Stacey Abrams takes on new role at Howard University

Stacey Abrams has been and continues to be a powerful agent in the political sphere.

She has been a champion for voting rights for the people of Georgia, having founded Fair Fight Action to address voter suppression in the state. During the 2018 Georgia gubernatorial election, she made history as the first African-American woman in the United States to run for governor. In 2020, she continued to help boost voter turnout in Georgia, resulting in President Joe Biden narrowly winning the state during the 2020 presidential election.

On April 5, it was announced that Abrams will be adding another endeavor onto her already extensive resume. The Georgia politician will be joining Howard University as the institution;s first-ever Ronald W. Walters endowed chair for race and Black politics. Revolt reports that the position will be part of the Ronald W. Walters Leadership and Public Policy Center, which was named after the late activist and political scholar, Dr. Ronald W. Walters.

Abrams will be working to inspire research and discussions pertaining to solutions to issues that affect people in the African diaspora. She will also be in charge of the Ronald W. Walters Speakers Series, in which she is responsible for inviting guest speakers of diverse backgrounds and perspectives to speak on varying topics.

“Stacey Abrams has proven herself an essential voice and eager participant in protecting American democracy — not just for certain populations, but for everyone with the fundamental right to make their voices heard,” Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick said in a statement.

Frederic continued, “As the inaugural Ronald W. Walters endowed chair, Ms. Abrams’ selection not only honors the work and legacy of renowned political strategist and scholar Dr. Ronald Walters, it expands on that legacy by bringing Howard students in dialogue with a contemporary candidate whose work has directly influenced today’s political landscape.”

Abrams, who graduated from Spelman College, believes the work she will be doing with Howard is critical, especially now.

“We are entering an inflection point in American politics where the conversation of race and Black politics will be a central facet,” the “While Justice Sleeps” author told The Washington Post. “And having the chance to help guide part of the conversation for young people who are studying at Howard University is an exceptional opportunity.”

Roshae Hemmings is an arts and culture magazine journalist from St. Louis, MO. A graduate from the Missouri School of Journalism, Roshae has bylines in the Columbia Missourian, Vox Magazine and 5280 Magazine discussing topics ranging from pop culture, social justice and eat and drink. She is a foodie at heart and enjoys eating food as much as learning about the story behind it. When she’s not working on a story, Roshae enjoys cooking, watching and analyzing reality TV, and spending time with family and friends.

This story was originally published April 10, 2023 at 5:15 PM with the headline "Stacey Abrams takes on new role at Howard University."