Alcorn receives Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grant

Alcorn receives Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grant

Alcorn State University recently received funding from U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson and the U. S. Department of Homeland Security, enabling the University to build its defense against violence and terrorism.

The Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grant Program awarded Alcorn the Type 1: Raising Societal Awareness grant for $160,000. The grant enables Alcorn and surrounding communities to combat threats and other societal harms that lead to groups coming together to cause harm to property or life. The project became necessary due to the growing threats that HBCUs have encountered since 2018.

“We are grateful to United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson and the U. S. Department of Homeland Security for their support in helping Alcorn State combat terrorism,” said Dr. Felecia M. Nave, president of Alcorn State University. “With the increased threats of violence over the past year against our nation’s HBCUs, it is vital that we enhance our capacity through training so that our Alcorn and surrounding communities have the tools needed to protect lives.”

The Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grant Program provides funding for state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, nonprofits, and higher education institutions with funds to establish or enhance capabilities to prevent targeted violence and terrorism. The Program assists in developing innovative solutions to prevent terrorism and targeted violence.

Alfred Galtney, Alcorn’s chief compliance officer, believes that receiving the grant gives the Southwest region a chance to fight against the dangers of terrorism.

“This is an amazing opportunity for Alcorn employees, students, and community members,” said Galtney. “We have an opportunity to educate and train 13 counties within our catchment area on how to identify extremist behavior that leads to violent crimes against students, vulnerable populations, mass crowds, and other incidents that could disrupt operations not only at Alcorn but also in the communities we serve.”

Galtney said that the University’s bomb threat in February prompted Alcorn officials to form a plan of action to protect Alcorn and surrounding communities.

“President Nave wanted to provide Alcorn with equipment to fortify the University against attacks. She also wanted to educate and train the region on how to identify and reduce radical behavior that leads to these types of incidents.”