JSU Meterology Program 50th Anniversary

Building Bridges, Defying Expectations & Creating Change

Mete0rology

INTRODUCTION Established in 1975, the Jackson State University Meteorology Program was created through a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning and Jackson State University. Its founding marked a transformative moment in higher education and atmospheric science — a commitment to increasing African American representation in a field where diversity was critically lacking.

Housed within the Department of Chemistry, Physics and Atmospheric Sciences, Jackson State’s program quickly distinguished itself as the first and, for many years, the only historically Black college or university (HBCU) to offer a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology. The program’s mission has always been clear: to prepare talented, driven students to become leaders in weather forecasting, research, broadcasting and environmental science.

Over the past five decades, Jackson State has become a national leader in shaping the face of meteorology. The program is credited with producing more African American meteorologists than any other university in the nation, representing nearly one-third of African Americans currently working in the field. Graduates have gone on to serve in vital roles at the National Weather Service, NOAA, NASA, the U.S. Air Force, The Weather Channel, television stations, research labs and universities across the country.

Sustained by a strong foundation of academic rigor, mentorship and collaboration, the program has benefited from decades of federal support and research partnerships. Through initiatives such as the NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology (NCAS-M) and other national collaborations, students have gained hands-on experience in forecasting, climate modeling, severe weather research and public outreach — continuing Jackson State’s proud tradition of service and scientific excellence.

In 2015, the program celebrated its 40th anniversary with the creation of the JSU Meteorology Hall of Fame, honoring alumni and pioneers who advanced both the science and its community impact. Now, in 2025, we commemorate 50 years of achievement, celebrating a legacy built on opportunity, innovation and excellence.

As Jackson State University’s Meteorology Program looks to the future, its mission remains steadfast — to educate, inspire and empower the next generation of meteorologists who will forecast not only the weather, but a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

OUR MISSION

Beyond the Clouds, Exceeding the Vision The Jackson State University Meteorology alumni have a long-standing tradition of giving back to the program that helped shape their careers. Since the mid-1990s, alumni have supported undergraduate students in numerous ways—through scholarships, mentorship and professional guidance. Several scholarships have been established to provide financial assistance to deserving students, while alums regularly return to campus to share their experiences and discuss career and job opportunities.

Through their professional networks, alumni have helped create summer internships and research opportunities, enabling students to gain national exposure through presentations at local and national conferences. Alumni have developed professional development workshops designed to give students hands-on experience, strengthen networking skills and build relationships with practicing meteorologists. By fostering these connections, the alumni network continues to enhance the visibility, reputation and reach of the Jackson State University Meteorology Program.

The Blue Bengal Meteorology Alumni Association exists to: • Provide financial support to Jackson State University meteorology students • Advocate for fair practices and equal opportunities within the field • Supply resources and tools to ensure students remain competitive with other meteorology programs • Connect students to professional meteorologists and scientists for mentorship and guidance • Educate and train students through workshops, seminars and professional development activities • Encourage students to pursue graduate education, research and specialized training • Prepare students for careers in meteorology and related scientific fields By building strong, lasting relationships with students, the Blue Bengal Meteorology Alumni Association continues to strengthen the Jackson State University Meteorology Program and ensure its long-term success.

OFFICE of the PRESIDENT

Dear students, faculty, alumni, partners and friends of the JSU meteorology program, Since 1975 the Jackson State meteorology program has grown into a national leader in access, training and service to our state, our nation and the atmospheric sciences. What began as a bold vision has grown into a program that expands access to the field and prepares students for careers that protect communities and advance scientific understanding. About one in four African American bachelor’s degree holders in meteorology earned that degree at Jackson State.

Our alumni are leaders across broadcast, government and research, from Vivian Brown and Ken South in broadcast meteorology to Jackson State graduates serving at the National Weather Service such as Latrice Maxie and William “Bill” Parker. The Blue Bengal Meteorology Alumni Association and longstanding partnerships with the NWS and NOAA continue to strengthen student pipelines and professional opportunities.

This milestone reflects the dedication of the faculty who teach and mentor, students who pursue rigorous study, alumni who lead and give back, and partners whose collaborations create internships, research opportunities and career pipelines. Your work demonstrates that Jackson State is Thee Standard for access, opportunity and professional achievement in the atmospheric sciences.

As a fellow JSU STEM graduate, I share your pride in this work and in the lives it has changed.

