e c n ie r e p x E U The JS Experience What’s Inside 4
Letter from the Editor William Kelly
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MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS Highlights from August to April
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The Blueprint: One Tiger, One Roar Highlights from 2014 Homecoming
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STUDENT LIFE Homecoming Events, Residence Halls, Commuter Students, Veteran Students, International Students
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LEADERSHIP JSU President Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers JSU Presidential Cabinet
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STUDENT LEADERSHIP Miss Anissa C. Butler SGA President Keonte Turner SGA Officers
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ACADEMICS Jackson State University Colleges
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JSU STUDENT ACTIVITIES JSU Clubs and Organizations NPHC Greek Organizations
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130 JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS JSU Sports Teams 152 FEATURES A spotlight on various events that took place on the Jackson State University campus. 178 JSU FACES Random Faces of Jackson State University students 182 SENIOR TIMELINE A timeline of important events that happened from Fall 2010 to Spring 2014 186 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thanks to those who made this possible
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he 2014 JSU Experience eYearbook theme: The Blueprint: One Tiger, One Roar, embodies the legacy as well as the future of Jackson State University. Since its beginning in 1877, Jackson State has provided opportunities for all those interested in achieving greatness. It’s hard to imagine that the university started as Natchez Seminary, a private school, under the auspices of the American Baptist Home Mission Society of New York, for the purpose of educating Mississippi’s newly freed and underprivileged blacks. Jackson State has become such a melting pot of cultural diversity that if you tried to name all the states, countries, languages, religions and cultures represented here, it would be a daunting task. JSU has approximately 90 countries represented on our campus as faculty, staff, and students. In this third installment of the JSU Experience eYearbook, we seek to honor the legacy of Jackson State University, our “dear ole college home,” as well as capture the experiences of the current student body while they move toward graduation and the pursuit of their dreams and life purposes. As Tigers, we have all come together to participate in this blueprint to success.
Enjoy and Best Wishes from the 2014-2015 JSU Experience Yearbook Staff
ONE TIGER, ONE ROAR!!!
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2014-2015 J SU Jackson State University. THEEILOVE. Tiger Nation
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y university has been very welcoming and heart-warming throughout this first year journey. I entered thee campus of Jackson State University as a freshman from H-Tine (Houston) without many social skills. Transitioning from Houston to Mississippi was not a simple task, I had to learn that people actually spoke to strangers and hugged them whether they knew you or not. It was a bit weird getting used to and I can remember saying very often to friends and family back home, “These Mississippi people are too friendly, you know we walk past everyone back home, I’m not understanding.”
William Kelly
While it took a lot of time to settle in and learn the culture of the “Ju’s”, I can honestly say that every moment was an experience to remember. Many of you ask how was it possible for me to enjoy my first year as a freshman when I was working at basically every event. I am a journalist and a photographer who is very passionate about his art and niche. Therefore, while you see it as a work, I see it as exciting and beneficial. Photography isn’t just picking up a camera and taking pictures, it’s an art and skill that many people attempt but won’t succeed at doing so. You have to feel what you’re looking at in order for others to feel it as well; I am a capturer of emotions and memories. As a journalist I am responsible for telling the story of the people and being the voice of my classmates and fellow Tigers. I have to maintain an unbiased standpoint in every situation but at the end of the day, having the opportunity to share what others feel satisfies my spirit. If you’re wondering whether or not I get compensation for the hours I have put in, feel free to check my resume. Having said that, I would like to honor the marvelous people whom I had the honor to cross paths with. Thank you to those student leaders that guided me in the right 4
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r o t i d E e Experienc direction during Welcome Week up to the last weeks of school and supplied me with dire information needed to attain goals throughout my matriculation at JSU. My involvement in the clubs and organizations on campus have helped to shape me into the well-rounded student I am today. If you’re looking for MADDRAMA we’re either on stage or getting ready to perform. I cannot stress enough how grateful I am to be apart of MADDRAMA Performance Troupe. The members and advisors have definitely made me feel beyond appreciated. To my Flash and eXperience Fam, the shade room, thank you so much for appreciating my professionalism and being such outstanding role models, words CANNOT and will not express my gratitude! I have gained many connects and plugs just because of The Blue & White Flash, the OFFICIAL Student Newspaper, the eXperience Magazine and the JSU Experience eYearbook. I have also gained a family. To my GREAT class of 2018, this is only the beginning; we have stamped our paw prints into this campus with our accomplishments and achievements. For the musicians, DJs, artists, rappers, singers, dancers, actors, poets, etc., continue to strive for GREATness! And finally, to the graduating seniors, good luck and many blessings to you and your future endeavors, thank you for your knowledge and wisdom! We dedicated this eYearbook to you. I pray that while looking through this e-Yearbook, you are able to flashback to your most memorable moments here at JSU. When that happens, I know I will have succeeded as the editor and photographer of this publication. Please enjoy and remember, We Are ONE TIGER with ONE ROAR!!
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Welcome Week 2013
elcome Week is a time when Jackson State University welcomes freshmen and transfer students to the university and acquaints them with many of the opportunities they will be afforded during their matriculation. Activities held during this week included: Movie Nights, Freshmen Carnival, Parent and Family Orientation, Comedy Show, Scavenger Hunt, Freshmen Pinning Ceremony, Community Service Projects, Information Fair, Campus Tours and many other events. Along with academic orientation, these activities inform new students about services, campus life, and policies at JSU.
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September
Tom Joyner helps break drive-thru record
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om Joyner Morning Show crew helped break the record of most cars served in a drive-thru at the McDonald’s on 2465 U.S. 80 in Jackson, Miss.
Tom Joyner picked up the bill for all patrons from 11 a.m. – 12 noon and also served food at the drive-thru window along with co-hosts J. Anthony Brown and Sybil Wilkes. Joyner’s brother, Al Joyner, owns 17 metro area McDonald’s. McDonald’s across the country compete 12
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to break the record of number of cars served in an hour. “It’s kind of like a competition between McDonald’s restaurants and we can challenge the record at any time. It’s almost like the McDonald’s Guinness Book of World Records for the number of cars served through the drive-thru in one hour,” said Al Joyner “We really broke it today; last time I checked we were at 297 cars with 20 minutes left and the world record is 288, so we beat them already.”
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H.T. Sampson Library Creative Space
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ackson State University held a grand opening of its new creative space at the H.T. Sampson Library. The new digital center, called Create, will be accessible to students and will include new Apple Mac computers and other devices in order for them to complete digital projects, assignments, and access resources online. “Create will definitely catapult students to the next level,” said Doug Stringfellow, tech director for JSU’s
Division of Information Technology. “It is the first of its kind and one of the first for a historically black university,” Last semester, JSU opened Innovate, a digital education center accessible for faculty and staff. Innovate includes a press conference room for meetings, Macs, podcast recording equipment, digital multimedia equipment and a green screen. Like its predecessor, Create will also include a green screen for students to record and display their Powerpoint presentations.
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October
Civil Rights veteran speaks during Founders’Day
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and was a student at Howard University. He was imprisoned at the Parchman State Prison Farm for his participation in the May 24, 1961 Montgomery, Ala. to Jackson, Miss. Freedom Ride.
