#United States #Prairie View #PVAMU #Morrill Act #African American Education

Prairie View A&M University Commemorates a Milestone

On September 15, 2025, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) proudly celebrated the 135th anniversary of the Second Morrill Act, pivotal legislation that mandated the creation of land-grant institutions aimed at serving Black students. This groundbreaking act directly contributed to the establishment of PVAMU alongside 18 other historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) as land-grant institutions, a move that significantly reshaped the landscape of higher education in the United States.

The legacy of the Second Morrill Act cannot be overstated. By facilitating the education of African Americans during a time when access to higher education was often systematically denied, the Act laid the groundwork for future generations of scholars and leaders. Today, PVAMU continues to fulfill this important land-grant mission through its commitment to teaching, research, and community service.

In commemoration of this significant anniversary, PVAMU is providing a platform for expert commentary and insights from its distinguished faculty. Scholars such as Dr. Melanye Price, Dr. Marco Robinson, Dr. Bequita Pegram, and Dr. Tiffany Thomas, will share their knowledge about the historical importance and contemporary influence of the Second Morrill Act. Each expert brings a unique perspective that enriches the understanding of this landmark legislation and its ongoing impact on education equity.

Faculty Expert Insights

• - Dr. Melanye Price is an expert in Political Science and African American Studies. Serving as co-chair of the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice, she articulates the broader implications of the Morrill Act in the context of ongoing struggles for access, justice, and equity in higher education.
• - Dr. Marco Robinson, a historian with a focus on African American and Texas history, contextualizes the passing of the 1890 Act and highlights PVAMU's significant role in creating educational pathways for countless students.
• - Dr. Bequita Pegram has specialized knowledge in African American History, emphasizing how the Act's legacies influence community identity and the fight for educational equity today.
• - Dr. Tiffany Thomas, focusing on urban planning and public policy, draws connections between the Act's emphasis on educational access and the pressing need for inclusive policies in community development today.

The Contemporary Significance

The Second Morrill Act is more than a historical footnote; it represents a critical turning point in the fight for educational rights for African Americans. As PVAMU fulfills its mission, it honors the vision of its founders by continuing to champion education access and opportunity for all, steadfast in its role as a vital institution within the framework of higher education.

The university's facilities are now bustling with over 9,000 students, each benefiting from the legacy of the Second Morrill Act, which paved the way for their academic and professional ambitions. PVAMU has also grown into a Carnegie-classified high-research university, offering diverse academic programs that span from bachelor's through doctoral degrees.

Engaging with History

As part of PVAMU’s dedication to preserving its history, the ongoing oral history project aims to capture and maintain the narratives of those who've been influenced by the Morrill Act and the university's broader mission in promoting equity in education. The insights gathered will not only serve as a celebration of the past but also inform future actions and commitments to educational equity.

For those interested in further exploring the significance of the Second Morrill Act at Prairie View A&M University, interviews with faculty experts can be arranged by contacting the Office for Marketing and Communications. This initiative not only commemorates a historic moment but also shines a light on the vital conversations surrounding education for all – a conversation that continues to evolve today.

Contact Information

For interviews or inquiries:

• - Liz Faublas-Wallace, Communications Professional: 936-261-1562 | [email protected]
• - Candace Johnson, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications: 936-261-1566 | [email protected]
• - Office for Marketing and Communications: 936-261-1560 | pvamu.edu/marcomm

Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University stands as Texas's second oldest public institution of higher education and one of the nation's largest HBCUs, emphasizing its commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service.