New head football coach Ted White returns home
By Simone Denard
Howard welcomes back alumnus Ted White (’98, B.A.) as the new head football coach. White brings experience and familiarity to the role, having been a highly decorated quarterback for Howard football.
During his career as a Bison, White set records and accumulated numerous accolades. In 1996, White was honored as the MEAC Player of the Year, MEAC Offensive Player of the Year, and Black College Football Player of the Year. He also received First Team Division I-AA All-America recognition in both 1996 and 1998 and was awarded the Pigskin Player of the Year. Although his professional experience includes time with the National Football League and coaching NCAA Division 1 programs, White has always considered Howard home.
White’s time at Howard significantly influenced the person he became in adulthood. He credits Howard for instilling in him the traits essential to becoming both a fierce athlete and an exceptional leader.
“Howard University not only educated me — Howard shaped me, Howard challenged me, Howard made me. I am proud to be a Howard man,” said White.
During the press conference announcing his return to the Mecca, he described the opportunity as a full-circle moment. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the football program upholds the same standard of excellence that Howard University’s academic reputation maintains.
“Our football program will be built on one simple and powerful philosophy: win 360, which means to win at every angle. Win academically, as a student-athlete, professionally and personally. We are not just developing football players, we are developing a complete man that will leave Howard and be prepared to win at life,” said White.
White stated that his goal as coach is not to rebuild, but to reawaken Howard football. According to White, reawakening not only involves players, coaches and Howard’s student body, but also alumni. White carved out time to meet with Howard football alumni to consider their feedback. White is also calling upon all Howard alumni to support Bison football in this new era.
“To our alumni, we are inviting you back into the huddle. I need you to show up and show out. Attend games, buy season tickets, donate to the Mecca Society, and most importantly, serve as mentors to our student-athletes,” said White.
White is committed not only to elevating the football program but also to ensuring that student athletes are connected to and supported by alumni. His return to Howard as head coach reinforces the importance of alumni giving back in meaningful ways. By connecting today’s student-athletes with those who came before them, White strengthens a network of mentorship, pride and opportunity. His leadership highlights how Howard’s impact paired with ongoing alumni engagement cultivates a culture of preserving Howard’s legacy and advancing its future.
A donation to the Impact Bison Football fund directly supports the men’s football team. Please donate here: Impact Bison Football