T H E
jacksonian THE DRIVE TO THRIVE
Spring 2003
The Legacy Continues:
linking generations to build our future
www.jsums.edu
VISION 2020: A Benchmark for Academic Reorganization in Higher Education 5 JSU Achieves Banner Rankings as Top Degree Producer 6
CONTENTS
UNIVERSITY FLAGSHIPS
The Richard Wright Institute to Enhance Writing Skills of JSU Community 7 JSU Garners $23.7M in External Funding 8
JSU/NASA Resource Center: A Connector of Space Technology for Classrooms and Community 9
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Perpetual Motion: JSU Launches 125th Anniversary Celebration 10 Jackson State National Alumni Association Plans for the New Millenium 12 Miss USA Visits JSU for the 125th Anniversary 13 JSU E-Center: The Former Allstate Building Is In Good Hands 14 Strengthening the Economic Future of JSU 15 JSU Awarded BellSouth Foundation Grant 17
33
Primerica Gift Brings Money Management to JSU Students 18
SECOND GREAT ERA
Cornerstone of Campus Expansion Projects 21 New School of Business: A Matchless Design in Fostering Business Enterprise in Mississippi 22 Palisades e-City: A Catalyst for Economic Development and Growth in West Jackson 23 New School of Liberal Arts: A Preservation of History 26 The Legacy Continues: A Conversation with Dr. Mason and Dr. Peoples 27 The Jackson Medical Mall and JSU, A Healthy Collaboration 31 Lynch Street Corridor A Vehicle-Free Pedestrian Mall 32
23
13
37
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
INSIDE JSU
The Sonic Boom Open the 34th Annual NAACP Image Awards 33 Student Government Association Has A Resounding Voice at JSU 34 It’s All Greek To Me / Student Focus 35 The Owens Family: A Jacskonian Legacy 36 Dr. Rose Embly McCoy: Pillar of JSU Family Jackson Community 37 From Tragedy to Triumph: Sharrell Campbell Overcoming the Odds 38 John Tierre Miller: A JSU Business Prodigy 39 Dr. Jesse C. Lewis: Mississippi’s Father of Computational Learning 40
ALUMNI HEADLINERS
Dr. Roderick Paige: JSU Alum named U.S. Secretary of Education 42 The Harmony of Jazz featuring Cassandra Wilson and Rhonda Richmond 43 The Five Senses of Artistic Expression: Dick Griffin 44 Sports Notables 45 Robert Braddy: First African American Enshrined in ABCA Hall of Fame 46
FACULTY BRIEFS
44
C
47
42
MEMORIAM
49
MAJOR GIFT DONORS
O N T E N T S 45
50
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr.
Dear Jacksonians and Friends of Jackson State University,
neighbors an innovative urban laboratory and community development initiative called e-City. We also have great expectations for the future. As our new College of Engineering grows in prominence so will our reputation as an information technology center. Our new School of Public Health will play a critical role in addressing the health needs of poor people and people of color. Our upcoming capital campaign, The Drive to Thrive, will build on the unprecedented fundraising success of the last three years. Achieving success in times of great challenge is nothing new for Jackson State. We were founded in 1877 to help former slaves find success in life. We built a college during a time when “Negroes” were not seen as worthy of education. Under Dr. Jacob L. Reddix, who was recently inducted as the only college president in the Mississippi Hall of Fame, we secured the future of the college by establishing it as a state institution. Under Dr. John A. Peoples we turned the school that wasn’t supposed to be a college into a great historically black university and the rest, as they say, is history. This inaugural issue of The Jacksonian, in this our Quasquicentennial Year, is dedicated to the men and women who survived slavery, who survived American apartheid, who survived “Jim Crow” and who laid the foundation for greatness in spite of it all. Their legacy is our responsibility. In many ways the challenges of the past are with us even today. But we draw strength from those upon whose shoulders we stand, and like them we will not be deterred.
“Achieving success in times
Much has happened at Jackson State University over the course of the last three years. We have achieved clarity and consensus about the future of our institution in our strategic plan, Beyond Survival: The Millennium Agenda for Jackson State University. We have created an innovative learning model for our students with the new Vision 2020 college system. We have extended our learning boundaries in partnership with Jackson Public Schools by establishing the Mississippi Leaning Institute and Mississippi Learning Academy. We have claimed our place as Mississippi’s urban university and metropolitan learning center by opening two new campuses, the Mississippi e-Center and the Jackson Medical Mall Complex, and have established with our
of great challenge is nothing new for Jackson State.”
3
The second great era of Jackson State University is upon us, and if our shoulders are broad enough then those who follow will say of us as we say of those whom we follow. They were righteous people and they served us well.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
T H E
New School of Business
jacksonian is published for alumni, retirees, students and friends of Jackson State University by the Office of Public Relations, Office of Institutional Advancement. Please send all letters and inquiries to be considered for publication to: FROM OUR READERS The Jacksonian Magazine JSU Office of Public Relations P.O. Box 17490 • Jackson, MS 39217 Phone: 601-979-2272 • Fax: 601-979-5833 e-mail: gsims@jsums.edu Please mail ALUMNI HEADLINERS and IN MEMORIAM information to: Office of Alumni Affairs Attn: Patsy Johnson P.O. Box 17820 • Jackson, MS 39217 Phone: 601-979-2281 • Fax: 601-979-3701 e-mail: jsualum@jsums.edu
JSU’s Leaders of Tommorrow
Send address changes to: gsims@jsums.edu Office of Institutional Advancement P.O. Box 17144 • Jackson, MS 39217 Vice President for Institutional Advancement Emmett Crockett Editor Jean C. Frazier, Director of Public Relations Staff Writer Karyn A. Smith Contributors Roshina Clay Dr. Monique Guillory Deidre Bell Jones Andy Kanengiser Arnold Lindsay Angelique Minnifield Ben Minnifield Shameka Reed Sylvia Watley Photographers & Artists Freddy Norman Gil Ford the late Newton Alfred Handy, III Abram Jones
H. T. Sampson Library
Graphic Design DreamWorldCommunication2, Co. / Novia Communications, Inc.
JSU 1225: Chaalleengiing Miind ds,, Chaangiing Miind ds
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
4
A Benchmark for Academic Reorganization in Higher Education Academic Program Review has been dubbed the plan for Jackson State University’s reorganization and alignment for academic programs through new program structures and other program enhancements. Vision 2020: Modernizing the Academy with Preservation of Past Prospicience and Foresight for the Future was initially introduced to university deans by JSU President Ronald Mason, Jr. as the transformation of a university that will prepare its students to be discoverers of knowledge, rather than just its appliers. Encouraging students to discover knowledge linked to improving our human and social conditions is the substra-
5
Vision 2020 offers a framework that will advance our academic infrastructure towards academy-wide efficiency and effectiveness. tum of Vision 2020 and Academic Reorganization at Jackson State University. Approved by the Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning in November 2002, Vision 2020 calls for the transformation from traditional schools to new college structures that realign institutional resources in an effort to promote accountability, improve performance and enhance productivity while maintaining quality assurance.
Currently, the University has five separate Ed.S. degree programs. The new Vision 2020 proposes combining the five programs into one Ed.S. degree program with a concentration in the specific disciplines. This bold move would eliminate the separate degree programs without limiting career options. JSU is also considering combining its four MST and MAT degrees to form two degree programs with concentration in the disciplines. Similar action with the
B.S. Ed. degree will create one B.S. Ed. programmatic degree in Secondary Education with concentration in the various disciplines.
Dr. Joseph Stevenson Vice President for Academic Affairs
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
JSU Ranks: • 1st among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the production of African Americans with Master’s degrees in Biology. • As a top contender among historically black colleges and universities in the production of African American students earning Baccalaureate degrees in Computer Science. • 3rd in the nation among HBCUs in the production of African American students earning Ph.Ds in all disciplines.
JSU Achieves Banner Rankings as Top Degree Producer
Otheer Banneer Raankiings:: • 7th among all HBCUs in the production of African Americans with Baccalaureate degrees. •
J
ackson State University continues to climb the ranks academically among historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to be tagged the “Top 100 Degree Producers in 2002.” In a special annual edition of Black Issues in Higher Education, Jackson State tied with Howard University for a first place ranking among all HBCUs in the production of African Americans earning Master’s degrees in Biology. The University also ranks third in the nation among all HBCUs in the production of African Americans earning Ph.Ds in all disciplines and third in the production of African Americans with Baccalaureate degrees in Biology. “These rankings signify that Jackson State offers top-quality degree programs that can compete with universities anywhere in the nation. Our successful graduates attest to the top-quality degrees they receive here,” says President Ronald Mason, Jr. “We are particularly proud of the increasing number of graduate degrees our students are earning. We have also made significant strides at the Doctoral level, with the graduation of the first Ph.Ds in Chemistry and Business Administration this year,” said Dr. Doris Gardner, Dean of the Graduate School. Other Top 5 rankings for JSU include: fourth in the nation in both Baccalaureate degrees granted to African Americans in Education and English and fifth among all HBCUs in the production of African-American Ph.Ds.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
7th among all HBCUs in the production of African Americans with Master’s degrees.
•
11th in the nation in the production of African Americans with Baccalaureate degrees. •
19th in the nation in the production of Baccalaureate degrees granted to African Americans in Computer and Information Science.
•
20th in the nation in the production of Baccalaure ate degrees granted to African Americans in Business.
Soource: Black Isssuess in Higher Ed ducatioon Top 100 Degree Producers April, 2002
6
Richard Wright Institute to Enhance Writing Professional Development for Faculty, Skills of JSU Community Staff and Students: An Added Resource
T
hrough a combination of funds from private foundations and federal programs, Jackson State University announces the establishment of The Richard Wright Institute, a comprehensive writing and critical thinking initiative designed as a professional development resource for University constituents. The interdisciplinary center will begin offering services to students in the Spring of 2003, and will be staffed with trained tutors from across the disciplines with initiatives targeted to communicative and expressive skills. Writing and editing services will be the primary focus of the Institute while promoting Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) initiatives for the University. Training sessions will be tailored to assist faculty with infusing writing into the varied curriculums at Jackson State. The Institute Center could serve as a clearinghouse for dissertations, thesis work, reading groups, research projects and creative works-in-progress. Boosting the University’s image through published articles, professional publications and promotional materials puts JSU in the competitive field of marketing and recruitment while advancing the strategic agenda of our institutional marketing. Coupled with the critical function of the Wright Institute in serving our students, faculty and staff is the framework designed to increase the awareness and appreciation for the immeasurable contributions of Mississippi writers to American Literature. Collaborative efforts with the Margaret Walker Alexander National Research Center, the H.T. Sampson Library, the English Department and the University College will sponsor workshops,
7
lecture series, readings and performances that will inspire student interests and promote our State’s rich cultural and literary legacy. A distinct feature of the Wright Institute is the introduction of technology into all of our tutorial and service operations. On-line and web-based resources are e-tools that students will be encouraged to explore and use. With the education industry now revolutionized by e-technology, students now have greater access and flexibility of information allowing them to make full use of the technology that will be available in the Wright Institute. A myriad of objectives cover the Institute’s mission in enabling students, faculty and staff to market their niche with an ease and expectation of an optimum level performance in their writings. The Wright Institute will strive to include the following objectives: • Provide a forum and open environment for students to explore their ideas with positive feedback • Foster a greater awareness for literary and creative expression • Improve student performance on written assignments Developing the dedicated support staff for the Institute will begin with the Department of English. Key faculty will facilitate the training process for a broad pool of tutors. All of the Wright Institute staff will be required to receive training prior to their employment. The Institute will complement the general mission of Jackson State University by graduating a well-trained workforce of students who can communicate and articulate their ideas with clarity and accuracy.
- Richard Wright -
“We all know the importance of effective communication skills, not only in higher education but professionally, as well. The Richard Wright Institute at JSU will help to insure our students gain the confidence they need to express themselves effectively in writing.” --Dr. Monique Guillory, Deputy Chief of Staff
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
JSU Garners $47M in Federal Research Dollars Since July 1, 2002, JSU has received grants, contract and cooperative agreements totaling to $47 million. Proposals submitted to-date for competitive funding amount to more than $60 million for research, development and outreach in the west Jackson community and beyond. A substantial portion of JSU s external funding comes from federal earmarks, posturing JSU as a leader in federallyfunded research initiatives. The University received more than $3.1 million in Fiscal Year 2003 for such projects as: The Mississippi Learning Institute, the Program for the Study of Southern Poverty Center and the Center for Biomedical Research Molecular Toxicology, which are some of the marquee programs with million-dollar proposals for 2003. In partnership with the Mississippi Department of Education and the Jackson Public School District, Jackson State is not only attracting prospective college students to the University, but also branching out into the community with the new Mississippi Learning Institute. The unique initiative will provide for reading proficiency in age-appropri-
ate development stages for students in grades Pre-K-12 as a partnership with four public schools. Funding for the readingbased and professional development program is being provided through the U.S. Department of Education with a $500,000 planning grant and assistance from the State Department of Education. The Mississippi Learning Institute made a proposal for $6.5 million to operate the program. The Poverty Center at Jackson State is proposing a $8.2 million program for training purposes. The Center s integrated research agenda will examine conditions of poverty at the level of individuals and families, communities and regions. The Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology is an essential part of students development at Jackson State, said Dr. Jerzy Leszczynski, JSU chemistry professor. The program has proposed additional funding this year to advance research in the fields of science and technology with additional dollars for Leszczynski s signature Current Trends in Computational
The Jacksonian / Collector s Edition
Chemistry conference. funding of other sponsored proOther top grant awards grams speaks well of a competiinclude the Upward Bound tive faculty and staff that remain Program, designed to prepare dedicated in pushing the fronstudents for life after high tier of education through school, with a six-figure budget; research and service , said Dr. GeoSpatial and Felix Okojie, Vice President for the Visualization Center is designed Research Development, to enhance scientific visualiza- Support and Federal Relations. tion; the Scientific Visualization The external funding impacts Initiative continues its mission many critical research program to create an infrastructure of areas and serves as a conduit in technology, data, people and the areas of high-technical and institutional linkages that cutting-edge research conducted enable the discovery, evaluation at Jackson State University. and application of geospatial and visual data for adding value to research across various multidisciplinary areas. The Center for Molecular Structure and Interaction (CREST), funded through the National Science Foundation, also continues its research thrust on the development of efficient computational and methodologies their application to the study of structures and properties of molecules. Felix Okojie The increase in Vice President for Dr. Research Development, Support and our federal grants and Federal Relations
8
JSU/NASA RESOURCE CENTER A CONNECTOR OF SPACE TECHNOLOGY FOR CLASSROOMS AND COMMUNITIES
J
ackson State University officially opened its NASA Teacher Resource Center this spring as a technology resource designed to provide in-service and pre-service training for visiting educators. As a part of the Space Act Agreement, the program focuses on cuttingedge technology facilities to help educators at all levels access and utilize the higherorder sciences, including mathematics and technology instructional programs aligned with the components of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Tagged as the Educator Resource Center, the framework includes national standards with a rigid curriculum in support of NASA’s mission. A part of that mission includes community outreach and promotion of the project among school administrators and teachers. The NASA Educator Resource Center is accessible and open to teachers during and after school, and will be an extension of the science laboratories for both teachers and students. Teachers embrace the Center as an excellent resource in tight budget times that have stymied funding needed for technology tools. Students are able to transfer textbook theory and knowledge applications they learned in the classroom to a simulated space-age module of the solar system and other atmospheric phenonema. For at least a oneweek per year, NASA will provide the use of an Aerospace Education Service Program specialist who will visit the ERC and conduct teacher workshops and training for the ERC staff. The Educator Resouce Center staff will provide training opportunities for the use of instructional materials, as well as host an annual regional conference of the ERC in the NASA/Stennis Space Center’s pre-college service region. Housed within the School of Education, the kid-glove fit maximizes the
9
talents of its students of Secondary Education. An exchange of JSU students with visiting elementary, middle and high school students provides for an interactive teaching style for secondary school students while enabling teachers to become a part of the infusion of space-age technology in the classroom. “This agreement with NASA Stennis Space Center is a continuation of JSU’s long-standing productive relationship with NASA,” said Dr. Felix Okojie, Vice President for Research, Development, Support and Federal Relations. “The ERC will complement the on-going teaching and research initiatives for pre-service and inservice teacher quality and enhancement programs in our School of Education.” Jackson State University’s School of
Education is required to provide for the physical site of the ERC as well as technology hardware and software, internet service and audio-visual equipment. All training, staffing and support to educators are conducted by thestaff of the School of Education. The NASA Educator Resource Center comes complete with multi-media products, curriculum support materials, slides, videotapes and NASA educational publications. A synergy of systemic initiatives for increased aerospace knowledge and information is an on-going mission of NASA. The desired outcome for JSU is an increased capability to provide training needed to enhance educators’ instructional skills and conduct critical research.
