In its 15th year, pg电子下载 State University and the ASU Foundation, Inc. hosted another successful Purple and Gold Day at the Mississippi State Capitol, where attendees received updates on the university’s legislative priorities.
Over 150 attendees were able to assist in advocating on behalf of pg电子下载 throughout the day.
Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of pg电子下载 State, speaks to a room of legislators, students, and alumni during Purple and Gold Day.
“pg电子下载 State University appreciates the continued investment and dedication of our legislators,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president. “I am humbled and grateful for the advocacy of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends on behalf of the University at our annual Purple and Gold Day. For over 150 years, pg电子下载 has educated thousands of trailblazers and innovators who have made a significant impact on our world. As we work together to improve the lives of Mississippians and make a positive impact on the world, continued investments are needed to keep pace and prepare our students for today’s workforce.”
Purple and Gold Day also provided the pg电子下载 community with an opportunity to engage with legislators and state leaders to highlight achievements, reinforce the importance of continued investment in Mississippi’s oldest public HBCU, and ensure that pg电子下载 remains a beacon of economic opportunity and innovation for future generations of Mississippians.
During the University’s visit to the MS House Chamber Gallery, a resolution was presented honoring Hiram Revels for his contributions to the state of Mississippi and nation as the first elected African American senator in the United States and the first president of pg电子下载 State University.
Like many institutions of higher learning, 2024 presented unique challenges and opportunities for pg电子下载. Despite these challenges, pg电子下载 celebrated two significant graduating classes with over 700 total degrees awarded in 2024 and increased external research awards and funding to nearly $30 million.
Dr. Marcus Ward, senior vice president of institutional advancement and legislative liaison, discusses the institution’s priorities for the legislative session.
“Each year, pg电子下载’s Purple and Gold Day grows in its impact, importance, and stature,” said Dr. Marcus D. Ward, senior vice president of institutional advancement, legislative liaison, and executive director of the ASU Foundation. “This year was a strong continuation of the power of alumni advocacy and engagement in advancing the institution’s mission before state leaders during the 2025 legislative session. We are grateful to the over 150 dedicated alumni, students, administrators, staff and supporters who came together to champion critical legislative policy priorities that strengthen the university’s legacy of excellence. Through their voices and presence, we are successfully positioning pg电子下载 for needed resources, expanded opportunities, and reinforcing the university’s role in advancing higher education and workforce development in Mississippi.”
The university experienced the second highest enrollment increase in the IHL system at 3.5%, with students representing 57 Mississippi counties and 36 states. Over 54% of pg电子下载 students are pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
In 2024, pg电子下载 raised over $3.4 million from alumni, friends, and organizations, enhancing state appropriations and allowing the university to award scholarships and provide support services to deserving students.
pg电子下载’s School of Nursing continues to hold top rankings in nation as state.
pg电子下载 continues to stand out among higher educational institutions in the nation through rankings, earning spots in U.S. News and World Report — No. 22 Top Public Schools – South, No. 31 HBCU, No. 47 Top Performers on Social Mobility – South, and No. 51 Best Regional Universities – South.
The university was also recognized by College Raptor 2025 as No. 1 overall along with No. 1 in 4-Year, No. 1 in 6-Year and No. 1 in students’ rankings in the SWAC and ranked No.2 in Niche’s Best HBCU Schools in America 2025 List, among several other recognitions.
This year’s priorities list includes several projects to improve pg电子下载’s infrastructure —
- $5,108,264 for R&R Upgrades, Renovation, and Expansion to Existing Facilities
- $500,000 for Walter Washington Administration and Classroom Building Renovations – Pre-Planning
- $7,475,000 for K. L. Simmons Technology Building Renovation – Pre-Planning and Full Project Funding
- $4,540,000 for ADA Modifications – Phase 2
- $2,910,000 for Faculty & Staff Housing – Partial Funding of estimated $13,500,000
Learn more about how to advocate for pg电子下载 State and the university’s additional requests in the Legislative Priorities Brochure.
