Alumni Where Are They Now?: Ashford Thomas, Class of 2006

Ashford J. Thomas, a 2006 fine arts graduate, continues his work in the arts and is making quite a name for himself.

Thomas, who majored in acting and minored in television and film, was very involved during his time at Howard. In 2005, he was named Mr. College of Arts and Sciences. He was also a member of the Campus Pals and the Gentlemen of Drew Social Club.

Now, five years later, Thomas has created a web series entitled "Ashford J. Thomas' Howton U." In addition to being the creator of the series, he also serves as a writer, director, editor, executive producer and actor, playing the role of Jay, one of the main characters.

Thomas said he got the idea for the series from all of his crazy experiences at Howard University. "The good and bad times, ones I can now look back on and laugh about. I realized that it was a priceless experience that could only be fully understood by someone who attended an HBCU," Thomas said. "I started thinking how funny it would be to showcase these experiences in a sitcom format and share it with the world."

Thomas says, overall, he wanted to create a show that was reminiscent of the classic black television shows he grew up with such as "Martin," "The Jamie Foxx Show," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," and "The Wayans Brothers."

"When I refer to these shows as ‘classic,' keep in mind that I'm from a younger generation that didn't really realize the effect and appreciation of a program such as "The Cosby show," Thomas said. "That was really before my time. So these shows were very influential in my writing and comedic timing."

Thomas understands that there are not many television shows about historically black universities. "You see, I didn't set out to create a sitcom about an HBCU, but instead a sitcom set at an HBCU. There is a difference. In short, "Howton U." is really about three young men and their journey from boyhood to manhood as they attend an institution of higher learning and develop friendships and brotherhoods that will last them the rest of their lives like so many of us do," Thomas said.

"Ashford J. Thomas' Howton U." was created to express the unique experiences that take place at various HBCUs. Thomas used shots from actual HBCUs, "…that way someone viewing can say ‘hey that was my freshmen dorm Drew Hall,' or for me personally, ‘hey that's the building I was failing humanities class!' I know many of us can relate to that," Thomas said. "Seeing the show take place on your own personal campus gives the audience even more of a reason to connect with "Howton U." In short, I hope that students view my show and see a reflection of themselves as well as their peers."

Thomas is currently in the process of editing the second episode of "Howton U." He has also recently co-starred in the movie "Douglass U" and co-directed and edited two music videos featuring up and coming artists. Early next year, he has plans to release his critically acclaimed stage play "Who Is Curtis Lee?" on DVD.

The young mogul's advice to Howard students is always pro-active. "I believe Howard prepared me with not only a great education but a ‘make it happen' mentality as well," Thomas said.

You can support Howton U. by purchasing a T - shirt at the bookstore at www.howtonu.com. Or donations can be sent to P.O. Box 16653 Greensboro N.C. 27416