Isable Elementary School students, partners of the JSU/NASA Resource Center celebrate opening day activities of the Resource Center. Pictured are: Dr. Felix Okojie, Vice President for Research Development and Support; Drs. Evelyn White and Ivan Banks, Former Dean Associate Dean of the School of Education; and Dr. David Powe, Director of Earth Science Applications Directorate at NASA Space Center.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
“Being responsive to the needs of JSU’s constituents is our number one priority. Their input is critical to the development of a broad-base of community, business and governmental support,”
P E R P E T
-- Emmett Crockett VP, Institutional Advancement
U A L M O T I O N
by Karyn A. Smith
JSU Launches 125th Anniversary Celebration
When the University Symphonic Band struck up “Get Ready” and 125 blue and white balloons wafted into the blue skies above the H.T. Sampson Library, Jackson State University’s year-long Quasquicentennial Anniversary Celebration was officially launched. The launch was purposely held in conjunction with Homecoming 2002 activities, when thousands made their pilgrimage to the University to rekindle old friendships and create new ones. The celebration was replete with a 125th anniversary cake featuring the theme: “Challenging Minds, Changing Lives” and five rounds of a cannon firing one for each 25-year increment
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
of Jackson State University’s existence. 125th anniversary T-shirts, which boldly announced “Quasquicentennial Anniversary Launch - I was there!”, were given out to those attending the launch. “September 27th was a phenomenal day in the life of our University,” said JSU President Ronald Mason, Jr. “It was a joy to see generations of Jacksonians gather not only to celebrate the university’s 125th birthday, but to acknowledge the strides we’re making nationally and internationally with banner academic rankings, increased enrollments and meaningful external partnerships that better enable us to fulfill our mission of quality teaching, research and
service. We are on the threshold of the second great era of Jackson State University.” A host of local and state elected officials offered proclamations, and many wellwishers, including representatives from the Governor’s Office, the Lieutenant Governor’s Office, the Mississippi Senate, the City of Jackson and the Hinds County Board of Supervisors were present for the bash. President Emeritus John A. Peoples, Jr. recounted activities surrounding the University’s Centennial Celebration, which occurred during his tenure, and acknowledged the contributions of those who went before and helped posture the University
10
PERPETUAL MOTION for its destiny of greatness. “This university has truly survived and thrived,” said Dr. Peoples. Dr. Dollye M.E. Robinson, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Chair of the 125th Anniversary Events Subcommittee, also recalled many institutional changes and milestones during her more than 50-year tenure at Jackson State. “This university has grown and evolved in innumerable ways. I am just glad to be here to witness this momentous event and to celebrate the 125 years of educational excellence at Jackson State University,” stated Robinson. Quasquicentennial Anniversary Celebration Committee Chair Emmett Crockett called the celebration a promotional juggernaut. “Hold on for the ride this year. This is only the beginning. You haven’t seen anything yet,” said Crockett, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. The 125th Anniversary Celebration is the image-building marketing engine that will heighten the institutional accomplishments and unique marketing niches of JSU through a series of local, statewide, and national initiatives. The year-long celebration, which runs through December 2003, is a precursor to the historic “Drive to Thrive” Capital Campaign to be unveiled in 2003 and administered by Crockett. A Campus Master Plan projects the growth of the University well into the 21st Century and continues as a “work in progress,” meeting the University’s academic mission and strategic operational plan. The University broke ground last year for the $20 million new School of Business slated for completion this summer. The Lynch Street Corridor will revitalize the campus as the core of e-City, a 10-year urban vision that will transform the West Jackson community. A $2 million restoration of historic Ayer Hall, which houses the archives and artifacts of the Margaret Walker Alexander National Research Center is now com-
11
C O N T I N U E D
plete. Future capital improvement projects include a new School of Engineering with stateof-the-art laboratories and research areas. Construction is slated for this summer. “Having survived for 125 years has been a remarkable feat, given the challenges that have and continue to confront institutions of higher learning, especially historically black colleges and universities,” said Mason. “The advent of our 125th Anniversary Celebration enables us to capitalize on the occasion and heighten the awareness of our accomplishments and aspirations to all of our constituents, students, faculty, staff, administrators, parents, alumni and retirees.” As the fourth-largest institution of higher learning in Mississippi and the only public four-year institution in the central Mississippi area, the core
campus of Jackson State is located in Mississippi’s largest metropolitan area and one mile from the
central business district in downtown Jackson. Several satellite campuses including the Mississippi Urban Research Center, a Health Sciences campus near the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the north campus for graduate studies and the $20 million Mississippi e-Center, are auxiliary sites anchoring the four corners of the city with specialized studies for non-traditional students. With more than 7,800 students and a faculty comprised of more than 400 talented educators from diverse backgrounds, the University continues to embrace tradition, accountability, learning, nurturing, service and responsibility as its core values. Our students who are from nearly every Mississippi county and more than 50 foreign countries are provided with more opportunities to develop a competitive knowledge base with cutting-edge technology and meaningful research opportunities. JSU continues to market its niche in attracting a diverse nucleus of students that dominate science and technology and higher-order science disciplines. Crockett, who joined the Jackson State University family in 2001 as Director of Institutional Advancement, says he looks forward to spearheading efforts to shore up resources to further promote and build support for JSU’s academic programs, research projects and community service initiatives. “Being responsive to the needs of JSU’s constituents is our number one priority. Their input is critical to the development of a broad-base of community, business and governmental support,” he added.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
Jackson State National Alumni Association Plans for the New Millenium Jones and the Alumni Association am really charged up about the strategic to coordinate the Strategic Planning planning process, and look forward to my Retreat,” said Mr. Crockett. “The continued participation in the spirit in which we worked with the Committee,” shared Charles Russ, Association to plan and coordinate President of the Metro Birmingham the weekend activities is consistent Alumni Chapter. with how the staff of the Office of “This is the most exciting time ever for Alumni Affairs views its role, which our Association,” said Jones. “It is also the is to provide outstanding service on most exciting time for our great university. behalf of the Association,” he When you observe all of the new developadded. ment on campus, the growth in the number Dr. Lelia Rhodes, who was of students, the national recognition that elected as First Vice President of the the University is receiving, and the overall Association, was selected to chair positive direction of the University, it autothe JSUNAA Strategic Planning matically instills a sense of pride and exciteCommittee Retreat. The charge of ment about being a part of Jackson State.” the Committee is to Dr. Ronald Mason and Johnny Gross complete the One of the largest Jackson State Association’s Strategic Plan, Alumni groups ever assembled met during building upon the creative the weekend of January 17-19, 2003 to chart input received from participants the course for the National Alumni during the weekend retreat. Association. Over 106 alumni officers, The Strategic Planning Board members, chapter presidents and Committee will meet again in Office of Alumni Affairs staff convened at April to further develop the the University’s spacious and accommodat- Association’s plan. The final ing E-Center megaplex to begin to develop document will be unveiled in a strategic plan for JSUNAA for the next June during the National three years. Dr. Mason also participated in Alumni Association Annual the meeting, sharing his strategic vision for Meeting in Atlanta. One of the the University. major thrusts of the plan will be The vision for the Strategic Planning to provide greater incentive for Weekend was that of Aaron Jones, the all alumni to become actively newly elected Alumni President, and involved in the Association. “I Clarence Johnson and Aaron Jones Emmett J. Crockett, Jr., Jackson State’s Vice President, Division of Institutional Advancement. “This is the most exciting and productive meeting I’ve seen of our National Alumni Association since I’ve been involved with the organization,” cited Jones, who is a Lifetime Member of the Association. He added, “We truly believe that we will change our Alumni Association such that it is of one the premier associations in the entire nation, and one in which all of our alumni members are informed, committed and actively involved with their alma mater.” “We were delighted to work with Mr. 2003 Mid-Winter Alumni Delegates at Alumni Retreat
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
12
Miss USSA Visits JSU
FOR 125 ANNIVERSARY th
In honor of Jackson State University’s 125th Anniversary, Shauntay Hinton, visited the Capitol City on her tour as Miss USA. A native of Starkville, Mississippi, she is a current resident of the District of Columbia and a Junior, Broadcast Journalism Major at Howard University. Miss USA is the daughter of Ella Hayes Hinton, a 1969 alumna of Jackson State University. Mayor Harvey Johnson, Jr. officially welcomed Miss USA to the city and extended a proclamation to her. President and Mrs. Mason extended greetings on behalf of the entire Jackson State University Family and presented her with gifts bearing Jackson State’s 125th Quasquiscentennial logo. Throughout the evening, guests sat and spoke with Miss USA, received autographs, networked and overall had a royal good time.
13
Miss Hinton and her family were received with a lavish reception given in her honor on “Super Bowl Sunday.” The reception was held in Madison, Mississippi at the home of Dr. Gwendolyn Prater, Dean of the School of Social Work at Jackson State University. There was plenty of food, folks, football and fun.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
JSU e-Center The Former Allstate Building Is In Good Hands
Jackson State University’s acquisition of the former Allstate Insurance Company building in south Jackson is a tremendous boost to the university, the city and the state. The deal, which could be described as a “Godsend,” gives the property valued at $20 million to JSU for $3 million. But it’s not the property alone that makes this deal so advantageous. By designating the 192,600 square-foot facility on Raymond Road as an incubator for the state-of-the art telecommunications center, the school capitalizes on an activity in which Jackson already is in the forefront. Jackson State has been moving toward intensifying its higher education mission as Mississippi’s only “urban university” by focusing on hightech, business-oriented course offerings. The facility, fittingly called The eCenter, is also used for teaching, teacher training and attracting technology-based companies. “The e-Center is also an attractive edifice for University research projects that involve JSU’s research partnerships with the U.S Navy and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,” said Dr. Willie Brown, Vice President of Information Technology.
Allstate President Ed Liddy says, “It’s a world-class resource for Jackson and Mississippi.” Senator Trent Lott joined Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson, Jr., Attorney General Mike Moore and Jackson lawyer and JSU Development Foundation Board Member Reuben Anderson, who helped
gation case that is aimed at enhancing Mississippi’s three historically black universities. Anderson stated that “Some private funds in the Ayers settlement plan are linked to the Allstate deal. But the JSU-Allstate deal can stand on its own.” Second Congressional District Leader Bennie Thompson lead the plantiffs in the Ayers case. He states, “It’s a wonderful gift. It will be on of the anchors that -- Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr., JSU President JSU needs to move into the new millennium.” Undoubtedly, historically black univernegotiate the deal, in saluting the new venture. “This will be a fantastic opportunity sities need more federal money and must for us,” Lott said. “The JSU e-Center will form partnerships to keep pace with changallow state, federal and local governments ing technology and close the “digital information services to join with the private divide.” According to Dr. Ronald Mason, presisector under one roof. Combined with the $930 million Nissan plant near Canton, it dent of JSU, historically black universities must do their part to bring new technology proves Mississippi is moving up.” The JSU-Allstate Agreement is seen as to poor people and others who are being one piece of the 26-year old Ayers desegre- left behind.
“The e-Center is a major component in establishing the city of Jackson as the information technology hub of the south.”
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
14
Strengthening the Economic Future of JSU Under new leadership and after an organizational overhaul, the Office of Institutional Advancement at Jackson State has developed goals and objectives to gain increased support for the University. The reorganization couldn’t have come at a better time, given three successive years of state legislative budget cuts to Mississippi’s higher education system. And now, with JSU facing another year of slashed budgets, the challenge of providing competitive degree programs and unique course offerings without compromising services to its more than 7,800 students remains. In 2001, Emmett Crockett was appointed as Vice President of Institutional Advancement. Crockett is responsible for fund raising, alumni affairs and extended development support programs consistent with the needs and priorities of Leland Speed swearing in board member Sally Barksdale. the University. The chief mission of the Office of Institutional Advancement is to implement a strategic fund raising program. It is the lifeline of the University, which sustains programs and projects that have suffered severely due to state legislative cuts and under-funding. The University’s Development Foundation is an extension of Institutional Advancement. It too has a mission of fund raising through corporate and community partnerships, along with foundations and major corporations. Under the direction of a gov-
(l-r) William Winter, Andy Lang, Reuben Anderson, Shirley Vanderpool, Haley Barbour, Will Colom, Aaron Jones, Leland Speed.
