Howard University President, Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, on the COVID-19 crisis, social justice, going back to school, and more

Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, President of Howard University, offered his insights on this week's Walker Webcast.

Watch the webcast 

A handful of highlights from Dr. Frederick’s discussion with Walker & Dunlop’s CEO, Willy Walker, include:

• Howard University's hybrid approach to bringing students back to school safely
• Howard Medical Center's role in fighting COVID-19 and Dr. Frederick's thoughts on vaccine and therapy drug developments
• Why COVID-19 is impacting African American communities at a much higher rate
• Howard University's historical roots in social justice, and how Dr. Frederick prioritizes tangible change 
• If you want water, you must go to the well: how companies can recruit a diverse workforce and engage with universities to build relationships 

A bit about each speaker:

Willy Walker is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Walker & Dunlop. Under Mr. Walker’s leadership, Walker & Dunlop has grown from a small, family-owned business to become one of the largest commercial real estate finance companies in the United States. With a $32B transaction volume in 2019, Walker & Dunlop is ranked top three with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and HUD.

Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick was appointed Interim President of Howard University in October 2013, after serving as Provost and Chief Academic Officer for more than a year. On July 21, 2014, he was officially named the 17th President of Howard. The Board of Trustees voted to appoint Dr. Frederick after a unanimous recommendation by the University's Presidential Search Committee. As the 17th President, Dr. Frederick’s goal is to enhance the Howard University legacy, ensure that the University maximizes its impact and that its students receive a well-rounded educational experience. Through his experience as a scholar and an administrator, Dr. Frederick strives to develop innovative approaches to focus on the institutional priorities of his beloved alma mater and support the success of its students.

As an undergraduate student, Dr. Frederick was admitted to Howard University’s B.S./M.D. dual degree program. He completed the requirements for both degrees in six years, allowing him to earn both his Bachelor of Science and his medical degree by the age of 22.