The Armor J. Blackburn Ballroom at Howard University was filled with the soothing scent of lavender as the University hosted its eighth annual LGBTQ+ Lavender Reception as part of the 2023 Homecoming ‘Revival’ festivities. Howard University’s 18th president, Ben Vinson, Ph.D., delivered a powerful message during the reception. “It is only fitting that we have this Lavender Reception during Homecoming to embrace and celebrate our LGBTQ+ members of our community and celebrate everything that you bring to this community.” Eight students were honored with the prestigious Lavender Scholarship from the Lavender Fund this year: Zoe Coker, Tyhlana Tomlin, Joshua John-Louis, Nok’khanya Edwards, Aniyah Genama, Jesiah Allen, Jordan Richardson, and Murphy Jones, the 63rd vice president of the Howard University Student Association. Christopher Cross, the first openly gay student trustee member and founder of the Lavender Scholarship and Fund, attended the reception as well. “To now see the recept...