Dear Howard University Community,
The concept of contemporary education feels somewhat redundant, no?
Contemporary is simply defined as current or modern, and so that leaves me to question what the opposite of a contemporary education might be. Something outmoded and obsolete? As a practicing surgeon, I am trying to imagine the logic behind suggesting we operate on patients in the same way we did when the original Freedman's Hospital opened, despite the advancements in medical technology in the 161 years since.
There is, unquestionably, much to be learned from the past. Our foremothers and fathers sacrificed much for the freedoms we enjoy today, and their acquired wisdom should serve as necessary guidance as we continue marching forward. Yet, education by definition should be ever-evolving. It must both embrace and reject traditional structures, experiment with innovative ideas, and refuse to fixate on the victories and defeats of the past. At Howard University, our distinct mission is to provide an educational experience of exceptional quality, and our vision is to boldly deliver on that mission in a contemporary context. Since the University's chartering in 1867, Howard has existed to address disparities disproportionately affecting the African American population. That responsibility requires a level of foresight, care, and intention only achievable in pursuit of the future -- seeing the world not as it already is, but as it can and should be.
Providing a contemporary education to the Howard University community has been a top priority of mine since becoming president, and yet the COVID-19 pandemic has further necessitated that we become especially nimble in producing a quality experience for our students and faculty alike. Coupled with our mission to provide an exceptional educational experience and our commitment to produce distinguished global leaders, we are embarking on a forward trajectory that positions Howard as a model of excellence. This trajectory looks like extensive campus renovations, including the first new facilities on campus in nearly 40 years. It looks like removing cumbersome financial barriers and incentivizing our students to graduate on time. And it looks like developing career opportunities designed to elevate not just Howard, but all our historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the process.
We respect tradition most by innovating upon it, not by resting on our laurels. While I am eternally proud to be the steward of a University with such a rich history, I am even prouder to embrace the work still to come.
Excellence in Truth and Service,
Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA
Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery
President
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