A Message from Addison Barry Rand, Chairman, Howard University Board of Trustees

“I am encouraging your active engagement in the 2010 Alumni Trustee election process!”

Dear Howard University Alumni:

It is you, the alumni, who put Howard University on the map. The reputation of great universities is directly correlated with the accomplishments of its’ alumni. Thanks to you, Howard University is revered throughout the world.  As observed by Dr. Nancy Cantor, Chancellor and President of Syracuse University, during the recent successful  Middle States Accreditation  visit:  “Howard University is a national treasure as the foremost research university ensuring the education of African American leaders for the nation and the world.“ Your insights and enhanced engagement are essential to the continuous advancement of the University.  Participation in the 2010 Alumni Trustee election provides an opportunity to ensure that the alumni perspective is effectively represented in Board deliberations and decisions.

President Ribeau has cited alumni outreach and enhanced engagement as one of his key objectives.  In keeping with his initiative, this year’s Alumni Trustee election to nominate an alumnus or alumna to serve on the Board of Trustees will be held online to assure the broadest participation.   Although the Alumni Trustee is a critically important position, less than 10 percent of eligible alumni have voted in elections over the past several years. This has been of great concern to me and my colleagues on the Board as we seek to broaden the University’s engagement of alumni in matters affecting our beloved Howard University. 

After consulting with the Howard University Alumni Association (HUAA), we agreed that the online election option provides a simple convenient process, at a fraction of the cost of mailing paper ballots domestically and internationally.  It is also a “green” and socially responsible practice to adopt. We have hired Votenet, a leading provider of secure online balloting, to conduct the election. 

You are encouraged to fully participate in the election process.  All earned degree holders are eligible to vote.  In preparation for the opening of the election in March, I urge you to visit the University Web site now, www.howard.edu, click on ALUMNI VOTE and follow the instructions for updating your contact information and e-mail address. You must have a valid e-mail address on file with the University to participate in the online election.  For the limited alumni without access to the Internet, Votenet is providing Vote-by-Phone once the election opens. Please contact the Department of Alumni Relations at (202) 238-2430 with any questions. 

Thank you for your unwavering and committed support of Howard University.   I look forward to your participation in this year’s alumni election!