Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University (FSU), a proud public historically black university, stands as a beacon of educational opportunity with a rich history rooted in the post-Civil War era. Embodying its motto, "Res Non Verba" (Deeds, Not Words), FSU has consistently demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence and community upliftment, currently serving 6,748 students.

FSU's story began in 1867 with the formation of the Howard School, a crucial initiative by seven prominent African American men dedicated to educating local Black youth. This foundational effort quickly gained recognition, leading to its designation in 1877 as the State Colored Normal School – the very first state-sponsored institution for African American teacher education in the South. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ezekiel Ezra Smith, the school expanded its physical footprint and curriculum, laying the groundwork for its future growth.

Throughout the 20th century, FSU evolved dynamically, transforming from Fayetteville State Teachers College (1939) to Fayetteville State College (1963), and ultimately becoming Fayetteville State University in 1969. This period saw a significant expansion of academic offerings, moving beyond teacher training to include a variety of baccalaureate and master's degree programs, and later, the university's first doctoral program in Educational Leadership in 1994. As a constituent institution of The University of North Carolina System, FSU has pioneered innovative access programs like the Fort Bragg-Pope Air Force Base Extension Center and excelled in distance learning, becoming third in the UNC system for enrollments.

FSU's legacy is also marked by trailblazing leadership, including Dr. Thelma Jane Bryan, who in 2003 became the first female chancellor of the university and the first African American woman to head a UNC institution. Today, Fayetteville State University continues to build on its foundation of resilience and academic innovation, fostering an engaging environment where students are empowered to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.