Alcorn State University announces the inaugural events for its 21st president, Dr. Tracy M. Cook.
The highlight of the week will be the Investiture Ceremony, which will take place on October 4, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex. The event is free and open to the public.
“I am deeply honored to serve as the 21st president of my alma mater, Alcorn State University,” said Cook. “As we celebrate this new chapter in Alcorn’s rich history, I look forward to working with our dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni to build upon our legacy of excellence and drive our institution toward an even brighter future.”
He was appointed by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees, and officially assumed the role of president on April 1, 2024, after serving as interim president since July 8, 2023.
Since becoming president, his focus has been on building capacity, improving efficiency, and enhancing customer service at the nation’s first land grant Historically Black College and University.
He brings over 25 years of administrative experience in education to his role.
Prior to his appointment as president, he served as vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Alcorn State University. His extensive background includes roles such as superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, and teacher in various school districts.
An Alcorn alumnus, Cook holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics (1994) and master’s degrees in agronomy (1996) and educational administration and supervision (1998) from the university. He further advanced his education with specialist and doctoral degrees from William Carey University.
Delegates wishing to march in the processional of the Investiture Ceremony should complete the delegate form by September 23, 2024.
If you would like to secure a sponsorship for the Inauguration, please contact Dr. Marcus D. Ward, senior vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of ASU Foundation, Inc., at [email protected]. For more information about the inauguration events, click here.
The university has planned a series of events in celebration of the Investiture:
Worship Service
Sunday, September 29, 2024
10:00 a.m.
Oakland Memorial Chapel
Investiture Ceremony
Friday, October 4, 2024
9:00 a.m.
Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex
Concert on the Campus Green
Friday, October 4, 2024
12:00 p.m.
Campus Green
Game Night with the President
(Alumni and Friends, 21 and older)
Friday, October 4, 2024
8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Campus Union
Ticket: $100
Tickets can be purchased here.
The ASU Foundation, Inc. is offering a variety of exciting activities for participants to choose from, including Bid Whist, Spades, Dominoes, Pool, and Bowling. Those interested in joining a team for their selected activity should submit their teammates’ names to [email protected] by September 27, 2024 after purchasing your tickets.
President’s Brunch
Saturday, October 5, 2024,
11:00 a.m.
Lawn of President’s Home