15
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
erning Board of Directors, the Foundation functions as a tax-exempt non-profit corporation through which gifts are solicited, received and managed. The Board is made up of a cross-section of alumni, business and community leaders. The accomplished professionalism embodied by the Board will enhance fund raising, enabling Jackson State to progressively move from a state-supported institution to a state-assisted institution of higher learning. In June 2002, the Jackson State Development Foundation named nine new members to its existing Board of Directors, bringing the total to 27. The new members, who began serving their three-year terms in October 2002, are: Reuben Anderson (Jackson), former Supreme Court Justice and Partner of the
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
Phelps Dunbar LLP Law Firm; Sally Barksdale (Ridgeland), Founder of the Barksdale Reading Institute; Haley Barbour (Yazoo City), Founder and Chair of the Washington, D.C.-based public affairs firm Barbour, Griffith & Rogers and former Chair of the Republican National Committee; Dr. A. Wallace. Conerly (Jackson), Vice Chancellor of Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center; Wilbur Colom (Columbus), Founding Partner of the Colom Law Firm, LLC; David Andrew Lang (Jackson), Founding Partner of D. Andrew Lang & Brannon Aden Law Firm; Eddie R. Munson (Rochester Hills, Michigan), a 1972 JSU accounting graduate and Managing Partner of the Michigan Business Unit of KPMG, LLP and Partner in Charge,
Assurance for the firm’s Mid-America Business Unit; Roy J. Rodney, Jr. (New Orleans), Founder and Managing Partner of the law firm of Rodney, Bordenave, Boykin and Ehret; and former Mississippi Governor William F. Winter (Jackson) of the Watkins, Ludlam, Winter & Stennis, P.A. Law Firm. Other members of the Board include: Mr. Earle Stewart Banks, Mrs. Barbara Blackmon, Mr. Alveno Castilla, Mr. Howard Cathings, Mr. Frederick Clark, Mr. Ralph Collins, Mr. Charles Doty, Mr. Johnnie Esters, Mr. E. Jackson Garner, Mr. Gerard Hankins, Mr. C. Delbert Hosemann, Jr., Mr. Ben Welch Jackson, Mr. Aaron Jones, Ms. Terri Fleming Love, Mr. Eddie Munson, Mrs. Daisy S. Reddix, Mr. Roy Rodney, Mr. Leland Speed.
16
JSU AWARDED BELLSOUTH FOUNDATION GRANT “This commitment to minority students helps to ensure we
JOHN MCCULLOUCH, PRESIDENT BELLSOUTH, MISSISSIPPI AND JSU PRESIDENT DR. RONALD MASON
continue to have opportunities to recruit and employ people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.” JOHN McCULLOUCH, President Bellsouth, Mississippi
T
he BellSouth Foundation awarded JSU a $105,000 grant, which focuses on the educational gaps and disparities of minorities by addressing disadvantaged high school students and technologically disadvantaged communities. Announced by President Ronald Mason, Jr. and BellSouth-Mississippi President John McCullouch, “Closing the Divide for College-Going Minorities” was launched to help colleges and universities guide minority students toward ultimately achieving their goals. The grant will be administered through the University College as part of the Summer Developmental Program. It will also benefit students during the first two years of their
17
Funds To Address Educational Gaps
undergraduate career. Special emphasis will be placed on mathematics and computer laboratory skills through individualized learning experiences and learning styles. The grant also provides mentoring programs between older and targeted students paired with successful students. A Retention Coordinator, hired through the funds provided by the grant, will direct and oversee the retention component and other activities associated with the program. “Alliances with corporate affiliates are critical in assisting us to address serious challenges of our students,” said JSU President Ronald Mason, Jr. “We look forward to working with the BellSouth Foundation in helping us address the
achievement gap between minority students and their peers. This model external partnership will also assist us in expanding higher education opportunities for technologically anemic communities.” The Foundation’s mission for the project is to assist a small group of higher education institutions address some of the obstacles minority students face during their undergraduate years. Expected outcomes include: measurable improvement in the percentage of minority students who maintain their enrollment beyond their second year of undergraduate studies; scaling up of campus efforts to bring parity to minority and non-minoritygraduation rates; and the dissemination of best practices to
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
BELLSOUTH GRANT
continued
other institutions within the region. “This commitment to minority students helps to ensure we continue to have opportunities to recruit and employ people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives,” said McCullouch. “At BellSouth, we are dedicated to sustaining a work enironment where talent grows and inclusion is forested.” The University of Alabama, Macon State College, The Univeresity of North Carolina Pembroke and Trident Technical College were also recipients of BellSouth Foundation awards. Each school will work individually to also achieve the objectives set forth in their grant proposals. However, BellSouth will provide an information-sharing electronic forum, and bring the schools together two or three times a year during the grant period to share information and introduce methodologies and innovations.
Primerica Gift Brings Money Management To JSU Students Jackson State University is among three historically black colleges and universities in Mississippi to receive a $75,000 goodwill offering from Primerica Financial Services, a member of Citigroup Corporation. Primerica has targeted several college programs in Mississippi for partnerships in hope of assisting students to become more financially astute. “Too many times at the university level we spend time teaching kids how to make money, but very little time showing them what to do after they become income-earners,” said Primerica Regional Vice President Dock Cooper, a JSU alumnus. Marlon Echols, another JSU alum and Primerica Regional Vice President, described the gift as a “kid-glove fit” for any JSU student pursuing an interest in careers in financial services and marketing. The generous gift couldn’t have come at a better time. “The challenges are bold and demand that JSU pursue an aggressive campaign toward cultivating external corporate
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
support,” said Emmett Crockett, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at JSU. Dubbed the Money Wise Program, the money-management initiative will be administered through the Division of Student Life under the direction of Dr. Debra Buchanan, Acting Vice Provost for Student Life at JSU. Entering freshmen students and graduating seniors will be targeted audiences with an early intervention program and an early education framework on finances and resolution of debt incurred during their college experiences. Individual and group programs will be designed for students at all academic levels, affording them the opportunity to determine their financial choices prior to graduation and entering into the job market. Primerica ranks number one ranking on Forbes World Super 50 as the largest firm in aggregate sales.
“Too many times at the university level we spend time teaching kids how to make money, but very little time showing them what to do after they become income-earners.” -- DOCK COOPER, PRIMERICA REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
18
FA C I L I T Y L E G E N D
1 ADMINISTRATION TOWER – UNIVERSITY SUPPORT 2 ALEXANDER HALL – WOMEN’S DORM 3 CHARLES F. MOORE – ADMINISTRATION/UNIVERSITY SUPPORT 4 SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS 5 PUBLICATION BUILDING 6 JOHNSON HALL – ART DEPARTMENT 7 JOHNSON HALL ANNEX – MEN’S DORM 8 JONES-SAMPSON HALL – MEN’S DORM 9 H.T. SAMPSON HALL – LIBRARY 10 OLD INDUSTRIAL ARTS BUILDING – DEPT. OF AIRWAY SCIENCE 11 B.B. DANSBY HALL – PERFORMING ARTS 12 AYER HALL – POLITICAL SCIENCE 13 B.F. ROBERTS HALL – UNIVERSITY SUPPORT 14 FUTURE ACADEMIC BUILDING 15 J.L. REDDIX CAMPUS UNION – STUDENT SUPPORT/RECREATION 16 PROPOSED SCHOOL OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 17 GREEN HALL – STUDENT AFFAIRS 18 JUST HALL OF SCIENCE – DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE 19 BLACKBURN LANGUAGE ARTS BLDG – MASS COMMUNICATIONS 20 TRANSITIONAL RESIDENCE HALL UNDER CONSTRUCTION 21 FUTURE STUDENT HEALTH CENTER 22 J.Y. WOODARD BUILDING – INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY/SOCIAL WORK 23 T.B. ELLIS BUILDING – HEALTH/RECREATION 24 JOSEPH H. JACKSON BUILDING – SCHOOL OF EDUCATION 25 PROPOSED DINING AND STUDENT ACTIVITIES PLAZA
26 DINING HALL – STUDENT SUPPORT 27 STEWART HALL – MEN’S RESIDENCE HALL 28 DIXON HALL – MEN’S RESIDENCE DORM 29 McALLISTER-WHITESIDE – WOMEN’S RESIDENCE DORM 30 LEE E. WILLIAMS ATHLETIC AND ASSEMBLY CENTER 31 FACILITIES MANGEMENT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 32 COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY PARK & AUDITORIUM 33 F.D. HALL MUSIC CENTER – DEPT. OF MUSIC 34 JOHN A. PEOPLES BUILDING – SCHOOL OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 35 PROPOSED MAINTENANCE SERVICE & VEHICULAR STORAGE 36 EXECUTIVE GUEST QUARTERS 37 FUTURE ACADEMIC BUILDING 38 PLANT SCIENCE LABORATORY – DEPT. OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 39 HONORS RESIDENCE HALL 40 Z.T. HUBERT HEALTH CENTER 41 T.B. ELLIS ANNEX 42 PROPOSED SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY OFFICES 43 CAMPUS POLICE 44 PROPOSED SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING 45 FUTURE TENNIS CLUBHOUSE 46 PROPOSED PRESIDENT’S HOME 47 FUTURE WALTER PAYTON POWERADE WEIGHT CENTER 48 R.O.T.C. 49 LAUNDRY 50 PHYSICAL THERAPY FACILITY
Cornerstone of Campus Construction Boom
P
resident Ronald Mason, Jr. has heralded the repair, renovation and renaissance of the 200-acre core campus of Jackson State University in the advent of its “second great era”. With several capital improvements and construction projects underway, the look and life of the University is being transformed. “Jackson State University is a home in transition - a work in progress,” Mason recounts. “When we have completed the University’s master plan, we will be better prepared to pursue our institutional mission than at any other point in our history.” A module of twenty-first-century, architectural structures equipped with cutting-edge technology will account for more than $60 million in new structures on the Lynch street core campus. In an effort to meet the burgeoning degree programs, the $20 million School of Business will become the visual and structural capstone of Lynch Street, anchoring the eastern end of the campus. Slated for completion this summer, the business school will have multiple laboratories, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, and enough space to accommodate graduate programs and career services, along with faculty and staff offices. As a face-lift to Lynch Street on the eastern end of the campus, the multi-plex center is less than one mile from Jackson’s downtown business district and serves as a magnet in attracting new partners as business developers in support of the entrepreneurial programs within the School of Business. Framing the corners of Lynch and Dalton streets is the newly constructed $15 million Dollye M.E. Robinson School of Liberal Arts Building which houses the largest academic component of the University. Named in honor of the longest-standing administrator of the University, the more than 115,074 squarefoot structure includes an art gallery, three lecture halls, four large and 10 standard flat floor classrooms and six 20-person seminar rooms. With an eye towards total student development, the $12.9 million Walter Payton Athletic Student Health and Wellness Center will include an indoor track, olympic size West Lynch Street Entrance
21
basketball courts, a heated swimming pool and spa, a high-tech weight and fitness training room, and one of the largest ballrooms in the city. The existing baseball and softball fields on west Lynch Street will be relocated to the Payton Health and Wellness Center to make room for the new School of Engineering. With its first graduates projected in 2006, the new School of Engineering will be constructed on west Lynch Street, where the baseball and softball fields currently sit, anchoring the west end of the campus. It will be a state-of-the-art facility for enhanced research and high-tech laboratories with multi-tier classrooms and space for faculty and staff offices. Efforts are also underway to enhance security measures throughout the campus. Begun in July of 2001, the security initiatives include the installation of area and security lighting, indoor and outdoor security cameras, camera monitoring systems, upgraded fire alarm systems campus-wide, and the installation of emergency telephone kiosks for pedestrians. According to Evola Bates, Chief of Staff, “We are striving to improve campus life and the campus community for everyone - students who learn and live here, faculty and staff who work here, and visitors from the surrounding community.” The first phase of the $8.5 million transitional dormitory is now near completion. Designed to address student housing needs while existing dormitories are being renovated, the 50,600-square-foot structure will eventually house 460 students. At a price tag of $7.5 million, the second phase is set to begin this summer. It will include furniture and equipment, and the construction of additional wings. The University is also in the process of being transformed from a vehicular campus into a pedestrian walkway. Almost 60 percent complete, the $5 million project will essentially convert JSU’s main artery (Lynch Street) into a walkonly area with a bicycle route, specialty shops, and other student amenities, including a new dining plaza between the Jacob L. Reddix Campus Union and the Dining Hall.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
NEW SCHOOL OF BUSINESS A Matchless Design In Fostering Business Enterprise In Mississippi “The new facility will provide an enhanced learning environment which is critical to the quality education of our students. It mirrors our mission of preparing students to compete in a high-tech global marketplace.” - Dr. Glenda Glover, Dean School of Business
In April of 2002, JSU began construction on the new School of Business. The 5story facility is situated at the northeast entry of the campus. The new School of Business will house a 277-seat lecture hall, 2 large tiered classrooms, and 4 seminar rooms. In addition to the classroom space, the building contains instructional laboratories, offices for the Dean, Graduate Programs, Career Services, the Center for Professional Development, Department of Accounting, Department of Economics and General Business, and the Department of Management and Marketing. The strands of the School’s mission undergird the concept and design of the new facility, according to Dr. Glenda Glover, Dean of the School of Business. Coupled with teaching and research, the building is designed to improve the performance of business and encourage interaction between faculty and students. The service component seeks to emphasize support of local organizations whose work emphasizes business, economic and urban issues. “The new facility will provide an enhanced learning environment which is
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
critical to the quality education of our students,” said Dr. Glenda Glover. “It mirrors our mission of preparing students to compete in a high-tech global marketplace.” The JSU School of Business was established in 1963 as a Department within the University. School status was granted by the Board of Trustees of Institutions of Higher Learning on July 1, 1972 under the presidency of Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr. Jackson State University became the sixth historically black college and university (HBCU) to achieve accreditation, which was granted by the American Assembly of Collegiate School of Businesses in 1995. Currently, JSU’s School of Business is one of eight schools at Jackson State University offering eight undergraduate majors, three master degree programs, a doctorate in business, and two certificate programs. All of the School’s instructional programs seek to cover subject matter and content that are generally included in collegiate management education programs designed to prepare students as effective contributors in the twenty-first century.
