Howard University President Ben Vinson III to Step Down; Wayne Frederick Appointed Interim President

Howard University has announced that its 18th president, Ben Vinson III, Ph.D., will step down on August 31, 2025, concluding nearly two years of service. Vinson began his presidency in September 2023, focusing on advancing Howard’s strategic priorities in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and global and diasporic engagement.

“It has been an honor to serve Howard,” Dr. Vinson said, adding that he will take time with his family and continue his research activities while remaining engaged in higher education.

The Howard University Board of Trustees expressed appreciation for Vinson’s leadership. “On behalf of the Howard University Board of Trustees, we extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Vinson for his service and leadership,” said Board Chair Leslie D. Hale. “We extend our very best wishes to him in his future endeavors.”

In a message to the community posted on Howard’s Instagram, Hale also acknowledged “legitimate concerns” regarding student accounts and housing assignments, underscoring the Board’s commitment to addressing those issues as the University moves through this period of transition.

According to The Dig, to ensure continuity, the Board has appointed Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA, to serve as interim president beginning September 1, 2025. Dr. Frederick, an alumnus and Howard’s 17th president, previously served as interim in 2013 before leading the University from 2014 to 2023. His tenure saw record fundraising for student scholarships, faculty support, and modernization of academic programs and facilities.

“Dr. Frederick’s deep institutional knowledge and proven leadership will provide stability during this transition,” said Hale. The interim role will last until a national search is completed to select Howard’s next permanent president.

As the University prepares for this transition, Howard leaders reaffirmed their commitment to its mission of truth, service, and excellence. The Board emphasized that faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners will be engaged in the process to help chart the University’s next chapter.