By Patricia McDougall

On May 13, 2023 Howard University held their 155th Commencement Convocation at the Capitol Arena in Washington, D.C. 

President Joseph Biden delivered remarks to the 2023 Howard University students, faculty, staff, family, guest, alumni, dignitaries and more who filled the arena to witness the memorable occasion.  

Honorary doctorate degrees were given to Congressman James E. Clyburn, Martha and Bruce A. Karsh, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Keith Christopher Rowley, A. Eugene Washington and Banaree Pratt Wiley.

Though most students were solely focused on the excitement of commencement day, others used the occasion of a keynote address from the President of the United States to voice their opinions in protest. 

  • Howard University celebrates its 155th commencement at the Capital Arena due to the rain. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • Howard University President Wayne Frederick and President Joseph R. Biden Jr., 46th President of United States. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • Congressman James E. Clyburn and Prime Minister Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Dr. Keith Christopher Rowley have a candid moment before taking the stage to receive their honorary degree. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • (R to L) College of Fine Arts Dean Phylicia Rashad, Howard University Provost Anthony K. Wutoh, Ph.D., R.Ph. and Howard University COO Tashni-Ann Dubroy, Ph.D. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • AFRO Assistant Editor Ashleigh Fields, moments after walking the commencement stage. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • Mikeisha Best puts on a big smile as one of the Howard University School of Communications graduate. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • Howard University School of Social Work Faculty, Janeen Cross, Kandall Moody, Gloria Cain and Sangra Kalu at HU Commencement. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • Howard University President Dr. Wayne Frederick’s family, Simone, and two children: son Wayne II and daughter Kirie. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • 2023 HU Graduates Jeffrey Miller II and Kaylah Armstrong. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
  • Howard University students held up signs to protest at the 155th Commencement Convocation. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)