Biography

Odessa Scott arrived at Howard University in the spring of 1971, after studying at Norfolk State University and Cortez Peters Business School in the District. Her first job was as a secretary with the Department of Alumni Affairs where she worked under then-director Brenda Lawson Brown. Scott often served as typist to legendary Howard surgeon and educator Dr. LaSalle D. Leffall, Jr. When Scott required surgery years later, Dr. Leffall performed the operation. 

Odessa Scott was the first recipient to receive the LaRue V. Barkwell Capstone Distinguished Service Award in 2020.  “It’s been such an honor and a privilege to work at Howard—the Mecca,” Scott says. “I’ve been blessed by each experience I have had working with the distinguished directors and deans here—scholarly, wonderful African-American folk—a true family.”

Scott has worked in a variety of schools and divisions during her tenure. She is currently administrative coordinator to the Dean and Childers Hall Building Manager for the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.