October 28, 2025, Issue 61

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UDC Forward

Last "UDC Forward" Ever!


Things are changing in Firebird Nation, and after 61 issues of this newsletter, we're retiring the name and reworking some of its contents. Look out for what comes next in early December!


From the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,


Our Fall Opening Convocation was a wonderful way to launch the academic year. It was inspiring to see our community of students, faculty, staff and families come together to celebrate the spirit of learning and the promise of the months ahead. As October comes to a close, I would like to thank you for the energy, commitment and enthusiasm you have brought to campus.


I also want to acknowledge the effort and focus that went into the midterm period. This part of the semester can be demanding, and whether you were studying, teaching, grading or supporting students in other ways, please know that your hard work and dedication are deeply appreciated.


As we turn the corner into November and prepare for an exciting Homecoming week, I encourage you to continue delivering on our shared promises: to advance student success through excellence in teaching and learning; to drive workforce innovation through career training and industry partnerships; and to deepen community impact through research, service and civic engagement. These commitments reflect who we are as a university and our vision to turn potential into power for our students, our city and our region.


In service,


Maurice D. Edington, PhD

President

University of the District of Columbia

Top Stories

Academic Year Opens with Convocation Celebration

Professor Amanda Huron presents a Convocation lecture as UDC Board Chair Warner H Session Chief Academic Officer April Massey and President Maurice D Edington look on

UDC opened its academic year on Sept. 18 with an opening convocation that many in attendance called the most powerful in recent memory. Held at the Theater of the Arts, the ceremony carried the theme “Turning Potential into Power: A Year of Innovation and Transformation.”

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UDC Up to #18 in US News & World Report HBCU Rankings

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) has once again risen in the national rankings of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) earning the 18 spot on U.S. News  World Reports 2026 list up from 23 last year UDC also ranked 9 among public HBCUs reflecting continued momentum for the Districts only public university and the nations only exclusively urban land grant institution

The University of the District of Columbia has once again risen in the national rankings of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, earning the #18 spot on US News & World Report’s 2026 list. UDC also ranked #9 among public HBCUs, reflecting continued momentum for the District’s only public university and the nation’s only exclusively urban land-grant institution.

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CAS Receives Mayor’s Award for Excellence in the Humanities

UDC College of Arts and Sciences Dean Jeffery Fleming

The College of Arts and Sciences received the Award for Excellence in the Humanities at the 40th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards, hosted by Mayor Muriel Bowser at the historic National Theatre. The Mayor’s Arts Awards are the District’s most prestigious recognition of outstanding achievement in the arts, humanities and creative industries. 

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UDC Scientist Named Among the World's Best

Dr. Pawan Tyagi, recognized among the world’s top 2% scientists, pictured in the lab at the Van Ness campus.

Pawan Tyagi, a professor of mechanical engineering at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, has been recognized by the World’s Top 2 Percent Scientists Network. His recognition reflects not only his personal dedication to excellence but also UDC's commitment to foster innovation, expand research and empower students and faculty.

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Seven Years of Research and Innovation at UDC

Victor McCrary, Eileen Vo, and Maurice Edington smiling at the camera.

As Victor McCrary concludes his tenure as Vice President of Research, he leaves behind a transformed institution — one where research and innovation now stand at the heart of UDC’s mission. 

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In the News








Around Campus

CAUSES Brings Community to Firebird Farm

On October 24, College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) welcomed the community to Firebird Farm for an immersive farm-to-table experience. Visitors picked fresh vegetables, learned about UDC’s community education programs and enjoyed complimentary BBQ while connecting with small farmers. It was a day filled with discovery, good food and hands-on learning for all ages.

Going Pink: United in Hope and Awareness 

UDC proudly turned pink on October 23 at the Van Ness campus in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer — a 13% lifetime risk.The university stands united in hope and support for all who are impacted by breast cancer.

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