Award-winning actress Phylicia Rashad has been named as the new Dean of the Howard University College of Fine Arts. Rashad, a Howard University graduate, will begin the new role on July 1, the university announced.  

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We are pleased to announce that legendary actress and alumna Phylicia Rashad will serve as Dean of the Howard University College of Fine Arts. Read more here: https://t.co/4H0jhg1kRf pic.twitter.com/uWQsDeESHB

— Howard University (@HowardU) May 12, 2021

“It is an honor to welcome one of Howard’s acclaimed daughters back home to Alma Mater. In this full circle moment, 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,” said Provost Anthony K. Wutoh.  

The distinguished actress and stage director graduated magna cum laude with her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts from Howard in 1970. While enrolled, she became a member of the Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  

She previously served the institution as a guest lecturer and adjunct faculty member. She also conducted master’s level classes at New York University, Vassar College, Carnegie Mellon, Wayne State University, Julliard and The Black Arts Institute of Stella Adler Studio of Acting.  

“Given Ms. Rashad’s reputation as well as her capabilities and impressive list of accomplishments, she will undoubtedly empower the college to transcend even our incredibly high expectations. Under her leadership, Howard will continue to inspire and cultivate the artists and leaders who will shape our niche and national cultures for generations to come,” Frederick said.  

Rashad has been the recipient of numerous accolades for her work in acting, including a Tony Award, Drama Desk Award and BET Honors Theatrical Arts Award. Her work has also presented her with honorary doctorates from Howard University, Spelman College, the University of South Carolina at Columbia, Tuskegee University, Brown University, Bennett College, St. Augustine College, Providence College, Barber Scotia College, Clark Atlanta University, Morris Brown College, Carnegie Mellon University and Fordham University. 

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