The keynote speaker for this year’s convocation was Hank Thomas, a civil rights veteran and a 1961 Freedom Rider. Thomas, a Jacksonville, Fla. native, joined the 1961 Congress of Racial Equality Freedom Ride at the age of 19,
Thomas was honored at a Freedom Fighters Appreciation Banquet at the Willie Galimore Community Center in 1992. He was formerly a Vice Chair of the Piney Woods School in Mississippi, and now serves on the board of trustees of Talladega College and Morehouse Medical School.
ackson State University celebrated its past, current progress, and future developments as a university with the 137th Annual Founders’ Day Celebration. The convocation and Bell Ringing Ceremony was held at the H.P. Jacobs Administration Tower Lawn and Quad.
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JSU observes Domestic Violence Awareness
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ackson State University continues its efforts to promote domestic violence awareness and prevention with several events taking place during the month of October.
Brutal Love: The Perspective of a Man and Woman. Robin Jackson, Miss NAACP and a junior political science major from Jackson, Miss., stated: “I believe domestic violence awareness is important because it is a big issue our society deals with yet it is swept under a rug as if there is no issue.
According to the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men have been a victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner. On Oct. 22, the Jackson State University Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) partnered with the Latasha Norman Center to host a domestic violence awareness forum:
The male and female perspectives are influential because they show that victims and abusers can be male or female and domestic violence is not gender based,” said Jackson. “It also shows students how to be aware of signs of abuse from both male and female and how to react to those circumstances.”
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November
JSU receives the Magic Touch
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essages of motivation, inspiration and encouragement were delivered on Nov. 4 at Jackson State University by former NBA player and Entrepreneur, Earvin “Magic� Johnson.
Johnson, a native of Lansing, Mich., in his early career was known for his dominance as an All-Star Point Guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Taking his focus from basketball to business, he now uses his experiences as a testimony to attest that anything can be accomplished through having a hard work ethic.
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LNC Run/Walk
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he community, students, faculty, staff, and Latasha Norman’s family and friends all gathered on the chilly morning of Nov. 8 to commemorate Norman’s life and to bring awareness to domestic violence prevention during the 7th Annual Latasha Norman 5K Run/Walk. Before the run/walk began, a balloon release of purple balloons was held in front of the Jackson State University Student Center. Purple is the official color of domestic violence awareness month. This year, the color of the shirts were lavender with a neon yellow illustration of Norman on the front
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December
JSU students participate in Hands Up/Walk Out
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pproximately one hundred Jackson State University students gathered on Dec. 1 to participate in the “Hands Up/Walk Out’ rally and silently protest the non-indictment of Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo.
Freshman Justin Roach, a Jackson, Miss. native and industrial technology major said, “It felt like I was being a part of history. I am a member of our chapter of NAACP and when I heard about the protest, I knew this was something I needed to be a part of to make a difference.”
Students, with their mouths covered with duct tape, held signs displaying: “I am Black Excellence” and “Black Lives Matter” as they walked from the Student Center along the Gibbs-Green Pedestrian Walkway to the pavilion across from the Jacob L. Reddix office complex.
Some protestors stood as others lay on the ground while a moment of silence was held for four minutes to symbolize how long Michael Brown laid on the ground after being shot and killed by Wilson.
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A tribute to Shawniece Wilmore
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hile many Jackson State University seniors were preparing for life after JSU, one young lady in the graduating class of 2014 was ďŹ ghting for her life. Shawniece Nichole Wilmore, a senior social work major from, Raytown, Mo., battled stage IV cancer during a time that she should have been celebrating a milestone: graduating from college. Wilmore was in Raytown receiving treatment during the Jackson State University 2014 Fall Commencement ceremony; however, the students in the BSW Program ensured that she received her cap, gown, and stole that was signed with motivational messages. Sadly, Wilmore, 23, succumbed on December 16, 2014, four days after her Bachelor of Social Work degree was conferred.
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January
MLK Convocation
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tudents, faculty, staff and JSU community partners filled into the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium on Jan. 16 in celebration of the 47th Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Convocation. This year the event not only honored Dr. King, but also Margaret WalkerAlexander, poet, author and former Jackson State University professor. Robert Luckett, director of the Margaret Walker Center stated, “It’s (the MLK Birthday Convocation) one of the oldest remembrances of Dr. King’s life, and it started with Dr. Margaret Walker Alexander as professor of English at Jackson State University.”
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CIA Fair shows students how they can serve
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undreds of Jackson State University students met with organizations offering service opportunities at the annual Community in Action Fair.
Hosted by the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning on Jan. 27, the fair was held in the Student Center Ballrooms. Students and vendors interacted to learn how volunteering not only helps students fulďŹ ll the community service requirement needed to graduate but also positively impacts the community. 50 community partners and agencies were represented with informational brochures and representatives sharing and connecting with students.
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February
A tribute to Travis Woods
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n a chilly Tuesday night, hundreds of students gathered around the monument of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. on the Gibbs-Green Walkway for a candlelight vigil in honor of former JSU Tigers defensive back and student, Travis Woods.
Wood’s friends and family were among the somber crowd along with the JSU Tigers football team and the Upsilon Epsilon chapter of Omega Psi Phi fraternity Inc. At 7:11p.m., the fraternity opened the evening with several of their signature hymns, followed by a prayer by JSU campus minister, Rev. Elbert McGowan. Heavy hearts and profound sorrow filled the air of the night as the Tiger football team, led by cornerback Rashad Davis, the victim’s cousin, LaDonna Washington, and the Upsilon Epsilon chapter, each paid tribute to Woods, respectively. 22
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Winter storm
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ackson State University had delayed openings due to a wintry mix of sleet and ice that paid a visit to Tiger Country.
The wintry mix forced Jackson State, other schools, and ofďŹ ces from the central to northern parts of the state, to close due to the dangers associated with the weather. According to www.weather.com, Winter Storm Octavia dealt a sturdy blow to the South, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and killing ďŹ ve people due to its icy blast. The State Emergency Operations Center was activated on Feb. 22 after Gov. Phil Bryant issued a state of emergency.
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March
International Week
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nternational Week is held annually to promote global awareness of the world’s many cultures through educational and entertaining activities. Invited international dignitaries as well as renowned scholars in the international arena participate in the annual festival. Planned events expose people from the university, community, city and state to different cultures and social systems as we celebrate our diverse world. This year’s theme, “JSU Global—Leading, Building, Embracing” captured the essence of how Jackson State is leading the charge of global inclusion. International Week is always a spirited and educational time on our campus.
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Jackson State hosts City Council Meeting
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ackson State University students stood front and center at the Jackson City Council meeting held at the Mississippi e-Center at JSU.
Dr. Patricia Murrain, coordinator of Speech Studies, addressed the Council, introducing the students to the packed ballroom at the e-Center.
During the lengthy meeting that went on well into the night, Jackson State student interns to Council members were recognized by Council President DeKeither Stamps, who lauded their enthusiasm, hard work and importance to keeping the meetings going smoothly.
