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LORMAN – Alcorn State University announces the upcoming inauguration of Dr. Tracy M. Cook as its 21st president. This milestone celebration will feature a series of events culminating in an investiture ceremony at 9 a.m. on Oct. 4 in the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex. The ceremony 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.”

The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees appointed Cook, who officially took office on April 1, after serving as interim president since July 2023. With more than 25 years of experience in education administration, Cook has a proven track record of enhancing institutional effectiveness. Since assuming his role, he has prioritized building capacity, improving efficiency, and enhancing customer service at ASU.

Before his presidency, Cook was vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at ASU. His career also includes roles as superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, and teacher.

An alumnus of ASU, Cook holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics (1994) and a master’s degree in agronomy (1996) and educational administration and supervision (1998). He further pursued his education with specialist and doctoral degrees from William Carey University.

The university has planned various celebratory events leading up to the investiture ceremony. Highlights of the week include a worship service on Sunday, Sept. 29, and several activities on Oct. 4, including a concert on the Campus Green at noon and a game night with the president for alumni and friends later that evening.