WASHINGTON (July 26, 2019) – Howard University Swimming & Diving head coach Nicholas Askew was a guest speaker Friday (July 19) for the Freedom School Program, held on the bricks between the School of Social Work and Howard Hall, overlooking the cityscape of D.C.
 
Askew was among the community leaders to share their favorite children's book or story as "read-aloud" guests. As a read-aloud guest, he was asked questions by the Freedom School scholars and welcomed into the Freedom School community.
 
"I represented the Howard University Athletics Department with great pride," Askew stated. "It was a grand experience being the Freedom School's Read Aloud Presenter. Everyone was so incredibly welcoming and attentive. I look forward to future opportunities to engage with this community group."
 
From June 24 to Aug. 2, Howard University is sponsoring its third annual Freedom School. This year, the program is held on main campus in the School of Social Work. 
 
As a six-week summer reading enrichment program with the goal of building strong, literate, and empowered children, the Howard University Freedom School serves 3^rd through 8^th grade students from the Howard University and surrounding community.
 
As part of the Children's Defense Fund model, one of the key components of the Freedom School program is Harambee!, a Swahili term for "pull together." During Harambee!, Freedom School scholars participate in motivational cheers, songs, chants and storytelling.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com or the Children's Defense Fund Leave No Child Behind website at www.childrensdefense.org.