Selma University gets $750,000 grant to preserve historic hall

Selma University was awarded $750,000 by the National Park Service to remodel Foster Hall.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-AL, Vice Chair of the Congressional Historically Black Colleges and Universities Caucus, helped secure the funding for Selma University. Foster Hall was built in 1910 and named for Susie C. Foster, president of the Women’s Convention at the time.

“This is about ensuring that the rich legacy of this cherished institution lives on for generations to come,” Sewell said. “As Representative for America’s Civil Rights District, I am proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Civil Rights Grant Program. Fighting for funding like this will continue to be one of my top legislative priorities.”

Selma University President Dr. Stanford Angion, a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., said he appreciates the donation.

“I am extremely grateful for the grant award,” Angion said. “Foster Hall is the oldest extant building on Selma University’s campus. These funds will help us to protect and restore it for use as a women’s dormitory.”

NPS Director Chuck Sams said HBCUs are an important part of America.

“It’s vital for America’s HBCUs to preserve their vibrant history, ensuring that the places and the events that happened there are not forgotten,” Sams said.

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