In 2021, the renowned actress and director Phylicia Rashad took on a significant new role, joining Howard University as the Dean of the recently reestablished College of Fine Arts.
This appointment marked a major moment not only in Rashad’s career but also in the history of Howard University, a prestigious historically Black university where she herself graduated with a degree in fine arts. Rashad’s return to her alma mater in such an important capacity signaled her deep commitment to education, the arts, and the empowerment of future generations of Black creatives.
Phylicia Rashad’s connection to Howard University runs deep. As a proud alumna, Rashad credits the institution with shaping her foundational understanding of the arts and instilling in her a passion for excellence. Her education at Howard provided her with the tools and confidence to excel in a competitive and often challenging industry, where she later became a household name for her role as Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show.
Rashad’s experience as an actor, director, and advocate for the arts uniquely positions her to lead the college with a focus on both creative excellence and social impact. In an interview, she spoke about her vision for the college as a place where students can develop their craft while also understanding their responsibility to uplift and reflect the stories of their communities, especially the Black community. “The arts have a profound way of shaping society,” she noted, “and it’s important that our students not only master their art forms but also understand the power their work holds.”
As a mentor, Rashad is committed to ensuring that Howard’s fine arts students receive the kind of support, resources, and opportunities that will enable them to succeed in a rapidly changing industry. With the entertainment world becoming more inclusive and diverse, Rashad’s leadership comes at a critical time when representation in film, theater, and the arts is more important than ever.
The reopening of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University, after its 1998 merger with the College of Arts and Sciences, was a significant move. Rashad’s appointment as Dean symbolized a commitment to revitalizing the arts at Howard, ensuring that the college would once again become a beacon of artistic excellence within historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Rashad has championed efforts to provide students with more resources, facilities, and opportunities for performance and creative expression.
Moreover, Rashad’s stature in the arts community opens doors for Howard students, giving them access to industry professionals, internships, and networks that can propel their careers forward. Under her leadership, the college is expected to attract even more talent, bringing national attention to Howard’s arts program and fostering collaborations with renowned artists and institutions.
