Kamala Harris gives Howard University flowers, promises HBCU support

By Stephen J. Gaither

It’s Howard University homecoming and Vice President and Democratic Nominee Kamala Harris is strolling back down her HBCU memory lane.

The Vice President posted the following message along with a phot of her on the yard during her undergraduate days.

“As a proud graduate of Howard University, I know that when we invest in our HBCUs, we invest in the strength of our nation for years to come,” Harris wrote in the caption.

Our HBCUs are centers of academic excellence, but they don’t necessarily have the same resources. As vice president, I have helped invest $16 billion more in federal funding to our HBCUs. I will continue to do so as president.”

Kamala Harris’ connection to Howard University is a significant part of her personal and political identity. A proud alumna, Harris graduated from Howard in 1986 with a degree in political science and economics. Her time at the HBCU shaped her leadership style and commitment to public service. During her time there, she became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and she frequently credits Howard with instilling in her a sense of purpose and empowerment.

Harris’ historic election as Vice President of the United States in 2020 was a landmark moment, especially for the HBCU community. As the first female, African American, and South Asian Vice President, her victory was celebrated by Howard University, where she had been an active and engaged student. The Howard Showtime Marching Band even played a prominent role in the 2021 inauguration, serving as her escort during the ceremony. She has also consistently shown up to HU sporting events, including the NCAA Tournament and the Celebration Bowl.

Her connection to Howard continues to be a source of inspiration, and she regularly highlights the role that her education there played in her journey. Harris’ ascent to one of the highest offices in the United States has not only brought pride to Howard University but also to HBCUs nationwide, reinforcing the critical role these institutions play in shaping future leaders.