LORMAN &045; With history to his left and the future to his right, Sen. Trent Lott told the students of Chamberlain-Hunt Academy the quality of their education would set them apart from others.

Lott was on the campus of Alcorn State University Wednesday for the 125th anniversary celebration of the CHA military school. He spoke to 159 cadets in Oakland Memorial Chapel, which sits between the historic home of CHA founder Jeremiah Chamberlain, and modern ASU campus buildings.

&uot;As I look in their eyes I have a lot of hope and inspiration,&uot; Lott said of the cadets. &uot;Take a good look at the young men and women because it won’t be long before they will be leaders.&uot;

The CHA cadets traveled from the school in Port Gibson to ASU because it was the original CHA site in 1841. The school was first named Oakland College and was built by the Mississippi Presbyterians.

The school was later bought by the state and transformed into ASU. The Oakland Chapel is the oldest building on the ASU campus.

Lott praised the link between the two schools and the tradition surrounding them both. &uot;If it hadn’t been for Chamberlain-Hunt, ASU wouldn’t be here,&uot; Lott said. &uot;They are linked. Sometimes I don’t think we put enough emphasis on history and tradition. This institution does have a proud history, and we should learn from it.&uot;

CHA Director of Advancement said CHA today can be described in three words: Christian, military and boarding.

Lott said the passion of the school inspired him.

&uot;This institution was founded on right values,&uot; he said. &uot;It does require discipline and work. You do have to realize your priorities and what you should be doing in life.

&uot;Students now around the state are trying to decided what to do with their lives. You are going to be better prepared than most of us.&uot;

Lott said having a military school with Christian values was very important.

&uot;Having a strong faith is a very important part of it. When you get knocked down it’s easier to get back up because you know there’s a plan.&uot;