Howard University’s Provost Anthony K. Wutoh called it a “full circle moment,” in a statement, saying, “It is an honor to welcome one of Howard’s acclaimed daughters back home to her Alma Mater.”
“Ms. Phylicia Rashad will take the training and skills that she honed as a student at Howard and exuded in an outstanding performing career, and she will share those pearls of wisdom with the next generation of students in the College of Fine Arts. Her passion for the arts and student success makes her a perfect fit for this role,” the statement continued.
The heralded actress has previously served as a guest lecturer and adjunct faculty member at the prestigious university, mentoring former students like, her “This Is Us” co-star Susan Kelechi-Watson and the late Chadwick Boseman. Still, Rashad told Variety, she was honored and surprised by her new appointment.
“I never saw myself as a dean,” she said with a laugh. “But then, I’ve never thought of myself as many things that I’ve been. It’s a privilege to be a part of reestablishing the College of Fine Arts, to engage with the administration, the faculty, the students, the alumni, as well as artists around the country. It’s exciting to think about building towards a future with a College of Fine Arts and Howard University.”
