(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University has named Nicholas J. Hill, Ph.D., dean of the College of Business, effective August 1. A proud JSU alumnus, Hill returns to the university after an accomplished career in higher education. He previously served in several leadership roles at Jackson State and most recently as dean of the School of Business at Claflin University.
“Dr. Hill’s homecoming is welcomed by the College of Business,” said Preselfannie E. Whitfield McDaniels, Ph.D., interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. “We are committed to preparing our students for the evolving workforce, building new industry partnerships and driving economic growth for our state. He understands the strengths and aspirations of our community—his leadership will help us reach the next level of academic and professional excellence. We are excited to welcome him back to the Tiger family.”
During his tenure at Claflin University, Hill introduced digital marketing and project management degree concentrations and developed professional certificate programs aligned with market needs. He secured over $3 million in grant funding, forged key partnerships with regional employers, and co-led the Economic Development Administration University Center focused on entrepreneurship and regional economic growth.
Reflecting on his return, Hill said, “Jackson State is where I discovered my calling as an educator and leader. I know firsthand the power of mentorship, the importance of community and the difference JSU can make in a student’s life. I’m eager to build on our legacy of excellence, support our outstanding faculty and create new pathways for our students to succeed in a changing world. There is nowhere I’d rather be now than serving the institution that gave so much to me.”
At Jackson State, Hill was instrumental in launching the Center for Research in Economic Education and Financial Literacy, which provided professional development for K‑12 educators and advanced economic education across Mississippi. As director of the Ph.D. program in business, he led efforts resulting in a 100 percent placement rate for doctoral graduates. He also served as interim chair of the Department of Business Administration, collaborated with faculty to develop new curriculum options, and supported student entrepreneurship through initiatives such as the Leadership Institute for Entrepreneurship (LIFE) Summer Program.
Hill’s research spans health, labor and urban economics, emphasizing entrepreneurship, economic mobility and education outcomes. He has published peer-reviewed articles, presented at national conferences and served as principal investigator on grant-funded projects supported by the National Science Foundation and U.S. Department of Commerce.
Hill founded the John Nicholas Consulting Group, LLC, as an economic consultant for city, nonprofit and regional development organizations. He is married to Dr. Mary‑Margarette Hill and a father of four sons.
The JSU College of Business is accredited by AACSB International, a distinction held by fewer than six percent of business schools worldwide. It is recognized for preparing students for leadership in business, public service and entrepreneurship.