Thank you for 50 years of scholarship, service and leadership. I look forward to watching how the next 50 years will build on this proud legacy.

With pride and gratitude,

Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Interim President Jackson State University®

1400 John R. Lynch St. | PO Box 17390 | Jackson, MS 39217

It is with great pride and heartfelt congratulations that I join in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Meteorology Program at Jackson State University. This golden milestone represents five decades of excellence, discovery and dedication to advancing atmospheric science and preparing future leaders in the field.

Since its establishment, JSU’s Meteorology Program has stood as a national model for excellence and diversity in the geosciences. It remains one of the few programs at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to offer a bachelor’s degree in meteorology — a distinction that reflects the vision, commitment and perseverance of its founders, faculty, students and alumni.

Over the past half-century, the program has produced outstanding graduates who have gone on to serve with distinction at the National Weather Service, NASA, NOAA and in private industry, research institutions and academia. Their achievements continue to bring honor to Jackson State University and inspire the next generation of scientists who will face the evolving challenges of our changing climate.

As we celebrate this remarkable legacy, we also look ahead with renewed purpose.

The College of Science, Engineering and Technology remains committed to supporting the program’s growth, fostering innovation in research and technology and expanding opportunities for students to make meaningful contributions to the world around them.

To our alumni, faculty, students and friends — thank you for fifty years of excellence, dedication and Tiger Pride. May the next fifty shine even brighter as we continue to forecast a future full of promise, progress and possibility.

Dr. Wilbur Walters, Jr. Dean of the College of Science, Engineering and Technology Jackson State University

On behalf of Jackson State University’s Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Atmospheric Sciences, it is my great pleasure to welcome our alumni and friends to the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Meteorology Program. Congratulations to our Hall of Fame Nominees!

Many of you have passed through our halls and gone on to achieve remarkable success in your respective careers. Your dedication and accomplishments have paved the way for new opportunities for the generations who follow in your footsteps.

Our department has reached new heights in several areas: • Chemistry Program: Nationally recognized as one of the top-tier programs in the country—ranking 3rd in bachelor’s, 2nd in master’s and 3rd in doctoral degrees awarded to African Americans in the physical sciences.

• Physics Program: Ranked 8th among U.S. institutions for awarding bachelor’s degrees in Physics to Black/African American students.

• Atmospheric Science (Meteorology) Program: Nationally, Jackson State University has produced one of every three African Americans who hold bachelor’s degrees in meteorology.

Today, we are the beneficiaries of the vision, perseverance and excellence you set forth. With heartfelt gratitude, we salute you. None of these outstanding accomplishments would have been possible without the unwavering commitment of our honorees.

Dr. Mehri Fadavi Professor and Chair, Department of Chemistry, Physics and Atmospheric Sciences Jackson State University

We hope you take pride in knowing that our students continue to thrive within the rich academic culture of excellence fostered by the College of Science, Engineering and Technology.

WELCOME Alan Sealls

Retired Broadcast Meteorologist and Educator Keynote Speaker Alan Sealls retired from a career as a broadcast meteorologist in early 2024. He most recently was chief meteorologist at NBC15 in Mobile, after serving as chief meteorologist at WKRG-TV for 20 years. Alan earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in meteorology, respectively from Cornell and from FSU. He is a Fellow of the American Meteorological Society (AMS) and a past president of the National Weather Association. He is now the 2025 President-Elect for the AMS. Alan teaches weather broadcasting at the University of South Alabama, each spring. He sometimes serves as a consulting meteorologist and expert witness in legal cases. Alan writes a bi-weekly weather column for Lagniappe Newspaper. He has written and produced more than 100 weather videos used by educators in multiple countries, distributed by Discovery Education and by Boclips. Alan has also authored three weather books. One of them, A Career in TV Meteorology, is used in college courses. Website:alanseallsauthor.com Before arriving in Mobile in 1999, Alan was a meteorologist at the NBC TV station in Chicago. Prior to that, he spent five years at Chicago superstation WGN-TV. In Chicago, he taught meteorology at Columbia College. Before Chicago, Alan Sealls was a TV meteorologist in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and in Albany, Georgia. He’s originally from a suburb of New York City.

Alan is a sixteen-time Emmy winner and winner of more than 20 other local, regional, state and national awards for broadcast meteorology.

