A group of students in the back of the auditorium have kept up chants like "We shall not be moved" and "We are here to reclaim this space" and "No justice, no peace," as Comey spoke over them.

“Welcome to Howard. I’m honored to be here and I’m looking forward to adult conversations about what is right and what is true,” Comey said at the conclusion of his remarks.

The former FBI director is the keynote speaker at the 150th opening convocation at the university, greeting the incoming class of students. He was hired by Howard to give five lectures on several topics, which have yet to be announced. The $100,000 compensation will be donated to a scholarship fund for students that come from foster homes, Howard officials said.