Howard University: A Legacy of Truth and Service
Howard University, a historically Black, federally chartered research university in Washington, D.C., stands as a testament to the pursuit of knowledge, the celebration of Black culture, and the advancement of social justice. Founded in 1867, shortly after the American Civil War, Howard has evolved into a world-renowned institution, shaping leaders and fostering intellectual growth for generations. Prospective students interested in attending a historically Black college would be hardpressed to find a better option than Howard University.
A Foundation Built on Vision
The seeds of Howard University were sown by members of the First Congregational Society of Washington, who initially envisioned a theological seminary for Black clergymen. This project quickly expanded to encompass a broader vision: the establishment of a university that would offer educational opportunities to all. The institution was named in honor of General Oliver Otis Howard, a Civil War hero and commissioner of the Freedmen's Bureau, recognizing his commitment to the education and advancement of African Americans.
Academic Excellence and a Culture of Achievement
Howard University is more than a place to get an education; it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that not only strengthens your mind, but also your spirit and pride in who you are as a person and who you have the potential to become. Howard University takes great care in preparing students "to compete on a local and global level," instilling in them a deep sense of "pride and excellence."
The university's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its diverse array of programs, spanning across 14 schools and colleges. Students can pursue studies in areas such as art, history, engineering, physics, media, video production, and health education. Howard University operates the Collaborative Alcohol Research Center, College of Arts & Sciences, College of Dentistry, and College of Engineering, Architecture & Computer Sciences. Classroom discussions are lively and highly encouraged. Students benefit from an "inspiring faculty" that both "pushes you and teaches patience." In addition, professors effectively "bridge the gap between the real world and the textbook," by teaching students how to apply their classroom knowledge to future careers. The majority of the faculty are "supportive and helpful" and "have a genuine interest in their subject."
Given that Howard promotes a "culture of achievement and encouragement," it's not too surprising to learn that students here tend to be "very goal-oriented and driven." Indeed, it's common to find undergrads "taking a full course load, working, and interning," with many also participating in community service and extracurricular activities. However, undergrads aren't just high achievers; they're also "friendly, outgoing, stylish, and fashionable" as well.
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A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
Howard University has earned its reputation as a "formidable force in producing African American intellectuals," with an "outstanding…accomplishments of a great majority of its alumni." Its graduates have gone on to become leaders in various fields, leaving an indelible mark on society.
Notable alumni include:
- Thurgood Marshall: The first African American Supreme Court Justice, a champion of civil rights.
- Elijah Cummings: A U.S. Representative and advocate for the working class.
- Toni Morrison: A Nobel Prize-winning author who explored the complexities of the Black experience.
- Kamala Harris: The first female Vice President of the United States, a Howard University graduate who refers to her time at Howard as her “formative years” where she first was introduced to her love of politics.
- David Norman Dinkins: The first African American Mayor of the New York City
- Taraji P. Henson: An Academy Award-nominated actress, producer, and mental health advocate.
- Zora Neale Hurston: Considered one of the foremost female writers of the 20th century.
- Kwame Ture (formerly Stokely Carmichael): A civil rights activist, writer, and orator known as a lead figure within the Pan-African and Black nationalist movements, and for coining the slogan, “Black power.”
- Patricia Bath: Ophthalmologist, inventor, researcher, and humanitarian.
- Beth Brown: Astrophysicist and educator who studied elliptical galaxies and worked on multiple outreach projects.
These are just a few examples of the countless Howard University alumni who have made significant contributions to the world.
A Hub of Culture and Community
The 256-acre campus, often referred to as "The Mecca", is in northwest Washington, D.C. As you stroll across the campus, you can't help but feel "the sense of being a part of such a tremendous legacy." Life at Howard moves at a fast pace and these students wouldn't have it any other way. The campus crackles with energy, from the "lively" dorms to the well-attended school events, which are "a major part of the social calendar." In addition, undergrads enjoy taking full advantage of the opportunities available in Washington, D.C. and find the Metro station "very easily accessible."
Howard University provides a vibrant and supportive environment for its students. The campus hosts a wide range of engaging events, including cookie decorating competitions, Karaoke Night, Game Night Mixers, and Entrepreneurship Fest (a showdown where students pitch their business ideas to industry experts and potential investors). Additionally, students are encouraged "to be involved in campus organizations and student government," and with hundreds of clubs to choose from, there's something for everyone. Fraternities and sororities are also popular at Howard, although you should dispel ideas of raging keg parties. Indeed, "the main focus of our Greek life is community service.
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Howard Homecoming week is the most prominent and richest cultural tradition of the institution. Over 100,000 of alumni, students, celebrity guests, and visitors are in attendance to patronize the many events and attractions affiliated with the festive week on and near campus. While the specific calendar of events changes from year to year, the traditional homecoming events include the Homecoming Football Game and Tailgate, Pep Rally, Coronation Ball, Greek Step-Show (Howard NPHC Greeks), and Fashion Show. Springfest is an annual tradition created by the Undergraduate Student Association (UGSA) to celebrate the arrival of spring. Springfest is similar to homecoming week in the fall but on a smaller scale and with more emphasis on the student body. Springfest events traditionally include the Fashion Show, Talent Show, Vendor Fair, Poetry Showcase, Beauty Conference, Charity Basketball Game, and a major community service event. The Bison Ball and Excellence Awards is an annual black tie gala hosted by the Howard University Student Association (HUSA). A select number of students, faculty, organizations, and administrators from the Howard community are honored for their exceptional accomplishments. Resfest week is a Howard tradition that involves freshmen living in residence halls on campus competing in several organized competitions (field day, academic debate, dance, stroll, step-show, etc.) for campus bragging rights.
A Commitment to Research and Innovation
Howard University is a research-oriented institution, actively engaged in cutting-edge research across various disciplines. The university houses several research centers and institutes, including:
- The Moorland-Spingarn Research Center (MSRC): A renowned repository for the documentation of Black history and culture.
- The Beltsville Center for Climate System Observation (BCCSO): A NASA University Research Center focused on climate system observation.
- The Ralph J. Bunche International Affairs Center (RBC): A hub for enhancing international engagement.
Howard's commitment to research extends to its faculty and students, providing them with opportunities to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and address critical global challenges. Howard's most prominent research building is the Interdisciplinary Research Building (IRB).
In 2017, Howard established the Bison STEM Scholars Program to increase the number of underrepresented minorities with high-level research careers in science, engineering, technology, and mathematics. Bison STEM Scholars are given full scholarships and committed to earning a PhD or a combined MD-PhD in a STEM discipline. announced it had established a pilot residency program named "Howard University West" on its campus in Mountain View, California, to help increase underrepresented minorities in the tech industry. In July 2022, the Walt Disney Company announced it established the Disney Storytellers Fund at the Cathy Hughes School of Communications and the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts to support creative student projects.
Navigating the Campus
Washington National Airport is approximately 8 miles from campus. Taxis and subways are available for the trip from the airport to campus. From I-95 S. and continue until it becomes the Capital Beltway E. Exit to the Baltimore-Washington Pkwy. South. Rte. 50, head west (toward the center of Washington). This becomes New York Ave. Turn right (north) on 6th St. until you reach the University. From I-95 N., exit to I-395 N. (Shirley Memorial Hwy.) and cross the Potomac River. Rte. 1/50 N., which becomes 6th St. Leave Rte. 1/50 and stay on 6th St. Selections in Washington include the Courtyard Washington Northwest at 1900 Connecticut Avenue (at $159 and up per night).
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