Jackson State University (JSU) proudly announces the appointment of Almesha L. Campbell, Ph.D., as vice president of research and economic development, after a national search. A distinguished leader in research and innovation, Dr. Campbell brings over 15 years of transformative contributions to JSU where she has played a pivotal role in advancing the university’s research capacity and fostering a culture of innovation. Her leadership will be instrumental as JSU moves toward its strategic plan goal of becoming a Carnegie-classified R1 institution.
“Dr. Campbell’s ability to merge academic research with innovative enterprise is unparalleled. Her strategic leadership and passion for student success make her the ideal choice to lead our research enterprise into its most ambitious era. She embodies THEE Standard for excellence and innovation that define Jackson State University,” said JSU President Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., highlighting Campbell’s vital contributions to the institution and vision for the future.
A two-time JSU alumna, Campbell exemplifies the values and vision of the university. She has served as assistant vice president for Research and Economic Development and director of Technology Transfer and Commercialization, where she spearheaded efforts to secure over $12 million in competitive grants and establish programs that bridge academic research with real-world applications. These accomplishments include leading the development of the Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Development, which has garnered national recognition for advancing interdisciplinary research and innovation.
Campbell, who also holds the distinction of being an honorary member of the National Academy of Inventors, shared her enthusiasm for the new role.
“I am deeply honored to serve as the Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Thompson for entrusting me with this important role. I look forward to working with him and other members of his cabinet to advance the mission of JSU,” she said. “I am excited to continue collaborating with our exceptional faculty, staff, and students, as well as our other stakeholders, to expand the boundaries of innovation, forge impactful partnerships, and elevate JSU’s research enterprise to new heights.”
Campbell’s influence extends beyond JSU. As the first Black and first HBCU-affiliated chair of AUTM, she has shaped global innovation practices, advocating for inclusive research strategies and fostering partnerships with academic institutions, industry leaders and federal agencies. This includes securing collaborations with HP, Princeton University, and Leidos, which have enriched JSU’s research opportunities and elevated its global profile. Her work as an AUTM leader has also provided invaluable insights into best practices for research commercialization, a skillset she brings back to benefit JSU’s faculty and students.
Her dedication to advancing academic excellence is evident in her work with the JSU Innovation Fellows Program, which equips students across disciplines with the skills to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. Through programs like the National Science Foundation (NSF) I-Corps Mid-South Hub, the NIH Mid-South REACH Hub and the NSF Engines Development Award, she not only helps faculty and students to translate their academic discoveries into real-world applications and solutions but prepares students for the workforce and strengthens JSU’s reputation as a hub for interdisciplinary research. These efforts also help to transform Mississippi into a knowledge-based economy.
Campbell earned a Bachelor of Science in liberal studies and marketing from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Science in mass communications and a doctoral degree in public policy from Jackson State University. Campbell is a native of Saint Kitts and Nevis, a country in the Caribbean, and the mother of two daughters.
Campbell’s appointment is contingent upon approval by the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning.