Journeys to Howard: Student-Athletes with Purpose

Howard University has long been a destination for students seeking excellence and purpose. For student-athletes, the journey to Howard is often shaped by a desire to be part of something larger than themselves. Sa’lah Hemmingway and Leah Reeves embody that spirit—each arriving on campus from different corners of the country, carrying unique goals but sharing a commitment to growth, leadership, and legacy.

Sa’lah Hemmingway: Building Through Determination

When Sa’lah Hemmingway arrived at Howard University from San Bernardino, California, she quickly learned that the transition would test her in every way. A junior majoring in Sports Management with aspirations of becoming a sports agent, Sa’lah chose Howard because it felt like family. The university’s respected culture and a personal connection sealed her decision.

Coming from Eisenhower High School in Etiwanda, California, Sa’lah faced an adjustment period that demanded discipline and mental toughness. Long mornings, late nights, and the rigor of balancing Division I basketball with academics made the transition challenging. It took months to adapt to the pace of Howard, but the struggle also became an opportunity for growth.

Washington, D.C. proved eye-opening. Experiencing gentrification firsthand broadened Sa’lah’s understanding of social change, while Howard’s campus culture stood in contrast—a place where people come together for the right reasons. That sense of unity helped her find comfort and confidence in her new environment.

Academically, the freedom of college life was both empowering and demanding. Sa’lah learned quickly that freedom without structure can become a hindrance, pushing her to develop time-management skills and accountability. On the court, she continued her development internationally during a trip to Portugal, where she focused on improving specific aspects of her game while immersing herself in new food, culture, and experiences.

As Howard Women’s Basketball prepares for the 2025–2026 season, Sa’lah is focused on dealing with adversity and leading with what she calls a “strong rope of determination.” Her goals are clear: help the team win another championship, build a true sisterhood, and compete relentlessly—while still having fun. Personally, she aims to improve by 1% every day and embrace a greater scoring responsibility.

While her plans for graduation day are still taking shape, Sa’lah remains grounded in the present—committed to growth, resilience, and maximizing every opportunity Howard provides.

Leah Reeves: Identity, Impact, and Legacy

For Leah Reeves, Howard University represented more than a school—it was a vision. A senior marketing major from Dallas, Texas, Leah knew she wanted to attend an HBCU, and Howard offered the perfect balance of academic challenge, athletic excellence, and cultural pride.

Leah came to Howard from Allen High School, one of the largest high schools in Texas, where she grew up surrounded by close friends and a strong sense of community. That foundation made Howard feel familiar. Over time, the university gave her something even deeper: identity. Howard molded her into a confident leader and competitor, both on and off the volleyball court.

The transition was not without challenges. Being far from family and adjusting to the intensity of collegiate volleyball tested her resolve. Academically, the workload was demanding, but the support of her teammates—especially other women in the program—helped her navigate the rigor and find success.

Howard Volleyball’s winning tradition also shaped Leah’s experience. With 14 championships to its name, the program set a standard of accountability and excellence that pushed her to elevate her game and leadership.

One of the most transformative moments of Leah’s journey came through international service. As part of a Howard Volleyball initiative, she traveled to Africa, visiting Botswana and Zimbabwe. For 10 days, without Wi-Fi, she immersed herself in the culture, taught volleyball, and gave back to local communities. The experience reinforced the program’s mission of global impact and left a lasting impression on her worldview.

Entering her final season in 2025–2026, Leah’s goals are both personal and collective. As a team captain, she wants to leave a lasting impression rooted in sisterhood and leadership. Team-wise, the goal is simple and ambitious: win a championship ring and compete in the NCAA Tournament.

Looking beyond graduation, Leah plans to pursue coaching at the club or high school level while exploring career opportunities in data analysis or social media analytics—continuing to blend leadership, strategy, and communication.

United by Purpose

Though their paths to Howard differ, Sa’lah Hemmingway and Leah Reeves share a common purpose: to grow, to lead, and to leave Howard University better than they found it. Their journeys reflect the heart of Howard Athletics—where competition meets culture, and ambition is grounded in community.