Stacey Abrams becomes the newest professor at Howard University

Former Georgia Democratic candidate for governor, Stacey Abrams, has moved from politics to higher learning and will now serve as Howard University’s inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics.

The endowed chair is named for a longtime Howard professor who also was behind one of the nation’s first lunch-counter protests in 1958. He later went on to serve as an adviser to the Rev. Jesse Jackson when he ran for president. Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick said in a news release that Abrams’ appointment as the inaugural Walters endowed chair will help carry on the late faculty member’s legacy and expand it to the latest generation of Howard students.

In her statement about her new role, Abrams said, “We are at an inflection point for American and international democracy, and I look forward to engaging Howard University’s extraordinary students in a conversation about where they can influence, shape and direct the critical public policy decisions we face.” 

Abrams remains one of the most recognizable figures nationally. Howard University is considered one of the nation’s most prestigious Black colleges and universities.

Together, the two entities will create a positive path for students to transverse as it relates to the nexus of education and politics.  

This is not Abrams’ first time working as a college professor. A graduate of Spelman College, Abrams previously worked as an adjunct at her alma mater. She pointed to this experience that has prepared her for the latest role at Howard.

Abrams said, “From my alma mater, Spelman College, I have carved out a career that allows me to weave together policy analysis, political leadership, social justice, business, environmental, entertainment, and more. Through this post, I hope to emulate Dr. Walter’s diasporic lens on our world and be a part of how Howard University continues to contribute to the broader political discourse.”

In accepting a position at Howard, Abrams joins other notable faculty members including actress Phylicia Rashad, who serves as dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, and journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, who in November launched the Center for Journalism & Democracy on campus.