Anika Noni Rose has booked the lead role in BET’s 2-hour scripted pilot "The Yard," in which the actress will play the newly-elected President of the fictional college Georgia A&M who, Upon her arrival, finds a bold and diverse freshman class that will keep her hands full.

Previously announced cast members include Peyton Alex Smith, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Sean Blakemore and Jasmine Guy. 

Rob Hardy will direct the project.

Up next for Rose is the role of Kizzy on the History Channel’s remake of "Roots" which premieres next month; she will also soon be seen in the new season of "Power" on the Starz network.

It’s good to see BET continue to push into the original scripted drama department (it’s still not clear whether "Being Mary Jane" will return with the Akils now gone), especially as other black TV networks like TV One and the much younger Bounce TV make gains in that area as well.