Dear Howard University Community,

Now that the Harris-Walz campaign has officially confirmed plans to hold its presidential election night event here at Howard University, I want to share a few important updates. This is a momentous occasion, as it will be the first time in modern history that a presidential election night event will be hosted on a college or university campus. We are incredibly proud of our alumna, Kamala Harris, who has already made history as the first woman of color and HBCU graduate to serve as our nation's vice president. We are also honored that she has chosen Howard as the place to potentially make history again.

The event, which will be nationally and internationally televised, is set to take place mainly on The Yard and will entail the use of several other Howard facilities and spaces that are being rented by the campaign to support production operations and security measures. Given the unpredictable nature of the outcome of the election, if a candidate is not declared on election night, the campaign will likely extend the space rental agreement for additional days next week. 

It is important to emphasize that the Harris-Walz election night event is a private, space-limited event that is being produced and managed by their campaign. The event is not open to the public and admission and credentials are being handled by the campaign. However, the University is coordinating with campaign staff to determine viewing opportunities for the University community during the event.

As a reminder, the campus will be closed on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024. The University will observe remote work and class days on November 4, 6, and 7. To accommodate the production and security requirements for the event, access to many spaces on campus will be modified starting this afternoon, and may continue through Thursday, November 7. Residential students will still have access to their living spaces, although some auxiliary services, including dining, will be modified. More details on the status of our campus operations and access and safety measures will be shared with the community today, along with the link to a University webpage that will include up to date information during election week.

We understand the significance of this event and the eagerness of our community to be involved. Please take this opportunity to exercise your right to vote, a right that Howard Bison have dedicated their lives to securing.

Committed to Truth and Service,

Ben Vinson III, Ph.D.
President