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Jackson State alumni, friends and campus community are invited to support their alma mater and urban institution during JSU Day at the Capitol by thanking elected officials for their service to the university and soliciting continued financial support of projects that will enhance the institution.
JSU Day at the Capitol is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 23, from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
“This is an opportunity for us to engage decision-makers in a meaningful way beyond the occasional letter or email. It is critical for all alumni to become constant, vocal stakeholders in the issues that matter to Jackson State University,” said Yolanda Owens, president of Jackson State University National Alumni Association.
JSUNAA chair for Political Action Committee/Mississippi Regional Vice President Floyd Williams says a big turnout at this event by JSU supporters is vital. “We need our alumni to show up in big numbers so the 174 legislators on the hill will recognize our presence and advocate for our university’s advancement.”
As it pertains to JSU and its 2017-18 legislative agenda, President Dr. William B. Bynum Jr. is seeking appropriations for three projects/priorities that will significantly improve Mississippi’s public urban university.
The three priorities/projects that seek funding are the School of Public Health, Stewart Hall renovations and School of Education addition:
1. School of Public Health: Requesting $2 million to become part of the annual Institution of Higher Learning appropriation from the legislature so that JSU can have stable funding. Funding will help continue a partnership with University of Mississippi Medical Center and other Mississippi healthcare entities so JSU can combat serious public health issues that the state currently faces.
2. Stewart Hall: Requesting $7 million this year for total renovation of the residence hall, adding 140 additional spaces for males on campus. Urgent funding is needed because research has consistently shown that students who reside on campus are far more likely to graduate than those who live off campus.
3. School of Education Addition: To be of more assistance to Jackson Public Schools and the state, the addition to the area will allow JSU to modernize, expand and provide its 2,500 students with a state-of-the-art facility. The facility will enhance education and training and allow for greater Praxis passing rates.
Representatives from JSU’s College of Education and Human Development; School of Public Health; College of Science, Engineering and Technology; and the Department of Alumni and Constituency Relations will be on-site to exhibit highlights and share accolades from their areas. Students from JSU’s vocal jazz and jazz combo will provide 30 minutes of music during breakfast, which will be served by Sodexo.