Alcorn State University celebrated the Investiture Ceremony of Dr. Tracy M. Cook as its 21st president on Oct. 4, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex.

Dr. Cook, an alumnus of Alcorn State University, brings over 25 years of administrative experience in education to his role as president. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Alcorn State University and earned specialist and doctoral degrees from William Carey University. Prior to his appointment as president, he served as vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management for the institution.

The ceremony, drew a large audience of students, faculty, staff, dignitaries, stakeholders and community members.

Various speakers brought greetings for the occasion, including U.S. Rep. Bennie G. Thompson, Dr. Alfred Rankins Jr., commissioner of higher education; Commissioner Willie Simmons, Mississippi Transportation Commission, Central District; State Rep. Gregory Holloway and State Sen. Albert Butler. Each highlighted Dr. Cook’s year’s of experience as an educator and administrator as well as his local roots, integrity, and commitment to the university.

Dr. Valmadge Towner, president of Coahoma Community College, brought the keynote address. Reflecting on their friendship, Dr. Towner said, “Dr. Cook has always conveyed a spirit of compassion, generosity, grace, and modesty.” Turning to Dr. Cook, he stated, “Make no mistake. You are capable, you are prepared, and you are worthy.”

Commissioner Rankins, 19th president of Alcorn State University, stated, “This is indeed an important moment in the history of the university. Being an alumnus of Alcorn and having the honor of serving in this same role, Alcorn State University is a unique and exceptional place. I’m confident that Dr. Cook will preserve and protect all that is good about Alcorn and lead it to new levels of excellence.”

During his inaugural address, Dr. Cook expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future of Alcorn State University. Acknowledging his parents, friends and community, Dr. Cook also expressed his love and pride for his wife, Dr. Crystal Cook, as well as their two children. He also acknowledged faculty, staff and students, his parents, mentors, colleagues, friends and community members and thanked them for the part they played in his success, and the success of the university.

Reflecting on his alma mater, Dr. Cook said, “Tucked away in Southwest Mississippi is a mighty institution that has stood the test of time for over a century. When our past leaders laid the foundation, they envisioned a place where minds could be molded, where leaders could be cultivated and where future generations could prepare for themselves a rightful place in society. Today, we are the stewards of that vision. Each of us, in our own unique way, is charged with caring for the legacy of excellence that was handed down to us.”

“What makes Alcorn State University so great?” he asked. “It’s the people. And together we will continue to build on the legacy of this great institution, ensuring that its future is as bright as its past.”

Alcorn State University is the oldest public historically Black land-grant institution in the United States and the second-oldest state-supported institution of higher learning in Mississippi. Founded in 1871, it has grown from just 179 students to more than 3,200 students from various walks of life.

The investiture ceremony sealed a weeklong celebration of inauguration events that began on Sunday, Sept. 29.

The livestream of this momentous occasion is available online at https://bit.ly/3ZMLFfZ.