WELCOME!
GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Welcome to Delaware State University!
On behalf of “Hornet Nation”—your new University community at America’s most diverse, contemporary HBCU—please accept our warmest welcome! Your growth as a student, leader, artist, athlete, and Hornet are your University’s top priority! Here is where you belong. Since 1891, Delaware State University has been preparing bright young people like you to step onto the path of learning, growing, and becoming. In fact, “becoming” is what we do together.
Your work is our work: helping you to become the brightest, boldest, and best YOU. You’re about to enter a community of professors, researchers, scholars, and advisors—renowned experts in their fields— who want to know, teach, and guide you on your way both personally and professionally. The first steps on the path can be both exciting and scary, but if you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to ask.
For parents and families, know that you, too, have become valued members of our Hornet community and we’re here to support you. We’ll communicate with you on a regular basis to make sure you know what’s happening on our campus. Of course, we want you to know that you are welcome here anytime! Ours is a big embrace that reaches all around the world, but sometimes it’s good to feel the warmth of a hug and see that reassuring smile from your student. Everything you do is for them, and that’s something we’ve got in common.
Together!
Tony Allen, Ph.D. | President
GREETINGS FROM STUDENT AFFAIRS
Welcome to Delaware State University!
I’m James Overton, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Superintendent of University Police. It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to Delaware State University and the Hornet family.
The DSU Division of Student Affairs consists of four studentfocused areas: Student Services (Student Conduct, Student Employment, and Residential Education); Student Experience (Student Leadership and Development, Campus Events, and Spiritual Life); Campus Health Services (General Medicine, Wellness, and Counseling Services); and the University Police Department.
“Leading the Way!” That’s the Division of Student Affairs theme for 2024-2025. We all know that our academic education is the primary reason you are here, and our colleagues on the academic side of the house lead the way in their areas.
For Student Affairs, we are responsible for leading the way with our experiences outside of the classroom. We are here to remove distractions, assist with challenges, and simplify systems that may seem complex so you may succeed at the highest level. Whether it’s keeping you safe, healthy, active, or informed, we will constantly engage with you and assist in your personal growth for maximum success at Delaware State University and beyond.
So new and returning students, welcome to campus and we wish you all the success in the world. Please do not hesitate to visit us on the 3rd floor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Center or any other departments across campus!
Mr. James T. Overton | Vice President for Student Affairs
GREETINGS FROM THE SGA
Welcome Class of 2028,
On behalf of The Legend Administration, we want to welcome you with open arms to Delaware State University and to your new Hornet family! As you embark on this new journey, we want you to know that the Student Government Association (SGA) is here to support you every step of the way.
College is about more than just academics—it’s a time to grow, explore new interests, and form lifelong friendships. We encourage you to get involved, share your ideas, and make the most of every opportunity. The experiences you have here will shape who you become.
SGA is your voice on campus, advocating for your needs and working to make your time here as fulfilling as possible. We are committed to creating a community where every student feels valued and heard.
Your time at Delaware State University will be what you make of it, and we’re excited to see the incredible impact you’ll have. If you have any questions, ideas, or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Welcome to the family,
Jahad A. Forbes | President, The Legend Administration
August 21 – 25, 2024
Welcome, Class of 2028!
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Move-In
Bank of America Building and Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center, 2nd Floor Parlors
If you have received a Hornet Express FastPass, please report to Gate #2 and drive to the Bank of America Building to receive your welcome packet with your room key, campus map, schedule and all pertinent information for a smooth transition move-in, then proceed to your assigned residence hall.
If you did not receive a FastPass, please report to Gate #1 and drive to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Center and report to the second floor. Departments and service areas will be there to assist you with receiving clearance for onboarding and move-in (Student Accounts, Housing, Health Services, Admissions, IDs and more).
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Food Truck Vendors
Bank of America Building and Evers Hall
Food trucks will be available during the move-in times.
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bookstore and Post Office
Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center, 1st Floor
The DSU Bookstore and Post Office will be available. Check out the books, DSU merchandise and supplies from the Bookstore, and head to the DSU Post Office if you need postage or mailbox assignments.
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Lunch
Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Dinner
Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Residential Education Hall Meeting **MANDATORY**
Campus Wide
All residents in University Housing will be required to meet with their Residence Director to go over building policy, conduct, procedures, rules and other important information.
9 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Outdoor Games
Stadium Practice Field
Swarms will be in competition to gain their team points. Who will be the best “DSU HORNET Swarm” for 2024??? Will it be Swarm A, B, C or D????
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22
7 a.m. – 9 a.m. Breakfast Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Move-In
Bank of America Building and Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center, 2nd Floor Parlors
If you have received a Hornet Express FastPass, please report to Gate #2 and drive to the Bank of America Building to receive your welcome packet with your room key, campus map, schedule and all pertinent information for a smooth transition move-in, then proceed to your assigned residence hall.
If you did not receive a FastPass, please report to Gate #1 and drive to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Center and report to the second floor. Departments and service areas will be there to assist you with receiving clearance for onboarding and move-in (Student Accounts, Housing, Health Services, Admissions, IDs and more).
