Convocation

This past Friday, Howard University invited us to celebrate its 144^th Opening Convocation. The day’s program began with the entrance of Howard’s influential figures, a presentation from the color guard, the singing of both our national anthems and a powerful selection from the chorus. At first I did not know what to expect of the convocation but it soon became clear to me its importance to the university and students.

The convocation speech was given by Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of UNCF, or the United Negro College Fund. Dr. Lomax’s speech pinpointed Historically Black Colleges and Universities, education, and the need for change in the black community.

The given speech was insightful and made it evident that education is essential to the progression of black people. Someone asked Dr. Lomax if the country still needed HBCU’s and he replied, “Yes, we still need HBCU’s because they continue to outperform the rest of higher education for African Americans.” Every year two million African Americans receive a college degree; and those that attend HBCU’s are more likely to obtain professional degrees, view themselves as leaders, be physically engaged and earn success in their careers. In this knowledge based economy we must produce more intellects than labor workers; and instead of being the “muscle” behind labor we need to be the “brain- power.” In his own experience, Dr. Lomax said middle school offered such courses as metal shop and wood shop and it was not until high school that he was able to take more college based courses that would better prepare him for a career.

Another point mentioned was black male enrollment in college and its importance to the community. Dr. Lomax said that it was his hope of the 130,000 graduate degrees awarded, in the years to come they would be doubled; and of those half a million people half would be black males.

In addition to black males becoming more accomplished in their college and career choices the alumni’s must become more involved as well. Only 11 percent of Howard’s alumni have contributed to the university and if this number could increase it would make a tremendous difference in our education. With their help Howard could offer more programs and degrees for future generations.

Howard University is no longer a member of UNCF but they were one of the founders. Of the degrees offered by Howard to its students there is 1400 bachelor, 500 graduate and 415 professional degrees.

 Hopefully, in return for what Howard has to offer us we will go far in our own successes. Dr. Lomax’s speech was very inspirational and I hope convocation will continue to inspire others in the years to come.