Alumna KayaZhanna Donaldson Builds Momentum Across Jazz, Opera, Musical Theatre, and Original Work

By Chad Eric Smith, Director of Marketing and Communications, Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts

Since graduating from Howard University’s Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts in May 2025, KayaZhanna Donaldson has continued to build a dynamic artistic path rooted in performance, vocal excellence, and creative exploration.

Donaldson has already begun translating her Howard training and creative discipline into a growing body of professional work. From local jazz stages and choral performance to opera, musical theatre, and original artistic development, her post-graduation journey reflects the range and promise of a young artist moving with purpose.

She has been actively performing at local jazz festivals throughout the DMV area and is scheduled to perform at the Alexandria Jazz Festival on June 13, 2026. Her continued presence on regional stages reflects her commitment to live performance and her ability to move across musical styles.

In addition to her performance work, Donaldson was selected as a recipient of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities Fellowship Program. The fellowship has supported the development of her original project, Letters of Love, which is slated for release in mid-summer. The project marks an important step in Donaldson’s evolution as an artist creating and shaping her own work.

 

Her academic journey is also continuing. Donaldson has been admitted to NYU Steinhardt, where she will pursue a Master’s in Vocal Performance, with a concentration in Musical Theatre, along with an Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy. This next chapter will allow her to deepen her craft while expanding her study of voice, performance, and pedagogy.

This June, Donaldson will also participate in the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival after being selected through audition. There, she will perform in Kamala Sankaram’s opera Rise, taking on the role of Officer Victoria. The opportunity adds another significant credit to her growing performance résumé and reflects her versatility across genres.

 

Donaldson has also continued performing with The Sam Bonds Chorale, which received a Wammie Award this past March for Best Gospel/Inspirational Song. The recognition further connects her work to the rich musical traditions that continue to shape and inspire her artistry.

For Donaldson, the months following graduation have represented more than a transition from student to alumna. They have marked the beginning of a broader artistic journey, one shaped by preparation, opportunity, and a clear commitment to growth.

As she prepares for graduate study, new performances, and the release of original work, Donaldson continues to carry forward the creative excellence and professional promise shaped during her time at the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.