Jackson State University has expanded its residence life to downtown Jackson for returning students. On Wednesday, the Board of Trustees of the State Institutions of Higher Learning approved the University’s request to provide student housing at the Courthouse and Walthall Lofts.
The newly acquired spaces will accommodate 276 students, in addition to three spaces designated for essential residence life staff.
“Under the leadership of President Dr. Marcus Thompson, Jackson State University is actively expanding its housing options to meet the growing demand. The University is dedicated to developing and securing additional residential spaces while upgrading current spaces to accommodate the increasing number of students eager to join the JSU family. Our priority is to make sure all students have access to quality residential life,” said Dr. Jonas Vanderbilt, vice president of Student Affairs.
Students will notice an increase in cost due to the enhanced downtown loft living experience, which includes numerous amenities such as in-room laundry facilities [in most units], study and recreational rooms, a swimming pool, and a parking garage, adding value and convenience.
Additionally, students residing at the Courthouse and Walthall lofts will have fully equipped kitchens in each unit, removing the need for a meal plan. A JSU meal plan for on-campus students generally costs $4,500-5,000 per academic year.
“The University is already receiving considerable interest from students who are ready to seize this attractive opportunity. Our ongoing commitment is to always provide a quality education in a nurturing environment at an affordable cost,” Vanderbilt said.
Since assuming the presidency in November 2023, Thompson has made significant strides in securing funding for critical JSU initiatives, including housing upgrades, reliable water resources, infrastructure improvements, expanding the University’s footprint, and beautification projects. In May, the University received $23 million in appropriations, one of the largest allocations in its history.
Thompson plans to share further details of his vision for Jackson State at his investiture ceremony on Friday, Sept. 13, at JSU’s Rose E. McCoy Auditorium.
