“Who am I?”
Next to their chosen fields of studies, Howard University students probably spend the most time exploring the answers to this seemingly simplistic question. After all, college is a formative time in one’s life where students learn and try on new versions of themselves, evolving and growing as they develop their sense of identity. They’ll experience a wide swath of personalities, expressions, interests, and people they never encountered before, until they walked through the gates of Howard.
On Howard’s campus today, there are a myriad of ways for students to identify themselves with less fear of retaliation or judgement that may have been once upon a time. Soon, you’ll be able to hear these people’s stories through our new podcast, HU2U, hosted by members of the Office of University Communications (OUC). Our podcast will feature fascinating and honest discussions with Howard community members and raise awareness on a wide range of issues important to the Black community in general, including LGBTQ+ identities, the Afro-Latino community, communities of people who are disabled, and other intersectionalities; mental health; arts and culture; women’s issues; men’s issues; and more. Much, much more.
HU2U is the brainchild of OUC’s Vice President Frank Tramble, who understood the importance of disseminating information in a multitude of channels since reception varies from person to person. He first set foot on Howard virtually in the depths of the pandemic with a vision, which he carefully laid out in a step-by-step manner so strategic that it’s as if he had it all folded up in some kind of geometric communications origami. Since his start, we’ve expanded our communication channels exponentially through re-imagined print products, digital, social, video, and now audio – all designed to broadcast Howard’s message to the world. The HU2U podcast is VP Tramble’s farewell gift to Howard as he embarks on the next part of his career. We thank him for his tremendous service, his friendship, his “Frankness,” and his encouraging leadership, and we wish him all the very best.
We also thank our fearless president, Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick, for his tireless dedication to welcome and include all students, faculty, and staff at Howard, and for ensuring they have the resources and guidance to graduate in a safe space. Because of your efforts, these people can identify together in one way: as a proud Bison. Congratulations on your retirement Dr. Frederick, and we look forward to welcoming President Ben Vinson III as the 18th president of Howard University.
Happy Summer,
Rin-rin Yu
Article ID: 1381