By: Tangelia Kelly, Ph.D.
(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University received top honors at the 2025 Hometown Hero Awards, earning more recognitions than any other institution or organization. Hosted by Visit Jackson, the annual event celebrates individuals and groups who shape the capital city’s tourism, culture and community life.
“We are honored to be recognized across four categories that reflect the heart of Jackson State,” said President Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. “These awards affirm who we are and where we are headed as THEE Standard for excellence. Jackson State is competing at a national level and leading with purpose. Each recognition reflects a strategy to elevate education, drive culture and serve this city.”
JSU earned awards in athletics, music, education and tradition. Each reflects how the university continues to strengthen academic visibility, cultural presence and civic engagement across Mississippi.
Head football coach T.C. Taylor received the Travel and Tourism Industry Employees Award for his leadership during the Tigers’ standout 2024 season.
Jackson State won the Southwestern Athletic Conference title and the Celebration Bowl, securing the 2024 HBCU National Championship. It marked JSU’s fourth national title and its first since 1996.
“This award means a lot, but it’s not just about me,” said Taylor. “We play for our city, our students, our alumni and every supporter who stands with JSU. THEE Yard stays guarded because our community shows up every time.”
The City of Jackson held a championship parade in honor of the team’s achievement. Taylor’s leadership helped drive fan travel and game-day tourism, making each home game a boost for the local economy.
Jackson State led the Football Championship Subdivision in attendance for the third straight year, drawing more than 27,000 fans per home game at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, often called “THEE Vet.”
JSU’s 2024 Homecoming, themed “THEE House Party,” received the Festival or Event of the Year honor under the S.U.M.I.T.T. Awards. Tens of thousands of alumni and visitors traveled to Jackson for the week’s events, including concerts, service projects and alumni programming sparking a surge in local tourism.
“This wasn’t just a homecoming. It was a cultural moment,” said Jonas Vanderbilt, Ph.D., vice president for student affairs. “It brought together generations of Tigers and reminded us of the spirit that makes Jackson State a home.”
The Sonic Boom of the South received the Tourism Visionary Award, the evening’s highest recognition. In 2024, the band drew national attention with performances at the Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif. and at Super Bowl LVIII alongside Usher.
Those appearances reached millions and placed Jackson on a national stage. Praise from artists like Tyler, the Creator and Travis Scott helped elevate the Boom’s legacy and JSU’s cultural reach.
“The Sonic Boom doesn’t just perform, we create moments for our members and fan base to remember,” said Roderick Little, Ph.D., director of bands. “Our students carry this tradition with excellence and pride. This award reflects how far that tradition travels.”
Eugenia Scott, Ph.D., of the College of Education and Human Development, received the Meeting and Group Tour Planners award for coordinating academic and professional events that brought hundreds of visitors to Jackson.
Jackson State’s recognition across four categories highlights its expanding role as both a regional anchor and a cultural force.