Kurt L. Schmoke, dean of the Howard University School of Law was a perfect person to inspire our students to set high goals for themselves. Mr. Schmoke earned his undergraduate degree in History from Yale University and pursued graduate studies on a Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford. He earned the Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School. In addition to practicing law, Mr. Schmoke was a Maryland State’s Attorney for five years and served as the mayor of Baltimore for twelve. In 1992, President George Bush awarded him the national Literacy Award for his efforts to promote adult literacy, and in 1994 President Bill Clinton praised his programs to improve public housing and enhance community economic development. The Clinton Administration named Baltimore one of six cities to receive Empowerment Zone designation in 1994.

Schmoke’s other public service includes his appointment as Assistant Director of the White House Domestic Policy Staff under President Jimmy Carter.