By William H. Kelly III
(JACKSON, Miss.) – Jackson State University (JSU) welcomed hundreds of students to the JSU Student Center for the second annual “Happy Monday! Student Appreciation Party” on April 14. The event, led by JSU President Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., offered a night of high-paced fun, engaging activities and a shared sense of belonging.
Among several initiatives and activities centered around quality customer service, Thompson launched “Happy Monday!” in March 2024 to ensure that students feel seen, valued, celebrated and confident.
“’Happy Monday!’ is about more than celebration. It is about reminding our students that they matter and giving them the energy to finish strong,” said Thompson. “Students are the North Star of this administration. As finals approach, we want them to feel supported, appreciated and focused on success at Jackson State.”
Students were invited to a worry-free, immersive three-level experience with various themes and spring-inspired decor. From brunch-inspired decorations and food options, an elaborate milkshake and ice cream bar, candy and popcorn station, faux grass walls, neon signs and elegant seating, the space welcomed the JSU community to an accommodating and personalized experience.
Jai Wilson, a senior journalism and media studies student, attended both the 2024 and 2025 student appreciation parties and appreciated the opportunity for students to connect.
“My favorite part is watching everybody dance together, especially when there’s a line dance that everybody knows,” said Wilson. “I love seeing students come together because that’s what it’s all about. It’s the student body coming together. They feel appreciated, and we appreciate each other.”
She added that the entertainment was flexible and inclusive.
“There are different places I can go within the student center. Some are quieter, others are more social. I think that’s really nice. You can participate as much or as little as you want.”
With a large 28-foot-by-16-foot stage, digital screen and DJ, students eagerly flooded the first floor to dance the night away. Others gathered in the JSU Student Center theater to watch the 2025 film “One of Them Days,” produced by award-winning actress, writer and producer Issa Rae.
Alex Gittens, a graduate student pursuing a master’s in education, said he personally thanked President Thompson for organizing the event.
“This is a great event. Whatever your interest is, you’re taken care of,” Gittens said.“If you’re more reserved and chill, they have movies playing in the theater. If you like to dance, you can go to the first floor. This is a really well-done event. I wasn’t expecting this.”
Gittens, a native of Ontario, Canada, began his graduate studies at JSU last August in pursuit of the HBCU experience.
“We don’t really have HBCUs in Canada, but I knew it was something I wanted to experience. JSU felt like the perfect place for me, really,” said Gittens.
Anisia West, a junior marketing scholar, said she is grateful for the family environment and thoughtfulness that went into the celebration.
“Student events like these are very helpful,” said West. They allow us to get together and have fun with classmates and peers without having to go off campus. Everybody’s right here, so it just feels like a big family gathering.”
She added: “I appreciate Dr. Thompson for putting all of this together and thinking of us.”
The “Happy Monday! Student Appreciation Party” is a cross-campus collaboration that expresses gratitude for JSU students and celebrates their hard work and dedication as the spring semester draws to a close.
Media Contact: William H. Kelly III, william.h.kelly@jsums.edu