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JSU welcomed new and transfer students back to campus Saturday for the upcoming fall semester. Upon arrival, students were required to report to the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center to receive a health clearance, which was granted to individuals who either showed proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.
Also, precautions such as wearing masks and social distancing are required.
Harris Cole, a transfer business management major, said he was filled with excited after witnessing the protocols put in place by the university.
“The precautions for COVID-19 are great, and I feel safe moving in. I’m excited about the new journey that begins today.” Cole said.
Cole’s mom, Areda Cockrell-Harris, accompanied him and said, “I’m a little sad yet excited. I know JSU will provide him with a great future filled with opportunity.”
Candace Mongo, a freshman student from Dallas, Texas, exhibited immense excitement while moving into Transitional Hall.
“Thee I Love, already,” she exclaimed. “I’ve always wanted an HBCU experience, because I grew up in a mainly Caucasian community. I love the people here and the vibe it gives me. I am definitely going to embrace my culture over the next four years.”
Chicago native Ahriel Pringle also moved into the residence hall. Pringle’s mom, Carlotta, said the moment is “bitter sweet for the both of them.
Carlotta said, “I’m so sad. I’m going to miss my baby, but this is an opportunity for her to expand and become the lady she is meant to be. Let’s go, JSU.”
Outside of Transitional Hall were cheerleaders, student volunteers and The JCS Project founder and representatives. Founded in 2014 in Houston, Texas, The JCS Project was created for Just College Students.
Tiffannie Jones, founder of The JCS Project, said, “We were invited by Jackson State to pass out free college care packages to incoming freshmen. We publicized a link a few months ago, and we drove all the way from Houston, Texas, to ensure the freshmen would have a nice encouragement box when they move in.”
The care packages included snacks, handwritten words of encouragement on cards, an HBCU button from Inclusive Randomness and a JSU sticker. Since JCS is sponsored by Whataburger, the box also included a Whataburger meal voucher, lanyard and key chain.
“We drive all over the United States to numerous HBCUs to pass out free college care packages. We are so honored that JSU asked us to be here,” Jones said.
The G Garvin Culinary and Hospitality Foundation also gave out care packages to students.
“I wasn’t fortunate enough to go to college because I couldn’t afford it.” G Garvin, chef and philanthropist, said. “My career is in culinary, and I’ve been quite successful so it means a lot to me to be able to give back to the students.”
The bags provided to students were filled with toothpaste, masks, hand sanitizer and granola bars.
JSU students are scheduled to start classes on Monday, Aug. 23.
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