Northeastern has a long history of producing trailblazers across various industries, with several Black alumni making lasting impacts in media, politics, STEM, business and sports.

Northeastern has made efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for Black students, particularly with the establishment of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute in 1968. The institute is home to several organizations geared toward the enrichment of Black student life, such as African dance classes. 

Still, for people of color, attending university can be more challenging due to systemic barriers and disparities in access to educational opportunities, which their white counterparts are less likely to face. 

In addition, after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions in June 2023, there was a 35% decrease in the enrollment of Black students in Northeastern’s Class of 2028, dropping to 5.1% compared to 7.8% in the Class of 2027.

The Huntington News is highlighting six notable Black alumni who have made an impact after attending or graduating from Northeastern to emphasize their contributions to the university. 

Beverly Johnson, dropped out of Northeastern in 1971

Beverly Johnson, a pioneer in the fashion industry, became the first Black woman to grace the cover of Vogue in 1974. She has since built a successful career as a businesswoman, actress and advocate for diversity in modeling.

While attending Northeastern in 1971, Johnson studied criminal justice on a full academic scholarship, preparing for a career in law, according to Britannica. However, after her first year, she decided to try modeling. After being hired at Glamour magazine, she moved to New York City to pursue her modeling career.  

Now, Johnson remains actively involved in the fashion and beauty industry. She recently launched her own brand, Legendary: a premium line of custom, runway-ready wigs and extensions. 

Wendy Williams, 1986

Wendy Williams, known for her sharp commentary and bold personality, is a media powerhouse. After graduating in 1986 from Northeastern’s communication studies and journalism program, she became a successful radio host before launching The Wendy Williams Show, a long-running daytime talk show.

While at Northeastern, Williams was a DJ for the radio station WRBB 104.9 FM and hosted her own urban music show called “Soul’s Place.” 

Currently 60 years old and diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, Williams is focusing on her health and well-being while residing in a supportive care environment. Despite recent challenges, she remains a beloved media icon, with fans continuing to celebrate her impact on television and radio.

Osasu Igbinedion Ogwuche, 2014

Osasu Igbinedion Ogwuche is a Nigerian-British journalist, business and philanthropist. She is the CEO of TOS TV Network, a pan-African news station, and co-founder of NatSu Global, a real estate and media investment firm. She also founded the Osasu Show Foundation, focusing on empowering underprivileged women and children.

Igbinedion Ogwuche earned her master’s degree in corporate and organizational communications from Northeastern in 2014, according to her LinkedIn. During her college years, she honed her skills in communications, which laid the foundation for her future endeavors in journalism and media entrepreneurship. 

As of 2025, Igbinedion Ogwuche continues to lead TOS TV Network, expanding its reach and impact in African media. She also actively engages in philanthropic activities through the Osasu Show Foundation, focusing on capacity-building programs and financial literacy initiatives for women as well as educational scholarships for children. Her commitment to social justice and development remains a central aspect of her career.

Olubanke King Akerele

Olubanke King Akerele is a key figure in African politics. She served as a United Nations bureaucrat and later as Liberia’s minister of foreign affairs under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. She has dedicated much of her career to international development and gender advocacy. 

At Northeastern, Akerele received her Master of Arts degree in manpower economics. This educational background laid the foundation for her extensive career in international development, including more than two decades of service with the United Nations.

Akerele continues to contribute to Liberia’s development through various initiatives. She remains actively engaged in Liberian public affairs and efforts aimed at promoting effective leadership in Liberia’s House of Representatives.

J. Keith Motley, 1978, 1981

Keith Motley is a distinguished academic administrator known for his leadership in higher education. He served as the eighth chancellor of the University of Massachusetts Boston from 2007 to 2017, becoming the first African American to hold this position. His career has been marked by a commitment to diversity and inclusion in academia, according to The Mass Media, Umass Boston’s independent student newspaper.

Motley earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Northeastern. After graduating in 1978, Motley went on to work for the university, holding several key positions including assistant dean of minority affairs, associate dean and director of the African American Institute and dean of student services. He was also involved with the men’s basketball team, both as a player and a coach, leading to his induction into the Northeastern University Hall of Fame in 1999. 

As of 2025, Motley continues to influence the field of education. He serves as a professor at UMass Boston’s College of Management. In recognition of his and his wife’s contributions, a residence hall at UMass Boston was named the Dr. J. Keith and Angela Motley Hall in 2023. The Dr. J. Keith Motley Chair for Sports Leadership and Administration was established at UMass Boston, supported by a $5 million pledge from New Balance. This helps students earning their Bachelor of Arts in sports leadership and administration obtain leadership positions.

Reggie Lewis, 1987

Reggie Lewis was a professional basketball player who played for the Boston Celtics in the National Basketball Association. Known for his exceptional skills, he was regarded as one of the rising stars of the league before his untimely death.

At Northeastern, Lewis played college basketball for the Huskies, earning recognition. Lewis still holds the record for the most points earned in Northeastern men’s basketball history, scoring 2,709 points during his collegiate career. At Northeastern, he averaged  22.2 points per game, ultimately earning his spot in the NU Varsity Club Hall of Fame. His jersey number, 35, has been retired by both Northeastern and the Boston Celtics in recognition of his outstanding talent. 

Lewis passed away in 1993 at the age of 27 due to complications from a heart condition. Despite his early death, he is remembered for his contributions to basketball and his legacy at Northeastern. The Roxbury Community College owns an athletic center named after Lewis, the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center.