Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University stands as a beacon of educational opportunity, a public historically black land-grant institution deeply rooted in the heart of Kentucky. Chartered in 1886 as the State Normal School for Colored Persons, KSU holds a significant place in history as only the second state-supported institution of higher learning for Black students in the Commonwealth. With a proud motto of "Onward, Upward," the university has consistently championed access to education and uplifted its community for well over a century.

From its humble beginnings in 1887 with just three teachers and 55 students, Kentucky State rapidly expanded its mission. Becoming a land-grant college in 1890 brought crucial additions in home economics, agriculture, and mechanics, reflecting its commitment to practical education and community service. The institution's journey through various names, from Kentucky Normal and Industrial Institute to Kentucky State College for Negroes, mirrors the evolving landscape of civil rights and educational equity. A pivotal moment arrived in 1942 with the establishment of its civil engineering program, spurred by the pursuit of equal access to specialized fields.

Kentucky State's legacy is further illuminated by significant milestones, including the powerful commencement address delivered by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1957, "Facing the Challenge of a New Age." The enrollment of the first white student in 1960 marked a step towards broader integration, culminating in its renaming as Kentucky State University in 1972. Today, with a vibrant student body of 2,163, KSU continues to embody its founding principles, offering a rich academic environment that prepares students to meet the challenges of a new age, just as Dr. King envisioned.