Symposium

Alcorn State University has been awarded a $2.2 million grant from the National Park Service (NPS)* to repair and preserve three historic buildings. This grant is part of a larger $10.6 million initiative benefiting 15 projects across eight states through the Historic Preservation Fund’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) grant program.

The buildings slated for preservation are Belle Lettres Hall, Harmon Hall, and Dormitory No. 2, which currently houses honors students. These structures represent nearly a century of Alcorn State’s rich history.

“We are grateful to the National Park Service for this award to preserve and rehabilitate our historic structures,” said Dr. Tracy Cook, University president. “We appreciate their commitment to conserving the rich heritage of our nation’s HBCUs. I would like to thank our Economic Development and Community Engagement team for their grant writing efforts, which brought this work to fruition.”

Dr. Lashon Brooks, director of Economic Development and Community Engagement, expressed her enthusiasm for the preservation projects.

“This grant is a testament to Alcorn State University’s commitment to preserving our rich historical legacy. By preserving these iconic buildings, we’re safeguarding the stories, struggles, and triumphs of generations of students who have walked these halls.”

Dr. Wandra Arrington, director of the Myrlie Evers-Williams Honors Program, shared, “This is a wonderful opportunity to improve the living environment of our honors students. This will help to motivate them and inspire them to do well in their academics.”

Lloyd Nesbitt, associate vice president of Facilities Management, added, “This grant will allow the University to address several long-standing needed improvements I am excited about these upcoming projects and the opportunity to help lead the renovation efforts.”

The work for each building will include repairs to the roof, windows, gutters, and exterior masonry.

In a statement from the National Park Service, director Chuck Sams emphasized the importance of the HBCU grant program: “It’s vital for America’s HBCUs to preserve their vibrant history, ensuring that the places and the events that happened there are not forgotten. I’m proud that the National Park Service can support this locally-led stewardship.”

This preservation initiative aligns with Alcorn State University’s 2025 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing campus infrastructure to support academic excellence and student success.

For more information about NPS historic preservation programs and grants, please visit www.nps.gov. 

For more on Economic Development & Community Engagement at the University, contact Dr. Brooks at [email protected].