Biography

Janelle R. Black is the Assessment Technology Specialist in Howard University's Office of Institutional Research and Assessment (IRA). In this role, she supports the systems and processes that facilitate assessment, accreditation, and continuous improvement across the University.

Janelle brings a warm, people-centered approach to her work and believes meaningful assessment begins with meaningful engagement. Working alongside the IRA team, she supports assessment and survey processes, reporting, resources, and engagement across the University. She is particularly interested in increasing student participation, helping the Howard community better understand the value of assessment, and creating opportunities for students to see how their voices and experiences contribute to Howard's continued growth and improvement.

As an undergraduate student at Howard, Janelle brings another perspective to her work. She is pursuing a degree in Human Development through the Degree Completion Program, with academic interests that include adult and online learners, student engagement, institutional support, and belonging in higher education. Experiencing Howard as both a professional and an adult learner gives her a unique perspective on the relationship between institutional practices and the students they are designed to serve.

A member of the Howard University community since 2022, she previously served in the Office of Academic Innovation & Strategic Initiatives, where she supported university-wide initiatives and built meaningful relationships across campus through collaboration, projects, and events. She brings that same warmth, curiosity, and collaborative spirit to her work in Institutional Research and Assessment.