Dear Howard University Community,

We are on the eve of a crucial moment in our nation's history, a moment rooted in Howard’s history because of our alumna, presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Her journey through Howard is leading to a full circle moment with her return to campus on election night.

We are honored that the University has been selected by the Harris-Walz campaign for Tuesday’s historic event. As we continue preparations, I want to thank our faculty, staff, and students for your resilience, patience, and understanding during this unprecedented time. 

However, we do recognize the potential inconvenience to our campus community and interruption to regularly scheduled classes and campus activities. The administrative leadership team is aware that amidst the excitement of this moment, deep concerns exist about safety stemming from the nature of this highly charged election season, and access to campus and auxiliary services. 

After careful consideration and assurances of the attention to security and campus logistics, we decided that honoring the Harris-Walz campaign’s request was the correct choice in this historic moment. I assure you that the safety and security of our community is of the utmost importance to our administration and Department of Public Safety (DPS), as well as the Harris-Walz campaign.

DPS is working in collaboration with local and national law enforcement agencies on safety measures for our students, faculty, and staff, and an unprecedented number of visitors to our community. These measures require that we amend our schedules and limit access to the Yard and corresponding buildings. We also ask that you add your vigilance to ours. If you see something, say something.

The University Counseling Service and Office of the Dean of the Chapel are available to provide support for those experiencing anxiety or needing spiritual uplift during this time. The Office of the Provost, Office of the Chief Operating Officer, Division of Student Affairs, Auxiliary Services and other administrative offices are working to ensure that you have access to all services, support, and information needed throughout the event’s duration. Above all, you are our top priority.

As this election season comes to a close, one commonality rings true for us all regardless of our political affiliation: we are Bison, connected by the legacy and long lineage of leaders who stand as a testament to Howard’s commitment to our core values of excellence, leadership, truth, and service. I look forwarding to joining you as we welcome a daughter of Howard back home to The Mecca and invite the world to see once more what it truly means to be a Bison!

Committed to Truth and Service,

Ben Vinson III, Ph.D. 
President