Meeting a standing room-only crowd of faculty at the Jackson Medical Mall on Wednesday, Jackson State University President Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers quoted billionaire entrepreneur Warren Buffett, who once told reporters, “When I go to my office every morning, I feel like I’m going to the Sistine Chapel to paint.”
Speaking to the College of Public Service, Meyers said educators engaged in public service and health care are “painting for our students in so many ways,” and, like the historic and inspiring artwork of the Sistine Chapel, it is “important work with far-reaching, lasting implications.”
An example she gave was of a student coming up to her and saying that he was the first in his family to attend college. But now, the student said, all in his family are planning to attend JSU.
Meyers listed the college’s achievements, including hiring Ricardo A. Brown as dean in 2013 and, this month, having its School of Health Sciences receive reaffirmation of accreditation for its Public Health Program for a 7-year term extending to July 1, 2021. She also acknowledged this fall’s record enrollment.
Meyers was accompanied by Dr. James C. Renick, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, who also fielded questions posed by faculty and staff and expanded discussions on other issues of concern.
As with her previous “college tour” visit with the College of Business on Sept. 9, Meyers addressed wide-ranging issues, including grants, incentives, endowments and upcoming homecoming events.