Delaware State University & East Dover Hundred in Kent County, Delaware — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Dr. Jerome Holland
Delaware State College President | 1953 - 1960
Delaware State College Highlights:
Accreditation Dr. Holland restructured academic programs to create a stronger academic environment. In 1957, Delaware State College regained accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Legislative Relationships Delaware Governor J. Caleb Boggs initiated the hiring of Dr. Holland, who went on to influence the legislature and community leaders to save the College from closure.
Staff and Faculty Credentials In 1955, Dr. Holland instituted faculty rank criteria and adopted the first-ever Tenure Program. Faculty credentials improved, increasing from eight doctoral faculty members in 1953-54 to 15 in 1959-60.
Enrollment Promotion By initiating in-state scholarship programs, the enrollment increased from 133 students in 1952-53 to 383 students in 1959-60; the number of applicants doubled.
Expanded Academic and Residential Facilities New construction and renovations were accomplished, including a gymnasium, faculty housing, additional classrooms and administrative offices.
Strengthened Athletic Programs Dr. Holland divided the head coaching responsibilities, with a head coach for each Hornets sports team. The revitalization of athletics enhanced the College's
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Community Support through Theater Arts Introduction of Theater Arts enhanced student life and community involvement with the campus.
Office of Alumni Affairs Creation In October 1954, a Delaware State College Alumni Office was created to establish more effective engagement with alumni.
"DSU is because he was."
Robert G. Draine, Sr. '60
Erected by Delaware State University.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Education. In addition, it is included in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities series list. A significant historical month for this entry is October 1954.
Location. 39° 11.258′ N, 75° 32.464′ W. Marker is in Dover, Delaware, in Kent County. It is in Delaware State University & East Dover Hundred. It can be reached from Frontage Road south of Loop Road, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1200 N Dupont Hwy, Dover DE 19901, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the American Mid-Atlantic and on the Delmarva Peninsula. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Delaware State University Arboretum (within shouting distance of this marker); Delaware State College (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Science Center North
Photographed by Devry Becker Jones (CC0), May 24, 2025
3. Dr. Jerome Holland Sculpture
On the podium:
Increased faculty and staff with advanced degrees Enhanced community support by introducing theatre arts Regained accreditation in 1957 Expanded academic and student residence facilities Created the Office of Alumni Affairs Improved legislative relations Promoted enrollment through scholarships and work study Improved athletic programs
Increased faculty and staff with advanced degrees Enhanced community support by introducing theatre arts Regained accreditation in 1957 Expanded academic and student residence facilities Created the Office of Alumni Affairs Improved legislative relations Promoted enrollment through scholarships and work study Improved athletic programs
Credits. This page was last revised on May 15, 2026. It was originally submitted on May 24, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 129 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on May 24, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