Many of the research and service activities focus on problems or areas of interest to businesses and other organizations in the State of Mississippi. As the only historically black university located in Mississippi’s capital city, the principal research objectives of the JSU School of Business are to contribute to the solution of business and economic problems, particularly issues affecting the urban community and a diverse population; to improve the practice and performance of business and economic organizations; and to improve instruction in business and economic disciplines. The School of Business has 1,400 students in its four departments, and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB). During the 2001-2002 academic year, the business school produced 162 graduates including the first doctorate in business administration. Completion for the new School of Business is projected for early October this year and carries with it a $20 million price tag.
22
Palisades @ e-C I T Y
Catalyst for Economic Development in West Jackson
J
ackson State University joined housing leaders and national radio personality Tom Joyner this summer to celebrate the grand opening of Palisades @ e-City, the University’s first privatized affordable housing complex designed to serve more than 400 JSU faculty, staff and students. The Palisades development is the first component of e-City, a ten-year urban vision that will transform the West Jackson area into a 21st century community that fosters a technological capacity and economic growth. The futures of Jackson State and West Jackson are tied to one another,” said Congressman Bennie Thompson who attended the official opening of Palisades. “Indeed, the more the two embrace that reality, the greater the success of their efforts. Apartments like Palisades @ e-City are absolutely necessary and will provide students and faculty alike with an excellent housing option,” added Congressman Thompson. “These apartments represent a rebirth of the JSU-West Jackson relationship.” “We are excited about the tremendous spirit of expansion and progress on the JSU campus,” said JSU President Ronald Mason, Jr. Palisades @ e-City was developed by EDC, a Texas corporation formed in 1997 to develop student housing at
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
24
The Palisades Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Fannie Mae invested $16.3 million in taxexempt bonds issued by the Mississippi Business Finance Corporation to finance the construction of the develop-
West Jackson CDC. “Because the Palisades will promote educational and economic development, the entire West Jackson community will benefit from these apartments for JSU faculty, staff and students.” “We hope that Palisades can be a national model for universities who are seeking ways to enrich their campuses and enhance housing opportunities for their students and faculty,” said Charles Frazier, president of EDC. With 15 years of specialized experi“The Palisades development perfectly meets our mission ence in the development and management of student housin serving the needs of a diverse student population and ing, the EDC leadership enhances the surrounding metro community.” team’s successful projects also include student housing at -- Dr. Roy DeBerry, Executive Vice President/Mayor of e-City Florida A & M University ment. Fannie Mae’s invest- and Texas Southern University. ment was made through the Conveniently located adjacent to the campus, the fully company’s American Communities Fund (ACF), which furnished 144-unit apartment complex faces Valley Street invests debt or equity in housing development that sup- where the cottonseed oil plant once stood. The Palisades port neighborhoods and community revitalization efforts. @ e-City features 24 one-bedroom, 24 two-bedroom, 12 three-bedroom and 84 four-bedroom units. Designed for student living, each room is equipped with a desk and is wired for Internet and telephone connection. The development offers a state-of-the-art clubhouse facility, game room, fitness center, computer lab, landscaped courtyard and swimming pool. The Educational Development Company designs and constructs each of its housing communities with the university’s campus atmosphere and architectural heritage in mind. The company aims to utilize local talent Ribbon Cutting to develop projects that work within the Master Plan of the university. First Union National Bank provided credit enhancements As the largest non-profit financial services company in for the bonds issued by the MBFC. the world, Fannie Mae operates pursuant to a federal charThe West Jackson CDC, a non-profit organization ter and is the nation’s largest source of financing for home dedicated to improving neighborhoods surrounding the mortgages. Fannie Mae’s participation in the Palisades @ JSU campus, will own and manage the Palisades property. e-City is part of the company’s nationwide $2 trillion “Our board of directors is community-based, which means American Dream Commitment to increase home ownerwe have direct community involvement in the Palisades ship rates and serve 18 million targeted families by the end project,” said Melvin Miller, Executive Director of the of the decade.
25
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
NEW SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS
A PRESERVATION
OF
HISTORY
It was a mixed crowd of approximately 300 faculty, staff, students, administrators and retirees on hand to witness the designation ceremonies for Jackson State University’s new School of Liberal Arts Building in December, 2001. The new facility was named in honor of Dr. Dollye M.E. Robinson long-standing professor and Dean of the School of Liberal Arts. Following many accolades from colleagues, alumni, friends, former and current students, Robinson greeted several guests, keeping to her signature statements with a love and devotion for Jackson State. Robinson began her now 50-year stint with JSU as Assistant Band Director and Instructor of Music. Since that time she has held prominent positions at JSU as Head of the Department of Music; Chairperson of the Division of Fine Arts; Assistant, Associate, and Acting Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Director of Institutional Self-Study. During her tenure as Director of the Institutional Self-Study (1969-1998), the University received its initial SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) accreditation and reaffirmation of accreditation from 1991 “Students must take arts, history, English, through 2001. Designed by Eley Associates/Architects and Dale & music and communications in order to be well-rounded and adequately prepared for Associates Architects, the new School of Liberal Arts is the largest academic component of the University with more than – Dr. Dollye M. E. Robinson the workforce.” 115,074 square feet. The project is comprised of a 21-st century design of classrooms including one 300-seat Lecture Hall, two 120-seat Lecture Halls, four large and ten standard flat floor classrooms, and six 20-person seminar rooms. Additionally, instructional and individual learning environments are contained within each unit, supporting each department’s curriculum. Classrooms are also fitted with appropriate levels of audio-visual equipment to support each teaching environment. The new School of Liberal Arts Building, located on Dalton Street, houses the Dean of Liberal Arts, the Center for Urban Affairs, the Departments of English/Modern Foreign Languages, History & Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology and Psychology with more than 100 parking spaces. “Regardless of your major, you must be immersed in the Liberal Arts,” said Dr. Dollye Robinson prior to the unveiling of the southwestern edge of the facility that now bears her name. “Students must take arts, history, English, music and communications in order to be well-rounded and adequately prepared for the workforce.” The marquis project was the result of a comprehensive campus planning design and carries with it a $15 million purse. Dollye M. E. Robinson School of Liberal Arts
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
26
by Ben Minnifield
n 1877, Charles Ayer, a trained theologian founded Jackson College in Natchez, Mississippi with forty students. At that time, his idea was to train teachers with a spiritual foundation, and an understanding of economic independence. He never imagined or even planned on Jackson College becoming what it is. Today, Jackson State University celebrates 125 years of academic growth and excellence and has the distinction of serving as the only comprehensive university located in the Jackson metropolitan area with an enrollment of nearly 8,000 students. When reflecting on the achievements of Jackson State University, Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr., the 9th and current President is quick to reference the legacy and courage of Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr., the university’s 6th President. Ben: Dr. Mason, describbe the influence that Dr. Peoples’’ book “To Survive and Thrive - A Quest for a True Universityy” has had on your presidencyy and your perspective of Jackson State Universityy. Mason: It certainly put the university and my job as president in a historical context. It helped me to understand the importance of an institution such as Jackson State University, especially considering I did not come from a historically black college environment. In some ways, it has helped make my presidency. After I read his book, I identified not only with the book, but the person. I remember going to my first alumni meeting and without actually saying it, I declared myself the next John Peoples. Because I embraced Dr. Peoples as a model of what a president should be, it brought me as an outsider a lot of good will with Jacksonians. Jackson State is a close-knit family that doesn’t take well to outsiders. In those ways it helped me a lot. Ben: Dr. Mason, describbe how your cam mpus developm ment and expansion plans merge with the plans that Dr. Peoples began. Mason: First, I am grateful that Dr. Peoples fought to insure that Jackson State would remain in its present location. Because there was some discussion about it being moved to the suburbs, but Dr. Peoples was adamant about keeping it in southwest Jackson
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
near the business district. That was probably the significant decision that anyone ever made for this institution. As you know, Dr. Peoples is responsible for acquiring a lot of the property that surrounds Jackson State. This area has undergone tremendous transition, but the idea is still the same as it was then. JSU is Mississippi’s Urban University. It serves the major metropolitan area. It is tied to the community around it, and we have the responsibility to meet the academic, social and economic needs of the community that surrounds us. Just as in the days when Dr. Peoples was president and faculty lived in the area, I want to bring that back. Our visions for expansion are a lot alike. I just have a lot more to work with. Ben: Dr. Peoples what were your thoughts on Jackson State being labbeled as an urbban universityy? Peoples: Actually it was my idea. Under the Carter administration, legislation was introduced to establish Urban Grant Universities, compared to Land Grant Universities. All over the nation, under the Association of State Colleges and Universities, the urbansituated universities were pushing this legislation. The University of Southern Mississippi was attempting to become recognized as Mississippi’s urban university and so was Jackson State. So, I went to the IHL Board and requested that Jackson State University be designated as the state’s urban university to distinguish us from the other universities. I was pushing to transform Jackson State into an urban university that offered expanded programs making it a truly comprehensive institution. Ben: Dr. Mason, define “urbban”” and what Jackson State’’s responsibbilityy is to the state of Mississippi. Mason: The term urban and our responsibility are defined in three ways. The first is to provide excellent education to academically sound people. The second is to have a close relationship with the community which we serve. The third is to serve students who come from large urban [learning] centers. People from all over the country, who are originally from Mississippi, are sending their children from Chicago, Detroit, St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans,
28
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
continued
Dallas and so on, to Jackson State to be educated. Because our students come from these large K-12 systems, we recognize that they have certain learning needs that we have to address, and insure that they are successful in life. Ben: Dr. Peoples, as a Black college president in the 19660’’s, your challenges were awesom me. What were som me of your experi-ences with IHL as President of Jackson State? Peoples: Compared to now, the Commissioner, which was then the Executive Secretary, was not the college presidents’ superior. He was the IHL Board’s Chief Staff Officer. Although, he tried to boss the Black college presidents. In those early days, we were encouraged to deal directly with the board members. We weren’t allowed to meet with the full Board. They had what was called the Special Education Committee to handle the Black Colleges. Well, that was eliminated once I began to complain about the fact that the white colleges had the President’s Council where they met with Board members and made recommendations which affected us. The Executive Secretary told me that the President’s Council was a private meeting and we were not a part of it. I then submitted a written request for Jackson State to become privy to the recommendations that were being made before their approval. That lead to the dissolution of the Special Education Committee and we all began to sit before the Board. Something as simple as sitting among all of the presidents was great progress, because there was a time when Black college presidents had to sit in the hall. Someone had to demand change. After that, I was named the first African American President of the President’s Council. Ben: Dr. Mason what challenges do you face? Mason: This particular board is basically controlled by Ole Miss and Mississippi State. What used to happen formally, now happens informally. Jackson State University has a duel battle. Jackson State is now different from the other Black institutions because we’re larger and we offer advanced degree programs. The
29
Black schools are starting to accept that. What’s more difficult is getting a fair chance to compete with the larger schools. The one thing that we have that they don’t, and they are very aware of, is that we have the largest population base in the state. We have a quality product that continues to get better. People are thinking real hard about whether they want to drive to Starkville or Oxford when they can get the same education here in Jackson. Ben: Dr. Peoples, discuss how Dr. Jacobb L. Reddix shaped your presidencyy. Peoples: I actually met Dr. Reddix when I was a student at Jackson State. I was President of the Student Government Association for two years and interacted with him a lot regarding student issues. I always went to him in a respectful way, yet in a way I was able to change his mind about rights that affected student life. He especially liked me for my approach and my strength as a student leader, and he told me, “You know, you’re the kind of young man I would like to see replace me one day.” I just laughed, because I wanted to be a mathematics teacher. When I left college and moved to Gary, Indiana he helped me to get my job. I greatly admired him. He kept up with my career, and we always talked about me coming to work at Jackson State. When we seriously began those discussions, it was clear that my role would be unique. After meeting with the Board and telling them what my plans were, I came to Jackson and interned under Dr. Reddix with the understanding that I would take over as President when Dr. Reddix retired. Ben: Now that the Ayyers Case is finallyy settled. What does it mean for Jackson State? Mason: In the settlement, each school has a defined role that has been agreed upon for the historically Black schools. Jackson State is a comprehensive university, which places it in the same category as the other three major schools, but it doesn’t solve the money issues to make our designation a reality. The Ayers Case recognizes JSU’s urban mission and approved the programs necessary
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
continued
to make that designation a reality. Though we have the designation, we don’t have the money. Money is a problem for Mississippi in general, but it’s even worse for Jackson State. People in Mississippi with power expect that it’s right for Black people to have a harder job and get paid less money to do it. The other issue is we have always educated Black folk. Because of that and the history of America, there is relatively less wealth among our alumni. They don’t seem to want to adjust for the inability to raise private money by reallocating public money. This has been one of my battles. Peoples: I tried to get the Board to adjust the allocation formula to adequately address Jackson State’s urban situation. We had more expensive operations in the city of Jackson than schools in small rural areas. Our counseling was more intensive because our students come from dire circumstances. Our utilities and maintenance were more expensive. Therefore, the formula should have compensated for extraordinary circumstances associated with an urban university. I wrote a proposal requesting support and the Board just ignored it. Mason: I make the same arguments today. Ben: Jackson State Universityy is poised to be a leader in tech-ment of the e--Center. Has this distinction nologyy with the developm been an im mpedim ment or benefit in the growth of the universityy? Mason: The politics against Jackson State has always been motivated by fear. If Jackson State was given a fair chance, there is no doubt in my mind that we would be the best university in the state of Mississippi. Ben: Dr. Peoples, historyy reflects that you were the first merican college president in Mississippi to serve on manyy African Am boards in positions that Blacks were forbbidden to hold. Describbe how your appointm ments helped to advance Jackson State’’s pres-ence. Peoples: In order to advance the institution, you have to be a part of the mainstream. I never pushed myself on these boards. Naturally, some of the opportunities come with the job. Some of those appointments include the State Crime Commission, the Chamber of Commerce, the United Way and the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. These board affiliations helped me to connect with many of the power brokers of the community to help expand the university’s agenda. Ben: And you Dr. Mason? Mason: It’s a little different for me. With the support and participation of my Vice Presidents, I don’t have to sit on a lot of boards. We spread out the responsibility. But, there is one that I am extremely passionate about - that’s the Mississippi Technology Alliance (MTA). Ben: Whyy? Mason: Because the CEOs from around the state decided to come together to create a technology hub. After the evaluation conducted by Dr. Michael Porter of Harvard Business School, it was clear that there could not be a real technological revolution without the involvement of the universities. It was also clear that we could not create a technology hub unless it was done in a major metropol-
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
itan area. Well, Jackson State is the only university in the metropolitan area. So, we made a proposition the MTA could not refuse, which lead to them becoming tenants in the e-Center. Ben: The final question goes to you Dr. Mason. How would you describbe the legacyy of Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr., in relationship to Jackson State? Mason: I would say that Dr. Peoples’ legacy is Jackson State University. I was thinking recently about the things that would not be here if it were not for John Peoples. The downtown campus, the Computer Science Program, the J-Settes, the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center and so many other things. The truth is, he took a small teacher’s college with 2,200 and turned it into a major institution with an enrollment of 7,900 at the time of his departure. You’re now looking at a university that has Ph.D. programs and national recognition that challenges Ole Miss for prominence and preeminence in the state of Mississippi. It’s an amazing thing!
