On December 9, 2025, Interim President and President Emeritus Wayne A. I. Frederick announced the appointment of Aristide J. Collins Jr., Ed.D., as senior vice president and secretary to the Howard University Board of Trustees, effective Jan. 12, 2026. The community announcement follows. 

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Dear Howard University Community,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Aristide J. Collins Jr., Ed.D., as senior vice president and secretary to the Howard University Board of Trustees, effective Jan. 12, 2026. Dr. Collins will also serve as a member of the University’s administrative leadership team and will report directly to the University president.

Dr. Collins was identified through a rigorous national search for well-qualified candidates. He brings more than three decades of exceptional leadership experience in higher education, institutional advancement, philanthropy, and executive administration. His distinguished career — including service at Strada Education Foundation, George Washington University, Clark Atlanta University, and several other respected institutions — reflects a deep and abiding commitment to strengthening organizations, expanding opportunity, and cultivating transformative educational environments. His experience guiding complex institutions through periods of growth and transition, stewarding major philanthropic initiatives, and fostering operational excellence ensures continuity in governance leadership and uniquely positions him to provide great service to Howard University and the Board of Trustees.

As secretary to the board, Dr. Collins will play a crucial role in supporting the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its governance responsibilities. In this role, he will provide leadership in facilitating the board’s strategic alignment with the University’s mission, priorities, and long-term goals. As a member of the president’s cabinet, he will serve as a vital bridge between the board and the University’s senior leadership.

As we welcome Dr. Collins, we also take this moment to express our deepest gratitude to Secretary Christie Taylor, who will retire from her position as board secretary. Ms. Taylor has been an invaluable member of the Howard University community since June 2021, offering more than two decades of expertise in academic governance, administration, and institutional leadership. She has played a pivotal role in strengthening the University’s governance processes, supporting the board’s strategic initiatives, and advancing the mission of Howard University with unwavering professionalism, grace, and commitment.

On behalf of the entire Howard University community, I extend profound appreciation to Ms. Taylor for her exemplary service and wish her the very best in her retirement.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. Collins to Howard University and in celebrating Secretary Taylor for her remarkable contributions to our beloved institution.

Excellence in Truth and Service,

Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA
Interim President, President Emeritus, and
Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery