On Wednesday, Howard University announced that Stacey Abrams, who had previously ran twice for governor of Georgia, will be joining the school’s faculty.
According to a news release, Abrams will assume the position of the first Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics. As part of her new responsibilities, she will spearhead research efforts on political matters that affect Black Americans throughout the university and collaborate with other faculty members on these topics.
Additionally, she will oversee the Ronald W. Walters Speakers Series, which aims to host speakers from various backgrounds to speak on a wide range of subjects at the historically Black college.
“We are at an inflection point for American and international democracy, and I look forward to engaging Howard University’s extraordinary students in a conversation about where they can influence, shape and direct the critical public policy decisions we face,” Abrams said.
Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick says Abrams’ appointment is not only a tribute to Walters’ legacy but also serves to advance and amplify it among the university’s students and the wider community.
“Stacey Abrams has proven herself an essential voice and eager participant in protecting American democracy – not just for certain populations, but for everyone with the fundamental right to make their voices heard,” Frederick said.
Over the past few years, Howard University has made several notable faculty appointments, and Abrams’ recent appointment is the latest addition to this list. Last year, the school revealed that New York Times journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and alumnus writer Ta-Nehisi Coates would be joining its faculty. Howard also announced that the School of Fine Arts, named after the late actor and Howard alum Chadwick Boseman, would have the iconic actress and alumna Phylicia Rashad as its dean.