30
by Angelique Minnifield
The Jackson Medical Mall & JSU, A Healthy Collaboration Back in 1969, when Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, the Jackson Medical Mall was the Jackson Mall. It was the largest, most diverse shopping mall within 400 miles of the metropolitan area, and it was located in the heart of Jackson. In 1978, the Metrocenter Mall opened. Seven years later, Northpark Mall opened. With the advent of these new and improved retail developments, major stores left the Jackson Mall and so did the shoppers, and the Jackson Mall was forced to close. For the next 15 years, the once thriving Jackson Mall would remain virtually lifeless. In 1995, the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation was established, and a rebirth and renewal process occurred. The founders of the Jackson Medical Mall
31
Foundation created a plan to breathe new life into the old mall, by converting it into a comprehensive, state-of-the-art multidisciplinary health care facility that provides quality health care for the underserved, as well as address human services and educational needs. Jackson State University, along with Tougaloo College, joined the founders of the Jackson Medical Mall to develop and expand educational opportunities at the Mall. This 900,000 square foot facility now serves as the home of Jackson State’s School of Allied Health Sciences and the Jackson Heart Study. The School of Allied Sciences offers bachelor’s and master’s programs, including healthcare administration, public health and communicative disorders. All of the
Allied Sciences programs and teaching locations are conveniently based at the Jackson Medical Mall. The Jackson Heart Study is the largest research study conducted among African Americans in the United States. It is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, and is being conducted at Jackson State University, Tougaloo College and the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Jackson State University is proud to be a part a collaborative effort to breathe life into the Jackson Medical Mall. Made up of retail shops, health care providers and learning centers, our University enjoys the reciprocal benefits of “The Mall That Has It All”.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
Lynch Street Corridor
A VEHICLE-FREE PEDESTRIAN MALL
As a part of the 2001 Mississippi legislative funding and appropriations for Jackson State University’s capital improvements, the construction of the Lynch Street Corridor has initiated the primary pedestrian walkway. This main artery will provide for student gathering areas, pedestrian egress and other related campus events and activities, minus the hustle and grind of vehicular traffic. With a focus of forcing automobile traffic to the perimeter of the campus boundaries, the concept embraces student interaction by giving the core campus back to students. The design of the Lynch Street Corridor will convert West Lynch Street (from Prentiss Street on the west end to Gibbs-Green Plaza on the east end) into a vehiclefree pedestrian mall. The firm of We a t h e r f o r d / M c D a d e , Limited is the planning consultant and landscape architect retained to produce the design. Drawing heavily on the JSU Master Plan, the corridor’s design includes a traffic round-a-bout at the West Lynch-Prentiss intersection, two open air pavilions, covered amphitheaters and seating areas along with length of the corridor. Emergency vehicle access will be preserved around the Jacob L. Reddix Campus Union. The total renovation project will connect the main entrance of the building to the southwest corner with access points on the west and south
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
sides of the Union building. Visual enhancements will be made along the Corridor, and new walkways will be constructed to handle the natural pedestrian movement through the quadrangle of the H.T. Sampson Library.
32
T H E J A C K S O N
S T A T E
U N I V E R S I T Y
SONIC BOOM Opens the 34th Annual NAACP Image Awards by Ben & Angelique Minnifield
Jackson State University’s “Sonic BOOM of the South” opened the 34th Annual NAACP Image Awards. The award-winning band performed and brought down the house with its trademark rendition of the Temptations classic “Get Ready.” About 70 band members and the Prancing J-Settes captivated the audience as comedian, Cedric the Entertainer, marched to the melodic sounds of the “Boom.” “The opportunity for our marching band to perform for the 34th NAACP Image Awards is an excellent honor for our music program. We are always seeking national exposure for the 19 ensembles coordinated by the Department of
33
Music at Jackson State University,” said Dr. Jimmie James, Jr., Chair of JSU’s Music Department. “This performance creates excitement for us because it is another opportunity to demonstrate the quality of the music program at JSU. We are extremely proud and commend our band staff and talented students for continuing the legacy of excellence in musical quality.” “This is an opportunity of a lifetime. As a freshman, I am excited to be chosen to perform before a national audience and to help promote Jackson State University,” said Daniel Bell, 18, of Vicksburg, Mississippi. Performing before a national audience is not new to the “Sonic Boom.”
The band performed for the NBA AllStar Game in Charlotte, NC, in February, 1991, and at several NFL venues including Cincinnati, Atlanta, New Orleans and Indianapolis. Their most recent professional game performance was during halftime of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks game at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas in January, 2002. The NAACP Image Awards honors African Americans for outstanding achievement in film, television, music, literature and public affairs. The 34th Annual NAACP Image Awards was broadcast from the Universal Ampitheatre in Los Angeles, California on March 13, on FOX.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
Student Government Association Has A Resounding Voice at JSU by Deborah D. Grison
Jackson State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) functions as a tool to make sure students’ wants and needs are being heard. One of the main goals of the SGA is to instill appreciation, respect, and progress for the aims and objectives of our great institution. The Jackson State University Student Government Association contributes to the intellectual growth and welfare of each student attending Jackson State. By providing cultural, educational and entertaining activities, the SGA encourages a clear and continuous exchange of ideas between the student body, campus faculty, university administration and the surrounding community. During the fall semesters, the SGA provides a plethora of activities for all students, both young and old. During football season, the SGA provides transportation for students to all games both home and away. In the past, the SGA has provided credit management workshops for all students. Mississippi State Representative, Oliver Robinson, Jr., of Birmingham, Alabama facilitated the hour-long workshop. The focus of the workshop was to impress upon students the importance of maintaining good credit; how to stay out of debt and the importance of repaying student loans on time.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
To kick off the spring semester, the SGA is always in high gear. A lecture series entitled “Lead by Example” is held twice monthly. The aim of this lecture series is to feature affluent, visible, community oriented individuals who have and are continuing to make outstanding contributions within our communities. During Black History Month, the SGA sponsors several educational activities such as Think Fast Black History Trivia Game show and The Umdabu Dance Company from Birmingham, Alabama. In addition to these activities, the Office of Student Organizations, the Office of Community Affairs partnered with the Congressional Black Caucus to sponsor a half-day seminar called S.H.O.P (Student Homeowner ship Opportunity Prog ram). Through this program, graduating seniors are able to obtain information about the benefits of home ow n e r s h i p . The presenters stress the
importance of having and keeping good credit. Although the workshop is geared towards graduating seniors, community residents can attend as well. The Student Government Association plays an integral part in the Division of Student Life at Jackson State University. With campus-wide elections held every spring, the campus becomes more alive than ever. This is the time of the year when the entire student body democratically elects the individuals who will serve as the primary voice for the student population for the next academic year. Students submit their names and are nominated for candidacy and campaign throughout the entire university community. The elected officers take an oath and are bound to their duties throughout that academic year by maintaining a set grade point average, excellent academic credibility, good character and good moral and ethical standing within the university setting.
34
It’s All Greek To Me
by Deborah D. Grison
JSU’s Pan Hellenic Council coordinates activities among its member organizations and encourages comity between the members of its organizations. It sponsors an annual Homecoming Greek Show and contributes to a Pan Hellenic Council scholarship fund for entering freshmen students. The overall mission of the University Clubs and organizations is to establish a positive networking program for Jackson State University students. They will provide information that will help students to adjust to the various aspects of campus life at Jackson State, as well as, making a smooth transition and learning to appreciate the hospitality of the south. The University Clubs unite to serve the Metro Jackson Community with the new ideas and implementing community service
activities. The clubs and organizations are dedicated to community service in the university’s surrounding area. Members plan community service projects which will strengthen the university’s presence in area neighborhoods. Despite all of the emphasis given to leadership, it remains a very vague concept. From the very beginning, leadership and higher education in the United States have been inextricably linked. Like most other early colleges, its primary role was to educate the clergy. For the next 200 years- until the 1820s - most colleges and universities supported the established doctrine, maintained a strict regimen of discipline and offered a traditional course of study. Students have created an extra cur-
riculum of debating clubs and literary societies. By 1840, Greek-letter fraternities existed on many college campuses, because fraternities were more demanding and created a ‘higher level of loyalty,’ literary societies declined in number and strength. The simultaneous rise of literary societies, Greek-letter fraternities and athletic competition created an immediate need for student leaders and secured the future of leadership development in higher education. The extra curriculum played a major role in sustaining collegiate values. Student organizations and leadership have flourished since the university era began in the 1920s. In today’s education setting, extracurricular involvement and leadership experience has become essential elements of a wellrounded education.
Student F O C U S Talvar J. Gholar ‘02, was named as a recipient of the
DAVID AND LUCILLE PACKARD FOUNDATION GRADUATE
SCHOLARSHIP.
Gholar’s achievements and awards cement JSU as a leading producer of scholars in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. Gholar is making good use of the $100,000 scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.
35
Jephte Lanthia (not pictured), ‘03, a senior Music Education major has been selected as a finalist for the Rockefeller Brothers Fund Teaching Fellowship - a highly competitive award to encourage students to enter the Education field. Jackson State is one of 23 institutions of higher learning whose students qualify to compete for the award.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
T h Ae J Ow e n s Fa m i l y acksonian Legacy The marriage between Jackson State University and the Owens family has been a long and fruitful one, resulting in its members cornering their own unique places in the marketplace. Bob Owens, has become a successful attorney, Dr. Jasmin Chapman, a top medical executive at the state’s largest community-based health center, Dr. Gwen Harrison, a pharmacist in Mobile, Alabama, Jody Owens as a teacher in Hinds County and Principal at Terry High School, Darline Owens-Slater, a homemaker, Dianna Owens Watson, a longtime financial analyst with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi and Levon Owens, a successful cattle and land developer who attended Alcorn State University, is the lone “nonJacksonian”. The matriarch of the family, Inez Owens, reared seven children in rural Terry, Mississippi as a single parent following the death of her husband, Edward Lee Owens in the mid-1960s. Though she nor her husband completed high school, they instilled in their children the belief that education was the key to self-sufficiency. Mrs. Owens later received a GED and also took a few classes at Jackson State University. “Laziness was not tolerated,” said Dr. Jasmin Chapman, who has served as CEO of the Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center since 1999. “Mom would say that she tried to do the best for her children like any other mother. We worked hard. We were blessed, and God directed our paths.” Accountability and responsibility were hallmarks of everyday life on the Owens farm where each child had specific chores. With an unwavering faith in God and an unparalleled work ethic, the Owens have each made notable achievements in their respective professions.
Owens Family: (l-r) Bob Owens, Jasmine Chapman, Diana Watson, Jody Owens, Inez Owens (mother).
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
Sutter Levon Owens
Gwendolyn Harrison
Darline Slater
Bob Owens, whose Jackson law firm was named among the Winningest Law Firms in the United States in the National Law Journal (July 2002), recalled working to help his family while taking a full course load in the History department at JSU, often driving the family’s cattle truck to the west Jackson campus. “In those days, all my friends knew we were coming when they saw that dusty old truck coming down the street,” mused Bob, a 1973 JSU alumnus who went on to earn the Juris Doctor degree from Florida State University and to win million-dollar cases in the areas of medical and pharmaceutical negligence, automobile accidents and other health-related illnesses. He and his siblings describe their early years at Jackson State as instrumental in building their self-confidence academically and professionally. “We will forever be grateful to JSU, which stands as a beacon of hope in the community,” said Dr. Chapman, a 1974 JSU graduate who received the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1979 from the University of Iowa. “We continue to promote Black colleges to our children. In addition to Jackson State being accessible and affordable, the support and the nurturing from our instructors contributed to us graduating from college. Had it not been for Jackson State, we might not have made it.” Enduring faith, love of family and the “Jacksonian” tradition have forever endeared the Owens family to the Hinds County community. Their success pales only in comparison to their genuine humility. “Like any other family, we have had our trials, but adversity builds character,” said Dr. Chapman. “We were taught to be as separate as the fingers, but as together as the palm. We were each other’s support. “We believe, ‘you are your brother’s keeper.’”
