Howard University Alumni Selected as Fulbright Program Alumni Ambassadors

Two distinguished individuals, Virgil Parker and Lyndsie Whitehead, both alumni of Howard University, have been appointed as Fulbright Program Alumni Ambassadors for the year 2024. This appointment serves as a recognition of their accomplishments and positions them as representatives for the renowned Fulbright U.S. Student Program.

Parker and Whitehead, among a select group of 20 ambassadors for the 2024 cohort, are entrusted with sharing their experiences and insights from their time as Fulbright scholars. Their responsibilities include providing testimonials, offering application guidance, and promoting the program at various events and institutions throughout the United States, including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) such as Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University.

Following his graduation from Howard University in 2021, Parker embarked on a Fulbright exchange in Canada, focusing on cross-border economic policy at the University of Windsor. His research targeted strategies for enhancing economic equity in U.S.-Canada trade, particularly for women and minority business owners in the U.S. Parker’s goal as an Ambassador is to inspire others to pursue international experiences through programs like Fulbright, emphasizing the academic and personal growth such opportunities offer.

Whitehead, who also received a Fulbright grant in 2021, conducted research on factors influencing the enrollment decisions of sub-Saharan African students in India during her tenure. Her work delved into support services, financial resources, and academic relationships that impact the higher education choices of international students. Whitehead’s focus is on contributing valuable insights for policymakers and educators to better understand and support global student mobility.

Parker and Whitehead bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication to their roles as Alumni Ambassadors, drawing from their diverse backgrounds and professional experiences. Parker, a graduate of Howard’s Cathy Hughes School of Communications, currently serves as a Global Goals Ambassador for the United Nations Association of the USA, with aspirations of leveraging storytelling through film to educate and engage audiences on historical narratives.

Meanwhile, Whitehead, a doctoral candidate in Howard’s higher education leadership and policy program, explores the intersections of international education, leadership development, and career coaching. Her career aspirations include establishing a non-profit organization that integrates research findings to support international students in their academic and professional journeys.

Both Parker and Whitehead underscore the legacy of internationalization at Howard University, reflecting a commitment to global engagement and scholarly exchange that dates back to the institution’s founding. Their selection as Fulbright Program Alumni Ambassadors is a testament to their dedication to promoting mutual understanding and cooperation across borders in alignment with the program’s core mission.