merger integration, led by a comprehensive framework, ensures a seamless transition for HUD Federal members, who in the near future, will have access to Andrews Federal’s extensive global network, including branches across Maryland, D.C., Virginia, New Jersey, and overseas locations in Germany, Belgium, and The Netherlands.
“We are honored to welcome HUD Federal members and employees into our organization,” said Kenneth Orgeron, President and CEO of Andrews Federal Credit Union. “This merger is about more than just growth; it’s about providing our new members with the tools, technology, and financial stability they need to thrive in today’s economy while maintaining the familiar, personalized service they expect.”
Key Highlights for Members:
• Continuity of Service: Members will continue to be served by the same dedicated staff at existing locations.
• Expanded Resources: Immediate access to an enhanced ITM/ATM network and upcoming integration with Andrews Federal’s award-winning digital banking suite.
• Community Impact: Continued investment in local financial literacy programs and community development initiatives.
“Our priority throughout this transition is a smooth, transparent experience for every member and employee,” added Damita Robinson, Chief Operating Officer of Andrews Federal. “We have built a dedicated integration team to support our new colleagues and ensure that ‘Day One’ is the start of a rewarding new chapter for everyone involved.”
For more information regarding the merger and upcoming member benefits, please visit www.andrewsfcu.org.
Andrews Federal Credit Union is a world-class financial institution serving more than 155,000 members globally. Founded in 1948, the credit union is dedicated to helping members improve their financial lives while strengthening the global communities it serves.
TOP OF PAGE
