The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is proud to announce that President Maurice D. Edington will be honored with the New Futures Award at the 2025 Night of STARS celebration on Friday, April 25.
The New Futures Award honors individuals and institutions who have made lasting contributions to educational equity and workforce access in the Washington, D.C. area. Edington was selected for his visionary leadership and enduring commitment to expanding access to higher education and career pathways for young people across the region.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Edington. “This moment reflects the many shared values between UDC and New Futures – among them, a deep belief in the power of education to create meaningful change and build brighter futures for young people.”
A nationally recognized leader in student success and institutional excellence, Edington has spent more than two decades advancing college access and improving graduation outcomes. Since joining UDC as its 10th president in August 2023, he has strengthened the university’s role as the District’s workforce and economic mobility engine, launched new academic programs aligned with regional industry needs and forged strategic partnerships that support students from classroom to career.
“At UDC, we understand that helping students realize their dreams requires more than just a strong academic foundation. It takes support, opportunity and partnership,” said Edington. “Our commitment extends beyond the boundaries of our campuses. We are embedded in the communities we serve, partnering closely with neighborhoods throughout the region to ensure every young person, no matter their background, has a clear path to opportunity, growth and success. In short, we are turning potential into power at every turn.”