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Food Truck Vendors
Bank of America Building and Evers Hall
Food trucks will be available during the move-in times.
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bookstore and Post Office
Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center, 1st Floor
The DSU Bookstore and Post Office will be available. Check out the books, DSU merchandise, and supplies from the Bookstore and head to the DSU Post Office if you need postage or mailbox assignments.
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Lunch
Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Dinner
Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Residential Education Hall Meeting **MANDATORY** Campus Wide
All residents in University Housing will be required to meet with their Residence Director to go over building policy, conduct, procedures, rules and other important information.
9 p.m. – 11 p.m. Outdoor Games
DSU Practice Field
Swarms will be in competition to gain their team points. Who will be the best “DSU HORNET Swarm” for 2024???
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
7 a.m. – 9 a.m. Breakfast
Conrad Hall | You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
9 a.m. –10 a.m. Hornets Community Meeting **MANDATORY**
Memorial Hall Gymnasium
All Swarms must attend the Hornet Community Meeting (Opening Session) hosted by the Student Government Association and University Departments. The opening session will give you an overview of events and activities for the upcoming days plus make you excited about being a Hornet at Delaware State University!
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Let’s Get Connected! **MANDATORY**
Memorial Hall Gymnasium
Delaware State University prides itself on its use of technology and resources for students to stay connected and engaged in and out of the classroom. Small presentations will be given to remind students of the services available plus allow you to associate a name with a face. You will hear from the following departments below plus more.
Information Technology
Athletics
SGA
Student Experience
Spiritual Life
Residential Education
Student Employment
Library Services
Career Services
Game Show Time! Now that you have heard the presentations, let’s play a game! Swarms will go “head-to-head” in competition and compete to win points! In the interactive game show, you could individually win a prize such as a laptop, computer, sweatshirts, gift cards and more!
Remember, this is a MANDATORY event for all new students.
12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Departmental Tabling
Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
This session hosted by University Departments and Services will support your academic and personal success at DSU!
Center for Access and Academic Success
Registrar’s Office
Information Technology
Public Safety
Title IX
Campus Conduct/Campus Civility
Bookstore
Athletics
Spiritual Life
Counseling Center
Career Center
Library Services
Student Health Services
Wellness and Recreation
Student Experience
Student Health Promotions
You must attend Friday’s mandatory sessions to receive your “Beach Party DSU” armband. This armband will give you access to the SGA Lock-In Party. Remember, no attendance, no armband, NO entry into the SGA Lock-In!
12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Lunch
Conrad Hall | You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Code Red! **MANDATORY**
Memorial Hall Gymnasium
Delaware State University’s health and well-being departments would like to create a strong culture of safety with a goal of preventing incidents, conduct issues and illnesses. Small presentations will be given to remind students of the services available plus allow you to associate a name with a face. You will hear from the following below plus more.
DSU Police Department
Office of Judicial Affairs
Center for Disability Resources
Title IX
Dean of Students
Counseling Center
Health Services
Safe Space Coalition
Game Show Time! Now that you have heard the presentations, let’s play a game! Swarms will go “head-to-head” in competition and compete to win points! In the interactive game show, you could individually win a prize such as a laptop, computer, sweatshirts, gift cards and more!
4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Dinner
Conrad Hall | You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. DSU Table Talk
Women’s Table Talk | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
Let our DSU women stand high and mighty! Table Talk is a fascinating combination of conversations led by dynamic women of various cultures, professions and experiences. That’s right! I am not my hair, dress or attitude – I AM A PROUD DSU WOMAN!
Men’s Barbershop Talk | Memorial Hall
Barbershop Talk is aimed to help improve the health of our DSU gentlemen in our community. We would like to give ways you can improve your attitude, conduct, health and reduce unhealthy habits. Free haircuts will be given to chosen students.
Special Note: Freshmen can attend any session. Please feel free to attend any of the sessions you feel comfortable in joining. Both sessions will be SAFE SPACES for all!
11 p.m. – 1 a.m. DSU Midnight Games
University Village Field days include challenges and engaging activities for a fun experience. From Blind Man’s Volleyball to a Wheelbarrow Race, join us for a few challenges, competitions and fun!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Freshman Class Election Information (Optional) | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
For those interested in making a change for the Class of 2028 who want to be in leadership positions such as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, or Mister and Miss Freshman, this meeting is for you! Please arrive on time and be prepared to get your Student Government Administration (SGA) Freshman Class Application. (Business dress is required!)
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Commuter Welcome and Tours!!!! | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
It’s your time, commuters! DSU will host a welcome for you in the MLK Student Center! We will offer tours of the campus and information about services.
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Hip Hop Workout | Memorial Hall Gymnasium
Join us as we get a hype dance cardio routine that can be treated as a workout or just to have some fun! Please wear your workout clothes to this exciting event. Breakfast bars, fruit and water will provided.
11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Brunch | Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Hornet Induction Ceremony | Memorial Hall Gymnasium **MANDATORY**
Take your final steps to becoming a member of the Hornet Nation’s legacy of future leaders. Experience this cherished tradition and rite of passage! Professional Attire: White top and black bottoms (Show off your business casual look! Polos, slack, dresses, shirts….) Memorial Hall doors open at 1:30 p.m. All new Hornets will take their Class Picture at this time!
