Howard’s 159th Charter Day Celebrates History, Community and Alumni Achievement

Students, alumni, faculty and supporters of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) united March 6-7 to celebrate Howard University’s 159th Annual Charter Day, commemorating the institution’s history, commitment to educational excellence and intentional work to build changemakers of the past, present and future.

The annual celebration — featuring a convocation on March 6 and awards dinner on March 7 — commemorates the founding of Howard University in 1867, when it was established to educate newly freed African Americans in the aftermath of the Civil War. Today, Charter Day serves as one of the university’s most important traditions, bringing together generations of the Howard community to reflect on its mission of “truth and service.” 

“[We’re celebrating] not just the founding of Howard University, but the enduring idea that education rooted in purpose can change the trajectory of individuals, and through them, nations,” said Howard interim President Wayne A.I. Frederick. 

The convocation, held at Cramton Auditorium, celebrated the university’s history and legacy, while the 102nd Charter Day Dinner on Saturday at the Marriott Marquis in downtown D.C. honored alumni Dr. Jelani Cobb, Judge Herbert B. Dixon Jr., Kamilah Forbes and James K. Fortson for their professional achievements.

“The things that I’m doing now are largely a product of [a] class I took when I was 18 years old,” said Cobb, in reference to a Black diaspora course taught by late Howard professor Adell Patton Jr.

Throughout the weekend, attendees emphasized the importance of connection between students, alumni and the broader Howard community as the university continues to build on nearly 160 years of history. 

“From classrooms to communities, Howard continues to invest in possibility before the world sees it,” Frederick emphasized. 

Students Reflect on Community and Connection

For many students in attendance, the weekend was an opportunity to connect with alumni and build intergenerational relationships that extend beyond Howard University’s campus.

“I think it’s super important to be here,” said Tara Gray, a third-year pre-law English major from Tampa, Florida, and campus section editor for The Hilltop. “It’s a really good opportunity for networking and just making new connections.”

Students also reflected on Howard’s broader legacy and their responsibility to continue building and further the institution’s influence and reputation across the globe.

“Tonight reminds us that Howard’s legacy is not just history, but it’s something we continue to build on every single day,” said Ainslie Stowes, a second-year biology major with a chemistry minor.

As she prepares to receive her degree in May, Meagan Vanzie, a senior health science major, said the weekend was also about showing appreciation to the Howard graduates who continue to bolster the university. 

“I’m here to give thanks to all of the alumni,” Vanzie told The Informer, “and just show gratitude for the support that they’ve shown.” 

Honoring Alumni Achievement, Inspiring the Next Generation

During a weekend celebrating Howard University’s contributions across the globe, the 102nd  Charter Day dinner honored accomplished alumni whose careers reflect the institution’s long-standing influence across industries.

Cobb, who received the Alumni Award for Distinguished Postgraduate Achievement due to his work in the world of journalism, reflected on the role his alma mater played in shaping his worldview and career.

“What I took from Howard was the importance of being able to tell the story of your community, how you experienced history, and what your impact had been on shaping that history,” he told The Informer. 

A celebrated author of books such as “The Substance of Hope” (2010) and “Three or More is a Riot” (2025), Cobb added that Howard’s influence on him extended far beyond his time as a student.

“With the exception of my family,” he said, “no other institution has had as much of an impact on who I am as Howard.

For current students, hearing directly from accomplished alumni like Cobb served as both inspiration and motivation.

Emir Garrett, in his second year at Howard’s College of Dentistry, said seeing successful doctors and graduates return for Convocation Day offered encouragement for the road ahead. 

“These are all people that we aspire to be as student doctors,” Garrett told The Informer. “They’ve come so far [and] accomplished so much and we just hope to follow in their footsteps and create our own legacy one day.”