By Anthony Howard
(JACKSON, Miss.) — The Jackson State University community is mourning the loss of Elayne Hayes-Anthony, Ph.D., a respected educator, communications leader, and former acting president of the university, who passed away this morning, March 5, 2026.
Hayes-Anthony dedicated decades of service to advancing education, journalism and public communication in Mississippi and beyond. Known for her unwavering commitment to student success and academic excellence, she mentored countless aspiring journalists and communications professionals while helping strengthen JSU’s legacy as a leading historically Black university.
“As we mourn the passing of Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony, we remember her career as she remained deeply committed to the success of our students and to the advancement of journalism and media education at Jackson State,” said Interim President Denise Jones-Gregory, Ph.D. “Her leadership in the classroom, within her department and across the institution helped shape generations of communicators and storytellers. On behalf of the Jackson State University family, we extend our sincere condolences to her family, former students and colleagues.”
A proud alumna of Jackson State, Hayes-Anthony earned both her bachelor’s degree in speech communication with an emphasis in broadcasting and a master’s degree in educational technology from the university. She later earned a doctorate in organizational communication and broadcast law from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Throughout her distinguished career, Hayes-Anthony held numerous leadership roles in higher education and public service. She served as professor and chair of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at Jackson State University, prior to her death, and previously chaired the Department of Communications at Belhaven University for 17 years.
In 2023, Hayes-Anthony was appointed acting president of Jackson State University, guiding the institution during a pivotal period and continuing her long-standing commitment to the university’s mission of educating and empowering future leaders.
Before her work in higher education administration, Hayes-Anthony built a groundbreaking career in broadcast journalism. She made history as the first Black woman to serve as an anchor, producer and reporter at WJTV Channel 12 in Jackson, Mississippi, helping open doors for women and people of color in the news industry.
Her influence extended beyond the classroom and newsroom. Hayes-Anthony served as president of the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters, becoming the first Black woman and journalism educator to lead the organization. She also served as assistant superintendent of communications for Jackson Public Schools and held numerous civic and professional leadership roles throughout the state.
Hayes-Anthony was widely admired for her passion for teaching, her commitment to community engagement, and her tireless advocacy for journalism and ethical communication.
She is survived by her husband, Eddie Anthony; her son, Willard Anthony; and her grandson, Aiden Anthony. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family at a later date.
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