ECSU will continue to “elevate higher and emerge stronger”

With a direct economic impact of over $130 million dollars, Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is an economic powerhouse to Elizabeth City, Pasquotank County and the entire north eastern North Carolina region. The U.S. News and World Report's 2014 Edition of Best Colleges ranked ECSU #1 in the Top Public Schools Regional Colleges (South) category and #20 among the nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities.  Under the administration of Dr. Willie J. Gilchrist, ECSU saw the highest enrollment in its history. These are just a few of many successful milestones that we have seen in recent years. However, they are often swept under the rug by the media, and others who constantly seek to tarnish the image of our illustrious university. Instead of embracing our university some constantly seek reasons to justify why they cannot accept ECSU for what it is truly worth. The old adage is true, that you are often more respected outside of your own hometown. 

Since 1999, ECSU has repeatedly earned national acclaim for its academic advances, student achievements, athletic programs, and innovative research. ECSUs story is one of faith, tenacity, and commitment. ECSU is more than just a small historically black college in Elizabeth City, ECSU is a community within a community that has since its very existence prepared others to live a life of service. ECSU will continue to be a great beacon light of hope to thousands of students who seek not only an education, but an experience like none other.  That experience transforms humble beginnings into great successes and gives many the opportunities to make a real difference in the lives of others. Elizabeth City State Normal School was founded on March 3, 1891 by special legislation sponsored by, the Honorable Representative Hugh Cale. The legislation known as House Bill 383 was introduced to form a school that would have the sole purpose of teaching and training African-American school teachers for the state of North Carolina.   

Who would have ever thought that 121 years later that same normal school would be teaching and training students to fly airplanes?  Who would have ever thought that 121 years later, that normal school would produce doctors, pharmacists, attorneys, successful business owners, professors, authors, activists, public servants, university administrators and others? Who would have ever tho  

ught that “state normal school” would become a four year, fully accredited university offering: bachelorette, masters, and professional degree programs in the arts and sciences? Who would have ever thought that a normal school with a staff of two in 1892 would become the third largest employer in Elizabeth City in 2013? ECSU has its share of problems just like any institution of higher learning; however one thing is for sure: ECSU has contributed greatly to the overall quality of life in Elizabeth City and without it the city would not be the same.

ECSU has withstood the test of times and will continue to persevere, despite this challenging transitional season. Great things are happening at ECSU, and great things will continue to happen at ECSU because the student body is dedicated to excellence inside and outside the classroom. ECSU alumni are some of the proudest alumni in the world, and not only are they proud but they give back to their alma mater. The National Alumni Association reiterated their commitment to the university by contributing over $50,000 dollars in scholarship funds for deserving students during homecoming week alone. Every hotel in the city was booked to capacity and events were well attended by students, and alumni.  Things have changed tremendously since 1892, when the first executive of the institution, Principal Peter W. Moore would challenge the first cohort of students to “be somebody” during assemblies. The mission and culture is much different than it was in the late 1800s, however, one thing is for sure, ECSUs commitment to excellence remains intact, and despite the challenges and difficulties of the present, ECSU will continue to elevate higher and emerge stronger.