HCF celebrates the appointment of West Virginia State University (WVSU) President Ericke S. Cage as chair of the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU) Council of 1890 University Presidents and chair of the 1890 Universities Foundation Board of Directors. Cage will also serve as a member of the APLU Board of Directors. Cage is an alum honoree of HCF’s Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders Awards & Class.

He succeeds Dr. Heidi Anderson, president of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, in both roles.

“I would like to thank Dr. Heidi Anderson for her valuable service to both of these organizations that work tirelessly to advance the mission of 1890 land-grant universities. American’s 1890 institutions play a vital role in creating opportunity, driving innovation, and uplifting communities across the nation. From groundbreaking agricultural research and STEM education to community development and workforce training, our universities are shaping a more prosperous future. I look forward to building on this legacy and ensuring that the 1890 system continues to have a strong voice in national conversations around the future of agriculture, higher education, and economic development.”

— said Ericke. S. Cage

”We thank Madam President Dr. Heidi Anderson for her heartfelt and dedicated service to both of the organization that advance the mission of 1890 land-grant universities. These organization play a vital role in driving the progress of fields like agriculture and in shaping the mind of those pursing careers further,” said Demetrius Johnson, Jr., Founder, President & CEO, HCF. “We commend the appointment of President Cage, and we look forward to his leadership as he serves as a strong voice in national conversations on the future of 1890 land-grant institutions. America’s 1890 land-grant universities are in great hands, and we are confident that under his guidance, these organizations will continues to be the driven force in expanding impact for generations to come.”

APLU is a research, policy, and advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening and advancing the work of public universities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The Council of 1890 University Presidents primarily addresses all matters pertaining to strengthening teaching, research, and extension programs at these important institutions. The purpose of the Council is to represent collectively the interests of 1890 land-grant institutions while seeking to maintain, ensure, and increase funding, to present a unified approach for the presentation of views regarding these institutions, and to serve as a forum to share ideas and resources.

The 1890 Universities Foundation is dedicated to supporting and elevating the nation’s 19 historically black land-grant colleges and universities by fostering community health and wellness, protecting our environment, enriching our cultural experiences, and breaking down barriers to opportunity.

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