36
Dr. Rose Embly McCoy PILLAR OF JSU FAMILY, JACKSON COMMUNITY One former student recalled her as a diminutive woman with enormous expectation in the classroom. Another JSU alum remembered her as a cornerstone of the University’s academic enterprise, as well as a respected civic leader in the surrounding communities. Patricia Sims and Aaron Jones, with divergent experiences as undergraduate students at JSU, share their affinity for Dr. Rose Embly McCoy, longtime head Professor of Psychology who retired in 1980. “She was a very positive leader. You had to do your work. There was no getting by. She was a very dear friend of my aunt, but that didn’t mean a thing to her. I still had to do my work,” recalled Sims, who took a psychology course from McCoy as a freshman and went on to earn a degree in Elementary Education in 1954. “She helped you build your self-image. She demanded the best from you,” said Sims, a retired teacher from Richland. Sims and Jones teamed with other alumni and former students to honor McCoy during a portrait unveiling ceremony last fall as part of the University’s Extended Founders’ Day activities. “I don’t think you could have found another person on the campus that was more deserving of the accolades we expressed the day of the portrait-hanging,” said Aaron Jones, a 1959 JSU graduate who studied social studies and physical education. “With her credentials, this lady probably could have gone to any university in the country and made a lot more money than at Jackson State.” A native of South Carolina, McCoy received her bachelor’s degree from South Carolina State College and her master’s degree at Columbia University. As a doctoral student, she earned certificates in proficiency in Statistics, Research, French and Spanish and later received her Ph.D. at the University of Oklahoma. McCoy also conducted post-doctoral research at Yeshevia University, the University of Minnesota, the University of Texas and Florida State University. During her 36-year tenure at JSU, McCoy spearheaded many of the institution’s keystone programs including chartering the Mable Carney Chapter of the Student National Education Association and Psi Chi, the National Honor Society of Psychology and affiliate of the American Psychological Association. After
37
securing federal funds, she established a Learning Resource Center stocked with an extensive collection of equipment, films and other teaching-learning tools. She also authored proposals for three existing departments - Psychology, Guidance and Counseling, and Special Education. “She dedicated her whole life to JSU, but her service was not confined to Jackson State. She was a top civic leader and inspired a lot of people outside the university setting,” said Jones, JSU’s President-Elect of the National Alumni Association. McCoy remains a member of several social and civic organizations including Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., the Jackson Chapter of Links, Inc., JSU’s Thousand Dollar Club and the Auxiliary of the Medical, Surgical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Association of Mississippi. “Dr. McCoy made matchless contributions to Jackson State during our formative years,” said President Ronald Mason, Jr. “Dr. McCoy’s legacy remains a catalyst in challenging the minds of our present students and future generations.”
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
From Tragedy to Triumph
Sharrell Campbell Overcoming the Odds by Karen A. Smith
For Sharrell Campbell, a brief stop at the grocery store on the evening of October 25, 2001 permanently changed the course of her life. Campbell, who had worked for five years at Delphi Packard Electric in Clinton, took an alternate route to pick up snacks for a co-worker’s retirement party to be held the following day. “I normally would go home on Springridge Road in Clinton, but I stopped at Kroger to get sodas for the party. The sodas weren’t on sale so I decided to go to WalMart in Clinton. That put me on Highway 80,” Campbell recalled. It was there that Ms. Campbell was involved in a horrific car accident that left her severley injured and claimed the life of Newton Alfred Handy, III, Jackson State University’s longtime photographer. Campbell began an uphill battle of recovery and hope. She sustained numerous injuries from the collision including a broken left femur, two broken ankles and a tear in her aorta, resulting in a three-month stay in the hospital. Campbell has been in physical therapy at the Methodist Rehabilitation Center in Mississippi since that time and worked aggressively in regaining the use of her faculties. “My career plan is to work in the field of communicative disorders. This is still my goal, and I’m going to reach it. I intend to be a director of a program working with people with disabilities,” said Campbell, 24, who graduated August 4, 2001, from JSU
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
with a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. She earned a bachelor’s dregree in Speech in 1999. Campbell doesn’t remember much about the accident, only waking up in the hospital and calling for her mother. “When I woke up in November, they said, ‘Ms. Campbell you’ve been in an accident.’ I was in the intensive care unit. I asked for my mother. I was writing because I was on a ventilator and couldn’t talk. They didn’t tell me that anyone else was involved in the accident.”
“Normally people don’t leave the scene of an accident with injuries like mine. When they pulled me out of the accident, they said I was conscious all the way to the hospital. All of my injuries were internal.” Campbell didn’t fully comprehend the severity of the accident until she saw a Thanksgiving feature story about her progress on a local television news program.
Sharrell Campbell “Many people said, ‘wow, that’s amazing.’ Normally people don’t leave the scene of an accident with injuries like mine. When they pulled me from the car, they said I was conscious all the way to the hospital. All of my injuries were internal.” Faith has helped Campbell maintain a positive outlook on life. “God has given me peace of mind. The Lord is not going to put more on you than you can bear. My background in rehabilitation counseling has been helpful. The Lord has helped me day by day.” Campbell also credits her family with steering her courage during the healing process. “God and my family have brought me through everything.” That family includes two sisters who are carrying on the Tiger tradition - Tina Shepherd, a junior, and Amisha Williams, senior.
38
JOHN TIERRE MILLER: A JSU Business Prodigy by Arnold Lindsay, Contributing Writer
For most entrepreneurs, printing business cards is the first order of business. However, for John Tierre Miller, a 2000 JSU graduate of the School of Business, it was an afterthought. The owner and operator of BlockWear T-Shirt company headquartered in Jackson, now conducts business in major fashion markets across the country and around the world including New York, Japan, Houston, Miami, London, Memphis and Los Angeles. Knowing business cards can be a calling card to future business, Miller finally yielded and ordered cards after two years of phenomenal growth on sheer word of mouth. Miller, whose products can be purchased in the Metrocenter Mall and other locations in Jackson, designs each shirt and pens each script with an original message sprinkled with the flavor of the hip-hop culture. And a youthful crowd is buying into Miller’s positive messages on the shirts. The designer T’s bearing the copyright BlockWear logo have taken on a life of their own. Sales have not only caught on throughout the South, but are showing a trend in cross-cultural and varied demographic markets. In six weeks, Emad Fino,
39
owner of a Signature clothing store sold close to 900 shirts at his Jackson store. He also sells the product at two Signature stores in New Orleans and at Sammy’s in Natchez (Mississippi). With phrases like “Sweet Sweet,” “Mississippi Hustler,” “Louisiana Hustler,” and “Jacktown,” the back of Miller’s shirts use urban street vernacular that many inner city residents identify with to dispense positive messages. “The phrases help to complete the designer look, said Teddy Thurman, 21, a JSU business major.” “He’s letting you know that no matter where you’re from, BlockWear is for everyone.” Miller said the phrases are his way of making positive observances of inner city life. Miller, came to Jackson in 1995 from Houston to accept a tennis scholarship at JSU, and earned his bachelor’s degree in Business in 2000. He began selling the shirts from his trunk the same year and has probably given away as many as he as sold in an effort to get the name of BlockWear out. He has postponed his plan to obtain an MBA, at least until he stabilizes his business plans. He credits his success to people who have been recep-
tive to his product. More than 2,000 Official BlockWear T’s were proudly displayed at last year’s launch of the 125th Anniversary Celebration, bearing the new commemorative logo. The BlockWear shirts are sold at Oxford Street in Metrocenter Mall and other locations throughout the state.
“Snitching is an art perfected by the lame. The true d’boyz would never violate the game. The desire of some yellow bellies to shine has cost a lot of real playaz time. A quality education is what those stool pigeons missed. Because those of us educated off the block received a priceless gift.”
–John Tierre Miller
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
“My passion has always been to broaden the awareness and knowledge of students around the world.� -- Dr. Jesse C. Lewis
Dr. Jesse C. Lewis MISSISSIPPI’S FATHER OF COMPUTATIONAL LEARNING
L
by Ben Minnifield
ong before the technological explosion that introduced tech impresarios, such as Bill Gates, Michael Dell and Jim Barksdale, there was a technological guru at Jackson State University. Though his name may not be as familiar, his contributions and vision have been important to the technological infrastructure of Mississippi and its educational advancement. Dr. Jesse C. Lewis, born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, was valedictorian of Tougaloo High School, and earned his B.S. degree (Cum Laude) in Mathematics from Tougaloo College. He then went on to pursue an M.S. degree in Mathematics Education, and M.A. degree in Mathematics from the University of Illinois. Finally, he punctuated his mathematical expertise with a Ph.D. in Numerical Analysis/Computer Science from Syracuse University, placing him in a very impressive and prestigious group of intelligencia who possess the honor. By the way, it’s worth noting that he was the first African American to hold these honors, internationally. Dr. Lewis came to Jackson State University in 1959, as an instructor whose vision was beyond that of many instructors in his field in Mississippi. His intellect and desire provided a unique opportunity to develop, at that time, a virtually unknown phenomenon in the state - the idea of using computers of as learning tools. By today’s standards, the reality of computational learning is a part of classrooms and households across the globe. But, the early seventies were a drastically different time, especially in Mississippi. With the support of former University President Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr., Dr. Lewis was able to establish the first Computer Science course
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
and subsequently, the first Computer Science Department in Mississippi at Jackson State University. This feat was not only arduous but revolutionary by all aspects of human imagination. In 1972, with a $1,000,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, Dr. Lewis established and directed the statewide Educational Computing Network at Jackson State. With the University serving as the central site of the network, it provided computer services to nineteen institutions in Mississippi, including universities, colleges, junior colleges and high schools. During the life span of the network, faculty and staff communicated with the network from as far away as India. These were the early years of the Internet, which was only available to the U.S. military. Dr. Lewis’ work afforded many opportunities for JSU to tout its stellar Computer Science Division and feature the department as a recruiting tool for many international scholars interested in careers in the fast-growing profession. Dr. Lewis’ passion for education and computer science has afforded him global interaction and notoriety. He served as Delegation Leader for two People-To-People Computer Science delegations, founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to advance the cause of world peace through international understanding. However, this delegation was sent specifically to study computer education in Western Europe and the Soviet Union, which included meetings and seminars at universities and governmental and research agencies in England, Germany, Soviet Union, Sweden and France. The second trip was to the Republic of Korea, Japan and Hong Kong.
Dr. Lewis also traveled to Egypt for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to study and report on the status of academic computing in Egyptian universities. He developed and submitted recommendations to USAID for linkages between Egyptian and American universities in the areas of Computer Services and Computer Science research. Unfortunately, Dr. Lewis completed his tenure as Dean of the Computer Science Department at JSU in 1984. He went on to serve as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Norfolk State University until 1997. He then joined the National Science Foundation in Arlington, Virginia and has recently retired as a Senior Scientist Emeritus. Dr. Lewis has received numerous honors for educational and community services. But when asked what he is most proud of, he is quoted as saying, “I am pleased to be able to say that I have provided academic opportunities for minority students all over the country.”
41
Dr. Roderick Paige JSU ALUM NAMED U.S. SECRETARY OF EDUCATION President George Bush announced the appointment of Dr. Roderick Paige, a Jackson State University Alumnus and former educator as Secretary of Education. As a distinguished honor graduate of Lawrence County Training School in Monticello (Mississippi), Paige established his athletic prominence in football and track between 1951 and 1955. He made the Jackson College varsity squad and went on to become a three-year letterman and was elected captain of the team during his senior year. After earning his B.A. degree in 1955 and a two-year stint in the United States Navy, Paige joined the faculty at Utica Junior College as a Physical Education teacher and head basketball coach. He later enrolled in Indiana University in 1968 where he earned the master’s and doctorate degrees in Physical Education with a minor in Education Measurement and Evaluation. Paige later accepted a position as assistant football coach at the University of Cincinnati and after two years, became the head football coach and Director of Athletics at Texas Southern University, a position he held for five years. Paige’s leadership abilities have been further demonstrated throughout the nation for his accomplishments in public service and education. As an illustrious athlete, he has demonstrated the ability to combine intellectual energies and professional goals with a spirit of public-mindedness and concern for the world around him and has earned numerous awards and prestigious appoint-
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
ments. Among them are his 1980 appointments to the U.S. Department of Labor’s National Commission for Employment (NCEP) and his 1985 appointment to the Houston Job Training Partnership Council, not to mention his 1988 induction into the JSU Sports Hall of Fame. Paige’s accomplishments as the Houston Independent School District’s superintendent are quite impressive, with a 26 percent increase in the number of students passing all standardized tests. In 1998, Secretary Paige became the district’s first African American superintendent. His efforts at making the district’s campuses safer for students and teachers led to a 20 percent decrease in campus crimes and he is credited for making Houston one of the nation’s finest urban school districts. Secretary Paige is spearheading President Bush’s “No Child Left Behind Initiative” designed to ensure that a quality education will be available and accessible to America’s children. As the first African-American to serve as the U.S. Secretary of Education, Secretary Paige serves as an ambassador of educational development for America.
42
The Five Senses of Artisitc Expression Dick Griffin has rubbed elbows with some of the finest jazz musicians and soulful R & B legends down through the years. The road that led to Griffin’s successful music life began in Jackson (Mississippi) when he began playing the piano at the age of 11 and then picked up the trombone at 13. He was first introduced to improvised blues music in his hometown. “That was the first live music I was exposed to,” says Griffin, who is now in his early 60s. “Blues was basically what I heard all the time... Elmore James, BB King, Lightin’ Hopkins, Muddy Waters— all these people came to my hometown and played.” A 1963 Jackson State University graduate, Griffin spent two years teaching high school band in Columbia. He holds a master’s degree in Trombone and Music Education from Indiana University. Everything changed in the mid 1960s when he first met with the avant-garde jazz pioneer Sun Ra. He then spent several summers playing for Ra’s Arkestra, and he credits that experience with not only increasing his prowess on the trombone but also leading him to finally choose that instrument as his main focus Music is Griffin’s first love, but he dabbles in the arts, as well. “It’s the five senses that make art entertainment. It’s the same energy that motivates me to play or paint.” On the instrument, Griffin is able to create the sonic illusion that he is playing two trombones at once and play for up to 15 minutes without stopping. As he played with the Vibration Society, he spent three years as a member of the house band at Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater. He played with many giants in the fields of R & B and soul music during this tenure there, and worked with such people as James Brown, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, the Four Tops, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles and Isaac Hayes. He has also played, either in concert or in sessions, with Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, Tito Puente, Cab Calloway, George Benson and the Allman Brothers Band. In 1974, Griffin released his debut album, The Eight Wonders for Strata-East Records, one of the most successful independent jazz labels of the period. He then released Now
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
Dick Griffin
Is The Tim me: The Multiphonic Tribbe for Trident Records. During this period, he taught music theory and the history of jazz at Wesleyan University and later at SUNY-Old Westbury. He was also the recipient of several grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. In his art world, Griffin’s penchant for the visual arts began in high school, but it was his tour of Paris with the pre-Broadway production of “Black and Blue” (1985-1986) that encouraged him to grab the brushes. He notes, “Paris is such a motivating city. It encourages you to create.” Although essentially a self-taught artist, he attended classes at the Arts Students Leagues and apprenticed with the reputed artist Mark Kosabi. In turn, Griffin taught him piano improvisation. G r i f f i n’s canvases are as inventive as his music, which dances with colorful rhythms and broad melodic strokes of harmony full of explosive orchestrations that energize the senses. “I paint on the floor. I don’t use an easel,” Griffin explains. “I put my canvas flat on the floor, and I use a broom — only plastic bristles will do-- and paint like a person sweeping the floor.” Most recently, he sold 20 large acrylic paintings to a major corporation. He has exhibited in New York, Chicago, Idaho, Canada, Switzerland and Austria. Griffin’s own words about his artwork best describe the playing that has marked his long and vital performing career: “Full of passion... it’s honest, it’s part of my soul, a part of my thoughts.”