3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. The President’s Reception | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
After your pinning ceremony, join us for refreshments and music!
4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Dinner | Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
7 p.m. – 10 p.m. SGA “Lock In” | Memorial Hall Gymnasium **SPECIAL ARMBAND REQUIRED**
“Lock In” with your Student Government Association for the evening! It’s time to celebrate and PARTY!!! THEME: Beach Party DSU!!!!
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Freshman Class Election Information (Optional) | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
For those interested in making a change for the Class of 2028 who want to be in leadership positions such as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, or Mister and Miss Freshman, this meeting is for you! Please arrive on time and be prepared to get your Student Government Administration (SGA) Freshman Class Application. (Business dress is required!)
10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Brunch | Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Squad Goals (Optional) | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
“Squad Goals” is a panel of student leaders about life at DSU. Our Welcome Days Leaders are seasoned DSU students. Your Welcome Weekend Leaders will help guide you throughout the rest of the weekend and upcoming week. Don’t forget to ask them questions; they LOVE questions!
1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
University Class Prayer | Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center
Join the Department of Spiritual Life for enlightenment and positivity as we pray for a peaceful and productive Fall Semester! Plus, learn about the “Sting Service” offered on Sundays!
2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Caribbean Party | Stadium Practice Field
Join us for a day party where it will be exciting music and color powder to throw! Remember to wear old clothes!
4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Dinner | Conrad Hall
You must have your Delaware State ID Card to enter the Dining Hall.
Prepare for your first day of class! Good luck!
DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD
OF TRUSTEES
Leroy A. Tice, Esq., Chair
Dr. Debbie Harrington, 1st Vice Chair
Mr. John J. Allen Jr., 2nd Vice Chair
Ms. Tamara Stoner, Board Secretary
Mr. William Collick
Mr. James L. Collins
Norman D. Griffiths, Esq.
Dr. Wilma Mishoe
Dr. Janice E. Nevin
Mr. John Ridgeway
Mr. Chip Rossi
Dr. Marlene Saunders
Ms. Jocelyn Stewart
Ms. Bernadette Dorsey Whatley
EX-OFFICIO
The Honorable John Carney, Governor of the State of Delaware
Dr. Tony Allen, President, Delaware State University
TRUSTEE EMERITI
Dr. A. Richard Barros, Esq.
Dr. Claibourne D. Smith
PRESIDENT EMERITI
Dr. Wilma Mishoe
Dr. Harry L. Williams
ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCIL
Dr. Tony Allen, President
Mr. Anas Ben Addi, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Antonio Boyle, Senior Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management
Dr. Irene Chapman-Hawkins, Executive Vice President
Dr. Stacy Downing, Chief Administrator, DSU Downtown Campus, and Vice President of Strategic Initiatives
Dr. Patrice Gilliam, Interim Provost
Ms. Jackie Griffith, Chief of Staff/Vice President of Government and Community Relations
Mr. Darrell McMillon, Chief Information Officer/Vice President of Information Technology
Dr. Dawn Mosley, Senior Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications
LaKresha Moultrie, Esq., Vice President of Legal Affairs, General Counsel and Chief Enterprise Risk Officer
Mr. James T. Overton, Police Superintendent/Vice President for Student Affairs
Dr. Vita Pickrum, Vice President of Institutional Advancement
Mr. Bernard Pratt, Associate Vice President of Facilities Management, Planning and Construction
Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson, Director of Athletics
Ms. Tamara Stoner, University Secretary and Assistant Vice President of Auxiliary Services
Mr. C. Tony Tucker, Senior Associate Vice President for Athletics and Wellness and Recreation
MISSION STATEMENT
Rigorously leverage a proud HBCU legacy and commitment to excellence in every field of human endeavor to enhance the recruitment and preparation of talented professionals to contribute to a sustainable, global community.
VISION STATEMENT
Delaware State University strives to become America’s most diverse, contemporary HBCU by expanding its capacity to provide a life-changing, high-quality, low-cost education to 10,000+ students; continuing our efforts to achieve R1 “very high research activity” status; and having a significant, measurable impact on the social, technological, and economic challenges that face our State, the nation, and the world.
CORE VALUES
Community, Integrity, Diversity, Scholarship, Outreach, Contemporary
DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY ALMA MATER
Hail Alma Mater! Thy children greet Thee
Greet Thee with loyalty, love, strength and truth
Here in Thine ancient halls, o’er Thy plains so verdant
Thou art our guide in the pathways of youth.
From the broad world without, come Thy sons and daughters
Bearing our laurels to lay at Thy shrine
E’er shall we heed Thy call. Ne’er shall we fail Thee
Loved Alma Mater, God bless Thee and Thine.
–Pauline Williams LeCompte ’26
–Music by Alexis Lvov, 1833
UNIVERSITY FACTS
Mascot: The Hornet
University Colors: Columbia Blue and Red
PRESIDENT
Dr. Tony Allen
QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS
Please
the Office of Student
