Letter to the Community: Bison Engagement Tour Report Findings
Dear Howard University Community,
As I reflect on what I’ve learned in the first six months as the 18th President of Howard University, I am inspired by this community and what I know we can achieve together. In September, I embarked on the Bison Engagement Tour across our beloved campus, meeting with students, faculty, and staff to better understand both the challenges and opportunities ahead for our University.
I had the chance to meet with over 2700 faculty, staff, and students through more than 20 small group meetings as part of the Bison Engagement Tour.
My objective for these conversations was to create an honest and open space for direct engagement. These wide-ranging discussions, including with all fourteen schools and colleges, the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, the Howard University Student Association, Faculty Senate, and the Board of Trustees, allowed me to grasp the full spectrum of perspectives at Howard.
The structure of the engagement tour was built around key questions that would deepen my understanding of what makes Howard unique and assist my administration in effectively addressing our needs and leveraging our strengths including:
- What would you like me to know as your new president?
- What are the things you think I should know so that I can do my job as best as I can?
- What might be some solutions you would suggest for our university to move forward?
- What are the things you are most proud of to help me weave a narrative, tell stories of Howard, of your school, college, or unit to those I meet to promote the university?
We stand on the threshold of a new chapter in Howard’s storied legacy, with a mandate of shared purpose to ensure that Howard University remains at maximum strength, paving the way for a future where the Bison community continues to thrive. I am excited and optimistic about what lies ahead. Together, with your support, wisdom, and engagement, we will chart a course that honors our rich history while boldly stepping into the future, uplifting this legacy for generations to come.
Warm regards,
Dr. Ben Vinson III
President, Howard University