University of the District of Columbia Chief Academic Officer April Massey was among six distinguished Black women honored Oct. 24 at the National Press Club for their contributions to education, leadership and community service.
The recognition came during D.C. High Tea: Honoring Women Who Educate, Build and Lead, hosted by The Washington Informer and AFRO News.
Massey, who has served as UDC's chief academic officer since 2024, previously served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Her career at the university spans more than 30 years, during which she has held faculty, administrative and leadership positions.
As chief academic officer, Massey has been instrumental in creating the School of Education and Learning Sciences and launching UDC's first Master of Social Work program. Her work has also supported the development of academic programs in workforce innovation and online education, expanding pathways for students while addressing the District's evolving workforce needs.
Beyond academic programming, Massey has been a longtime advocate for leadership development and mentorship, particularly for women in higher education. Her signature initiatives, hearmelead, Dialogues in Leadership and Dialogues in Leadership Herstory, have supported students, faculty and staff for more than a decade.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized alongside women whose work has made such a difference in our communities,” Massey said. “For me, leadership has always been about service and the responsibility we have to open doors for others. At UDC, I see every day what becomes possible when people are given the opportunity and support to pursue their goals. To be recognized for work that I care so deeply about is especially meaningful.”
Her contributions have earned several of UDC's highest honors, including the Marjorie Holloman Parker Distinguished Educator's Award, the Ronald H. Brown Distinguished Leadership Award and the PathMakers Leadership Award for philanthropy.
That commitment to education and opportunity has remained central to Massey's work. Reflecting on UDC's future during an interview for the university's 175th anniversary series earlier this year, she described the institution's enduring influence on the District.
“The proof of our history, that UDC is a mighty engine of possibility and power. It's been a change agent for scores of District residents and will continue to be so,” Massey said.
Read the complete interview: UDC at 175: A Conversation With Chief Academic Officer April Massey.