Tracy Cook, the current vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Alcorn State University, has been appointed interim president. The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning confirmed the appointment, effective July 8th. Cook will succeed Ontario Wooden, who is stepping down after a three-year tenure to prioritize family matters.
Cook, an Alcorn State alumnus, brings extensive experience to the role. He previously served as the university's chief of staff in 2015. His academic credentials include a bachelor's degree in agricultural economics, a master's degree in agronomy and educational administration and supervision from Alcorn State, and a doctorate and specialist degree in educational leadership from William Carey University.
Alfred McNair, president of the Board of Trustees, expressed confidence in Cook's ability to lead the institution, highlighting his commitment to building upon the university's legacy. This appointment follows the termination of former president Felecia Nave in April 2023, after which Wooden assumed the interim presidency.
