Cord Byrd: “West Virginia State College in Institute, West Virginia, was designated by Congress as one of the original 1890…”

“West Virginia State College in Institute, West Virginia, was designated by Congress as one of the original 1890 land-grant schools under the Second Morrill Act. The college was the first 1890 land-grant school to be accredited and has been accredited longer than any other public college or university in West Virginia. West Virginia was one of six states to establish a new land-grant college under State control. West Virginia State College faithfully met its duties to the citizens of West Virginia as a land-grant college in an outstanding manner. However, on October 23, 1956, the State Board of Education voted to surrender the land-grant status of State College (effective July 1, 1957). Historical data suggests that this action was taken in an effort to enhance State College's ability to accommodate veterans returning home with GI benefits. In addition, the decision to surrender the land-grant status preceded explicit funding by Congress for land-grant institutions. For thirty-three years, West Virginia State College has sought to regain its land-grant status.”