For Howard University theatre arts major (B.F.A. '26) Trinity Garrison, January 17, 2025 may forever be etched as a pivotal moment in her artistic journey. During a special segment of “TODAY with Jenna & Friends” co-hosted by Howard icon Taraji P. Henson (B.F.A. ’95, D.H.L. ’22), Garrison was named the recipient of the prestigious Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. Memorial Scholarship by none other than Allen's daughter, Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts Dean Emeritus Phylicia Rashad (B.F.A. '70). 

WATCH: Phylicia Rashad surprises Howard student with scholarship.

WATCH: Taraji P. Henson, Jenna Bush Hager, and Phylicia Rashad discuss the Howard magic.

It was a full circle moment. Henson, pregnant with her son, was presented with the same award as a Howard student. Henson credits that award not only with helping her continue her education through financial support, but as serving as confirmation that others believed in her and were willing to invest in her future success.

“For me, it was a greenlight, that allowed me to dream—I just knew that I could really make my dreams come true."

“For me, it was a greenlight, that allowed me to dream—I just knew that I could really make my dreams come true," said Henson. "It’s one thing to dream, but it’s one thing to see people that you look up to and admire actually go and do it. That is the proof you need.” 

Garrison—a multifaceted artist excelling in dance, theater, and singing—embodies the spirit of the scholarship, which celebrates talent, resilience, and a commitment to artistic excellence. 

“I create art to honor the humanity of the Black community," Garrison said. "Through art, I want to celebrate the interconnected history, beauty, and resilience across the African diaspora while fostering understanding and inclusion.”

Dr. Andrew A. Allen was a distinguished alumnus who graduated from Howard's School of Dentistry in 1946 and was passionate about the arts. Established by his daughters, Rashad and Debbie Allen (B.F.A. '71), the scholarship supports Howard University students pursuing studies in acting, singing, and dancing within the Department of Theatre Arts in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. 

TODAY with Jenna and Friends host Jenna Bush Hager asked Rashad why Howard was so special. 

"It's more than brick and mortar, and you feel that when you step onto the campus," she said. "Some of the most brilliant scholars on the face of this earth are at Howard university, and we were privileged to be there and to be taught by them."

The Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. Memorial Scholarship reflects Dr. Allen's commitment to education and the arts, providing financial assistance to students who demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication in their respective fields—students like Garrison. The Allen family continues to play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of artists at Howard University, upholding a legacy of excellence and dedication to the arts.

“The Dr. Andrew Allen Scholarship plays a vital role by providing our students with the opportunity to fully engage in their artistic passion unfettered by the cost of their education,” said Denise Saunders Thompson, assistant dean for administration of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. “This scholarship is not just financial aid; it is an investment of lifelong impact that sets up yet unimaginable opportunities. The Allen Sisters have provided Trinity with a gift of less financial worry. She is more enabled and empowered to be her most full authentic self, inside of her Musical Theatre studies, allowing her talent to flourish and grow.”

The Allen sisters' commitment to supporting the arts education of the students that walk the same halls they did is evident not only in this year's scholarship, but through years of contributions made to the university. 

“The relationship between Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad, and Howard University is long and everlasting,” said Thompson. “It’s a family bond that began with their father and they remain committed to his legacy by paying it forward. As a result, the care they have about the success of our students and in turn the need for scholarship was of concern by another donor. Someone else paid it forward. May the essential nature of arts education continue to impact others’ legacies for good."

Garrison said her Caribbean-American identity has shaped her vision of theatre as a powerful medium to amplify underrepresented voices and connect people across cultural divides. Growing up, Garrison said she often searched for stories that reflected her own experiences, only to find glaring absences. Her works seek to fill the void by creating works that challenge societal norms, affirm inclusion, and celebrate the kaleidoscope of cultures that make up America. 

She said a recent course in Howard University exploring the history of musical theatre helped deepen her appreciation for trailblazers like Florence Mills, Eartha Kitt, and Ethel Waters. 

“These artists brought their full humanity and individuality to their work,” she said. “Their legacy pushes me to take risks, stand firmly in my beliefs, and create art that matters.”