By Rachel James-Terry
Jackson State University experienced a 1.7% increase in first-time freshmen enrollment, reflecting a growing interest among new students. This upward enrollment trend aligns with a notable 5.8% rise in applications from first-time freshmen and a substantial 13.5% increase in freshman admits. However, housing constraints limited the university’s ability to convert the increased admits to enrollments. This challenge spotlights the need for additional housing and resources to support JSU’s expanding student body.
President Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., expressed assurance in the university’s direction and optimism that more students will continue to choose the HBCU.
“At Jackson State, my administration is just getting started. I remain confident that as a 21st-century institution, our innovative programs – from AI and cybersecurity to audiology and data analytics – will attract students and drive our university toward continued success. Our recent enrollment trends inspire our commitment to evolving with the demands of the modern workforce, positioning JSU as a leading choice for students ready to become who they are meant to be.”
Earlier this year, JSU received a $2 million grant from the Entergy Charitable Foundation to help create the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab in the College of Science, Engineering and Technology. The partnership between Entergy and Jackson State will create an innovation hub that will help train a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce.
The institution is also the first HBCU to implement the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP). Addressing the financial challenges many graduates face, the LRAP will aid in repaying federal, private and parent PLUS loans if their post-graduation income is below $45,000. In June, JSU and the University of Mississippi School of Law unveiled their new 3+3 Accelerated Law Program. For the first time, JSU students can fast-track their legal education, completing their undergraduate and law degrees in just six years.
“New programs in high-demand fields and virtual recruiting platforms are among the ways we are broadening our outreach to prospective students across Mississippi and beyond,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management Kylon Alford-Windfield. “Our focus is not only attracting first-time freshmen but also graduate and non-traditional students through JSU Online. With more than 90 areas of study, we have something for everyone. Our ultimate goal is to equip every student who joins our family with the tools and resources to succeed.”
In addition to expanding academic and technological resources, JSU is actively pursuing funding and partnerships to alleviate the housing shortage. Affordable university-owned housing is vital for many students, not only for access and affordability but also for the stability it provides during their educational journey.
Recently, the university reintroduced students to One University Place after purchasing the apartment complex and transforming it into a student-centered residence space.
What’s Next: On Saturday, Nov. 9, at 8 a.m. Jackson State University will host its annual High School Day at the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center, inviting students from across the country to experience firsthand the rich culture and engaging community that makes JSU an exceptional choice for higher education. Click here for more information.