He went viral on YouTube for coverage of Hurricane Irma, in 2017 and was declared “Best Weatherman Ever!”. Over his career, Alan visited more than 800 schools, reaching tens of thousands of kids. Alan is also an accomplished weather photographer. His work and weather photos have been used in television, science research and textbooks. He has captured the art and science of weather both in storm chasing and in several flights with the U.S. Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters.

50th Meteorology Anniversary

Commemoration Agenda NOV.

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Alumni & Student Meet and Greet 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Just Science Hall Hosted by JSU Meteorology Club & Blue Bengal Meteorology Alumni Association Professional Development Sessions • Resume Building – Federal and Private Sector • Job Searching • Interview Skills • Building Your Brand on Social Media • Mentoring & Mentee Relationships NCAS-M, Pathways, Entrepreneurship and Private Sector Opportunities 6:00 – 8:00 PM | Evening Social (Westin Hotel)

NOV.

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Opening Session 8:00 AM – 3:15 PM | JSU Student Center Theater 8:00 – 8:50 AM | Registration 9:00 – 9:30 AM | Opening Ceremony 9:30 – 9:50 AM | JSU Meteorology Program History 10:10 – 10:20 AM | Break 10:20 – 11:20 AM | Alumni and Faculty Retrospective 11:20 AM – 1:00 PM | Luncheon (Ballroom A) 1:00 – 2:00 PM | Shaping the Future of Operational Meteorology & Hydrology 2:00 – 3:00 PM | Next Horizons in Climate and Weather Research 3:00 – 3:15 PM | Recap & Adjournment

Hall of Fame Gala

7:00PM – 10:00 PM | JSU Student Center, Terry L. Woodard Ballroom A 7:00 - 7:15 PM | Arrival and Welcome Reception 7:15 - 7:30 PM | Seating and Opening Remarks 7:30 - 8:00 PM| Dinner/Dessert Service 8:00 - 9:00 PM| Hall of Fame Inductions 9:00 - 9:45 PM | Mingling 9:45 - 10:00 PM | Closing Remarks and Adjournment 10:00 PM | Formal Ending and Departure

NOV.

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Closing Session

8:00 AM – 1:30 PM | JSU Student Center Theater 8:30 – 8:40 AM | Greetings 8:40 – 9 AM | JSU Impact on Broadcast Meteorology 9 AM - 10 AM | A Journey into Broadcast Panel 10:00 – 10:15 AM | Networking Break 10:15 AM – 12:00 PM | Establishing the Association of Black Meteorologists 12:00 – 1:30 PM | Family Reunion Fish Fry 6:30 PM | JSU Volleyball Game vs. Bethune-Cookman (Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center)

NOV.

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JSU vs. Bethune-Cookman 12:00 PM | Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium Tailgate & Game

of 2025 JSU METEOROLOGY Class 50th Anniversary Inductees

Hall of Fame William “Bill” Parker Meteorologist-in-Charge, National Weather Service Jackson, Mississippi

William “Bill” Parker is a 1994 graduate of Jackson State University and currently serves as the Meteorologist-in-Charge of the National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Office in Jackson, Mississippi—affectionately known as “Action Jackson.” This office provides critical weather services to some of the most weather-vulnerable communities in the nation, spanning portions of Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas.

A devoted community servant and diversity champion, Bill has spent over three decades advancing the mission of the NWS while fostering inclusion and opportunity across the meteorological field.

Throughout his career, he has recruited and mentored hundreds of students for NOAA internships and volunteer opportunities, helping to build the next generation of scientists. His outstanding commitment to diversity, STEM education and public outreach has earned him more than fifteen awards recognizing his leadership and service.

Deeply aware of the disproportionate impact of hazardous weather on minority and undeserved communities, Bill’s dedication extends beyond the forecast office. During Hurricane Katrina, he personally warned family members of the impending danger and later opened his home to shelter more than sixty evacuees.

In addition to his meteorological leadership, Bill has served in ministry for 28 years, including time as a foreign missionary in Haiti. He is currently the pastor of Word Alive Church and Communion House in Flowood, Mississippi. Bill is married to Mrs. Melanie Quincy Parker and together they are the proud parents of three sons and one daughter.

