(JACKSON, Miss.) – With 9,134 students, Jackson State University’s fall enrollment is the highest in the institution’s history. JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers said the enrollment growth shows that JSU continues to be the institution of choice for students seeking a quality education that will prepare them to compete globally.
“Our faculty and staff are committed to providing the best possible higher education experience for students. The successful matriculation of students is our ultimate goal. That’s the reason we’ve invested in academics, innovative programs and technology,” Meyers said.
The fall 2013 enrollment is a 3.6 percent increase over the fall 2012 figure of 8,819. The fall 2013 enrollment represents the highest percentage increase of all Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. The historic enrollment surpasses JSU’s spring 2013 enrollment of 8,760 students, which also was a record for a spring tally.
The fall 2013 enrollment includes a freshman class of some 1,100 students – a more than 25 percent increase over the previous fall. Within that class is the highest number ever of incoming freshmen who have met the criteria for JSU’s W.E.B. Du Bois Honors College.
“We are pleased to know we’re attracting some of the best students in Mississippi and from around the country,” Meyers said.
Over the past year, JSU has added 35 new faculty positions, installed more smart classrooms, improved laboratories and made campus-wide technological upgrades.
The university also has strengthened its ties with other institutions, forming partnerships with Hinds Community College and Holmes Community College with the goal of increasing the number of students who receive a bachelor’s degree.
Earlier this year, JSU opened a site in Madison. This fall, nearly 400 students are enrolled at that location, taking evening classes.
“These efforts reflect the commitment to our mission and the vision of IHL Commissioner Hank Bounds and President Meyers to provide expanded educational opportunities to Mississippians,” said JSU Provost James C. Renick.
JSU is a historically black, high research activity university. Located near downtown, JSU has six satellite locations throughout the metro area.