WASHINGTON – In recognition of the Howard University Class of 2020 graduates, several notable figures and alumni extended congratulatory messages to salute and celebrate the class on obtaining their degrees from The Mecca.

With the spread of the coronavirus global pandemic, the University’s graduating Class of 2020, nicknamed “HU20,” was met with a particularly challenging and unprecedented reality during their final semester as Howard students as the campus was forced to close to adhere to local and federal government policies and guidelines. – a reality that will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. Through those uncertain times, HU20 remained poised, engaged, and determined to continue Howard’s 153-year legacy. 

“Today more than 1,300 stars, radiating with the knowledge gained at Howard University, light up our skies and provide a path forward in the darkness of these times,” said President Wayne A. I. Frederick. “They are our HOPE for a brighter future. That HOPE is embodied in an exceptional educational experience.”

As the graduates gathered in front of televisions and laptops across the nation to watch the “Virtual Ceremony for the Conferring of Degrees in Course,” the University rolled out surprise video messages and quotes on its social platforms from alumni, celebrities and friends who took a moment to celebrate the Class of 2020. While HU20 is unable to be physically embraced by mentors, professors and classmates for this milestone, Howard University is encouraging all members of the Bison family to extend a message of congratulations to the newest graduates of The Mecca using #HowardGrad20 and #HU20.

Debbie Allen, Director/Choreographer/Actress (c/o ‘71)

“Know that the world is in need of your mind. You have been nurtured at the most incredible University – and, we know that what you’re going to do will be totally relevant, necessary and essential.” 

https://twitter.com/HowardU/status/1259154986778451968

Lesli Foster, Journalist and Anchor (c/o ’97)

“You have a chance to literally change the way our communities work, how our country moves and how the world can come together to redefine the human experience after the great lockdown. We need you to solve problems, engineer new ways of thinking, to uncover cures, to channel your ingenuity and to heal hearts and minds.”

https://twitter.com/HowardU/status/1259151407678177280

Senator Kamala Harris, Congresswoman (c/o ‘86)  

“You are coming out now during a time when we are facing an extraordinary crisis and your leadership is more important. You were chosen for this moment. This moment needs you and I have no question in my mind that you are going to make us so proud.”

https://twitter.com/HowardU/status/1259148018001022976

Simone Missick, Actress (c/o ‘03)  

"You have just accmplished a major step towards fulfilling your life's purpose. Go out there and be bold, be daring and never, ever give up on yourselves."

https://twitter.com/howardu/status/1259918670001778688?s=12

Charles D. King, Founder & CEO, MACRO. (c/o ’96)

Congratulations to Howard's graduating class of 2020. All the hard work, the preparation and the sacrifices were worth it. I wish all the best in the journey that awaits. Dream big, dare greatly and never give up! 

https://twitter.com/HowardU/status/1259149264602701827

Ryan Jamaal Swain, Actor (c/o ‘16)

“Welcome to the fold. Welcome to a beautiful tapestry of history, of culture and of excellence.”

https://twitter.com/HowardU/status/1259132603032010752

DJ Jae Murphy, Celebrity DJ (c/o ‘12)

“Graduation is not the end – it’s just the beginning. Please, walk confidently in the direction of your dreams and live out the best life you could ever imagine.” 

https://twitter.com/HowardU/status/1259141978052349955

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About Howard University

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 13 schools and colleges. Students pursue studies in more than 120 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University operates with a commitment to Excellence in Truth and Service and has produced one Schwarzman Scholar, three Marshall Scholars, four Rhodes Scholars, 11 Truman Scholars, 25 Pickering Fellows and more than 70 Fulbright Scholars. Howard also produces more on-campus African-American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, visit www.howard.edu.

Media contact: Ramzey Smith, Office of University Communications, ramzey.smith@howard.edu