By Sylvester “Nunnie” Robinson
Known as the Mecca for its rich academic history, distinguished professors, and famous, successful, and high-profile alumni, Howard University has also established a rich tradition of athletic excellence.
Joining the 2026 Howard University Hall of Fame class is Norma McGraw, a Broward County native and Piper High School graduate who parlayed her academic and athletic accomplishments into a volleyball scholarship to arguably the preeminent historically Black college or university (HBCU) in America.
Accompanying Norma to Washington, D.C., to celebrate this amazing honor was a contingent of family members, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity brothers, Quettes, and friends. The induction ceremony, held as part of the university’s homecoming weekend celebration, honored one of the largest Hall of Fame classes in Bison history.
Norma attended Howard University on a volleyball scholarship from 1982 to 1985, cementing her legacy as one of the program’s greatest champions. A two-time All-American Honorable Mention, two-time Bison MVP, and back-to-back Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament MVP, she propelled Howard to its first two MEAC Volleyball Championships in 1984 and 1985. She graduated in 1985 with a degree in social work.
Following graduation, Norma returned to Florida and embarked on a distinguished 37-year career with the Broward Sheriff’s Office. She earned a master’s degree in 2009 and currently serves as grants division manager, overseeing a $30 million portfolio.
Dedicated to giving back to her community, Norma has officiated volleyball matches in Broward County for 25 years, served seven years as booking commissioner, and actively mentors young people through the L.E.A.D. Camp and the Law Enforcement Trust Fund.
A dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Norma also serves as parliamentarian for the Delta Education and Life Development Foundation. She has been married to her husband, Bruce, for 45 years. Together, they have built a loving family. Norma is the proud mother of Brittany and Lauren and a loving grandmother.
