2026 HBCU Graduates to Watch Series
This story is part of HBCU Times’ annual 14 HBCU Graduates to Watch series, recognizing exceptional graduates whose leadership, academic achievement, service, and vision are shaping the future of our communities. Explore the full series as we introduce all 14 graduates over the coming weeks.
Alyssa Chinyere Richardson is a proud Washington, D.C. native and valedictorian of the Spelman College Class of 2026. A distinguished biochemistry major, she has earned a full-ride scholarship to the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of
Pennsylvania, where she will pursue her Doctor of Medicine degree.
A proud graduate of DC Public Schools and the Duke Ellington School of the Arts Vocal Music Department, Richardson was awarded the prestigious Virginia Williams Opera Prize for excellence in vocal performance. At Spelman, she has distinguished herself through academic excellence, sisterly service, artistic achievement, and an unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and community wellness.
Richardson is a Dovey Johnson Roundtree Presidential Scholar, Phi Beta Kappa inductee, Chemistry Departmental Honors recipient, and Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program High Distinction awardee. Throughout her collegiate journey, she served in numerous leadership roles, including with the Spelman NAACP Health & Wellness Committee, Spelman Chemistry Club, My Sister’s Keeper with the Black Women’s Health Imperative, Spelman NCNW, and the Spelman Ashietu African Dance Ministry.
A trained classical and contemporary vocalist, Richardson performed as a featured soloist with the Spelman College Glee Club while also participating in global health, clinical, and biomedical research opportunities at leading institutions including Howard University College of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Cape Town.
As she prepares to enter medical school, Richardson remains committed to creating a future where high-quality, compassionate healthcare is accessible to all communities.
