Unlocking the Future: Highlights from the 2025 State of the University Address by Wayne A.I. Frederick, Interim President of Howard University

On October 24, the Howard University community gathered in the Myrtilla Miner Building auditorium for the State of the University Address delivered by Interim President Wayne A. I. Frederick. This annual event started during his time as the university’s 17th president, offering insights into Howard’s current situation and future plans.

The address opened with Dean Dawn Williams of the School of Education welcoming everyone and marking it as a homecoming for the school, which recently relocated to the renovated Miner Building. She highlighted Dr. Frederick’s long history with Howard, beginning as a 16-year-old freshman and progressing through various leadership roles.

Dr. Frederick began by recognizing key figures in attendance, including the Board of Trustees, faculty, and students. He paid tribute to two influential faculty members who passed away recently, Dr. James Weldon Norris and Dr. Jeanne Craig Sinkford.

He then tackled pressing university issues, such as the low enrollment of Black males, student account challenges, and support for research amid funding uncertainties due to a government shutdown.

### Student Success

Dr. Frederick emphasized the priority of student success, reflecting on miscommunications during the transition to a new online platform, BisonHub. He apologized for the resulting confusion regarding student accounts.

“We didn’t handle that well,” he admitted, indicating the need for better data management.

### Black Male Enrollment

Dr. Frederick discussed the low enrollment of Black men at Howard. While they represent less than 30% of the student body, he pointed out that this number still surpasses enrollment at Morehouse College. He stressed the importance of attracting more male students without diminishing opportunities for women.

“We need to find ways to encourage Black males to choose Howard,” he said, suggesting that scholarships and endowment funds could help.

### Funding and Programs

Dr. Frederick outlined goals for the Office of the Provost, including a review of academic programs. He noted that even large departments need to justify their educational impact.

“Just one student graduated with a Spanish degree last year,” he remarked, urging a reevaluation of program effectiveness.

Additionally, he highlighted Howard’s progress in Artificial Intelligence, partnering with tech giants like Google and Microsoft. He cautioned that the medical field is quickly evolving, emphasizing that AI education must keep pace.

### Alumni Engagement

Towards the end of his address, Dr. Frederick highlighted the need for increased fundraising, especially from alumni. He explained that the university heavily relies on federal funds, which are becoming less certain. Encouraging alumni support is essential for future projects, including improving campus facilities.

“If we’re going to attract external funding, our alumni must show their commitment,” he said, underscoring the importance of an engaged alumni network.

Dr. Frederick closed with a personal note, discussing how a threatening letter he received in 2022 made him reevaluate his priorities. Despite challenges, he reiterated his commitment to Howard University and urged others to support it financially.

In summary, Dr. Frederick’s address resonated with a call for unity and action, highlighting the urgent need to address critical issues while fostering a strong community at Howard University.



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