After a four-year hiatus, Howard University welcomed the return of the Homecoming Gospel Concert on Sunday, Oct. 18. Hosted by the Office of the Dean of the Chapel, the event was held in a near-capacity Cramton Auditorium.
Gospel artistes Tasha Page-Lockhart, winner of BET’s Sunday Best Season 6, and Rich Tolbert Jr. headlined the show. They were joined in performances by the Howard University Community Choir, the Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University, the Andrew Rankin Memorial Beacon Dance Ministry and the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel Mass Choir.
Charisse Nelson, an original member of Richard Smallwood’s Vision, served as the event’s host.
The Rev. Dr. Bernard Richardson, dean of the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, said the return was timely.
“During a time when our nation and communities are navigating so many challenges, it is essential to create spaces that cultivate joy, hope, faith, and connection for our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members,” he said. “The return of the concert provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich spiritual and artistic legacy of Howard University while bringing generations together through music, worship, and fellowship.”
Dr. Damien Sneed, director of music at the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel and associate professor in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, is celebrating the event’s success.
“My prayer is that the return of the Howard University Homecoming Concert will continue to bring everyone together and give the students the encouragement and hope they need knowing that with God all things are possible no matter what they may be facing,” he said.
Dr. Sneed joined the Chapel team as director of music in August. dominic k. mckenzie, assistant professor of digital storytelling in the Cathy Hughes School of Communications, joined him as assistant director.
In tribute to Howard alum and gospel legend Richard Smallwood, the mass choir, comprising members and alumni of Howard’s gospel choirs, closed the event with rousing renditions of Anthem of Praise and Total Praise, songs well known and respected in gospel music.
Richardson said the tribute was particularly moving for him.
“It was filled with joy, passion, and purpose, honoring a musical legacy that has touched generations. Seeing so many alumni onstage was deeply moving and reminded me of the rich traditions the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel has helped cultivate throughout its history and continues to nurture among our students today,” he said. “It was a powerful reminder that the Chapel is not simply a place where traditions are preserved, but a community where they continue to grow and inspire future generations.”
HUNewsService.com photojournalists Xen Gadsden and Layla Cottman captured the spirited event.
Xen Gadsden and Layla Cottman are photojournalists with Spotlight Network, on assignment for HUNewsService.com.