Freddie zeigler

Warning Coordination Meteorologist, National Weather Service Cleveland, Ohio Freddie Zeigler is the Warning Coordination Meteorologist (WCM) at the National Weather Service in Cleveland, where he oversees the coordination of warnings and preparedness efforts across northern Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania. His responsibilities include managing the Skywarn Program, providing spotter training, serving as the primary media liaison and building strong partnerships with emergency managers, the media and community leaders to support the NWS mission.

Freddie’s interest in weather was ignited by Hurricane David in 1979 and his career started at Jackson State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in meteorology.

Motivated by media coverage and internships at NWS offices in Jackson, MS and Tallahassee, FL, Freddie began his NWS career as an intern in Tupelo in 1994. He later became a Forecaster in 1998, a Senior Forecaster in 2002 and eventually reached his current role as WCM in 2020.

Among his most notable experiences was supporting Hurricane Isaac in New Orleans, where he provided Decision Support Services (DSS) to the mayor, a U.S. Senator and other officials. He also helped adapt NWS products, including the Hourly Weather Graph, to aid in guiding recovery efforts across the city.

Freddie is dedicated to mentoring others, fostering teamwork and supporting colleagues in their roles. He believes in ongoing learning and encourages aspiring meteorologists to network, volunteer and study significant weather events, valuing how people connect with the mission of the National Weather Service. In addition to coordination, Freddie takes pride in helping others understand the importance of impact-based decision-making and how the NWS can serve all communities.

Dr. Remata S. Reddy

Professor of Meteorology, Department of Chemistry, Physics and Atmospheric Sciences Jackson State University Dr. Remata S. Reddy was born in India and migrated to the United States in 1989, where he later became a proud U.S. citizen. Before joining Jackson State University, he served as a scientist with the Governments of India and Canada for more than twenty years. In 1994, Dr. Reddy joined Jackson State University as an Assistant Professor and was later promoted to Full Professor in the Department of Chemistry, Physics and Atmospheric Sciences. He has dedicated more than 30 years to the Meteorology Program at Jackson State University.

Dr. Reddy also served as Chair of the Division of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences for the Mississippi Academy of Sciences, where he promoted education and research in the atmospheric sciences. In recognition of his distinguished service and contributions, he received the Academy’s highest honor—Fellow of the Mississippi Academy of Sciences (FMAS).

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Reddy taught a broad range of undergraduate and graduate courses, inspiring generations of students through his passion for teaching and research. His academic interests included Meteorology and Climatology, Tropical Meteorology, Remote Sensing and Satellite Meteorology and Numerical Modeling. He collaborated extensively with NASA, NOAA, NSF and DHS on education and research initiatives and was deeply committed to mentoring and advising undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdoctoral scholars.

Dr. Reddy represents Jackson State University as a UCAR Member and is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Meteorological Society (AMS), American Geophysical Union (AGU), National Council on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), National Weather Association (NWA), Mississippi Academy of Sciences (MAS), Indian Science Congress, COSPAR and is a Life Member of the India Meteorological Society.

A prolific scholar, Dr. Reddy has authored numerous publications and presented his work at national and international conferences, earning respect among his peers for his scholarly contributions. Beyond his scientific achievements, he is also a gifted poet whose work has received multiple “Best Poet” awards—reflecting his creativity, faith and love for expression.

Dr. Reddy earned his B.Sc. in Physics from Osmania University, M.Sc. (Tech) in Applied Geophysics from Andhra University and Ph.D. in Meteorology from Poona University, all in India. He was married to the late Remata Satyavathi Reddy and is the proud father of two sons and one daughter and the loving grandfather of five grandchildren.

Latrice Maxie

Senior Service Hydrologist, National Weather Service Jackson, Mississippi A proud Chicago native with deep Mississippi roots, Latrice Maxie has built an outstanding career of more than 25 years with the National Weather Service (NWS) and over 8 years as an adjunct instructor at Jackson State University. Her professional journey reflects both excellence in meteorology and a steadfast commitment to education, mentorship and community engagement.

Latrice began her career with the NWS in New Braunfels, Texas, before joining the Jackson Forecast Office, where she has served in multiple roles over the past 24 years—including Journeyman Forecaster, Observing Program Leader and Service Hydrologist. In each position, she has brought dedication, leadership and a passion for public service.

Her impact extends well beyond operational forecasting. As the Volunteer Program Coordinator, Latrice has been instrumental in introducing students to meteorology careers through training and networking opportunities. She has also supported students in NOAA-funded programs by creating and assisting with research projects, helping to bridge classroom learning with real-world applications.

