By Sean Z. Freeman
Howard University Theater Arts Major (BFA ’26) Trinity GarrisonOn January 17, 2025, be like an eternal moment in the journey of craftsmanship. During a special segment “Today Along with Jenna & Friends’ Howard Icon Taraji P. Henson (BFA ’95, DHL ’22), Garrison, the influential Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. memorial recipient, Chadwick a . Boseman College of Fine Arts Dean Emeritus Phylicia Rashad (BFA ’70).
It was a full circle moment. Henson presented the same award to a Howard student who was pregnant with his son. Henson said the loans not only reward her by helping her continue her education with financial support, but also serve as validation that others believe in her and want to invest in her future success.
“For me, it was a green light for me to dream — I just knew I could make my dreams come true,” Henson said. “It’s something to dream about, but it’s something you admire when you see people and actually go and do it. That’s the proof you need.”
Garrison – a multi-talented artist in dance, theater and singing, embodies a spirit of scholarship that celebrates talent, resilience and a commitment to artistic excellence.
“I create art to honor the humanity of the black community,” Garrison said. “Through art, I want to celebrate the history, beauty and resilience linked throughout the African Diaspora in understanding and inclusion.”
Dr. Andrew A. Allen graduated from Howard’s School of Dentistry in 1946 and was passionate about art. Established by their daughters, Rashad and Debbie Allen (BFA ’71), the Scholarship provides Howard University students studying acting, singing and dancing within the theater arts department. Chadwick A. Boseman College of Vol Art.
“It’s more than bricks and mortar, and you feel it when you step on campus,” he said. “Some of the brightest scientists on this planet are at Howard University, and we were privileged to be there and be taught by them.”
Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. Memorial Scholarship Dr. Reflects Allen’s commitment to education and the arts by providing financial assistance to students who demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication in their respective fields, such as budrison. The Allen family continues to play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of Howard University, a legacy of excellence and dedication to the arts.
“The Dr. Andrew Allen Scholarship plays a vital role in providing our students with the opportunity to fully engage their untapped artistic passions at the cost of their education,” he said. fine art. “This scholarship is not just a financial aid; it is an investment of lifelong influence that creates yet unimaginable opportunities. The Allen sisters have the gift of trinity with less financial worries. More active and being her most authentic self within her musical theater studies, her talent flourishes and grows. allows.”
The commitment to supporting the arts education of students who walk the same halls that the Allen sisters did has been passed down through years of contributions to the university, not just this year’s scholarship.
“The relationship between Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad and Howard University is long and everlasting,” she said. “It’s a family bond that started with their fathers, and they’re staying true to their legacy by paying it forward. As a result, the need for our students’ success and, in turn, a scholarship is raised by another donor. Someone else carried it forward. Let others inherit the essential nature of arts education.”
Garrison shaped the theater’s vision of Caribbean-American identity as a powerful medium for amplifying the extraordinary voices of the world and uniting people across cultural divides. Growing up, Garrison said, she often looked for stories that reflected her own experiences, only to find glaring omissions. His works attempt to fill the void by celebrating the kaleidoscope of cultures that challenge societal norms, affirm affirmations, and make up America.
A recent course at Howard University exploring the history of musical theater helped deepen his appreciation for trailblazers like Florence Mills, Eartha Kitt, and Ethel Waters.
“These artists brought their humanity and individuality to their work,” he said. “Their legacy inspires me to take risks, stand firm in my beliefs, and make art that matters.”