6/30/2023 - Jackson, Miss.

The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning approved changes in the interim leadership of Alcorn State University at its meeting held yesterday in Jackson. Dr. Tracy Cook, who currently serves as Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, will begin serving as Interim President on July 8, 2023.

Dr. Cook replaces Dr. Ontario S. Wooden who is leaving the university to focus his attention on his family. Trustee Dr. Alfred McNair, Board President, said, "We appreciate Dr. Wooden's leadership and his three years of service to Alcorn State University. We wish Dr. Wooden and his family well in their future endeavors."

Dr. Cook returned to Alcorn State University in 2015 as Chief of Staff. In 2018, he was appointed Interim Vice President for Student Affairs. After successfully serving in the interim role, he was promoted to Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management in 2019. His responsibilities include directing and supervising the units of the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management including Admissions and Recruiting, Career Services and Residence Life.

"We are pleased to have Dr. Cook serve as Interim President," said Dr. McNair. "Dr. Cook will keep the university moving forward and building on its rich heritage."

Before joining Alcorn, Dr. Cook served in various roles, including superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, athletic director and teacher in the Jefferson and Claiborne County Schools.

Dr. Cook holds a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics, and master's degrees in Agronomy and Educational Administration and Supervision from Alcorn State University. He earned a doctorate and specialist degree in Educational Leadership from William Carey University.

The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning governs the public universities in Mississippi, including Alcorn State University; Delta State University; Jackson State University; Mississippi State University including the Mississippi State University Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine; Mississippi University for Women; Mississippi Valley State University; the University of Mississippi including the University of Mississippi Medical Center; and the University of Southern Mississippi.

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