Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., FACS, was president of Howard University in Washington, D.C., from 2014 to 2023 and currently serves as the Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery.

Frederick’s affiliation with Howard University began at age 16, when he was admitted as a student with a dream of becoming a physician. His passion to serve and to heal was driven by the personal impact of sickle cell anemia, a hereditary disease he has lived with since birth. 

Frederick earned a bachelor of science degree, a doctor of medicine and completed his surgical residency training at Howard University Hospital. After fulfilling his post-doctoral research and surgical oncology fellowships at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Frederick began his academic career as associate director of the Cancer Center at University of Connecticut, where he also served on the department of surgery faculty.

Frederick returned to Howard University in 2006, serving as interim president, provost and chief academic officer, associate dean in the College of Medicine, division chief in the Department of Surgery, director of the Cancer Center and deputy provost for Health Sciences. He also earned an MBA.

Frederick is the author of numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, abstracts and editorials. He has received numerous awards for his scholarship and service, including a Congressional Citation for Distinguished Service.