Savannah State University (SSU) is pleased to announce that it is renaming Tiger Court as Bostic Hall during a ceremony on campus on August 19 at 9 a.m.
The former Bostic Hall, built as an all-male facility with a 200-bed capacity, was shuttered in 2016 and underwent demolition earlier this year. The hall was named in memory of Melvin Bostic, an engineering technology freshman and army veteran who was slain in Savannah on October 7, 1972.
Born in Lakeland, Fla., on February 1, 1950, Bostic served honorably in the U.S. Army before beginning his academic journey at Savannah State College, now University, in 1972. His military background instilled discipline, leadership, and a deep sense of duty—values that continued to guide him in civilian life. An enthusiastic campus leader, he volunteered in the university’s annual scholarship drive, reflecting his commitment to supporting fellow Tigers and building a stronger student community.
On the morning of October 7, 1972, Bostic stood at the intersection of Abercorn Street and Victory Drive collecting donations when a passing car stopped. According to police and eyewitnesses, someone grabbed his donation cup, and the vehicle accelerated, dragging Bostic approximately 60 feet. He fell from the car, suffered a severe head injury and tragically lost his life.
News of his untimely death shook the Savannah State family. Then President Prince Albert Jackson, Jr. and two buses of students traveled to Lakeland to join the family for the funeral services and mourn the fallen Tiger. During the eulogy, President Jackson shared that the male dormitory that Melvin occupied would be named in his honor, declaring, “as long as we say Melvin’s name, he will never die!”
“We wanted to rename Tiger Court to continue to honor the memory of Mr. Melvin Bostic,” said SSU President Dr. Jermaine Whirl. “As we embark on a new era and build upon the rich legacy that has defined SSU for 135 years, we must remember our history and the many people who have contributed to the success of SSU.
Bostic’s life, though tragically cut short, continues to resonate deeply across Savannah State University. Tributes have persisted in his honor to include the naming of Melvin Bostic Day on November 7 by the City of Savannah, candlelight vigils, wreath-laying ceremonies, memorial programs and the Melvin Bostic Legacy Awards. His selfless commitment to scholarship and community remains a living standard—encouraging students to unite, serve, and transcend every challenge.
