Introduction
Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is a public, historically black university located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Established in 1891, the university has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing high-quality education to its students. Over the years, ECSU has produced many successful graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions to their communities and to the world. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about ECSU that you may not have known.
The Origins of Elizabeth City State University
ECSU has a long and storied history that dates back to the late 1800s. In 1891, the North Carolina General Assembly established the Elizabeth City State Colored Normal School with the goal of providing teacher education to African Americans in the region. The school was originally located in a small church in Elizabeth City, but in 1893, a new building was constructed to house the growing institution.
Over the years, the school continued to expand and evolve. In 1939, it was renamed Elizabeth City State Teachers College and was authorized to grant degrees in education. In 1963, it became Elizabeth City State College, and in 1969, it was granted university status, becoming Elizabeth City State University.
Today, ECSU is a thriving institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is committed to providing a high-quality education to all of its students, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Notable Alumni of Elizabeth City State University
Over the years, ECSU has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in their fields. Here are just a few examples:
Marion Thorpe: Thorpe graduated from ECSU in 1964 with a degree in mathematics. She went on to become the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Virginia. Thorpe went on to have a successful career as a mathematician and computer scientist, working for companies such as IBM and AT&T.
William T. Coleman Jr.: Coleman graduated from ECSU in 1937 and went on to become a prominent civil rights attorney. He served as the Secretary of Transportation under President Gerald Ford and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2013.
James E. Holshouser Jr.: Holshouser graduated from ECSU in 1954 and went on to become the first Republican governor of North Carolina since Reconstruction. During his tenure, he was instrumental in the creation of the North Carolina Community College System.
Dr. Linda Hayden: Hayden graduated from ECSU in 1971 with a degree in biology. She went on to earn a Ph.D. in microbiology from Howard University and has had a successful career as a researcher and educator. Hayden is currently a professor at Howard University College of Medicine.
These are just a few examples of the many successful graduates of ECSU. The university is proud of its alumni and the many contributions they have made to their communities and to the world.
Campus Life at Elizabeth City State University
ECSU is a vibrant and diverse community that offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved and make the most of their college experience. The university is home to a number of student organizations, including clubs and societies focused on academics, culture, and social issues. There are also a number of athletic teams that compete at the NCAA Division II level.
Conclusion
In addition to extracurricular activities, ECSU also offers a number of support services for students, including tutoring, counseling, and career services. The university is committed to helping students succeed academically and professionally, and provides a range of resources to support their goals.
