By Jatavian Walker
(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University (JSU) welcomed over 1,300 incoming freshmen and transfer students to campus for the 2025 fall semester. Students officially arrived during move-in day, held Saturday, Aug. 9, as part of this year’s theme: “Experience Thee Magic of JSU.”
“We’re honored to welcome our newest Tigers to Jackson State,” said Interim JSU President Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. “There are so many positive things happening at Jackson State, including our new programs in artificial intelligence and mechanical engineering, and we’re grateful for the energy and interest we’re seeing from prospective students.”
New Tigers began their journey in the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center at the university’s One Stop Shop. The convenient registration experience provided students with direct access to offices including admissions, housing, business, financial aid, auxiliary services and academic advising.
“The early planning and cross-collaborative efforts of each entity of the campus helped to ensure a seamless plan that catered to the customer, our students and their experience,” said Dr. Jonas Vanderbilt, vice president of student affairs. “With a sprinkle of the JSU magic we have all come to love and adore here at THEE I love, the new tigers are equipped to begin their journey as we make memories for them and get them to the finish line in 2029.”
After students completed their registration, they were greeted by JSU service ambassadors and volunteers who made the move-in process efficient and smooth. Naya Chadwick, a senior social work major, is a first-year ambassador and said she values the chance to help new students adjust to campus life — their new home away from home.
“Volunteering is just something that I value and prioritize, especially in my major as a social worker,” said Chadwick. “We have many students who want to help and serve our campus and community. As service ambassadors, we help keep everything organized and make sure everyone knows where to go, where to be and what time.”
Kyrie Naylor, a computer science major from Meridian, Mississippi, is a second-generation JSU student. He is part of the Aristocrats STEM and Health Sciences Program, which helps STEM majors navigate their academic load while attending the university.
“I hope to earn my degree and make an impact,” said Naylor. “I like getting to know people and listening when something is wrong or they need someone to talk to.”
Hearing Naylor’s words prompted an emotional response from his mother, Porschia Christien, who left him with a few more gems of wisdom as he begins his next chapter.
“Push forward, no matter what obstacles come,” said Christien.“What’s meant for you will be for you. Put 100% behind whatever you’re doing, and it will all come together.”
Egypt Purnell psychology major from Starkville, Mississippi, transferred to JSU from Alcorn State University. She said her decision was motivated by her ambition to one day pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology.
“There is a clinical psychology doctorate here, so it’ll be an easy transition into graduate studies,” said Purnell. “I have already been in college and know what to expect. That is one perk of being a transfer student.”
JSU’s 2025 Welcome Week ran from August 10 -16 and concluded with The Merge on Saturday, August 16, at 4:00 p.m.