Dean's Corner

This spring, we were honored to gather for the Graduate School’s annual Hood Presentation and Recognition Ceremony—a moment of reflection, celebration, and deep pride. It is always a joy and a privilege to witness the culmination of years of dedication, resilience, and scholarly achievement. 

We opened the ceremony with the powerful rhythm of African drums—a tradition that resonates deeply at Howard. The drum speaks where words often fall short. At Howard, the drum is more than an instrument. It’s the heartbeat of The Mecca—connecting cultures, generations, and aspirations.

This year’s graduating class reflects the full spirit of that heartbeat. Representing 25 states and 11 countries, our scholars bring with them a vibrant array of perspectives, philosophies, and disciplines. More than 150 graduate degrees were conferred, each one rooted in our values of tradition, scholarship, and innovation. We are immensely proud.

Among this exceptional cohort are these scholars. Danaize Sanchez, who received her Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders, will continue providing critical language services to underserved youth. Tenisha Jones, a School Psychology scholar, will help us reimagine the field as one of liberation and healing, not control. D’Wayne James, who earned a PhD in Social Work, is a published scholar and trauma-informed care leader, recognized nationally with the CSWE Minority Fellowship—twice. And Jordan Hairston, who defied the notion that scholar-athletes exist only at the undergraduate level, earned his Master of Arts in Economics while playing basketball for Howard.

Our scholars’ impact will resonate for years to come in classrooms beyond Howard. Tiffany Wheatland-Disu, who earned the PhD in History, will join Occidental College in a tenure-track role. And Austin Anderson, a PhD in English, will begin a prestigious three-year postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University.

Camille Warner, who earned the PhD in Psychology, exemplifies what it means to rise through adversity. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder early in her doctoral journey and coping with the loss of her advisor, Dr. A. Wade Boykin, Camille persevered. She earned the Winslow Sargeant Doctoral Award from the Ronald Walters Center, presented her research internationally, and now holds both a Master’s and PhD from Howard.

These graduates are a testament to what it means to be part of Howard University’s Graduate School: to pursue scholarship that is bold, transformative, and committed to service. We know they will walk boldly, serve justly, and remain grounded in truth. And when alma mater calls, we know they will answer. 

In community and celebration,

Dana A. Williams, PhD | Graduate Dean