Reflections on the 17th President of Howard University

Andrea Jackson, DDS

Dean, College of Dentistry

“Dr. Frederick is an excellent leader whose love for Howard is demonstrated by his dedication, commitment and service and is obvious to everyone he meets.”

Joe Leonard, Jr. PhD

Assistant Vice President, External Affairs

“Paul Monteiro and I were tasked with making sure the annual Howard University appropriation was received each year, but we needed to seek $300M in additional funding to help build a new Howard University Hospital and academic medical center.  This funding would double the class size in the College of Medicine from 125 to 250 per year.  The first year, we received $7 million. Paul and I were despondent; we felt we let the University and Dr. Frederick down.  Someone even told us, “If you continue at that rate, it will take about 40 years to reach our goal.” However,  Dr. Frederick reassured us: “Stay focused.  We'll get there.”

“That vote of confidence went a long way towards our morale and effort, and we followed his advice.  The next year, we aggressively met with any congressional office that would give us an audience while Dr. Frederick worked the phones and met with key congresspeople. This yielded $100 million more toward the new Howard University Hospital and academic medical center; the remaining federal share of the project is in this year’s budget.”

Allison Bryant, PhD

Chief of Staff and AVP, Corporate Relations

“‘Carpe Diem’” – Seize the Day. I thought I knew what that meant until I began working for Dr. Frederick. He makes the absolute most of every day, every situation, every opportunity, and every moment. It is both inspiring and energizing to witness.”

Yolanda Pierce, PhD

Dean, School of Divinity

“His love of Howard is contagious and I am now convinced that HU truly is the Mecca. It has been a privilege to serve under his leadership.”

Frank Tramble, MPS

Vice President of Communications and Chief Communications Officer

“I remember standing with President Frederick and President Obama in historic Founders Library, where giants before us once stood, and recognizing that history was in the making. After working with Dr. Frederick over these past few years, I realize that everything we do with Dr. Frederick is history in the making. It has been an honor.” 

Danielle Holley, JD

Dean, School of Law

“His bold vision of academic excellence, student success, and acceleration in philanthropy have worked to transform Howard University.”

Gracie Lawson-Borders, PhD

Dean, School of Communications

“I was President Frederick’s first decanal hire when he was provost. The service and dedication for his alma mater he displayed at our first meeting continues to this day.” 

Lewis Paul Long

Former Board of Trustees Art Committee member

“I am most hopeful about the resources that he has poured into STEM programs while making an incredibly bold investment in the resurgence of the arts at Howard.”

Monique McClung

President, Howard University Staff Organization

“President Frederick refers to staff as the connective tissue - forming a framework, providing cohesion and internal support for the organs and the body. In this analogy, there is no denying Dr. Frederick is not just the heart, but the lifeblood - pumping strength and vitality back to The Mecca!”

Mark Mason

Member, Board of Trustees

“Dr. Frederick is a transformational leader who embodies the mission and spirit of Howard University better than anyone. From his stewardship of resources, to his vision for a brighter future and his resolve to see it through, he will leave a lasting mark on this institution and its community.”