By Arrianna Edwards
Jackson State University will commemorate its 147th Founders’ Day on October 24, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. on the Administration Tower Lawn. Keynote speaker John Henry Williams Jr., D. Min, will help mark this milestone in JSU’s long-standing history of academic excellence, community leadership, and commitment to advancing education for future generations.
Williams is a fifth-generation minister who has been preaching and pastoring Black Baptist churches across Mississippi, Alabama and Florida for 46 years. A husband, father, speaker and author, Williams has dedicated his life to ministry and education, having earned multiple degrees, including a Bachelor’s and Master of Art in history from Jackson State, a Master of Arts in biblical studies, and a Master of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from the Beeson Divinity School.
Williams is currently a seminary instructor at Selma University and the Ministry Training Program at Samford University. He is a respected figure in Black church history and organizational leadership and the author of several noted works, including Black Baptists in Mississippi, The Tragedy of Unkempt Vineyards (1869-1895), and Three Days Journey into the Wilderness: Volume One; The Exodusters, 1790-1899.
Williams is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Following the close of the ceremony, Hilliard Lackey III, Ph.D., will conduct the centennial bell ringing at the bell tower near Ayer Hall in recognition of Jackson State’s 147 years.
