Jackson State University (JSU) is a historically black university located in Jackson, Mississippi. Established in 1877, JSU is a public research university and member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. It is one of the largest HBCUs and the fourth largest university in Mississippi by student enrollment. Classified as an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution, JSU offers a wide variety of programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. The university has a vibrant campus life with active student organizations and NCAA Division I athletic programs.
1903: Ayer Hall Construction
Ayer Hall, the oldest structure on Jackson State University's main campus, was constructed in 1903.
1934: Loss of Funding
In 1934, during the Great Depression, Jackson State University lost its financial support from the Baptist Society.
1940: Transition to Public Institution
In 1940, Jackson State University became a state-supported public institution under the name Mississippi Negro Training School.
1944: Name Change
In 1944, the institution's name changed to Jackson College for Negro Teachers.
1947: Charles Saulsburg as Band Director
Charles Saulsburg served as the band director at Jackson State University in 1947.
1948: First Full-Time Band Director
William W. Davis became Jackson State University's first full-time band director in 1948.
1963: Band Expansion
By 1963, the Jackson State University band grew to 88 members.
1967: Name Change and Desegregation
Following desegregation in 1967, the name was changed to Jackson State College.
May 14, 1970: Jackson State Killings
On May 14, 1970, two students were killed and twelve others were injured by police gunfire during an on-campus protest at Jackson State College.
1970: Gibbs-Green Pedestrian Walkway Dedication
The Gibbs-Green Pedestrian Walkway at Jackson State University was named in honor of the two students killed in the 1970 shooting.
1971: Sonic Boom of the South
The Jackson State University Marching Band officially adopted the name "Sonic Boom of the South" in 1971.
1974: University Status
With expanded programs and curriculum, Jackson State College became Jackson State University in 1974.
1977: National Register Listing
In 1977, Ayer Hall was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2002: Ayers Settlement and Campus Renovations
Following the 2002 "Ayers Settlement," Jackson State University underwent extensive campus renovations and upgrades.
2012: iPad Initiative and Engineering Program
Starting in 2012, Jackson State University began providing iPads to incoming freshmen and became the first HBCU in Mississippi to offer bachelor's and master's level engineering programs.
2015: School of Public Health Establishment
In 2015, Jackson State University established Mississippi's first legislatively approved School of Public Health.
2020: Student Demographics
As of fall 2020, 91% of Jackson State University's students identified as Black, with the majority being Mississippi residents.
2022: Enrollment Figures
In the fall of 2022, Jackson State University's total enrollment reached 6,906 students.
2023: No Confidence Vote and Leadership Change
In 2023, the faculty senate at Jackson State University voted "no confidence" in President Thomas Hudson, leading to his administrative leave and the appointment of Elayne Hayes-Anthony as acting president.