From the President

Dear Howard University Community, 

It is a privilege to once again be able to address you from inside the pages of our award-winning magazine! I was so honored to be featured in last quarter’s edition. I hope that both the story and Cheriss May’s phenomenal photography helped illuminate my incredible journey here to The Mecca, as well as some of my daily responsibilities as Howard University’s president. I want to extend my thanks once more to Rin-rin and the entire magazine team for all they do to make ours the very best in higher education. 

Our 2024 commencement season has officially closed, where we graduated the largest class in our University’s storied history. The Class of 2024 demonstrated exceptional fortitude and perseverance and have left an indelible mark on The Mecca as a result. These graduates now pass the baton to what we expect to be the largest incoming freshman class ever, a new generation of Bison eager to build on the Howard legacy. Kudos to our Admissions team for their diligence in facilitating the continued growth of our University. We are sad to bid farewell to our graduates, but we are also excited to welcome the newest members of our family this August. 

The theme of this summer’s edition is certainly top of mind given the upcoming presidential election. Given our proximity to these corridors of power, it only makes sense that Howard University be a prominent voice over the coming months. With the recent endowed chair appointments of luminaries such as Stacey Abrams, Michael Steele, and Sherrilyn Ifill, we aim to provide our students and the community at-large with the necessary perspectives to make informed decisions at the polls. I encourage everyone to vote this fall and ensure your voice is heard.  

From Opening Convocation to my inauguration, to Charter Day and now Commencement — thank you for an absolutely memorable first year. I look forward to continuing the positive momentum. Please enjoy a relaxing and restorative summer! 

Committed to Truth and Service, 

Ben Vinson III, Ph.D. 

President