Howard Supports UDC

Dear Howard University Community,

At Howard, we have always valued the importance of identifying opportunities to strengthen and transform our academic model to be a leader through innovation in higher education. The Howard Forward strategic plan lays out our commitment to serving our diverse communities through high-impact outreach and collaborative partnerships, as we cultivate an atmosphere of inclusivity, academic excellence, and civility.

To that end, I am proud to announce the launch of a unique new partnership between Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia (UDC).

Beginning this year, the Office of the President will offer a $500,000 endowed scholarship that will support two (2) UDC students accepted into a graduate or professional program at Howard University. The scholarship, underwritten by Ms. Mackenzie Scott’s $40 million donation to Howard, will range from $5,000 to $10,000 per student. It is important to note that UDC was one of the institutions that did not receive funds from Ms. Scott’s donation, and we are happy to be able to collaborate with them on this effort. Of additional importance, this funding has been earmarked for this specific academic opportunity. It will not adversely impact the funding of any other programs at Howard.

This scholarship is special because it is in support of, and partnership with the only other HBCU in the District of Columbia. Howard and UDC have a special and storied history which we are proud to further solidify. This endowed scholarship will work to further formalize the Howard-UDC relationship by building bridges that will continue to strengthen our bonds with the broader DC community. As a pillar of this city, we strive to be exceptional citizens and good stewards. This scholarship will greatly contribute to the scholarship not just for our respective universities, but across the district, the country, and ultimately, the world.

Applications officially open this June, and the inaugural scholarships will be awarded for the upcoming Fall 2023 semester. More information on the application process will be released in the weeks ahead. I look forward to welcoming our first cohort in earnest on campus this fall and I cannot wait to see the impacts of this endowed scholarship in the years to come. Best of luck to this year’s interested candidates!

Excellence in Truth and Service,

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