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Alcorn State University

Alcorn State, MS

publicHBCUgraduate

Quick Facts

"Service, Scholarship, Dignity" "Where Knowledge and Character Matter"

Wikipedia
Public historically black land-grant research university
Type
2,290
Total Students
2,431
Undergrad
502
Graduate
$21M
Endowment
(2021)
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
25%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
6-year
79%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Tracy M. Cook

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Alcorn State University

Alcorn State: The pioneering Black land-grant university forging futures since 1871.

Alcorn State University, a vibrant public historically Black land-grant research university, stands as a beacon of educational excellence adjacent to Lorman, Mississippi. As the first Black land-grant college established in the United States in 1871, Alcorn State holds a profound place in American history and continues to shape leaders with its commitment to "Service, Scholarship, Dignity" and where "Knowledge and Character Matter." Prospective students will find a welcoming community dedicated to fostering both intellectual growth and personal development.

From its inception, Alcorn State defied expectations, founded during the Reconstruction era on the site of Oakland College. Initially focusing on agricultural and mechanical training, the institution evolved dramatically over the decades. It transformed from Alcorn University to Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College, eventually earning its current university status in 1974. This evolution reflects a persistent dedication to expanding academic offerings and providing a comprehensive education, overcoming challenges to become the diverse, forward-thinking institution it is today.

Today, Alcorn State University offers a robust educational experience with undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students for successful careers, advanced graduate studies, and professional schools. With a student body of over 2,900 from around the globe, and a faculty and staff numbering over 500, students benefit from a supportive learning environment. The university's commitment to excellence is further bolstered by significant philanthropic support, including record-setting donations from MacKenzie Scott, signaling a bright future for its academic and research endeavors.

Beyond academics, Alcorn State boasts a dynamic student experience. The university's athletic teams, the Braves and Lady Braves, compete in NCAA Division I as proud members of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), embodying the spirit of determination in their purple and gold colors. The beautiful 1,756-acre campus, along with additional campuses in Natchez and Vicksburg, offers a rich environment for learning, community engagement, and personal discovery, preparing graduates who truly make a difference in the world.

Key Highlights

  • Established on May 13, 1871, Alcorn State University holds the distinction of being the first Black land-grant college in the United States.
  • The university operates with a significant endowment, recorded at $21.3 million in 2021, augmented by a historic $42 million donation from MacKenzie Scott.
  • Boasts a diverse student body of 2,933 (Fall 2022), with over 500 faculty and staff, fostering a rich learning community.
  • Alcorn State's athletic teams, the Braves and Lady Braves, compete in NCAA Division I as members of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).
  • Offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, preparing students for advanced studies and diverse professional careers.
  • Guided by inspiring mottos: "Service, Scholarship, Dignity" and "Where Knowledge and Character Matter."
  • The main campus spans 1,756 acres, complemented by additional campuses in Natchez and Vicksburg.

Timeline

1871
Founded as Alcorn University, becoming the first Black land-grant college in the U.S.
1878
Renamed Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College.
1895
Began admitting women, expanding its student body beyond black males.
1974
Achieved university status and was renamed Alcorn State University, reflecting program diversification.
1994
Gained increased national attention, partly due to athletic successes like Steve McNair.
2020
Received a $25 million donation from MacKenzie Scott, marking its second largest gift at the time.
2025
Received a record-breaking $42 million donation from MacKenzie Scott (five years after the 2020 donation).

Leadership

via Wikipedia
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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