WASHINGTON — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has appointed Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA, to its Board of Directors. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. The Board of Directors is composed of business leaders from the full spectrum of the American business community. Terms are two years long and directors may serve up to three consecutive terms.

“It is an honor to join the U.S. Chamber Board of Directors,” said President Frederick. “Through the years, Howard University has held a great relationship with the Chamber, which has benefited many of our students through mentorship and internship opportunities. I look forward to becoming more involved with this esteemed organization through this board appointment.” 

The Board of Directors supervises and exercises governance over the affairs of the Chamber, determines its policies or makes changes subject to the procedures specified in the Bylaws. The Board receives, approves, and takes other appropriate action regarding reports from the Chamber’s standing and special committees, and exercises oversight and discretion with respect to the management and disbursement of its funds.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Frederick to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors,” said Suzanne P. Clark, president of the U.S. Chamber. “Dr. Frederick’s leadership has been key to the success of the Next-Gen Business Partnership launched by Howard and the Chamber last year, and we look forward to continuing this important work to develop the next generation of diverse business leaders.  A recognized scholar and administrator, his unique perspective will be a valuable addition to the Chamber Board.”

As the 17th president, Dr. Frederick’s goal is to enhance the Howard University legacy, ensure that the University maximizes its impact and that its students receive a well-rounded educational experience. Through his experience as a scholar and an administrator, Dr. Frederick strives to develop innovative approaches to focus on the institutional priorities of his beloved alma mater and support the success of its students.

As an undergraduate student, Dr. Frederick was admitted to Howard University’s B.S./M.D. dual degree program. He completed the requirements for both degrees in six years, allowing him to earn both his Bachelor of Science and his medical degree by the age of 22. 

Following his post-doctoral research and surgical oncology fellowships at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dr. Frederick began his academic career as associate director of the Cancer Center at the University of Connecticut. Upon his return to Howard University, his academic positions included associate dean in the College of Medicine, Division Chief in the Department of Surgery, director of the Cancer Center and deputy provost for Health Sciences. He also earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Howard University’s School of Business in 2011. Dr. Frederick continues to operate and lectures to the second-year medical students of Howard University’s College of Medicine. His medical research seeks to narrow the disparity in all cancer-care outcomes, with a focus on gastrointestinal cancers.

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Media Contact: Alonda Thomas, alonda.thomas@howard.edu