Four Highlights from the 2024-25 Howard University Opening Convocation

(Courtesy/WHUT via YouTube)

Howard University’s Opening Convocation is more than a ceremony—it’s a tradition that unites students, faculty, and alums, setting the tone for the academic year ahead. 

This year’s Convocation, led by President Ben Vinson, was especially significant, with the largest entering class in Howard— the Class of 2024—with over 2,700 baby Bisons joining the herd.

The event served as both a reminder of Howard’s rich tradition and a challenge to the new generation of students to rise to their potential. Here are the five key moments that defined this year’s Convocation.

1. President Ben Vinson: A Call to Seize the Moment

President Ben Vinson delivered his speech. (Courtesy/WHUT via YouTube)

President Ben Vinson’s opening remarks set the tone for the Convocation. With heartfelt passion, he welcomed the largest incoming class in Howard’s history while also reflecting on the enduring legacy of Howard alumni, such as Vice President Kamala Harris, the late Chadwick Boseman and keynote speaker Mark Mason. 

Vinson’s message to students, both new and returning, was inspiring. 

“It is now your turn, and most importantly, it is now your time,” he said. 

His speech reminded the herd that Howard’s legacy is one of excellence, leadership and service and the responsibility to continue a legacy now rests with them.

2. Keynote Speaker Mark Mason: Wisdom from a Howard Alum

Keynote speaker Mark A. L. Mason Sr. (BBA ‘91) addressed the Howard community. (Courtesy/WHUT via YouTube)

The keynote address was delivered by Mark A. L. Mason Sr., Vice Chair of the Howard University Board of Trustees and Chief Financial Officer of Citibank, a Howard University alum from the class of 1991. 

His speech focused on two key themes: providing students with a perspective on what to expect from their time at Howard and offering practical lessons to help them navigate life beyond the university.

While reminiscing on his time at Howard, Mason did not sugarcoat the challenges students might face in and out of academia. 

“It may not all be smooth,” he admitted, but “Howard’s got you,” he reassured. 

“A Howard education is a call to excellence. If you are here, you belong here,” he declared. 

Then he proudly stated that Howard had prepared him to “compete with anyone and everyone,” a testament to the strength of a Bison.

3. Lessons for Life: Mason’s Five Principles

Mark Mason shared five essential lessons that he believed would guide students throughout their time at Howard and beyond:

1. Use your voice – “You have more influence than you think.”

2. Allow yourself space to grow – Growth is a fundamental part of success, and it’s important to embrace that journey.

3. Recognize the value of your relationships –  Whether it’s friendships, mentorships, or professional connections, Mason emphasized that the relationships we form at Howard will be pivotal to our success

4. A Howard education is a call to excellence – Students are not just earning degrees; they are stepping into a tradition of greatness.

5. Ask yourself, ‘What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?’ – This question challenges students to dream big and to pursue their goals without fear.

4. The Class of 2024: Howard’s Largest Class Ever

Students look on as Mason delivers a speech (Courtesy/WHUT via YouTube)

This year’s Convocation also marked a historic moment Howard welcomed the largest freshman class in its history. The Class of 2024 represents a new generation of bison who will carry forward the university’s legacy of academic excellence and leadership. 

The size of this herd is a testament to Howard’s growing influence and the desire among young people to be part of its community of scholars, leaders and change-makers.

Howard University’s Opening Convocation wasn’t just the start of the academic year—it was a powerful reminder that the world needs more Bisons! President Ben Vinson’s passionate speech and Mark Mason’s five key lessons were a call to action for students to push Howard’s legacy of excellence further. The largest stampede of Bisons in history is now stepping into a tradition of greatness. 

Wherever Bison roam, excellence flows. 

“H-U! YOU KNOW!”

Click the link to watch Howard’s 2024 Opening Convocation Ceremony via YouTube: Howard University’s 2024 Opening Convocation Ceremony (youtube.com)