Today, Howard University announced the appointment of Stacey Abrams, Esq., as the first Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics.

In this position, Abrams will facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations across the University regarding critical issues of race and Black politics, especially those that impact African diaspora Americans. According to an article published in Howard’s The Dig written by Misha Collins, the chair’s purpose is to motivate research and encourage extensive discussions of scholarship for real-world solutions to complex societal issues that adversely affect African diasporic communities and other vulnerable populations.

In this position, Abrams will also lead the Ronald W. Walters Speakers Series, inviting guests to discuss various topics representing diverse perspectives.

The Ronald W. Walters Leadership and Public Policy Center at Howard University will house the chair. Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick expressed his pleasure with the appointment, stating that Abrams is a critical voice in protecting American democracy for all individuals who have the fundamental right to express their views.

“I am honored to serve as the inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics, having had the privilege of knowing and learning from Dr. Walters,” said Abrams. “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. 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.”

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