155th Commencement Convocation Relocation

 

Dear Howard University Community,

Due to inclement weather conditions, and with concurrence from the White House and United States Secret Service, I have decided to relocate this Saturday’s 155th Commencement Convocation to Capital One Arena, located in downtown Washington, D.C.

Please know I only made this decision after much consideration and in alignment with Howard University protocols in the event of inclement weather. The safety of all students, employees, and guests is the top priority of the University. With current forecasts suggesting a 60 to 70% probability of thunderstorms, particularly in the morning, there are clear and present risks for our graduates and families. We cannot conduct the ceremony in a thunderstorm and would be forced to end the program if the storm is accompanied by lightning. Although on-campus alternatives exist, we believe the pivot to Capital One Arena provides the greatest opportunity to recreate a traditional, authentic Howard University commencement.

I want to thank Ted Leonsis and the Monumental Sports & Entertainment team for their years of kindness to our University, and their partnership in helping us secure such an in-demand venue on such short notice. I also ask for grace for our University staff as we work to finalize logistics over the coming hours and days. I recognize how demanding a time this is for our graduates and their families, and we are working diligently to ensure this weekend is both safe and memorable for everyone involved.

Commencement is a sacred time for our Howard community. Despite these modifications to our format, we will celebrate the Class of 2023 in person and in true Bison spirit. We thank you for your understanding and encourage you to continue monitoring commencement.howard.edu for real-time updates and information.

Excellence in Truth and Service,

Wayne A. I. Frederick, MD, MBA
Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery
President