Phylicia Rashad, the renowned actress and Howard University alum, will be concluding her tenure as the dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts at the end of the 2023-24 academic year. Rashad, known for her roles in TV, stage, and film, including her iconic portrayal of Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” has been serving as the dean since 2021.
During her time as dean, Rashad played a crucial role in revitalizing the prominence of the fine arts college. She successfully attracted notable scholars, artists, and creatives to the institution, elevating its reputation. Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick praised Rashad for her leadership in reestablishing the College of Fine Arts as an independent college that continues to attract high-caliber talent.
Rashad, who graduated magna cum laude from Howard in 1970 with a degree in theater acting, has a deep connection to the university. She previously served as a university trustee and comes from a family of Howard graduates, including her sister Debbie Allen, who is also a dancer, choreographer, actor, and director.
The appointment of Rashad as dean marked a significant turning point for the fine arts college, as it regained its status as an autonomous school within the university. In 1998, the College of Fine Arts was merged into the larger College of Arts and Sciences due to financial considerations, causing discontent among students, faculty, and graduates. Rashad was among those who expressed dissatisfaction with the decision.
Following Rashad’s appointment, Howard University announced that the fine arts college would be renamed after the late actor Chadwick Boseman, who was also a graduate of the university. Rashad actively supported the creation of initiatives such as the Chadwick A. Boseman Memorial Scholarship program, which received a $5.4 million contribution from Netflix. Additional support from Capri Holdings, Microsoft Corp., and The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation further enhanced the resources and scope of the college.
However, Rashad’s tenure was not without controversy. In 2021, she faced criticism after expressing support for Bill Cosby following his release from prison due to overturned sexual assault charges. Rashad later apologized, acknowledging the hurt caused by her statement.
Earlier this year, Rashad was named the Toni Morrison Endowed Chair in Arts and Humanities at Howard University. She also served as the Denzel Washington Chair in Theatre at Fordham University.
As Rashad prepares to transition from her role as dean, Howard University is preparing to search for her successor. The university also announced the upcoming departures of deans Gracie Lawson-Borders of the Cathy Hughes School of Communications and Sandra Crewe of the School of Social Work by the end of the academic year.
In September, Ben Vinson III will assume the role of Howard University’s 18th president, succeeding Wayne A.I. Frederick, who has led the university for nearly a decade.
How did Phylicia Rashad’s mentorship and commitment to the success of students contribute to the college’s establishment as a premier institution for arts education
As the dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts was met with widespread enthusiasm and support. Her wealth of experience in the entertainment industry and her dedication to the arts made her the ideal candidate for the position.
Throughout her tenure, Rashad prioritized the nurturing of young talent and the preservation of the arts. Under her leadership, the college saw a significant increase in enrollment and the introduction of new programs and initiatives. She also spearheaded efforts to enhance the college’s facilities and create a more inclusive and diverse learning environment.
Rashad’s impact on the college extended beyond just academics. She actively engaged with students, offering mentorship and guidance to aspiring artists. Her commitment to their success was evident in her tireless efforts to provide them with networking opportunities, internships, and access to industry professionals.
President Frederick expressed his gratitude to Rashad for her contributions and highlighted the lasting legacy she leaves behind. He acknowledged her instrumental role in elevating the College of Fine Arts to new heights and establishing it as a premier institution for arts education.
As her tenure comes to a close, Rashad plans to continue her involvement with the Howard University community. While stepping down as dean, she will remain an advocate for the arts and a guiding force for students pursuing careers in entertainment.
Overall, Phylicia Rashad’s time as dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts will be remembered as a transformative chapter in the college’s history. Her dedication, leadership, and passion for the arts have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the institution and the lives of the students she has mentored.
Phylicia Rashad’s leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on Howard University and the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. Her legacy as dean will continue to inspire and empower future generations of artists.