Norfolk State University

Norfolk State University is a public historically Black university located in Norfolk, Virginia. Founded in 1935, it is part of Virginia’s public higher education system and offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. The university began as a unit of Virginia Union University and later became an independent institution. Norfolk State University serves a diverse student body and is known for programs in business, education, engineering, social sciences, and the sciences. As an urban campus in the Hampton Roads region, it attracts students seeking a comprehensive university experience with strong ties to the surrounding community and public service traditions. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norfolk_State_University?utm_source=openai))

Norfolk State University was founded on September 18, 1935, as the Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University in Norfolk, Virginia. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norfolk_State_University?utm_source=openai)) Lyman Beecher Brooks became director in 1938 and later served as the first president, guiding the institution through its early growth. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyman_Brooks?utm_source=openai)) Initially established to provide higher education opportunities to African American students during segregation, the institution expanded its academic offerings and enrollment in the mid-twentieth century. By 1950, enrollment had surpassed 1,000 students, reflecting steady development. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norfolk_State_University?utm_source=openai)) Norfolk State University eventually gained independence from Virginia Union University and became a state-supported institution, evolving into a comprehensive university with undergraduate and graduate programs. Over the decades, Norfolk State University expanded its campus and academic scope, and in 2020 received a historic $40 million gift that marked one of the largest donations in its history. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norfolk_State_University?utm_source=openai))