Jackson State University’s Undergraduate Recruitment Takeover Tour is underway, making its first stop in Southwest Mississippi. The delegation of faculty, staff, and student members of the Sonic Boom of the South, Blue Ambassadors, JSU cheerleaders, and the university chorale joined President Marcus Thompson, Ph.D., during stops at Hattiesburg, Laurel, and Heidelberg high schools on Monday, Feb. 26, to inform students as to why they should attend the number one urban research institution in the state.
Thompson shared with students why he chose to earn his doctoral degree through Jackson State’s executive Ph.D. program in urban higher education.
“The university had always been on my radar as a kid growing up in Mississippi, and I grew up hearing about the rich legacy of this institution, but as fate would have it, the timing did not work out for me to go there as an undergraduate. Then, I had the opportunity to work at Jackson State as an adjunct faculty member later in life. I really enjoyed my interactions with the students, who were always inquisitive and engaging. I think they motivated me just as much as I motivated them to get through my class,” he said.
JSU’s legacy of excellence was another motivating factor for the president, who acknowledged knowing successful graduates in his family, community, and worldwide who are proud products of the university.
“Having a degree from Jackson State University means something, and I knew that completing my degree here would speak volumes to the academic community and open doors,” said Thompson, who became the 13th president of Jackson State in November.
On Thursday, Feb. 29, the tour will hit Memphis to visit Overton, Kirby, Mitchell, and Southwind High Schools.
JSU’s Vice President of Enrollment Management, Kylon Alford-Windfield, Ph.D., shared that the Southwind High School visit emphasizes his division’s broader engagement strategy since recruiters will be able to connect with both students and the greater community at the event, which commences at 6:30 pm and is open to the public.
The highlight of the evening will be an appearance by Thompson, which will help underscore JSU’s commitment to engaging directly with students and showcasing the benefits of higher education, Alford-Windfield explained.
“This [tour] is a testament to our dedication to exposing students to the enriching world of higher education, particularly the cultural vibrancy of HBCUs. We aim to increase equity through events like these by providing access to postsecondary education and fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. We look forward to making a lasting impact at Shelby County High Schools. We are confident that our [recruitment efforts] will resonate with the students and contribute to the growth and development of the Memphis community,” Alford-Windfield said.
In addition to musical and artistic performances, the Southwind stop will feature on-site admissions services and FAFSA assistance, highlighting Jackson State’s commitment to simplifying the application process and making higher education more accessible for students and their families.
Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024
· 8:00 am Overton High School Recruitment Event
· 10:00 am Kirby High School Recruitment Event
· 1:00 pm Mitchell High School Recruitment Event
· 6:30 pm Southwind High School Recruitment Event (Open to the Public)