Phylicia Rashad Calls New Job as Howard University’s Dean of Fine Arts a ‘Privilege’

Phylicia Rashad (Credit: Shutterstock)

Class will soon be in session for Phylicia Rashad, who has been named dean of Howard University’s newly reestablished College of Fine Arts.

The university made the announcement Wednesday in a press release, saying Rashad — a Howard alum — was selected after a national search. She will begin her new position on July 1, and reports to Provost Anthony K. Wutoh.

“It is a privilege to serve in this capacity and to work with the Howard University administration, faculty and students in reestablishing the College of Fine Arts,” the Cosby Show actress said in a statement.

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Rashad has taught before as a guest lecturer and adjunct faculty member at the HBCU. Among her students was the late Chadwick Boseman. She has also taught at New York University, Vassar College, Carnegie Mellon and Juilliard.

“I can think of no individual better suited to take on this role than Ms. Phylicia Rashad,” added Howard President Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D. “As we reintroduce our campus community and the world at large to Howard’s College of Fine Arts, the dean will play an instrumental role in ensuring an auspicious beginning for this reestablished institution.”

The This Is Us actress first stepped on campus in the late ’60s as an out-of-state college student from Houston.

Rashad will continue to act while teaching. She will next be seen in Creed III alongside Michael B. Jordan, who will be making his directorial debut on the film.


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About Jacquelinne Mejia

Jacquelinne Mejia is a writer and social media producer in Los Angeles. She can be reached on Twitter @JackieMejia.