44
Sports Notables
by Diedre Bell Jones
“We are proud of our athletes and their ability to apply themselves in the classroom as well as on the playing field.” - Dr. Ronald Mason, JSU President
Jackson State continues to be recognized nationally for its stellar athletic programs and student-athletes who excel on the field and court as well as in the classroom. Last year, JSU received the Halbrook Award for Academic Achievement Among Athletes for having the best male student-athlete graduation rate - more than 50 percent - among all public universities in Mississippi. Following 20 consecutive seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, Jackie Slater reached the pinnacle with enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio in 2001, his first year of eligibility after retiring in 1995. As a model of consistency and longevity, the offensive tackle holds the NFL record for number of seasons played with a single team. Slater was named to the Pro Bowl seven times. At the time of his retirement, he held the Rams’ record for the most seasons played, most games played and most career post-season games played. Selected as a third-round draft pick in the 1976 NFL draft, he helped the Rams earn a place in Super Bowl XIV in 1979 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Slater is now a commentator for Fox Sports News. While coaches were cultivating athletic talent on Jackson State’s fields and courts, Samuel Jefferson was working behind the scenes running statistics, filing compliance reports and attending all of the games at home and on the road and calling the plays, literally. Jefferson served as JSU’s Director of Sports Information for 29 years. As a 1968 graduate, he served as a high school and community college instructor prior to joining the JSU family in 1973. Jefferson amassed an impressive list of regional and national accolades throughout his tenure including the SWAC’s Sports Information Director of the Year on eight occasions, the AllAmerican Football Foundation Elmore Hudgens Award for outstanding service in sports information and the College Sports Information Directors Association 25-Year award.
45
Entering her third season as Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Denise Taylor has revamped the Lady Tigers’ program, finishing the 2002-03 season with an impressive 23-6 overall record and a 15-3 conference mark. In 1997, Taylor was chosen as one of eight coaches to launch the inaugural season of the WNBA. Taylor was former head coach of the Utah Starzz in Salt Lake City, Utah. Taylor’s first year directing the Lady Tigers basketball program showed her versatility and talent far exceeded expectations. Eddie Payton, Head Men’s and Women’s Golf Coach at JSU, received double honors in summer 2002 - an interview on a cable network sports program and a national accolade for his contributions to the game of golf. Payton was a guest on Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, which highlighted his 16-year tenure at JSU, the numerous records and titles his teams have amassed, as well as the changing complexion of the National Minority Golf Championship, which Payton founded. He was inducted into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame during the 17th Annual Golf Tournament. Thanks to skilled coaching and strategic showcasing of talent, many outstanding student-athletes have blossomed at Jackson State and gone on to national prominence. One such standout is Lindsey Hunter. He attended Jackson State in the early 1990s and played guard with the Tiger Men’s Basketball team. Drafted as a first round pick in the 1993 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons, Hunter was the only former SWAC player to advance to the NBA championship finals in the 2001-2002 season. He went on to garner a championship ring with the Los Angeles Lakers in their defeat of the New Jersey Nets for a third consecutive title. Hunter has now joined the Toronto Raptors.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
Robert Braddy F I R S T A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N E N S H R I N E D I N A B C A H A L L O F FA M E
ormer Jackson State baseball coach Robert Braddy was inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame January 3, 2003 in San Diego, California. The induction took place at the ABCA Hall of Fame/Coach of the Year Banquet, held during the association’s national convention. Braddy is the first AfricanAmerican to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame. Braddy had an all-time record of 823-555-3 during his 28 seasons at Jackson State. With Braddy at the helm, the Tigers won 12 conference titles and advanced to the NCAA Tournament three times. A 1964 graduate of Jackson State, he built the Tiger baseball program into one of the most respected programs in the country. He won more conference titles that any other baseball coach in league history. His initial SWAC championship came in 1973, his first year as the Tigers’ head baseball coach. Since his first season at Jackson The Jacksonian / Collector’s
State, 52 of his players have reached the professional ranks, including Dennis “Oil Can” Boyd, Marvin Freeman, Wes Chamberlain, Earl Sanders and Dave Clark. During his career, he was named NAIA District 30 Coach of the Year twice and SWAC Coach of the Year eight times. He was inducted into the JSU Hall of Fame in 1985. In 1995, he was named Assistant Athletics Director until his promotion to Interim Director of Athletics in 1999. He has been tournament director for several NCAA Division I Baseball Regionals, as well as serving on the rating committee for Collegiate Baseball. In 2000, he organized the tri-county Jackie Robinson League for girls’ softball and boys’ baseball. The Florence, Mississippi native is married to the former Diane West and they have two children.
46
FACULTY B R I E F Dr. Hiroyasu Tachikawa has been named Principal Investigator of the Minority Biomedical Research Program, garnering awards in research areas in clectrochemical and spectroscpic experiments.
Dr. Hiroyasu Tachikawa
Dr. Ernest B. Izevbigie , Assistant Professor of Biology has discovered a plant extract that may be used to aid in the treatment or prevention of breast cancer. Izevbigie found that low concentrations of water-soluble leaf extracts of an identified plant retards the growth of cancer cells, at high concentrations and kills human breast cancer cells in pre-clinical studies.
Dr. Mark Colomb, Director of JSU’s Mississippi Urban Research Center (MURC), is among 16 people nationwide and the only candidate from an HBCU to successfully meet the eligibility requirements for a certified research administrator. The designation is valid for five years and granted by the Cincinnati-based Research Administrators Certification Council. The certification also reinforces the necessary function at the top administrative level of research, a critical component of JSU’s Research Development, Support and Federal Relations.
Dr. Mary Coleman, Professor and Chair of the Political Science Department is the recipient of the 2001-2002 Harrison Association of Governing Board’s Distinguished Service Award.
47
Jackson State University’s Teacher Quality Enhancement Project was among five projects selected to participate in a national study to determine the impact of teacher quality grants. Under the direction of Dr. Vivian Taylor, Professor of Education and Director, the Teacher Quality Enhancement Project received accolades from the U.S. Department of Education as a model for other programs across the country.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s Edition
JSU FACULTY ACHIEVE NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM Dr. Paul B. Tchounwou
Dr. Paul B. Tchounwou, Professor of Biology and Director of Environmental Sciences Ph.D. Program, continues his research in the areas of Molecular Toxicology nd Carcinogenesis. Expanded research projects are so noted in the areas of lukemis patients, ecology and genomic with grants exceeding $1.8 million.
Dr. Joseph Clive Enos, Professor of Mass Communications, is one of 800 U.S. faculty and professionals selected as Fulbright Scholars for the 2002-2003 academic year. Enos is teaching in the School of Journaliam and Communications at Tsinghua Unitersity in Beijing, China.
Dr. Maria Harvey, Dean of the W.E.B. DuBois Honors College and Professor of Modern Foreign Languages, has been selected for inclusion into the 7th Edition of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
48
In Memoriam Dr. Robbert John Anthonyy, Assistant Professor and Instructor of Biology. Anthony was an active member of Beta Beta Beta, Phi Delta Kappa, Omega Psi Phi, Who’s Who in American Education and the West Side Civic Club. Former longtime Director of Public Relations, Alvin Benson, died and was funeralized after a lengthly illness September, 2002. Benson began his career at JSU as Head Resident Counselor in 1963. He also served as Assistant Director of the Campus Union and was at the helm of his careed in Public Relations during the Gibbs-Green incident in 1970. Ethel Kornegayy-Brinson , Office Manager of the School of Allied Health Sciences. Brinson served in the U.S. Air Force from 1979 to 1990. Dr. Jam mes D. Dixon, II served as Associate Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences from August 2000 until his death in 2002. Newton Alfred Handyy, III., JSU’s official University Photographer for more than 50 years was laid to rest October 25, 2001. Handy’s contributing photographs were chronicled in Ebony, Jet and Life Magazines with national demands for the bullet-ridden photographs of the New Men’s Dormitory following the 1970 campus shooting by city and state law enforcement. Handy’s photography apprenticeship won critical acclaim from photo journalists and historians both nationally and internationally. Dr. Anderson Delano Mackiln , Professor of Art and Chair of the Art Department was eulogized on campus last
49
summer. Macklin was one of 123 artists from around the world to have a painting selected for reproduction in the international publication, Who’s Who in International Arts and Antiques (London, England). Under his leadership, the JSU Art Department received favorable accreditation reviews. Pauline Anderson Stam mps faithfully served the JSU family as a receptionist in Alexander North and McAllister Whiteside Residence Halls from 1975 to 1991. Pearl Meeks Vincent, 1954, served the University family faithfully for more than 40 years until her untimely death last year. Vincent began her tenure at JSU as an elementary education instructor(1969), Director of the Career Counseling and Placement Center (1978-1989), and Assistant Professor of Education, Reading, Human Growth and Development (1989 to 2001). Dr. Kathryyn Black Weathersbby , Director of the Center for Urban Affairs and Criminal Justice was laid to rest September, 2002. Weathersby was a dedicated supporter of education, Christian stewardship, service to youth and a staunch advocate of civic affairs, as evidenced by her membership in various organizations and election to the Simpson County School Board. Weathershy also served at the Utica Institute, McLaurin High School (Magee, Mississippi) and Magee High School. Dr. Lee Erskine William ms, Sr., 1940, rendered 40 years of distinguished service to the University as an educator, adminis-
trator and scholar. Williams served as President of the National Alumni Association (1954-1966) and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the JSU Development Foundation. He made lasting contributions to the alumni and findraising efforts and established the Lee F. and Ruth M. Williams Endowed Scholarship Fund. He was designated the Associate Professor Emeritus of Education (1984), as signified in the naming of the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center (1985). Dr. Robbert Earl William ms, Professor in the Department of Urban Studies and Criminal Justice. Prior to joining the JSU family, Williams served as Professor and Chair of the Departments of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Souther University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He also served as a pre-doctoral teaching associate at Washington State University and Assostant Professor of Sociology at the University of North Alabama. Williams’ career spanned 40 years as a dedicated educator and martial artist of more than 3,000 students. Dr. Estem more A. Wolfe, 1947,was eulogized during a speical ceremony last year on the University campus. Wolfe served as the National Alumni President from 1976-1980 and was elected Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the JSU Development Foundation, Inc. in 1980. Wolfe cultivated countless donors who gave unlimited resources to the University. He also led efforts to bring choirs, bands, and campus representatives to Detroit and throughout the Midwest.
