The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) was proud to present U.S. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton with an award honoring her “Outstanding Support to the University of the District of Columbia through Transformational Leadership and Excellence in Civic and Global Advocacy.”
A third-generation Washingtonian, Norton has served as the District’s champion in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991 and is concluding her historic congressional service at the end of this term. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for higher education, civil rights and full representation for District residents.
“Delegate Norton’s impact on UDC and the city we serve cannot be overstated,” said UDC President Maurice D. Edington. “For decades, she has championed UDC as a vital engine of educational opportunity, workforce development and economic mobility for the District. Her leadership and advocacy have helped secure transformational investments that serve to strengthen our students, faculty and programs.”
Norton has played a key role in expanding federal support and funding for UDC over the course of her congressional career. Already in 2026, she helped secure $6.2 million in Community Project Funding for the university to modernize facilities, strengthen workforce pathways, and expand research capacity. She also introduced a bill to expand federal forestry funding eligibility to the District, which would support research opportunities at UDC’s College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences.
Norton’s support for UDC has also included investing directly in the next generation of legal advocates and leaders. The Eleanor Holmes Norton Legacy Fund established in 2018 provides scholarships to female students pursuing public policy or public interest law at the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law.
UDC has previously recognized Norton’s leadership and support. As part of the 2022 Founders Day celebration, she was presented with one of UDC’s highest honors, the Myrtilla Miner Award for Exceptional Service to Society, which is awarded to individuals whose lifetime service has had a profound impact on the residents of the District and beyond.
“I have always believed deeply in the UDC’s mission and the many opportunities it creates for District residents,” said Norton. “UDC is an essential institution, and I have been proud to support its students, faculty and future throughout my time in Congress.”