Selma University among HBCUs to receive grants from National Park Service

Selma University was among four other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) to receive grants from the National Park Service (NPS) to be awarded grants for the preservation of historic buildings on their campus. 

According to an announcement from Rep. Terri Sewell, a total of $2.5 million will be allocated from NPS to Alabama State University, Miles College, Alabama A&M University, and Stillman College, in addition to Selma University.

“I’m thrilled to announce that the National Park Service is investing $2.5 million to preserve historic structures on the campuses of Alabama’s HBCUs. This is a big win for Alabama!” said Sewell in a press release.

“Alabama’s HBCUs have played such a pivotal role in shaping the history of our nation, and I was so proud to help make this funding available which will be used to preserve these cherished institutions. As Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I remain committed to ensuring the vitality of Alabama’s HBCUs. Fighting for funding like this will continue to be one of my top legislative priorities!”

Sewell's announcement said that she made an effort to secure money for the NPS Historic Preservation Fund, which is used to preserve sites important to the Civil Rights Movement and HBCUs. Sewell serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus.

Selma University was awarded $500,000 to preserve the Historic Dinkins Memorial Hall. 

“On behalf of everyone at Selma University, we are elated to receive the grant award,” said Selma University President Stanford E. Angion, Ed.D. “We are so appreciative of Congresswoman Sewell’s support of the university. This funding will go a long way in helping our students at Selma University and the entire community of Selma, Alabama.”