In her role as an adjunct instructor at Jackson State University, Latrice has influenced countless meteorology students—guiding them as both a professional and an alumna. Her participation in initiatives such as the VORTEX-SE Engagement Consortium and the Community Resilience Project at Jackson State reflects her dedication to grassroots outreach and empowering communities through weather awareness and preparedness. Beyond her professional achievements, Latrice finds joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with her son, Christopher, enjoying movies and playing video games together. Latrice Maxie exemplifies the spirit of Jackson State University through her lifelong commitment to service, education and community impact.

2015

Hall of Fame Inductees

The 2015 JSU Meteorology Hall of Fame recognized seven notable individuals for their impactful contributions to Jackson State University Atmospheric Sciences program and the field of meteorology.

2015 Inductees and Reasons •

Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr. : Recognized for visionary leadership as JSU president, supporting the creation and growth of the meteorology program and advocating for STEM advancement among minority students.

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Dr. Charlie Smith: Recognized for foundational faculty leadership and mentoring multiple generations of students who went on to succeed in meteorology and related fields.

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Dr. Keith W. Johnson: Recognized for his academic leadership, influential teaching and research that expanded JSU’s national influence in atmospheric sciences.

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Dr. Lonzy Lewis: Recognized for his dedication to scientific education and promoting operational and research excellence among JSU meteorology graduates.

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Ms. Patricia A. Brown: Recognized as the first graduate in meteorology from JSU, for her professional excellence as a NOAA National Weather Service meteorologist and for inspiring students through her pioneering career as an African-American scientist.

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Ms. Vivian Brown: Recognized for her pioneering broadcast meteorology career at The Weather Channel, increasing public awareness about weather and climate and serving as a role model for JSU alumni pursuing media meteorology careers.

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Mrs. Cindy P. Woods: Recognized for dynamic leadership as chief of NOAA’s NWS Operations Division, dedication to the profession and active mentorship of JSU meteorology students entering federal service.

The inductees were chosen for their roles as founders, institutional leaders, educators, professional trailblazers and public science communicators, all advancing Jackson State University as a national leader in meteorology and boosting minority representation in the sciences. Each has made a unique impact as a mentor, administrator, researcher, or media professional, directly affecting both the department’s success and the broader atmospheric sciences community.

JSU METEOROLOGY

Alumni 1980s Patricia Brown (1980) · Kevin McGee (1981) · Steve Jefferson (1982) · Rafael Freytez (1982) · Joseph Demoulin (1984) Vivian Brown (1986) · Cindy Polk Woods (1987)

1990s David “Tommie” Smith (1990) · Emma Yolanda Amadeo (1992) · Clydine Booker Warfield (1993) · Kenneth South (1993) · David Tillman (1993) · Paul Williams (1993) · Margaret Nicole Davis-Edwards (1994) · William Parker (1994) · Freddie Zeigler (1994) · Preston Heard (1996) · Traci Howard (1996) · Tamara Kees (1996) · Jaynal Parvez (1996) · Charlotte Smith (1996) · Vaughn Smith (1996) · Cedric Blair (1997) · Al Mattson (deceased) (1997) · Tomeica (Moore) Faucette (1997) · Eboini Cannon (1998) · Tiffany (Hall) Temple (1998) · Latrice Maxie (1998) · Alana McCants (1998) · Mahalia (Miller) Wright (1998) · Robin Miller (1998) · Taivaya A. Fagan (1999) · Dr. Andrea M. Sealy (1999) · Monesa Watts (1999)

2000s Robin Bridges-Johnson (2000) · Ronnie Guyton (2000) · John Hurley (2000) · Rafael Mahecha (2000) · Michelle Webb (2000) · Sontyna Dixon (2002) · Dr. Kantave Greene (2002) · Dr. Aisha (Reed) Haynes (2002) · Michelle (Farver) Hicks (2003) · Laurita Brown Alomassor (2004) · Kimberly (Tingle) Coleman (2004) · Dr. Ashton Robinson Cook (2004) Dr. Jamese Sims (2004) · Shundra Stewart (2004) · Ashley (Patterson) Hayes (2006) · Georgette S. Holmes (2006) Saavedra Ivey (2006) · Kenneth Hair (2007) · Shari (Dixon) Hales (2007) · Douglas Gavin (2007) · Destiny Rainney (2007) Markeitta Benjamin (2008) · Darnell Newton (2008) · Marque Jones (2008) · Quincy Jones (2008) · Imani Morris (2008) Bennett Webb (2009) · Jamal West (2009) · Christopher Luckett (2009)

