When Delaware State University was founded in 1890, it was not by choice, but by social reality.
Delaware: a state that has three counties when the tide is out, and two when it is in.
Delaware State has established itself as an institution of excellence in its own right and attracts a diversity of students from various races, socio-economic status and locations.
After completing a Delaware State education, they were afforded opportunities beyond anything they might have imagined - and they opened doors for themselves that surely would have remained closed if they only had a high school education.
Delaware State began as a school bent on service - teaching education, social services and nursing.
Delaware State is no longer a college for African Americans without other choices, it is a university of choice.
With the establishment of a presence in all three counties of Delaware, recruitment in and outside Delaware and throughout the world and new master's and doctoral programs, Delaware State University will continue to grow and attract even more qualified students.
Getting to where Delaware State is today was a challenge my friends - a challenge proudly met by the people of this community and the Delaware State family.
By climbing a steeper road, the value and appreciation Delaware State students took and continue to take from their education and their experiences is just as great, if not greater, than students attending ivy league schools.
I could not agree more. The students of Delaware State often looked to the school as their chance, their hand up, their hope. And they gave their all.
Just the example Delaware State University graduates set by the way they live their lives, should be an inspiration to other high school students to go to Delaware State.
Typically, historical black colleges and universities like Delaware State, attracted students who were raised in an environment where going to college wasn't the next natural step after high school.
Their families helped them realize that there was more out there for them. These students came to Delaware State because of its inexpensive tuition, closeness to home, and solid reputation.
Through the years you, the Delaware State family and your predecessors, have faced many challenges. You worked through them with fierce determination and good will, and you have made great progress.
Working together we can strengthen Delaware State University and the students who attend it.
Delaware is the only state east of the Rockies that is allowed under federal law to offer sports betting.