Receiving applause were Speech Communications and Theatre students Whitney Gibson, Randrika Henderson, Briana Davis, Political Science junior Justin Wills, and Speech Communications and Theatre junior Delbert Griffin.
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April April
Student Protest
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tudents at Jackson State University held a sit-in protest at the Heritage Dining Hall in support of Rahim Aponte, a sophomore criminal justice major from Atlanta, Ga.
Aponte was arrested by campus police on Sunday, March 29, when he refused to leave the dining hall which was closing. He was later charged with disorderly conduct by the City of Jackson Police Department and given a fine of $345. An edited video (source unknown) was circulated among many students on the campus who were outraged at what they perceived to be excessive force from the officers. Word spread around the campus via text messages that a demonstration would be held in the dining hall on April 1.
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Miss JSU Pageant
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surprise twist to this year’s Miss Jackson State University pageant had students in an uproar on social media. Anticipation of the Roaring 20’s themed pageant, The Blue Gatsby, was high as seven candidates vied for the top three spots and the chance to make it to the ballot. At the end of the pageant, three young ladies, Markeisha Robinson, Robin Jackson and Charence Higgins, were announced as top contenders. The evening took an unexpected turn however, when the Election Commission, discovered discrepancies with the tally sheets for the candidates. After much deliberation, the election commission reached a unanimous decision and determined that all candidates in the pageant would be allowed to run for Miss JSU. Charence Higgins would win the election to become 2015-2016 Miss JSU.
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his year’s theme for Jackson State University’s 2014 Homecoming, “The Blueprint: One Tiger, One Roar, embodied the true feelings of Tigers all over the country. As ONE JSU, this year’s Homecoming brought us all together in a show of unity and support for our Dear Ole College Home!
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Worship Service
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Tradition, fellowship and worship is how Jackson State University kicked off its 2014 Homecoming on Oct. 5.
Pastor Dwayne K. Pickett, Sr. and the New Jerusalem Church family provided an uplifting message and helped JSU rock the Rose E. McCoy auditorium with praise as the Blueprint: One Tiger, One Roar celebration began. Jackson State was founded in 1877 as Natchez Seminary and in keeping with tradition, this homecoming began with a worship service. ‘Bringing a church service to campus was a great idea because there are so many other events that are happening throughout the campus this week, it’s only right to saturate the campus with Gods’ glory to kick off homecoming the proper way,” said Brittany Moman, a New Jerusalem church member. Ending the service with an alter call, Pastor Pickett also gave the students an invitation to attend New Jerusalem Church as well as find Christ.
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Street Jam T
he scent of grilled foods and sounds of DJ T Lewis filled the air on Tuesday night in celebration of Jackson State University’s annual Homecoming Street Jam. During Street Jam, various organizations on campus set up booths and sell items of their choice to raise funds for their organization in a carnival like atmosphere. The possibilities were endless as groups sold items from fruit kabobs to the “Taco in a Bag.” The highlight of the night was the surprise guest performance. Students immediately got excited as they heard the familiar tune of “No Flex Zone” and the famous music group, Rae Sremmurd, took stage. Rae Sremmurd hyped up students as they performed their two popular hits “No Flex Zone” and “No Type.” Students got so excited; they took over the stage and danced along the performers.
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Coronation
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The Reign of Anissa Butler J
ackson State University hosted the coronation of Anissa Butler on Thursday, Oct. 9. In the spring of 2014, Butler was selected by the student body for the title of Miss Jackson State University 2014-2015. Her winning campaign motto was A.I.M. (Academic Excellence, Image, and Mentorship.) During her coronation last Thursday, she was finally crowned as the 75th Miss Jackson State University in front of hundreds of her fellow students, faculty, family, and friends. The Rose E. McCy Auditorium was adorned with beautiful decorations fit for a queen as attendees arrived early to view Butler’s royal horse-driven carriage. After the crowning ceremony, tributes were presented by several campus organizations in honor of the new Miss Jackson State University. Performances were given by the JSU Dance Ensemble and Prancing J-Settes of the Sonic Boom of the South and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., three organizations of whom Butler is an active member. After the tributes to the new queen, the high courts were presented onstage, which included elected individuals representing several organizations, clubs, societies, sororities, and fraternities on campus. The coronation ended with the queen’s famed promenade around the auditorium as people welcomed and embraced the new Miss Jackson State University with open arms.
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Game Time!
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he Jackson State University Tigers hosted their second game of a four game home stand on Oct. 11 against the Delta Devils of Mississippi Valley State University. Many JSU fans were eager to get the festivities started to squash the bad memories of last year’s no-show by Grambling State University.
Hollywood could not have made it any better. Not only was an in-state rival coming to Jackson; but former JSU Head Coach Rick Comegy returned to Jackson for the first time with his new team, the MVSU Delta Devils. For Comegy, this game was personal. Despite a 56-35 record, SWAC championship in 2007, and back to back trips to the SWAC championship in 2012 and 2013, Comegy was let go after last season at Jackson State. Shortly after his firing, MVSU hired him as head coach. To add even more spice to the storyline of this year’s homecoming game, the two starting quarterbacks for this week’s game, Patrick Ivy of MVSU and Lamontiez Ivy of JSU, were brothers. Unfortunately, Jackson State lost to Valley during their Homecoming game. The Tigers played hard but could not avoid the upset by the Delta Devils of MVSU. The 27-23 loss ended a 19 year win streak for JSU against MVSU. In coach Harold Jackson’s first season as head coach, the Tigers of Jackson State finished 2014 with an overall record of 5-7 and 3-6 in Southwestern Athletic Conference play. The Tigers began the season with high hopes of winning a SWAC title, but stunning losses early in the season proved too deep of a hole for the Tigers to get out of. In the second to last game week of the season, JSU managed to defeat Texas Southern University in a 15-10 dogfight of a game in Houston, Texas. It was JSU’s first win in over a month and a half. Riding the momentum from the previous win, Jackson State defeated the Alcorn State University Braves in the annual Soul Bowl. Alcorn State had already clinched the SWAC East Championship two weeks earlier and was widely considered the best team in the conference. Yet, JSU proved that it can play with any team by defeating the Braves in dramatic fashion 34-31. Ivy and McKenzie connected again on a game-winning touchdown as they did in the first game of the season. Although the season did not turn out as expected, Jackson State proved that it is capable of special things. Key playmakers will return for JSU next year: Ivy, who threw for over 3,000 yards; Dan Williams, who caught for over 1,000 yards; and JaVancy Jones, who recorded 108 tackles. With the core of the offensive and defensive production returning next year, expect an exciting 2015 football season for the Jackson State Tigers.Virginia Lynchburg 59-0, starting the 2014 season with two consecutive wins.
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Alexander Hall
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lexander Residence Center is named in honor of Florence Octavia Alexander, an alumna of the JSU and renowned educator. The Center is comprised of two residence halls, Alexander East Hall which houses the freshmen male students and Alexander West Hall, which houses the freshmen female students. Alexander Center has 410 rooms, study rooms, a lobby with a large screen television and two laundry facilities. A historic fact about Alexander Center -- bullet holes remain in the concrete from the Gibbs-Green shooting in 1970.