2010s Patrick Pete (2010) · Phillip Stewart (2010) · Dr. Stephany Taylor (2010) · Adella Dexter (2010) · Henry Blakes (2010) Jarrett Claiborne (2011) · Breawna Kirkpatrick (2011) · Brittany (Hankins) Amos (2011) · Harene Natarajan (2012) Dr. Dereka Carroll (2012) · Daniel Canales (2012) · Jessica Foxworth (2013) · Marcus Hereford (2013) · Kia Dorsey (2013) John Moore III (2013) · Christopher Wilson (2014) · Chelsea Fullilove (2014) · DeVondria Reynolds (2014) · Caleb Johnson (2014) · Brittany Hailey (2015) · Terynn Thompson (2015) · William Parks (2015) · Dominique Jamal Marshall (2016) · Kara M. McCaskill (2016) · Jordan Darensbourg (2016) · Bryana L. Ward (2016) · Chastity Curry (2017) · Geselle Coleman (2017) Lenetta Mallory (2017) · Jaylond Harvey (2018) · Tony Hurt (2018) · Janae Elkins (2018) · Alexis Phipps (2018) · Keon Gibson (2018) · Ena Keys (2019) · Justin Bonds (2019)

2020s Taylor Black (100th Graduate, 2020) · Michael Smith (2020) · Anthony Thornton (2020) · Mariama Feaster (2020) Neil Crosby (2021) · Avaionia Smith (2021) · Lance Perrilloux (2022) · Alycia Triplett (2022) · Jerry Brown (2022) Siarrah Taylor (2022) · Alexis Floyd (2022) · Jordan Ambrose (2023) · Makenzie Frith (2023) · Kayla Bena Hudson (2023) Kendall Parks (2023) · Nicholas M. Price (2023) · Taylon Scheppel White (2023) · Jayden D’Keith Williams (2023) Zakiya Johnson (2025) · Janae Goodwin (2025) · Jayla Inglehart (2025)

Thank You To Our Valuable Contributors Office of the President College of Science, Engineering & Technology Department of Chemistry, Physics & Atmospheric Sciences Division of Research & Economic Development Division of University Communications Department of Events & Visitor Services JSU Project STEP

[Thank you]

Planning Committee William “Bill” Parker, Co-Chair Cindy Woods, Co-Chair Patricia Brown Freddie Zeigler Yolanda Amadeo John Moore Dr. Dawn McLin

Dr. Jamese Sims Latrice Maxie Janae Elkins Octavia McMillian Zion Murphy Dr. Loren White

Our Sponsors A message from Dr. Dawn Bishop McLin projectstep Project STEP proudly extends heartfelt congratulations to JSU’s meteorology program in celebration of its 50th anniversary.

Using community-based participatory research, Project STEP examined social determinants of health and gaps in environmental data related to climate change effects, economic inequities and environmental challenges along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. Student researchers used Photovoice, focus groups and interviews to document how weather patterns, flooding and extreme events impact daily life and community well-being.

Understanding the connection between weather, health and community resilience is vital to protecting vulnerable populations and preparing for future environmental risks. Project STEP celebrates JSU’s meteorology program continued excellence and leadership in advancing scientific discovery that strengthens both communities and the nation.

A message from Dr. Almesha Campbell The Division of Research and Economic Development proudly congratulates Jackson State University’s Meteorology Program on its 50th Anniversary, a remarkable milestone that reflects a legacy of excellence, discovery and impact.

For five decades, JSU’s meteorology program has advanced critical research in atmospheric science, weather prediction and climate resilience, which has empowered JSU students and faculty to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

Through innovative research, cutting-edge technology and collaboration, the program has developed leaders who strengthen our understanding of weather, climate and community preparedness. Graduates of the program continue to lead agencies and initiatives that forecast severe weather events to safeguard vulnerable communities and advance environmental justice.

As we look to the next 50 years, we salute the meteorology program’s continued commitment to academic and research excellence and its vital role in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for Mississippi, the nation and the world.

Congratulations on 50 years of innovation, impact and discovery!