The University of the District of Columbia (UDC), the country’s second-oldest HBCU and the District’s only public university, announced the launch of a yearlong celebration marking its 175th anniversary — a milestone that honors the university’s deep roots and highlights its role as the District’s key workforce engine, economic mobility driver and research and innovation hub.
“As we mark 175 years, we are honoring a legacy rooted in opportunity, resilience and service,” said UDC President Maurice D. Edington. “From our earliest roots as the Miner Normal School to our current role as the District’s public university, UDC has always aimed to meet the needs of its community—and to turn potential into power for our students and our city.”
UDC traces its origins to 1851, with the founding of the Miner Normal School, established by Myrtilla Miner to train young Black women as teachers and expand equitable access to education. From that foundation, the institution evolved through multiple predecessor schools into the comprehensive public university it is today. UDC now offers more than 80 academic programs across six schools and colleges, including a nationally recognized law school; a vibrant community college in the Lamond-Riggs neighborhood; and workforce development programs in Congress Heights.
“The history of the University of the District of Columbia is woven into the history of Washington, DC,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “For 175 years, UDC — the District’s university — has changed lives and created opportunities for families like mine. Through thousands of students, UDC has proudly built on the legacy of Myrtilla Miner, and the university continues to be an important pathway to service and opportunity for Washingtonians.”
Momentum is growing at UDC, including increased enrollment and new programs to meet the needs of area residents, families and employers. In the past year alone, UDC rose five places to #18 in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report HBCU rankings, reflecting gains in academic quality, student success and institutional reputation. The university was designated a Research College & University (RCU) in the Carnegie Classification, a recognition that underscores the university’s growing research enterprise and expanding investment in scholarship that addresses real-world challenges facing the District and beyond.
“UDC plays a central role in expanding the District’s talent pipeline,” said Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn. “Its academic programs lead to strong job opportunities, competitive wages and a meaningful return on investment for students and the community. Its continued success and focus on workforce alignment are exactly what the District needs to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.”
The 175th anniversary will be marked throughout the year with moments designed to connect past, present and future Firebirds — engaging the UDC community and beyond in reflection, storytelling and forward-looking conversations about UDC’s impact and its role in shaping the District’s future. Among these moments will be The Legacy Gala on Feb. 20, an event that will bring together the UDC community and partners in support of student success and the university’s public mission.
“UDC and the institutions that came together to form it have been an enduring part of the fabric of our city, standing as a trusted and engaged neighbor in Van Ness while serving residents across the District,” said Ward 3 Councilmember Matt Frumin. “Today, UDC remains a vital resource and a key part of our future. In these important and challenging times, it’s encouraging to see how the university is building on its legacy to meet the moment. Here’s to the next 175 years.”
Additional details about UDC’s 175th anniversary programming will be announced throughout the year.