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Dixon Hall
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ohn W. Dixon Hall was constructed in 1969. This seven-story facility houses 402 junior, senior, and graduate male students. In 1983, New Men’s Dormitory was officially named J.W. Dixon Hall in honor of an outstanding alumnus, John W. Dixon. In 2004 Dixon Hall closed for renovations and reopened Spring 2006 as a suite style residence with a community kitchen for special occasions, wall-to-wall carpet, central heat and air-conditioning, study rooms, a laundry facility and a beautiful lobby with a big screen television. Other amenities are: basic cable plus HBO, Wi-Fi, hotel style locks and MicroFridge units in each room.vollecab ium eici qui od.
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McAllister-Whiteside Hall
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cAllister-Whiteside Residence Center was first occupied in 1982. The 247 room facility houses 444 female honor freshmen, sophomores and selected athletes. The five-story building has lobby/study rooms, laundry facilities and Micro fridge units in each room. Other amenities are: central heat and air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, basic cable plus HBO.
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Transitional Hall
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ransitional Hall is a four-story suite style facility that opened in August 2002 as a residence hall which houses students while other residence halls are renovated or built. Currently, Transitional Hall serves as a female residence hall, which houses 432 junior, senior and graduate students. The amenities are basic cable plus HBO, Wi-Fi, MicroFridge unit in each room, a laundry facility, central heat and airconditioning and hotel style locks.
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Campbell College Suites
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ampbell College Suites is an upscale residence complex that is comprised of two residence halls, “North and South�. The suites feature spacious bathrooms, furnished living/dining areas, and a kitchenette that is equipped with a refrigerator and microwaves. Other amenities which are included are: private rooms, wall-to-wall carpet, central heat and air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, basic cable plus HBO, laundry facilities, hotel style locks, a community kitchen for special occasions, lobby with a big screen television, study rooms and a beautiful courtyard. An added feature to Campbell Suites North is the Housing/Residence life Office is located on the first floor. Campbell College Suites was named after Campbell College, which was moved from Vicksburg to Jackson, Mississippi in 1899.
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Tiger Plaza
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n an effort to meet overwhelming demand for on campus housing, Jackson State University leased the Travelodge Inn and Suites to become the new Tiger Plaza dormitory. Located on 400 Greymont Ave. near the Mississippi State Fairgrounds, the former hotel-turned dorm accommodates male students of all classifications with 120 rooms holding two or three students. The facility, which had to undergo an extensive facelift, opened Saturday, August 24th. Dr. Marcus A. Chanay, JSU Vice President for Student Life, said after on-campus residence halls reached full capacity due to enrollment, alternative housing was sought.
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Palisades @ JSU
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alisades at eCity is and apartment complex near the campus of JSU that creates a unique residential experience combining the comfort of apartment-style living with the convenience of near-campus housing. Designed to promote Academic excellence and a unique community feel.
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Commuter Students
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he Commuter Connection Program understands that being a commuter student presents many challenges such as balancing home, school and work responsibilities which may cause you to not feel part of the JSU family. Our mission is to connect commuter students to campus life while providing opportunities for commuter students to achieve academic and social success. We will also host our own events catering to commuter students.
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Military Students
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ransitioning from any branch of the military impacts an individual physically, mentally, and emotionally. Jackson State University’s Veterans Services Program aims to help veteran students with that transition.
The Veterans Center officially opened on campus in August of 2012 led by director, Timothy Abrams, who also serves in the United States Army Reserve. With a rapid increase of veteran students, the services offered at the center are designed to help student veterans adapt to an academic institution and also serve as a liaison between the veteran student community and the university. The Veterans Center, which is located on the first floor of the Jacob L.Reddix Building, offers students academic and advising service, transition assistance, veteran career transition, veterans work-study, family assistance and counseling services in conjunction with the Latasha Norman Center for Counseling and Psychological Services. The services are provided in an effort to change the sub-culture of veteran students on campus by giving them a place they can call home on campus and a voice to make sure they are connected with the rest of their peers on and off campus and within the community.
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International Students
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any of the students at Jackson State University had to only travel hundreds of miles away from home to go to college. But can you imagine being more than 8,000 miles away from home to attend college? There are many international students at Jackson State University who have done just that to immerse themselves in a whole new environment of different cultures and language. JSU has 90 countries represented on campus in students, staff and faculty.
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Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers
Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers, Ph.D., is the 10th president of Jackson State University and a
professor of civil and environmental engineering.
Under Dr. Meyers’ leadership, Jackson State University earned a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and national accreditations in business, teacher education and engineering as well as full certification by the NCAA. Dr. Meyers also pushed Jackson State University enrollment to an all-time high of 8,903, increased fundraising tenfold to $4.2 million, and positioned the university to become a national model for educating the underserved and achieving global recognition for excellence in education, research and service. Dr. Meyers brought to Jackson State University more than 30 years of academic and administrative leadership
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experience in higher education, serving most recently as President of Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia. She served as Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where she was a tenured professor of mechanical engineering and Dean of the College of Engineering. Dr. Meyers also was a tenured faculty member at the Georgia Institute of Technology and was the first Associate Dean for Research in its College of Engineering. Dr. Meyers earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Howard University, a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and a doctorate in chemical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and completed post-doctoral work at Harvard University. She is a fellow in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Dr. Meyers has published numerous articles and reports and given more than 200 invited presentations and technical papers on education and diversity topics as well as research and technical topics. Her numerous awards and honors include the National Society of Black Engineers’ Golden Torch Award, the National Science Foundation’s Presidential Young Investigator Award, and a joint resolution from the Virginia Legislature commending her for leadership and service to higher education.
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Dr. Meyers is a native of Newport News, Virginia. She has three adult children and four grandchildren.
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JSU P RESIDENTIAL C ABINET Matthew Taylor is the Associate General Counsel for Jackson State University. He graduated from Mississippi College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1996 and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Mississippi in 1999. The majority of Taylor’s legal practice has been dedicated to complex civil litigation, including automobile liability, premises and security liability, products liability, medical malpractice, toxic tort and insurance coverage. Following several years as a partner with Scott Sullivan Streetman & Fox in Ridgeland, Taylor was a founding member of the firm of Gladden Ingram & Taylor in Madison. Most recently, Taylor has practiced in the medical malpractice litigation division of Morgan & Morgan, PA. Mr. Matthew Taylor General Counsel
Dr. Charles N. Smith Associate Provost for Student Affairs
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Dr. Charles N. Smith is the Associate Provost for Student Affairs at Jackson State University. He has served as Interim Vice President for Student Affairs/Executive Director of the Division of Extended Learning and Online Programs at Alabama State University, CEO of RICO Enterprise an Educational Consulting Firm; Vice President for Student Affairs and Executive Director of the Real Estate Foundation at South Carolina State University; Vice President for Student Affairs and Associate Provost at Alabama State University; Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Delaware State University; Associate Vice President for Student Development and Director of Athletics at Chicago State University; Assistant Provost and Dean of Student Development at Chicago State University; Assistant Provost for Student Development and Community Relations at Chicago State University; Special Assistant to the Provost for Minority Student Services and Retention at George Mason University; Coordinator of Retention at George Mason University; Assistant Professor of Psychology and Director of Special Services at Gulf Coast Community College; and Assistant Professor of Honor Students and Director of Student Special Services at Saint Paul’s College.
