Selma University receives $750,000 grant to preserve Foster Hall

Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced on Tuesday that Selma University (SU) has received a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve the historic Foster Hall building. 

SU is among other Historically Black Colleges and Universities or HBCUs to be part of a $10.6 million investment by NPS to preserve historic structures. 

“I am so proud to have helped secure this $750,000 to preserve the historic Foster Hall on the campus of Selma University!” said Sewell. “This is about ensuring that the rich legacy of this cherished institution lives on for generations to come."

"As Representative for America’s Civil Rights District, I am proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Civil Rights Grant Program. Fighting for funding like this will continue to be one of my top legislative priorities!”

Foster Hall was named after Susie C. Foster, who was president of the Women’s Convention when the building was constructed in 1910. 

“I am extremely grateful for the grant award,” said Selma University President Dr. Stanford Angion. “Foster Hall is the oldest extant building on Selma University’s campus. Women of the Alabama State Missionary Baptist Convention led the effort to raise funds for the building, which became a women’s dormitory in 1910. These funds will help us to protect and restore it for use as a women’s dormitory.”

“It’s vital for America’s HBCUs to preserve their vibrant history, ensuring that the places and the events that happened there are not forgotten,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “I’m proud that the National Park Service can support this locally-led stewardship.”

Angion said it is the third preservation grant for Selma University to preserve buildings in three years, including $500,000 for Dinkins Hall in 2022, $750,000 for Pollard Hall in 2023.