(JACKSON, Miss.) – Representatives from Union Pacific Railroad visited Jackson State University Wednesday, Oct. 2, to present a $40,000 contribution as part of the company’s long-standing relationship with the university.
“We are committed to excellence at this university and we are open to others helping us grow,” said JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers. “When this business of higher education is done right, all of society benefits.”
Over the last decade, Union Pacific has contributed more than $480,000 to JSU for scholarships and curriculum development and has recruited dozens of JSU students and graduates to work as interns and in full-time positions. Currently, 43 JSU graduates work in various capacities throughout the company.
Jackson State alums Lovell Cox (’01), Vontarrius Cloy (’04) and Thaddeus Reed (’07), who each joined Union Pacific after graduation, returned to campus Oct. 2 to help deliver the contribution and meet with JSU students interested in working for the company. The graduates all work in management positions with Union Pacific.
Union Pacific and Jackson State began formulating a strategy in 2001 to increase student interest in career opportunities with the railroad company. Working in close coordination, qualified students were identified, interviewed and hired by Union Pacific. Additionally, the College of Business’ Career Management and Placement Center is named after Union Pacific Railroad.
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Due to the strength of the relationship between JSU and Union Pacific, the company has named the university a Tier 1 school for recruiting. The Tier 1 status provides scholarships, supports curriculum development and enables funding for recruitment at JSU. Jackson State is the only Historically Black College or University that Union Pacific has given a Tier 1 status.
Union Pacific offers employment opportunities to JSU graduates in a variety of disciplines including finance, information technology, marketing and sales, operations supply and distribution services.