Howard University Appoints Dr. Ibram X. Kendi as Inaugural Woodson Chair
Howard University has appointed Dr. Ibram X. Kendi as the first holder of the Carter G. Woodson Endowed Chair in History. This role is named after Carter G. Woodson, often called the “father of Black history.” He played a key role in celebrating and studying Black history, establishing Negro History Week, which evolved into Black History Month.
The Woodson Chair aims to encourage groundbreaking research on Black history and social justice. Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, interim president of Howard, emphasized the importance of this chair in carrying on Woodson’s legacy. Kendi’s work challenges traditional views on racism and aims to spark meaningful discussions about social change.
Dr. Kendi is a notable scholar and author, known for influential books like How to Be an Antiracist and Stamped from the Beginning. He has received prestigious awards such as the Guggenheim Fellowship and MacArthur “Genius Grant.” In his new role, he will also lead the Howard University Institute for Advanced Study, which focuses on crucial issues like race and technology.
Kendi reflected on his honor, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to advance Woodson’s mission. He aims to make Black history accessible and relevant to everyone.
The Significance of Carter G. Woodson
Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950) combined passion and scholarship to highlight the contributions of Black individuals throughout American history. After earning a Ph.D. from Harvard, he founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915, which fostered the study of Black history. His impact continues to resonate today, guiding scholarship and promoting systemic change.
The Role of Howard University
Established in 1867, Howard University stands as a major research institution. It leads the nation in producing African Americans with professional degrees and is recognized as a top historically Black college. Howard’s emphasis on excellence has produced influential alumni, including the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice and the first female U.S. Vice President.
Connecting Past and Present
Today, as movements for racial justice gain momentum, Kendi’s appointment reflects a broader cultural shift. The support for initiatives like the Woodson Chair underscores a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities through historical understanding and advocacy. It’s a reminder that the study of history is not just about the past; it shapes our present and guides our future.
For more on Carter G. Woodson, you can explore additional insights from the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.