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Dr. Robert Walker currently serves as the Interim Director of Athletics. The Vicksburg native and former mayor of Vicksburg is serving his second stint as interim Athletics Director. He previously was in the position from February to August 2011, the last time there was a vacancy. Walker will serve in the job until a permanent athletics director is found through a national search. Walker served two terms as Vicksburg’s mayor from 1989-93 and again from 1997-2001.
Dr. Robert Walker Director of Athletics, Interim
Dr. Mary M. White is the Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement. She is a pioneer and innovator in the academic, entrepreneurial and service communities. She is the inaugural chairperson of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Professional Development in the College of Business at Jackson State University. She spearheaded the creation of a new BBA degree in Entrepreneurship in 2005. Upon obtaining IHL Board approval this degree program became the first of its kind in the state of Mississippi and among HBCU’s. She is a Fulbright Fellow and Sam Walton Fellow, recognized as one of America’s leading educators.
Dr. Mary M. White Vice President/Institutional Advancement, Interim
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JSU P RESIDENTIAL C ABINET Dr. James C. Renick joined Jackson State’s administration in July 2011 after serving as vice president of the American Council on Education. Renick was president of North Carolina A&T University from 1999 to 2006 and chancellor of the University of Michigan-Dearborn from 1993 to 1999. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Central State University in Ohio, a master’s degree in social work from the University of Kansas and a doctorate in public administration from Florida State University.
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Dr. James C. Renick Senior Vice President for Academic & Student Affairs/ Provost
Dr. Deborah F. Dent worked for more than 36 years for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Vicksburg before joining Jackson State University in August 2012. For the past decade, dent served as deputy director of the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) at the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center. There she managed operations of the lab and oversaw the execution of ITL’S facility budgets and assisted the execution of its
Dr. Deborah Dent Vice President for Information Technology
Dr. Loretta Moore Vice President/Research & Fed Relations 66
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Dr. Loretta A. Moore serves as Interim Vice President for Research and Federal Relations and Professor of Computer Science at Jackson State University (JSU) located in Jackson, Mississippi. She previously served as Associate Vice President for Research and Scholarly Engagement with oversight of the Academy for Research and Scholarly Engagement, which is designed to advance the careers of promising young researchers and emerging scholars by ensuring that they establish a compelling research agenda, participate in a community of scholars, and obtain external funding. Dr. Moore is the Principal Investigator on a grant from the National Science Foundation’s ADVANCE program, which is aimed at advancing the careers of female faculty in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines as well as the Social and Behavioral Science (SBS) disciplines.
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JSU P RESIDENTIAL C ABINET Dr. William E. McHenry oversees the university’s research and technology hub, which also provides support services to businesses, researchers and organizations. Before arriving at Jackson State University in 2005, McHenry held administration positions with the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. McHenry holds a bachelors degree in chemistry from Southern Arkansas University and a doctorate in synthetic heterocyclic organic chemistry from Mississippi State University. Dr. William E. McHenry Executive Director/ MS e-Center
Michael Thomas, who came to Jackson State in 2000 as interim vice president for business and finance, was named to the position permanenty in 2011. Thomas joined Jackson State after 16 years with the Jackson Public School District where he managed a $350 million budget. Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Jackson State.
Mr. Michael Thomas Vice President for Business & Finance
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2014-2015 Miss JSU Anissa C. Butler
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nissa C. Butler, the 75th Miss Jackson State University, knew from the moment she discovered she would be a Prancing J-Sette for the Sonic Boom of the South that she wanted to do great things at Jackson State.
Three years later, her goal was accomplished when it was announced on April 11, 2014, that Anissa C. Butler would be Miss Jackson a State University for the 2014-2015 school year. Her platform for the year was «AIM: Academic excellence, Image, and Mentorship.» Where did Anissa get the idea for her platform? «I cantered my platform around things I wanted to improve about myself, as well as my generation,» Anissa explained. «I wanted to help students see that academics are not a joke, image is of great value and importance, and having or being a mentor is essential to living a purpose-driven life.» When asked any advice she could give to her younger self, Anissa said, «I would tell my younger self to remain focused in the face of distraction and despair. This year has been and still is an emotional challenge for me with losing a loved one. It took me longer than it should have but my weakness surpassed and now I am more focused than ever. «
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2014-2015 SGA President Keonte Turner
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n the small populated town of Benton Harbor, Mich., a city struggling economically and socially, a determined and goal oriented young man decided that his surroundings would not determine his future.
Keonte Turner, Jackson State University’s 2014-2015 Student Government Association president admits that growing up in Benton Harbor was no easy task. Choosing to attend Jackson State University was very personal and meaningful for Turner. He was offered a full ride scholarship to attend the Ivy League institution of Harvard University. To many, this would have been an honor that could not be rejected. However, Turner turned down the scholarship offer to attend Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear. He chose JSU because his father figure attended the university and he wanted to make a statement as well. Turner lives by the philosophy: Shoot for the moon and if you fall, you’ll land amongst the stars. 70
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SGA Executive Board
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College of Liberal Arts
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he College of Liberal Arts is changing lives by providing the best in performance, creativity, and excellence in the social and behavioral sciences. This college is comprised of three college divisions and ten departments including: College of Fine and Performing Arts: Department of Art and Department of Music; College of Communication: Department of English and Modern Languages, Department of Mass Communications, and the Department of Speech Communications; College of Social and Behavioral Sciences: Department of History and Philosophy, Department of Military Sciences, Department of Political Sciences, Department of Psychology and the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice.
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Dr. Mario Azevedo Dean, College of Liberal Arts
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College of Science, Engineering & Technology
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he College of Science, Engineering and Technology at Jackson State University has distinguished itself with outstanding faculty and staff who are dedicated to providing quality education and the science leadership necessary to achieve the highest possible level of excellence. This college is comprised of six departments including: Aerospace Studies; Biology; Chemistry; Mathematics; Physics, Atmospheric Science & Geosciences; and Technology.
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Dr. Richard Alo Dean, College of Science, Engineering & Technology
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College of Business
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Dr. Ramin Maysami Dean, College of Business
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he Jackson State University College of Business is empowered with its accreditation by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business to provide educational opportunities to individuals interested in pursing undergraduate and graduate degrees in business. Having envisioned the business world’s changing needs, the School’s objective is to prepare professionally competent individuals capable of competing successfully in a global marketplace and to equip them with the social, ethical and leadership skills that will make them valuable members of any business, community or organization. The college is comprised of six undergraduate majors, two master degree programs of study, a Ph.D. program in Business Administration and certificate programs in Real Estate and Accounting.
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College of Education & Human Development
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he majority of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) began as teacher colleges. The College of Education and Human Development at Jackson State University (JSU) has not lost that historically prominent role. It ranks second among HBCUs in graduating education majors. It leads the state in terms of African-American education graduates and its doctoral graduates lead the university.
