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Jackson State University appears to have come out on top after the recent Mississippi legislative session. The university scored $500,000 toward the preplanning for construction, furnishing, and equipping a new dining facility. This is good news for JSU, whose Heritage Dining Hall was built in 1977 and has seen little renovation or upgrades.
Other funding includes $1,175,025 toward campus construction, renovations, and repair. Another $506,111 went toward the Urban Research Center, which is an increase of $55,152. JSU’s College of Health Sciences – A CEPH Accredited School of Public Health, will receive $1,500,000 for construction, furnishing, and relocation to the university’s main campus. Currently, the school is located in the Jackson Medical Mall on Woodrow Wilson St.
President Thomas K. Hudson offered special thanks to Mississippi legislators and state leaders for their investment in Jackson State.
“We appreciate the state’s contribution in helping us maintain and improve JSU’s infrastructure. Our university is a community staple and economic driver for the city, county, and state,” he said. “Funding further allows us to make a significant impact on the people and communities we serve.”
Even more important, campus improvements, Hudson said, will enhance the quality of life for current students and entice potential students to enroll.
JSU’s Government Relations Director Jacqueline Woods also extended gratitude to the Mississippi Legislature under the leadership of Phillip Gunn, speaker of the House of Representatives, and Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann. She further acknowledged the Hinds County delegation and Hudson’s leadership.
“These appropriations will allow JSU to continue to provide amazing educational opportunities to our students,” said Woods. “I look forward to continuing to focus on our legislative agenda as we work to expand programs, build our campus and bring positive change to our communities.”
Most recently, news of the state allocating $250,000 for a stadium study created quite the buzz. Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium has been home to the Tigers since 1970. Still, talks of a new stadium have recently resurfaced with the state again making a good-faith effort in helping make it a reality.
Hudson explained that the stadium study will help determine the overall cost for a new on-campus multi-purpose facility with modern concessions and amenities.