MEDIA CONTACT:
Division of Strategic Communications and Media Relations
Email: communications@hbcucampaignfund.org

The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) announces the selection of Dr. Tracy M. Cook, President of Alcorn State University, as a recipient of The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders of 2027 and Tenth Class Honors, recognizing his sustained leadership, institutional transformation, and long-standing commitment to advancing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Dr. Cook, who officially became the 21st President of Alcorn State University in 2024 after serving interim president, has brough more than two decades of experience in education administration and student affairs leadership to the nation’s most historic land-grant HBCUs. Under his leadership, Alcorn State has continued to strengthen its academic mission, deepen community engagement, and expand opportunities for student success.

The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders Award & Class is a national recognition created by the HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) that honors ten chancellors, president, and sports-affiliated leaders serving at or connected to HBCUs and MSIs who exemplify influential and transformational leadership. The recognition celebrates individuals who demonstrate excellence in advancing the mission, growth, visibility, and long-term progression of their institutions and organizations.

“HBCU leadership requires vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment for students and communities. Dr. Cook exemplifies these qualifies through his leadership at Alcorn State and his continued work to strengthen one of the nation’s most historic HBCUs.”

— Demetrius Johnson, Jr., Founder, President & CEO, HCF

A proud alumnus of Alcorn State University, Dr. Cook has held multiple leadership roles at the institution, including Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management and Chief of Staff. His career in education spans roles as superintendent, principal, and teacher, reflecting a lifelong dedication to student achievement and institutional excellence.

The Tenth Class marks a significant milestone for HCF as it celebrates a decade of recognizing exceptional leadership throughout the HBCU and MSI communities. Since its inception, the recognition has highlighted leaders who influence extends beyond their campuses and contributes to the advancement of higher education.

Dr. Cook joins a distinguished class of honorees whose leadership continues to play a defining role in shaping the future of HBCUs.

HCF will continue announcing selections of the Tenth Class Honors throughout the coming months. The complete Tenth Class of The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders of 2027 will be announced in early 2027.

About the HBCU Campaign Fund
The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) is an educational non-profit and advocacy organization dedicated to supporting HBCUs and MSIs. Founded in 2012, its core mission focuses on raising funds for student scholarships, developing campus programming, and advocating for higher education equity. For more information, visit www.hbcucampaignfund.org.

###