Event brings discipline, safety and future-planning to the forefront for the upcoming prom season
By Anthony Howard
(Jackson, Miss.) — Jackson State University (JSU) hosted its 2026 P.R.O.M. Promise event, welcoming hundreds of high school students from the Jackson Public School District (JPS) for a day focused on empowerment, education and life preparation. This year’s event was highlighted by a special appearance from Shilo Sanders, whose message resonated strongly with attendees. Sanders, known for his leadership both on and off the field, shared personal insights on discipline, accountability and making positive life choices.
“Your decisions today shape your future,” Sanders told students. “Stay focused, surround yourself with the right people, and always remember your goals.”
The P.R.O.M. Promise—Please Return On Monday—is a signature initiative created by JSU’s Metro Jackson Community Prevention Coalition (MJCPC) designed to guide students in making informed, responsible decisions during prom season and beyond. The program addresses critical topics such as personal safety, peer pressure, mental and physical health, and post-secondary planning.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving, especially texting or using social media while driving, is common among younger drivers. Statistics gathered by NHTSA documented that 3,275 people were killed in distraction-related crashes in 2023; 241 were teens, 15 to 19 years old.
“We started this initiative about 18 years ago. It started with small groups and has grown to this big event,” said Henry Thompson, director and principal investigator of MJCPC. “We’re trying to make sure these students return home safely without drinking and driving.”
Held on JSU’s campus, the event featured a rollover crash demonstration by the Mississippi Department of Transportation, a Q&A session with Sanders and a motivational speech from speaker Dwight Owens.
The high school students were also surprised by a live performance from Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based rapper H3adband. He performed his viral TikTok hit, “Boo,” which is currently on the Billboard Hot 100.
MJCPC emphasized that P.R.O.M. Promise is about preparing students for prom night and equipping them with tools for lifelong success. The program continues to grow each year, reinforcing JSU’s leadership in outreach and mentorship.