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
MAJOR GIFT CLUB DONORS INSTITUTIONAL GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT
Diamoond d Club (Level) 500,0000+ Attorney Barbara Blackmon Attorney Frederick B. Clark Mrs. Mayne P. Higgins Mr. Calvin Hill Mr. Houston Hoover Dr. Florida C. Hyde Dr. Felix A. Okojie Mr. Soo & Mrs. Kay Roh Mr. Lewis Tillman Ms. Francine Thomas Dr. Lee & Mrs. Ruth Williams Mr. & Mrs. Luther Williams Universsityy Club (Level) 100,0000 - 49,0000 Dr. & Mrs. James Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Willie Bennett The Matilda Barney Family Mrs. Joan Bishop Mr. Howard D. Catchings Mrs. Vera Mae Chambers Mrs. 0. Billingslea Clay Mrs. Odester Finley Clay Mr. Ross Clay, Sr. Mr. Ronald P. Davis Mr. & Mrs. Charles Dow Mrs. Erma Ellis Dr. Tellis B. Ellis, III Mr. Charles Epps Mr. Lawrence Garfinkle Dr. & Mrs. Ruben Gentry Mr. Lawrence Gordon Mrs. Lucille Green Mr. Obra V. Hackett Mr. J. Herman Hines Mr. Alvis Hunt Mrs. Maude T. Jackson Mrs. Edna James Captain & Mrs. Alan W. Kubiak Dr. Hilliard L. Lackey, III. Mr. & Mrs. Charles V. McTeer Drs. T. Lee & Georgia Napier Mr. Bolton C. Price Ms. Zhen Qin Mr. John D., Sr. & Dr. L.G. Rhodes Mr. Eddie U. Sanders Ms. Brenita C. Searcy Dr. John L. Shourts Mrs. Gladys Dun Smith Dr. Robert Smith Mr. Robert L.T. Smith, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Richard Taylor Ms. Clara Walker Pressid dent’’s Club (Level) 5,0000 - 9,9999 Dr. Mildred Allen Mr. Willie T. Allen Miss A.L. Billingslea Mr. & Mrs. Edward Blackmon Mr. General Bobbin
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
Mrs. Mable Stowers Bobbin Mr. Dennis Bowman Ms. Geraldine Boorkins Mr. Phillip Brookins Mr. James D. Brownbridge Mr. Louis Dullard Mrs. Francis W. Carter Mrs. Janie Carey Mrs. Danella B. Catchings Dr. Annie J. Cistrunk Mr. R. Franklin Coloni, D.D.S. Ms. Melvene LaVonne Coney Mr. Joseph V. Darby Mrs. Gertrude Ellis Dr. Tellis B. Ellis, III Mrs. Antoinefte Epps Mr. & Mrs. Johnnie Esters Dr. Melvin I. Evans Mrs. Jean Powell Ficklin Senator & Mrs. Hillman T. Frazier Mrs. Eva N. Gaines Mr. Richard Gaines The Children of Coy Gentry Dr. Glenda Glover Mr. Lawrence Gordon Dr. Betty R. Graves Mrs. ma A. Holbrook Graves Mrs. Claudia M. Greene Mr. Stanley P. Greene Dr. Clara L. Grochowska Mr. Jolmnie Gross Mrs. Sayde M. Guyton Ms. Anna Hampton Dr. Maria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Mr. & Mrs. Robert Henderson Mr. John P. Higgins Mrs. Lillian W. Inge Dr. Joseph H. Jackson Mr. Clarence Johnson, Jr. Mr. Emmanuel Landsman Mrs. Esther Dixon Lindsay Mr. & Mrs. Edward Lipscomb Dr. James E. Lyons, Sr. Mrs. Sadie Magee Mr. Keith Martin Dr. Rose Embly McCoy Mr. Luther Moncriel Mrs. Queen Ester Wolfe Minis Mrs. Josephine C. Montgomery Ms. Sadye Montgomery Mr. Charles F. Moore Mrs. Dessie Newton Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr. Mrs. Hope Beatrice Peters Mrs. Freida R. Powell Mr. Lavatus V. Powell Dr. Ronald H. Powell Mr. J.C. Redd Mr. & Mrs. Felix Savoie Dr. Sandra Cannon Scott Ms. Mattie A. Silas Dr. Estus Smith Mr. Robert LT. Smith, Jr. Mr. Tommie Smith
Mr. Leland Speed Attorney Larry Stamps Mrs. Mary G. Staten Mrs. Deborah Steverson Mr. Romericus J. Stewart Mrs. Ester W. Stokes Ms. Curlee Wilson Stowers Mrs. Henrene W. Swami Dr. Herman Taylor, Jr. Dr. Cleopatra D. Thompson Mrs. Lottie Thornton Mrs. Eileen P. Todd Ms. Beverly Toomey Mr. Olger C. Twyner, III. Mr. Frankie F. Varnado Ms. Clara Walker Mr. William Watson Mr. James F. Williams Ms. Cassie Wafts Dr. Estemore Wolfe
Secoond d Centuryy Club (Level) 2,0000 - 4.999 Mrs. Jeraldine Abrams Mr. Emmanuel Abston Mr. A.A. Alexander Dr. McKinley Alexander Mr. Royal Anderson Mrs. Ruby Anderson Mr. Kevin Appleton Mrs. Earle S. Banks Mrs. Earle W. Banks, Sr. Mrs. Cheryl D. Bibbs Mr. DV. Bishop Dr. Canine H. Bishop Mr. John Milton Black Mr. Ralph Black Mr. T. G. Blackwell Mr. David G. Blakethom Dr. Sonny L. Dolls Mr. Robert Braddy, Sr. Mr. Gary Bridgeman Ms. Annie Brown Dr. Rejohnna R. Brown Mr. William A. Brown Dr. Willie Brown Mr. & Mrs. Zealious H. Brown Dr. Cozetta W. Buckley Mrs. Paralee W. Clark Burgs Mr. Christopher Burkett Mr. Will T. Chambliss Mr. Anthony Chibuzor Mrs. Clarice-Clayton Johnson Miss Angela Clemons Ms. Georgie E. Coleman Dr. Mary D. Coleman Ms. Melvene LaVonne Coney Mr. Robert B. Cooper Ms. Brenita Crawford Mr. Jerry Crosby Ms. Angelita Currie Mrs. Hardie Diggs Mr. Ralph D. Edwards
50
MAJOR GIFT CLUB DONORS INSTITUTIONAL GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT
Mrs. Alta Faye Ellis Mrs. Dorothy Lee Ellis Dr. Gloria B. Evans Mr. Paul First Dr. Bettye Ward Fletcher Mr. Henry W. Flowers Attorney James 0. Ford Dr. Vevelyn B. Foster Mr. Coy Gentry Mrs. Guatava M. Gooden Mr. Harold Haughton Mrs. Edwina Hefner Dr. James A. Hether Dr. Kermit Holly, Jr. Mrs. Bettie Home Mr. Edward Home Mr. James Huggins Dr. Margaret Hutton Mr. Eugene Jackson Mr. Gerald Janiak Mr. Bill Johnson Mrs. Clarice C. Johnson Mr. Curtis Johnson Mrs. Miriam D. Johnson Mrs. Linda Jones Mrs. Mildred B. Kelley Dr. Lula T. King Dr. Bettye R. Langley Dr. Earl C. Leggette Dr. Ivory C. Manning President Ronald Mason, Jr. Dr. Jane E. McAllister Mr. William L. McElroy Dr. Barbara McDaniel-Suggs Mr. Melvin A. Miller Drs. Abdul & Iley Mohammed Mrs. Beatrice K. Moore Mr. Clifton Mosley, Jr. Mr. Ronald Nolen Mr. Edward P. Norris Dr. Marie O’Banner-Jackson Mrs. B. Louise Owens Mrs. Mary E. Peoples Mr. Sylvester Phipps Attorney Benjamin Pigott Mr. Richard Porter Mr. Clyde N. Powell Dr. Paul W. Purdy Mrs. Lenora Barnes Reed Dr. & Mrs. Walter Reed Dr. Paul M. Rice Ms. Fayette Richmond Dr. & Mrs. T. J. Robinson, Sr. Mrs. Judith G. Ross Dr. H.T. Sampson, Jr. Mrs. Jerusha Shavers Mr. Lecluster Sherrod Dr. Rome Sherrod Ms. Bessie Shourts Mr. Cretonis Showers Mr. James P. Sims Dr. Estus Smith Mr. Jimmy Smith Mr. Marvel A. Turner
51
Dr. Susan F. Vandenbosch Attorney William Walker, Jr. Mr. Don Washington Dr. Dora Washington Mr. William H. Washington Ms. Sylvia T. Watley Dr. Barnes West Mr. AL. Williams Dr. Hill Williams, Jr. Mr. Reuben Williams Mr. Robert Williams Mrs. Ruth G. Williams Mr. David Wilson Mr. Herbert A. Wilson Mrs. Eva Y. Woodard Mr. Curtis Wragg
Thooussand d Doollar Club (Level) 1,0000 - 1,9999 Mr. James H. Abrams Ms. Jamila K. Alexander Mr. Marshall Alexander Mr. J. Kelly Algood Mr. Richard Varnado Mrs. Freddye Anthony Dr. Robert Anthony Ms. Hattie Armstrong Mr. Milton Austin Dr. Rose Austin Dr. Curtis A Baham Mr. Wilson Branford Ms. Geraldine Barnes Dr. Geroge E. Barnes Mr. Willie Barnes, Jr. Mr. David Bass, Sr. Mr. R.C. Benford Mrs. Olivia Bethley-Johnson Mr. Edward S. Bishop, Sr. Dr. Frank S. Black Mrs. Tommie Bolton Dr. James Bowling Mr. & Mrs. Clyde Brassell Mr. Robert Brazile, Jr. Mr. Larry Brock Ms. Millard Brooking Mr. Charles Brown Mr. David Burkes Dr. & Mrs. Emmett C. Bums Mr. John Calvin Mrs. Lillian B. Carter Dr. Jasmine Chapman Ms. Ida L. Cherry Mrs. Pearl Clark Mrs. Effie Clay Dr. Sam Cobbins Mrs. Marjorie W. Cole Mr. Ralph Collins Mr. James K.Cooper Mr. Emmett J. Crockett, Jr. Dr. Lavernis Crosby Mr. Roy Curry Ms. Vernonica Dampier Mr. Johnnie Daniels Mr. Emerson Davis
Mr. Nathaniel Davis Mrs. Audrey Fullilove-McCarty Mr. Lepolian Gentry Dr. Roosevelt Gentry Mrs. Loretta Gilmore Mr. Ronald Gilrain Mrs. Beatrice Giun Mr. Paul D. Gipson Mr. Earl L. Gooden Mr. Wayne Goodwin Mr. Milton Grant Mr. John Grantham Mrs. Helen Washington Griffin Mr. & Mrs. Obra V. Hackett Mr. Kenneth Hamilton Dr. Dewey A. Handy Dr. Norman W. Handy Mrs. Betty Hardwick Mr. Larry Hardy Mr. Charlie Harris, Jr. Dr. James C. Harvey Mr. Larry Heard Mrs. Mary Heard Dr. Daniel Heath Mrs. Ruby Hendricks Mr. Gerson A. Henriquez Ms. Sandy Hickombottom Mr. Edgar W. Hobgood Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Holland Dr. Dennis Holloway, Jr. Mr. Reuben Hopkins, Jr. Ms. D’An Howard Mrs. Bettye Joyce Hughes Dr. Walter Hums Mrs. Mozella B. Hurst Dr. Anita L. Jackson Mr. Marcus Jackson Mr. Melvin Jackson Mr. Sherman E. Jackson Mrs. Bernice Able James Dr. Jimmie James, Jr. Dr. Franklin Jefferson Dr. N. Christopher Jeffries Ms. Annette Johnson Dr. Darwin Johnson Dr. George & Mrs. Ruth Johnson Mrs. Minerva E. Johnson Mr. Rupert Johnson Dr. Arthur Jones Mrs. Birdia T. Jones Ms. Claudette M. Jones Dr. Louise Jones Dr. Samuel Jones, Jr. Dr. Marjorie Jordan Mr. Savitri & Krishna Kamath Dr. Joe King Douglas & Gladys Langdon Mr. Carl M. Lavallais Dr. Evelyn Leggette Dr. Robert List Mrs. Jocelyn M. Lyons Dr. Ally Mack Dr. Robert Mack, Jr. Mr. Steven Matthews
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
MAJOR GIFT CLUB DONORS INSTITUTIONAL GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT
Mr. Jacob L. McClain Mr. & Mrs. B.J. McCullough Mrs. Fred McDowell Mr. Donald Meiners Mr. Frank Mickens Ms. Angela Moore Mr. Ronald D. Moore Dr. Yvonne Mosley Dr. Janice K. Neal Mr. Valmore A. Nelson Dr. Andrew Newsome Mr. Mark Newsome Ms. Bobbie N. Oatis Mrs. Flora Odom-Flagg Mr. Idehen M. Omoregie Ms. Minnie C. Omoregie Ms. Bernadette Parks Mr. Willy Roy Patton Mrs. Lula E. Pendleton Dr. Cassie Pennington Mr. Arthur Pepper, Sr. Mr. Malcolm Perry Rev. Clarence & Bernice Phillips Mrs. Annie K. Pinson Mrs. Rose Portis Mr. Dwaine Powe Dr. Eleftherios Rasis Mrs. Bertha Redfield Mrs. Birdie M. Redmond Mr. Leland Redmond Mr. W.A. Reed Mrs. Ernia Reno Ms. Mary E. Riley Ms. Dorothy G. Robinson Mr. Garland Robinson Mrs. Margaret Lee Robinson Mr.l Johnnie Rogers Dr. Oscar Rogers Mr. & Mrs. Alex Sanders Mr. T.R. Sanders Mr. Calvin Scott Mr. Purvis Short Mrs. Bessie Shourts Mr. Cretonis 0. Showers Mr. Floyd Showers Mrs. Elma 0. Simpson Mrs. Beverly B. Smith Dr. & Mrs. Charlie J. Smith Mrs. Hannah Smith Dr. Jay T. Smith Mrs. Kenny Smith Mrs. Laura Smith Dr. & Mrs. Robert H. Smith Mrs. Odessa Smith Mrs. Sarah Jo Smith
The Jacksonian / Collector’s
Mr. Kathryn Warner Stalling Ms. Jerutha Steptoe Stowers Ms. Nettie Stowers Dr. Richard Sullivan Mr. Eric J. Terry Mrs. Nellie W. Tolliver Dr. James S. Wade Mrs. Priscilla R. Walker Mr. George L. Ward Mr. Edward Watters Ms. Cassie H. Watts Mrs. Alice Weathersby Dr. Kathryn B. Weathersby Mr. LeRoy Weathersby Mr. Anthony Wilcher Ms. Rellie Williams Dr. Everette L. Witherspoon Dr. Jack Witty Mr. Melvin Woods Ms. Ella S. Wooten Mr. Roscoe Word Ms. Lettye Montgomery Young Dr. Geungu Yu Dr. Michael Zifcak Foundations and Development McCarty Farms Tom Joyner Foundation Wal-Mart 100 Black Men, Inc.
$12,000 19,731 5,000 1,000
JSU Alumni Chapters Jackson-Hinds Alumni Chapter JSU Chicago Alumni Schools JSU Greater DC AlumnilAda Mason JSU Hattiesburg Alumni Chapter JSU Houston Schools JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter JSU Metro Atlanta Alumni JSU Metro New York Scholarship JSU Milwaukee Alumni Chapter JSU St. Louis Alumni Chapter
500 3,530 1,000 1,250 2,750 1,000 2,000 750 1,000 1,000
Business Scholarship Donors Anslen J. Martin Scholarship Caterpillar Scholars Charles F. Moore Scholarship Garfinkle Scholarship Union Pacific
10,250 8,000 23,250 1,500 16,000
Computer Science Scholarship Donors Computer Science Scholarship Litton Ingals Scholarship
250 3,000
AmSouth
5,026
Honors College Scholarships Class of 1959 Schools Jacob L. Reddix Scholarship John A. Peoples, Jr. Scholarship Rosa C. Robinson Scholarship Annie Richardson Norris School Bolton C. Price Scholarship
250 500 500 250 500 1,500
Education Scholarship Donors Bennie Owens Scholarship Gertrude/Alta Faye Ellis Scholarship Howard Catchings Scholarship Joseph H. Jackson School Vinia Crump Memorial School
1,500 500 500 2,000 1,603
Music Scholarship Donors Frank Williams Scholarship Fund $ JSU Band Fund Medgar Evers Scholarship William & Princess A Davis William A. Brown Scholarship
1,300 10,719 500 1,603 1,603
Corporate Benefactors Brown Bottling Company Frederick Clark Scholarship GM/EEOC McTeer Scholarship Sallie Mae Scholarship Walter Payton Scholarship
1,500 57,727 15,000 3,759 10,311 22,687
JSU Heroes and Heroines Addie Travis Brookins Scholarship Clifton Sutton Scholarship D.W. Wilburn Scholarship Earl C. Cooper Scholarship Estus and Dorothy Smith Scholarship Freida Powell Scholarship Jacob L. Reddix Scholarship Lavatus Powell-Greater Cincinnati Lee E. Williams Scholarship Mayne Higgins Scholarship Rose Harper Austin Scholarship Tellis B. Ellis Scholarship
500 250 250 2,000 2,555 500 500 1,500 6,000 250 800 300
JSU Family Partners Blue Bengal Athletic Association JSU Men's Basketball Program Pan Hellinic Council Scholarship
1,000 250 500
JSU Community Service Partners Firefighters Limited, Inc.
500
Finance Scholarship Donors
52