Del. State College To Be A University The School Was Established In 1891 As The State College For Colored Students.

By Sid Holmes, INQUIRER CORRESPONDENT
Posted: June 25, 1993

The nation's first state will have its second university next month when Delaware State College officially becomes Delaware State University.

Yesterday, the state House of Representatives unanimously approved a measure that would grant university status to the predominantly black college, which was established in 1891 as the State College for Colored Students.

William B. DeLauder, college president, told legislators that the new status will enhance efforts to raise funds and attract more students to the Dover-based institution.

"The university designation will make clear to the public that the institution offers a comprehensive array of programs at the bachelor and master levels in the liberal arts, the sciences and selected professional areas," DeLauder said.

The action becomes official on July 1, when Gov. Thomas H. Carper signs the bill into law at ceremonies on the university's campus.

Delaware State began offering master's degrees in 1981, said Anthony R. Hicks, the director of public relations.

Master's degrees are given in 11 areas, including chemistry, biology, business administration, education and social work. Delaware State's enrollment is 2,935.

Between 70 and 75 percent of the student body is African-American, Hicks said.

The school currently is in the midst of a $10 million fund drive. The three-year campaign will end in June 1994 and now has raised $9 million.

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