Alcorn State University president highlights growth and achievements in annual board meeting

The IHL Board of Trustees meeting on May 15, 2025, showcased a significant presentation by Dr. Tracy Cook, president of Alcorn State University, highlighting the institution's impressive advancements and contributions to higher education in Mississippi.

Dr. Cook emphasized Alcorn's rich history as the nation's first public historically Black land-grant university, celebrating over 154 years of educational excellence. He detailed the university's expansive campus, which spans over 1,871 acres, and its commitment to providing a supportive living and learning environment for its nearly 3,000 students. Notably, Alcorn has seen a surge in enrollment, welcoming over 100 new students for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The university's academic achievements were underscored by its improved rankings, including a rise to 51st among regional universities in the South and 22nd among public schools in the region. Alcorn's School of Nursing made headlines by jumping 52 spots to rank 77th in U.S. News and World Report's 2024 best online nursing programs. Dr. Cook also highlighted the institution's research designation, placing it among only two universities in Mississippi recognized for significant research activities.

In addition to academic advancements, the meeting addressed the ongoing challenges in nursing education across the state. The annual nursing report revealed a decline in active RN licenses, attributed to retirements and workforce exits, while the number of nurse practitioners continues to rise. The report also noted that over 700 qualified applicants were turned away from associate and baccalaureate nursing programs due to capacity constraints.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and collaboration among Mississippi's public universities to address these challenges and enhance educational opportunities for all students. The board's commitment to fostering academic excellence and addressing workforce needs remains a priority as they look to the future.