[hr]Jackson State University President William B. Bynum Jr. is being honored by the Mississippi Business Journal for being among the state’s Top 100 CEOs in 2019.
The distinction recognizes executive leaders throughout Mississippi who demonstrate excellence in their fields. The accolade includes Bynum’s success in helping JSU make a profound impact on the community.
“After working in higher education for decades, being identified as a top CEO is very humbling,” Bynum said. “Everything I do is about fulfilling my God-given mission in higher education. While I appreciate the honor from Mississippi Business Journal, I give thanks to the Almighty for directing my path. I’m delighted to have developed programs and opportunities that inspire students, faculty and staff to fulfill their educational, research, career and community goals. The work we do will further transform the world.”
[pullquote align=”right”]”The work we do will further transform the world.” — JSU President William B. Bynum Jr.[/pullquote]Since becoming the HBCU’s 11th president nearly two years ago, Bynum has made student-centeredness one of his key goals. As a result, the urban institution began implementing strategies for academic success by promoting retention and graduation for professional and career achievements. Students have excelled in the arts, education, entertainment, law, medicine, science and technology, sports and many other disciplines.
In addition, Bynum continues to fulfill JSU’s mission as a higher-research institution. Under his leadership the institution has earned acclaim as the only accredited School of Public Health in Mississippi and launched the state’s first Virtual Reality Academy at an educational institution. JSU also has partnered with NASA to become a prime federal contractor that will allow it to garner lucrative research opportunities.
Through Bynum’s efforts, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised for scholarships, along with the launching of a $5 million fundraising campaign. JSU has been awarded additional millions through partnerships with the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and through corporate alliances.
Among other goals, Bynum is focused on building an extensive HBCU Online degree program and is positioning JSU to become an even greater community pillar. Its faculty, staff and alumni are urged to share their time and talents to help benefit the city, state and the globe.