The Opportunity

Working with Howard University Office of External Affairs to create a platform to engage and celebrate Howard University alumni serving in the House of Representatives and making an impact legislatively around the country. This was also the first public event for Howard’s 18th President Ben Vinson III. This mission of this event would be to engage stakeholders from the Howard University community including global leaders, alumni, congressional staff and Howard University leadership.

The Work

Develop, Manage and Execute the Inaugural Howard University Congressional Black Caucus reception and program hosted by Canadian Embassy an attended by more than 250 guests. Our team developed and provided run of show management, vendor research and logistics, on-site staffing and coordination with Embassy officials. DOT Communications worked closely with Howard University in developing the “Bison Breaking Barriers awards for this event honoring U.S. Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12, Law ’15), U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20, B.A.’01) U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (NY-5, Law ’78). A fourth award was presented to Nicole Austin-Hillery (Law ’00), who serves as president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Based on the success of the CBC reception DOT COMMUNICATIONS was contracted to assist with the development of a Bison In Annapolis event during the beginning of Maryland Legislative Session to again strengthen ties with the Maryland Legislature and also highlight Howard alumni serving in Maryland legislature. This event celebrated thirteen Howard Alumni and again Howard University President as on hand to engage with alumni and elected officials.

The Outcome

Full capacity receptions at the Congressional Black Caucus and the Maryland Legislature both helped to deepen University ties to U.S. and state representatives including and deepen their understanding of Howard’s reach. It also provided vehicles for the new president to engage with various stakeholders in the region.