Dr. Daniel Watkins Dean, College of Education & Human Development
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College of Public Service
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Dr. Ricardo A. Brown Dean, College of Public Service
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he vision of the College of Public Service is to be a global multidisciplinary learning environmnent of excellence in teaching, research and experiential service provided in partnership with both urban and rural communities in the State, the nation, and the world. The mission of the College of Public Service is to educate students from diverse backgrounds for outstanding professional service and to develop local, national, and international innovative leaders in the professional academic disciplines represented in the Schools of Health Sciences, Policy and Planning, and Social Work.
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H.T. Sampson Library
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he libraries at Jackson State University assist you in attaining the skill required in all of your future educational and occupational endeavors.
The centerpiece of the Jackson State University Library System is the H. T. Sampson Library. Located on the main campus, it serves as the primary library and research facility for the campus community. Please visit the library web site (http://sampson.jsums.edu) for a description of the resources and services that are available.
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Dr. Melissa Druckery Dean, Libraries & Information Services
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Graduate Studies
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he Graduate School is composed of the departments which offer graduate instruction leading to masters’, educational specialists and doctoral degrees. The faculty of the Graduate School consists of faculty members in the departments who are qualified to teach and conduct research on the graduate level. Members of the graduate faculty engage in scholarly pursuits: research, writing, publishing and participating in professional organizations.
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Dr. Dorris R. Robinson-Gardner Dean, Graduate Studies
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Undergraduate Studies
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Dr. Evelyn Leggette Dean, Undergraduate Studies
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he Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) at Jackson State University provides a studentcentered quality assurance program  for first and second year students that prepare them to contribute to the social, cultural, and economic development of the state, nation and world.  The major areas in the Division include the First Year Experience, the W.E.B. Du Bois Honors College and the University College. The Division embraces the three fold mission of JSU by collaborating with the academic colleges and schools and the Division of Student Life in ensuring that students are prepared for the rigor of their intended major, are retained and engaged in leadership, service, citizenship, and community development activities.
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JSU Madison Branch
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he new satellite campus is located at an office building located at 382 Galeria Parkway in Madison. To better meet the needs of today’s students, Jackson Sate University planted roots in the metro area’s fastest-growing community, the city of Madison. The Madison location fits into the university’s enrollment management plan, which is to increase enrollment to 15,000 by 2021. The campus offers 42 courses from each of the university’s five colleges to students balancing work and family responsibilities. The Madison County Board of Supervisors officially welcomed Jackson State to the community with a resolution that supports JSU’s plans. The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning approved JSU’s 10-year lease agreement to open the campus and its 42 undergraduate and graduate courses.
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Sonic Boom of the South
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he marching band began in the 1940s consisting of college students and students from Lanier High School. Through the years it has become known for intricate, precision marching and the big band sound. The “Sonic Boom” has performed many halftime appearances for the Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, New Orleans Saints and Cincinnati Bengals; a television special for Motown’s 30th Anniversary and the 34th NAACP Image Awards, with a special guest performance by “Cedric the Entertainer.” The band is a favored entry in halftime performances during football season as well as for parades across Mississippi and in other states. The Jackson State University Marching Band was dubbed The Sonic Boom of the South in 1971 by students in the band. In 1974, the band’s theme, “Get Ready,” an old Motown favorite was selected and three years after that, the “Tiger Run-On” was perfected. The “Tiger Run- On” is a fast, eye-catching shuffle that blends an adagio step with an up-tempo shuffle, then back to adagio — a “Sonic Boom” trademark that brings fans to their feet during halftime performances.
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C LUBS & O RGANIZATIONS
Dowell Taylor Director of Bands
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JSU Experience
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The Blue & White Flash
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Accounting Society
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Advocates for World Health
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Alpha Lambda Delta
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Alpha Psi Omega
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American Chemical Society
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Blue Ambassadors
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Call Me Mister
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JSU Dance Ensemble
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Golden Key NHS
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MADDRAMA
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Outspoken Poetry Society
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Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
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University College Ambassadors
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JSU Mascots
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Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
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Football
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he Jackson State University Tigers tried to send its senior class off with a victory in its last home outing of 2014. Unfortunately, the Tigers fell in a big hole and were unable to find their way out in a 25-14 loss to Alabama A&M in front of 4,327 at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. The loss marked the fourth straight for JSU (3-6, 1-5 SWAC), which went 2-4 at home this season. While Senior Day did not have the best ending, the performance of several underclassmen portends to a bright future for the Tigers. Sophomore La Montiez Ivy threw for 349 yards (his second straight game of over 300-plus yards passing) and two touchdowns, wide receivers Dan Williams (seven catches, 108 yards, TD) and Jarius Moll (five catches, 80 yards, TD) led the Tigers in receiving and linebacker Javancy Jones (10 tackles, sack) should all return next year and show the promise the program currently provides. On a positive note however, the Jackson State football team did what the majority of sports writers and other experts said they had no chance of doing, by beating the SWAC East Division Champion Alcorn Braves 34-31 Saturday evening at Spinks – Casem Stadium on the Alcorn State campus.
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he Lady Tiger ’s Volley ball team completed the season No. 3 in the East, with a 10-21 overall record. Jackson State University opened the 2014 SWAC Women’s Volleyball Tournament with a 3-1 win over No. 2 in the West, Arkansas-Pine Bluff Saturday morning at the Horace Moody Complex. Arkansas-Pine Bluff entered the tournament (10-18) (6-2 SWAC) and Jackson State, (9-19) (5-3 SWAC). With both teams playing their second match of the day, Jackson State (11-19) defeated No. 1 seed Alabama State 3-2 Saturday evening at the Horace Moody Complex. Jenna Siddiqui produced 52 assists while Taija Thomas led the way with 22 kills and Passion Edmonson recorded 18 digs for Jackson State University. Tiara Kelly led the way for Alabama State with 12 kills. Ellyn Jones had 26 assists and Rachel Smith tallied 15 digs. The Hornets never let up and went on to claim the second set, 25-17.
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The foug View roun Conf
Jacks Bern Daily Sixth
SU Tiger fans were looking forward to lay-ups, hook shots, dunks and much more from the 2014-2015 JSU Tigers ’s Basketball team. The team finished season 11-21 overall and 9-10 in SWAC .
Jackson State men’s basketball team ght tooth and nail against the Prairie w A&M Panthers in the quarterfinal nd of the 2015 Southwestern Athletic ference, but the Tigers fell 62-56.
son State junior swing man Kaven nard has been named the College Hoops y Southwestern Athletic Conference h Man of the Year.
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Women’s Basketball
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he Jackson State women’s basketball team ended their season in a 62-60 semifinal loss to Alabama State during the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship tournament on March 13. The Lady Tigers end their season with a 1416 record overall and in 10-8 in SWAC play. Freshman guard Derica Wiggins led the Lady Tigers in scoring recording 14 points off the bench. Alisa Ross put up an additional 10 points to round out the double-digit scorers for JSU. Ayanna Hardy-Fuller brought down a game high of 13 boards to lead JSU in rebounds. The Lady Tigers shot 31.1% from the field, 22.2% in three-point range, and 57.1% at the free-throw line. Alabama State started the scoring effort in the first half with a lay-up 30 seconds in. Bridget Robinson put the Lady Tigers on the board seconds later making two free-throws to tie the game. The two teams would remain neck and neck in scoring until ASU went on a scoring spree with nine minutes left in the half pulling ahead of JSU by 14 points. With a three from Ross and a couple of layups from Wiggins, the Lady Tigers were able to shorten the gap and closed the half down 10 points (29-19). Hardy-Fuller landed the first layup of the second half energizing the Lady Tigers into a second half rally. By the 16 minute mark, JSU was only down by three points. For the rest of the half, the two teams exchanged scoring and with 43 seconds left in the game the Lady Tigers were down only 1 point. Ross was unable to land a last second three-pointer to win the game.
