Kentucky State University - one of the largest predominantly black institution of higher learning in the state, began as a state normal (teacher training) school. On October 15, 1885, Kentucky’s political leaders held a conference in Louisville to discuss the ways to improve the welfare of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The conference made a number of recommendations including the establishment of a normal school to train African American teachers needed for the instruction of black children in elementary schools across the state. On May 18, 1886, the Kentucky state legislature authorized and chartered “the State Normal School for Colored Persons” which would be located in the state capital, Frankfort.
In 1902, the institution’s name was changed to Kentucky Normal and Industrial Institute for Colored Persons. In 1926, the name changed again to Kentucky State Industrial College for Colored Persons. Three years later, in 1929, Institute President Rufus Atwood closed down the high school declaring it was no longer needed since most incoming students had acquired a high school education before arriving on campus. In 1938, the institution’s name was changed a third time to Kentucky State College for Negroes and in 1952 it became Kentucky State College. The first white students were enrolled in 1960 and twelve years later the college became Kentucky State University. By 1973, the first graduate students were enrolled in the school of public affairs.

Did You Know?

Kentucky State University is the state’s smallest public university. Its usual enrollment is 2,600 students with 190 full time faculty members. Students may earn a two year associates degree in three disciplines, a four year baccalaureate degree in 24 disciplines, and a master’s degree in five disciplines.