Bush Accepts Commencement Invitation : Black College Finally Lands a President

The president of Alcorn State University has asked every President since Lyndon Johnson to speak at the black college’s commencement. He was a bit surprised when one accepted.

Alcorn State, one of the smallest of Mississippi’s eight public universities, hasn’t had a lot of limelight over the years. “Roots” author Alex Haley--who never graduated--is by far its best-known student. It has also produced some pro-football players.

When President Bush arrives to address Saturday’s commencement, he will be “in the boondocks,” said school President Walter Washington, who proudly added that the President will tour an important place in black history.

Nestled in the rural hills of southwestern Mississippi, the campus is 7 miles west of “downtown” Lorman--an unincorporated hamlet consisting of a post office, two service stations, an old-time general store and a few houses.

The 2,757-student campus is overwhelmingly black and Democratic.

Bush’s visit “speaks well of him,” said James McDonald, the 21-year-old leader of Alcorn State’s 100-member chapter of the Young Democrats.

Others said they just hope Bush actually comes--unlike former Democratic presidential candidate Jesse Jackson, who scratched Alcorn State from his campaign itinerary at the last minute.

“We were standing around outside waiting for Jesse Jackson for a couple of hours,” said 20-year-old Lutrenda Smith of Greenwood. “We got excited for nothing. I’ll believe Bush is here when I see him.”