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Soccer
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he Lady Tiger Soccer team ended its 2015 season 9-9 overall and 5-4-2 in SWAC play. The Lady Bison of Howard University continues to make strides in their inaugural year with the Southwestern Athletic Conference as they started the semifinals off at the 2014 Women’s Soccer Tournament with a 3-0 triumph over the Lady Tigers of Jackson State University at the John Hunt Soccer Complex. The Jackson State women’s soccer team add three more name to the 2015 roster. Kalen Roberts will join the Lady Tigers from Jonesboro, Ga where she competed on the Dutchtown High School Team. Roberts was a varsity player all four years, a varsity captain tenth through twelfth grade, and highest goal scorer ninth through eleventh grade. Roberts was named MVP ninth through eleventh grade, named player of the year for Henry County in 2014, and was chosen for the all-county game scoring the most goals in the game.
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Baseball
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fter winning back-to-back championships, the Jackson State University baseball team is preparing for this year’s season and hopes to bring home the SWAC Championship for the third year in a row. The team had a 19-5 record during their journey to the 2013 SWAC Championship. Their road to victory was a lot harder in 2014 with a record of 9-15. On the way to the SWAC tournament, the bus caught on fire, destroying all the equipment and delaying their journey. However, this tragic accident did not faze the players, who seemed to be more motivated. Overcoming adversity, a slow season and every flaming obstacle that crossed their paths, they left the tournament not only as champions, but back-toback champions. The Jackson State University baseball team ended with the overall best record in a tournament against the University of Texas Pan America(UTPA) and the University of Tennessee Martin. In the opening game of the season on Feb. 13, the Tigers defeated UTPA with a close score of 6-5. Rene Colon picked up the win by pitching seven innings, allowing eight hits and giving up three runs. Alexander Juday came in for the save allowing two hits and giving up two runs. Still in mid-season, the Tigers are currently 25-16 overall and 12-6 in SWAC conference play.
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Softball
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he Jackson State University women’s softball team claimed the 2015 Southwestern Athletic Conference, eastern division championship title, Monday afternoon as it defeated Alcorn State University in a three-game series. The Tigers defeated the Braves, 14-2. This marks the Tigers’ third consecutive eastern division title. Last season, the Tigers defeated Mississippi Valley State University to secure the conference crown. In the final game of the series, JSU started by placing seven runs on the board in the first inning. Canessa Swanson got on base with a single to right field and scored by stealing home, while a walk and two passed ball allowed a point from Victoria Nelson to make the score 2-0. The Tigers ended their season 22-24 overall and 12-4 in SWAC conference play.
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he Jackson State men’s golf team finished third in the 2015 Southwestern Athletic Conference Golf Championship.
With a score of 905 after three rounds of golf, the Tigers finished after SWAC champs Alabama State (852) and Texas Southern (886).
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he Jackson State men and women’s track team went to Huntsville, Ala. to compete for the 2015 SWAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Competition took place on April 24-26, 2015, at the Louis Crew Stadium on the campus of Alabama A&M University. All ten SWAC schools competed for the overall SWAC Champion title: Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University, Alcorn State University, Grambling State University, Jackson State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Prairie View A&M University, Southern University, Texas Southern University and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Outstanding performances from Tamarick Johnson and Bentrell McGee have helped to improve their national rankings for the NCAA men’s outdoor track and field. Johnson improved his time in the 200M (20.20) for a 6th place finish, No. 38 rank, while McGee improved his time in the 110M hurdles (14.06) for a third place finish, No. 23 ranking. For the Lady Tigers, Aniecia Brewster performed well in the 400 M run with a personal best time of 56.24. Cliffaniqua Towbridge and Ky’Bria Spell also performed well in the discus throw with measurements of 39.91m, which earned Towbridge a 10th place seat, and a 38.50m throw, which earned Spell the 15th place spot.
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Tennis
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he Jackson State men and women’s tennis teams competed against Alabama State in the last day of the SWAC Tennis Round Up II. The Lady Tigers defeated the Hornets 4-3, and the Tigers were defeated 4-2. The Lady Tigers won the doubles point and looked primed for an easier victory, but the Hornets of Alabama State won matches quickly against Daria Butorina and Rebekah Adewumi to take the lead. The men couldn’t take advantage of the walkover victory against Alabama State and the rest benefit. The 2014 HBCU All American honors were announced today and Carlos Martinez and Jose Luque earned singles honors. Carlos Martinez finished 2014 ranked #8 in the national rankings. Jose Luque finished #10, Camilo Patino finished #11, Hernan Geria finished #70, Kashyap Ashok #71, Ryan Swanier #102. Carlos Martinez and Jose Luque finished the year ranked #11, Camilo Patino and Kashyap Ashok finished #27. 2014 Women’s Singles All-American honors were given to Anastasia Zviahintseva. Anastasia Zviahintseva a native from Ukraine finished 2014 ranked #4 nationally. She is Jackson State University’s first HBCU All-American in tennis.
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he Jackson State women’s bowling team season has come to an end, finishing 3rd place at the SWAC Championship in Arlington, Tx. at the International Training and Research Center (Bowling ITRC). On Friday, the Lady Tigers were named the number one seed based off preliminary play with a total pinfall of 4,762. The first win of the day was collected during the fourth match as they out-bowled Southern, 899 to 818. The Lady Tigers of Jackson State ended the day with a huge splash as they bowled over 1,101 total pins in their match against Alabama State, allowing them a first-place position for day one. Abu Baker set the tone for JSU with a total pin count of 258. Her pin count was the highest of the day, earning her the first spot on the 2015 All Tournament Bowling Team. Dyana Abu Bakar and Marcela Sanchez were named to the 2015 All Tournament Bowling Team.
