Cathy Hughes School of Communications

As we close out our final Alumni Spotlight this Black History Month, today we honor Virgil Parker, whose leadership as a Fulbright Ambassador, White House HBCU Competitiveness Scholar, and Global Goals Ambassador continues to uplift communities. We celebrate his impact.

Ianessa Humbert's contributions to the field of dysphagia have transformed clinical care and advanced research around the world. From developing the first outpatient center dedicated to swallowing disorders to educating future clinicians at Howard University.

Honored to celebrate Black History Month by spotlighting one of our outstanding alumni, Nell Reed! Her leadership in marketing and communications and her commitment to community impact continue to uplift and inspire the Bison community.

Celebrating David Coaxum this Black History Month! A dedicated legal leader whose impact across Maryland and beyond exemplifies the strength and legacy of our alumni community.

Honoring Kayla Farris in our Black History Month Alumni Spotlight! A standout journalism student known for strong on‑air presence, sharp news judgment, and remarkable professionalism, she transitioned directly into a full‑time anchor role at WDTN in Dayton, Ohio.

Spotlighting Shaquille Brewster for Black History Month! As a correspondent with NBC News, his work has taken him to the frontlines of national politics, historic trials, and major breaking news events. His reporting continues to shape and inform audiences across the country.

Today we spotlight Hans Charles for Black History Month. A three-time Peabody Award winner and Emmy-nominated cinematographer, his innovative visual style has influenced major documentary projects, including 13th, Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics and Men, and We Need to Talk About Cosby.

Celebrating Bernadette Mayfield-Clarke for our Black History Month Alumni Spotlight. She served as the 7th Black president of ASHA and leads a private practice specializing in corporate speech-language pathology for government employees and English-Language Learners.

We proudly highlight Ronald L. Jackson II for Black History Month. A past President of National Communication Association and the Eastern Communication Association and a recognized ICA Fellow and NCA Distinguished Scholar.

Celebrating Black History Month with an Alumni Spotlight on Jasper Smith! A 2025 Young Journalist of Excellence Award winner, Jasper continues to elevate powerful storytelling and uphold Howard’s legacy of impactful journalism.

Black History Month spotlight: Angi Porter! A legal scholar and Associate Professor of Law at American University. Her leadership began at CHSOC as president of the Annenberg Honors Program Student Council.

Black Alumni Spotlight: Sheila Brooks! Emmy‑winning journalist, author, entrepreneur, and CEO of SRB Communications. Her work in multicultural media and communications continues to inspire us.

Today we spotlight Ayesha Rascoe—a standout journalist known for her clear, data‑driven reporting on federal policy and national politics. Proud of the impact she continues to make in media and public understanding.

Black History Month Alumni Spotlight: We’re proud to recognize Michael Franklin, Co‑Founder and Executive Director of Speechwriters of Color and Founder of Words Normalize Behavior LLC. A dedicated HU alum and former Speech & Debate team member.

Always a pleasure working with my #HipHop brother from another mother. This time we partnered on a @howardu comm journal celebrating 50 years of #rap + hip hop culture. We have 8 studies and our personal stories of how we fell in love with her. Enjoy! 💻 tandfonline.com/journals/uhjc20

Black History Month Alumni Spotlight: Darius Thomas runs a nationwide SLP practice that supports communities, provides practicum sites for HU COSD students, and employs our alumni. Thank you for continuously giving back and strengthening our community!

Alumni Spotlight: Bryan Jenkins! His research elevates conversations around empowerment, digital practices, and community resiliency. We’re proud to recognize his work and impact.

Black History Month Alumni Spotlight: Brandon Mullings‑Whitaker, Privacy & Security Counsel at the TikTok USDS Joint Venture, leading high‑stakes work at the intersection of tech, privacy, and national security.

Black History Month Alumni Spotlight: Michele Dew (MS ’11), Regional VP of Therapy Services–South for Easterseals Southern California and a strong supporter of HU Speech and Hearing Clinic. #BHM #CHSOC

Black History Month Alumni Spotlight: Jeredon O’Conner (MFA ’15), a multi‑hyphenate filmmaker shaping impactful stories across branded content and independent projects. #BHM #AlumniSpotlight #HUSoC