Howard University Announces Leadership Transition as President Ben Vinson III Steps Down

Washington, D.C. — Howard University has announced that President Ben Vinson III will step down at the end of August, less than two years after assuming the role as the university’s 18th president. His decision comes at the start of a new academic year and amid both historic achievements and pressing institutional challenges.

Vinson, who took office in September 2023, stated that he would be focusing on family and academic research following his departure. During his tenure, Howard achieved the prestigious Carnegie R1 classification, becoming the first Historically Black College or University to reach the highest tier in research activity. His leadership also attracted renowned scholars, including Ibram X. Kendi, and secured landmark financial gifts such as Bloomberg Philanthropies’ contribution to the medical school.

Despite these accomplishments, Vinson’s administration was not without difficulties. A billing system error this summer sparked frustration and protests among students after unexpected tuition notifications and inaccurate account balances surfaced. The university also faced financial uncertainty tied to potential federal budget cuts, adding to the pressure on leadership.

To ensure stability, the Board of Trustees has appointed Wayne A. I. Frederick,

Howard’s 17th president, to return as interim president beginning September 1.

Frederick, who previously led the university from 2014 to 2023, is widely regarded as a steady hand familiar with Howard’s culture, challenges, and ambitions. Board Chair Leslie D. Hale thanked Vinson for his contributions and emphasized that the transition will be managed with continuity in mind.

The university has launched a national search for a permanent president and is seeking input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners. As Howard enters the fall semester, the institution finds itself at a pivotal moment: navigating leadership change while holding fast to its new status as a top research institution and its role as a cornerstone of HBCU excellence.