Howard University is doing its part to keep the memory of Chadwick Boseman alive. After making the announcement to fundraise for the renovation of its College of Fine Arts back in May, something that Boseman championed as a student of the university and as an alumnus, the HBCU unveiled a new, state-of-the-art facility in honor of the actor on Thursday (Aug. 2).
The Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts houses the Cathy Hughes School of Communications and is also led by actress Phylicia Rashad, who is the Dean. Howard University made an Instagram post commemorating the renaming of the college.
“Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts Installation,” the Instagram caption read. “Yesterday, the letters were installed over the now official Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. An icon in his own right who has left an immeasurable legacy for the next generation. Thank you Mr. Boseman.”
Fundraising for the renaming, renovation, and endowment of the college was the result of a collaborative effort from Howard University administration, Chadwick Boseman’s wife Simone Ledward Boseman, and Disney executive chairman and former CEO Robert “Bob” Iger.
“He inspired millions to overcome adversity, dream big and reach beyond the status quo, and this College named in his honor at his beloved Howard University will provide opportunities for future generations of artists to follow in his footsteps and pursue their dreams,” said Iger following the announcement of the renaming in May.
Boseman attended Howard University in the 1990s before earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts in directing degree in 2000. During that time, he would be a part of a campaign to prevent the closure of the college where he would hone his skills and also be mentored by Rashad.
“Unrelenting in his pursuit of excellence, Chadwick was possessed with a passion for inquiry and a determination to tell stories – through acting, writing, and directing – that revealed the beauty and complexity of our human spirit,” said Rashad.
August marks the one-year anniversary since Boseman’s passing at the age of 43. He battled colon cancer for several years while continuing a successful acting career in very notable projects, such as the Thurgood Marshall biopic Marshall, the Spike Lee directed Da 5 Bloods, and the first predominately Black cast Marvel film Black Panther. Since his death, his wife has represented him at several award shows and benefits honoring the late actor.
“I am extremely pleased that Howard University has chosen to honor my husband in this way and elated that Ms. Rashad has accepted the role as Dean,” Ledward Boseman said. “Chad was a very proud Bison — both Howard and Ms. Rashad played integral roles in his journey as an artist. The re-establishment of the College of Fine Arts brings this part of his story full-circle and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire young storytellers for years to come.”
