Delaware State is no longer a college for African Americans without other choices, it is a university of choice.

Upon arriving, meeting their teachers and signing up for classes, these students began to realize that their attendance at Delaware State University was not a goal achieved, but rather a dream being sewn - a first step, if you will.

These fallen heroes represent the character of a nation who has a long history of patriotism and honor - and a nation who has fought many battles to keep our country free from threats of terror.

When Delaware State University was founded in 1890, it was not by choice, but by social reality.

During the days of segregation, there was not a place of higher learning for African Americans. They were simply not welcome in many of the traditional schools. And from this backward policy grew the network of historical black colleges and universities.

I believe it is important for the university to always remember its roots.

But all of this success came at the end of a long climb.