By Jatavian Walker
(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University (JSU) has unveiled a new mural inside its postal office created by JSU alumni and award-winning contemporary artist Christopher Windfield. The mural, located in the Jacob L. Reddix Hall illustrates the university’s rich history and features key civil rights figures.
The project was led by JSU’s Auxiliary Enterprises Executive Director Kamesha Hill, Assistant Director Victor Mills and JSU Postal Manager Stephanie Luckett.
“Our goal in Auxiliary Enterprises is to always tell our own story and to partner with alumni or vendors who love Jackson State University as much as we do,” Hill said. “We wanted to give students a visual of excellence and create a warm, inviting space. I am grateful that Victor and Stephanie executed the project so well.”
“This mural should serve as a daily reminder of the strength, resilience and legacy of Jackson State University,” said Mills. “By honoring our alumni, civil rights heroes, we show students, faculty, staff and the community that they, too, can make a difference. It’s a beautiful addition to our campus and a powerful reflection of our commitment to service through Auxiliary Enterprises.”
Illustrations of historical figures such as Jackie Robinson, Constance Baker Motley, Joanne Trumpauer, Malcolm X, Booker T. Washington and César E. Chávez cover part of the wall alongside postal stamps and other cultural elements. Another section highlights the first Black women mail carriers for the U.S. Army and a depiction of the 1970 Gibbs-Green tragedy, featuring Philip L. Gibbs and James Earl Green.
“I always feel drawn to do anything for Jackson State,” said Windfield. “I love to create art, but when I create something for Jackson State, I definitely try to put my all into it. I think it’s so important now that people don’t just see the beauty of the art, but also learn the history behind it.”
Windfield began the project in June after a call from Mills, a fellow JSU alumnus and former classmate. He completed two phases of the project in August.
“It’s all about feeling pride. I hope the students walk through the building and see firsthand the history and stories that have helped make up our university,” said Luckett. “We’ve painted that history with our students in mind so that they can also feel proud to be a part of JSU’s history.”
The mural project will continue to expand, with upcoming phases highlighting notable JSU alum and a special dedication to JSU’s Sonic Boom of the South.