Bison who are changing the world to make it a better place right now and for future generations.
On Tuesday, April 15, Howard University proudly honored a new class of high-achieving students at the second annual ACE Scholars Merit Award Ceremony, celebrating academic excellence, leadership, and global impact. Hosted by the ACE Scholars Program under the Office of Undergraduate Studies, the event recognized the 2024-2025 cohort of ACE Scholars — students who have earned or advanced in nationally competitive fellowships and scholarships.
The event featured remarks from University President Ben Vinson III and Provost Anthony K. Wutoh and served as a powerful demonstration of Howard’s ongoing commitment to cultivating scholars who are prepared to lead and represent the university on global platforms.
Among this year’s celebrated scholars were:
Juniors:
– Ekbal Djibril, Truman Scholarship, Finalist
– Faith Awotho, Critical Language Scholarship, Finalist
Seniors:
– Angelica Stewart, Knight Hennessy Scholarship, Finalist
– Moriah J. Hamilton, Schwarzman Scholarship, Recipient
– Ishmael Williams, Schwarzman Scholarship, Recipient
– Ananya Hota, Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Ann Laurie Pierre, Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Diane Fakinlede, Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Ariella Williams, Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Bria Woodard, Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Hope Bryant, Beinecke Scholarship, Recipient
– Hope Bryant, Luce Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
Sophomore:
– Sheila McKinney, Gilman Scholarship, Recipient
Graduate and Alumni:
– Courtney Bartlette (Recent Alum), Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Cesa Salaam (Doctoral Student), Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Ellis Walton (Howard Law Graduate), Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship, Semi-Finalist
– Maya Ashorobi (Alumni), Critical Language Scholarship, Alternate
The ACE Scholars Program, founded in 2016, supports high-achieving Howard students in pursuing competitive scholarships like the Fulbright, Truman, and Rhodes. Led by Program Manager Aisha Nimaga, the program provides mentorship, resume reviews, and mock interviews and connects students with fellowship alumni and institutional mentors.
From early outreach during Bison Week to individual guidance throughout the academic journey, the program’s goal is not just to help students apply but to prepare them holistically for global success. Nimaga highlighted how these opportunities build both professional readiness and personal confidence — even for students who may not receive the award on their first attempt.
Howard’s robust infrastructure for scholar development, including collaboration with the university’s honors programs, ensures that students are supported from the start of their undergraduate journey. As the ACE Scholars continue to shine, they carry forward the proud legacy of excellence, service, and leadership that defines Howard University.
Howard University Celebrates Rising Merit Scholars, Strengthens Pipeline to National and International Recognition
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