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2014 JSU Homecoming: The Blueprint: One Tiger, One Roar Homecoming
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new parade route around campus and a much anticipated matchup between current Jackson State University head coach, Harold Jackson and former head coach, Rick Comegy were just two of the many things fans had to look forward to at the 2014 JSU Homecoming: The Blueprint: One Tiger One Roar . Pastor Dwayne K. Pickett, Sr. and the New Jerusalem Church family provided an uplifting message and helped JSU rock the Rose E. McCoy auditorium with praise as the celebration began. The crowd roared with laughter on Oct. 8 at the very popular Homecoming Comedy show. DJ T. Lewis kept the crowd alive before the show by playing music and entertaining the crowd. A great line up comedians graced the stage including Jackson, Miss. native and host J.J Williamson along with Ms. B-Phlat and the star of the night, Lil Duval. The royal coronation of the 75th Miss Jackson State University of Anissa C. Butler took place in the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium on Oct. 9. The stage was filled with beautiful decorations and the queen took her spot center stage. Greek sororities and fraternities has always played a major part at HBCU’s and it is no different at JSU evidenced by the students packed in the Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center (AAC) on Oct. 9 to watch their favorite Greeks. Stomping the yard for a year of bragging rights, the step show is entertainment at its best. Only then will you understand the hard work put into learning these steps. Zeta Phi Beta, Inc. took the highest honors among sororities while the men of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. topped all male fraternities. On Oct. 10, the annual Homecoming Parade took a different route, instead of its usual location downtown. For the first time in JSU Homecoming history, the Homecoming Parade has been rerouted to campus. The parade will circle campus starting at the end of the Lynch Street roundabout and on around the Dalton/ Lynch Street side of campus. The Jackson State University Tigers hosted their second game of a four game home stand on Oct. 11 against the Delta Devils of Mississippi Valley State University for the annual Homecoming Game, and many JSU fans were eager to get the festivities started to squash the bad memories of last year’s no-show by Grambling State University. The script was set and Hollywood could not have made it any better. Not only was an in-state rival coming to Jackson; but former JSU Head Coach Rick Comegy returned to Jackson for this first time with his new team, the MVSU Delta Devils. Unfortunately, By Tenesha Hughes
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Brittney’s Bites: A Taste of JSU
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al & Mookies - Sal & Mookie’s is my favorite restaurant so I am excited to finally get the chance to review them for my Tiger comrades. The restaurant is known as a specialty New York style pizza and ice cream parlor. It is located at 565 Taylor Street in my favorite part of town, Fondren, which is known for its creative and artsy atmosphere. Overall, Sal & Mookie’s is just a wonderful restaurant. I have been there many times and have never been disappointed. I enjoy myself every time I go and I encourage others who have not been to definitely go, it just may become a favorite of yours as well. Eddie’s Snack Bar – The legendary Eddie’s Snack Bar, also known as Eddie and Ruby’s by the Tiger community, is a hometown favorite and is said to be the one of, if not the best fish place in town. It is certainly one of my favorites as I have been enjoying their food since I was a little girl. If you cannot already tell, yes I recommend this place. It is affordable and is located right around the corner from THEE Jackson State University at 1268 Valley Street. E & L Bar-B-Que - E & L Bar-b-que continues its legacy of providing some of the best home-style barbeque around. Every time I have visited, there have been many customers lining the walls of the restaurant; this is always a good sign for me. If the people like it, they will come! The first thing I tried was their famous rib tips. They are my favorite thing on the menu and are what I would recommend first time visitors to get. They are tender, juicy and the hickory smoke flavor is all the way down to the bone. I would recommend people to try E & L because it does have very good food, though you might have to get over the condition of the restaurant, it consistently has good food and I haven’t been disappointed. WOW Café - The WOW Café is the newest restaurant establishment to join Jackson State University campus SodexoMagic dining. WOW or World of Wings, American Café and Wingery, is a successful and popular brand developed in New Orleans. Their popular menu includes wraps, oversized chopped salads, Angus burgers on Texas toast and Southwestern taste temptations such as quesadillas, fajitas, tenders and shrimp. Overall, it is a great hangout spot to come to with friends, listen to music and maybe even catch your favorite show on television. I believe that it is definitely worth a visit and has easily become one of my favorite restaurants on campus. The Penguin - The Penguin is a restaurant in Jackson with a sizable reputation. Many alumni who hear the name envision a spot that is very different than the one that stands today. They recall a simple hot dog stand serving the local community many years ago. Now The Penguin is known as a formal dining restaurant, catering to a different clientele and offering more high priced choices including By Brittney Snell J A C K S O N
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rom “Sister Sister” to “That 70s Show”, Emmy-nominated actor and producer Tim Reid and many other distinguished journalists came to Jackson State to talk about the entertainment industry, politics and making your mark in the field of mass communications. During multiple sessions on Nov. 11, the Trotter Group discussed media, politics and history and how it impacts the world today.The Trotter Group, an organization of distinguished black journalists from around the country, was invited to Jackson State University at the invitation of the Department of Mass Communications to speak to journalism and College of Liberal Arts students. Reid spoke about propaganda; recalling a meeting he had years ago with the late William Paley, founder of CBS. Paley asked Reid, “What is your propaganda?” His reply is one that many AfricanAmericans can relate to. Reid explained to Paley that he had not seen his culture portrayed on television accurately.
This meeting shaped the way Reid developed and shared his selfimage with the world. In 1998, he and his wife Daphne co-founded their own production studio, New Millennium Studios, the first studio in Virginia. By Avi’Yam Jordan and Ivory Jones
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Aaliyah biopic proves not to be ‘one in a million’
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efore there was a Beyoncé or Rihanna there was an Aaliyah,” said talk show host Wendy Williams, whose biopic “Aaliyah, The Princess of R&B”, which aired on Lifetime Nov. 15 however, left many fans angered and disappointed. An Aaliyah biopic has been highly anticipated by fans as rumors spilled that Vh1 would be creating the movie like they did with 90’s group TLC. The film was written by Michael Elliott and directed by Bradley Walsh, and starred Nickelodeon actress Alexandra Shipp. Known for her “street but sweet” style, smooth vocals and distinct dance moves, Aaliyah Dana Haughton shocked the world and became a star at the tender age of 15 with her debut album “Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number” which went triple platinum in the United States. Known for her “street but sweet” style, smooth vocals and distinct dance moves, Aaliyah Dana Haughton shocked the world and became a star at the tender age of 15 with her debut album “Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number” which went triple platinum in the United States. The story of Aaliyah is definitely a story that the public wants to see. I believe there is a producer and an all start cast out there that can make a biopic comparable to those of Selena, Tina Turner, Ray Charles and TLC, but this was not it! Ashton Nash Contributed. By Mia Brooks
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Actress KeKe Palmer discusses upcoming projects
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n March 19, award winning actress Keke Palmer and Eric Hill arrived at Jackson State University to give students an advance screening on their new film, “Brotherly Love”. Keke Palmer and Eric Hill made a visit to Jackson State University for an advance screening of their new movie “Brotherly Love”. In the Student Center Theater, students were shown a trailer of the film, followed by an enlightening question and answer segment. Everyone was greeted with tickets to a free advance screening of the film at Tinseltown Theater. The film is a story of three siblings played by Palmer, Hill, and Cory Hardict living in the gritty city of Philadelphia overcoming their adversities. After the film, the stars held another question and answer segment in regards to feedback about the film. By Mark Braboy
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Hip-hop drama “Empire� dominates TV ratings
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aking the reigns as the highest rated television show aired on the Fox network in three years, “Empire” had many hip-hop fans eagerly awaiting each episode. The show premiered on Jan. 7 and had nearly 10 million viewers and reportedly gained one million more the following week. Each week the characters and storyline have viewers at the edge of their seats. The series, created by Lee Daniels, had the audience stoked, breathless, and on the edge of their seats waiting to see what is going to happen next. “Empire” has pulled in viewers by the millions. According Nielsen ratings, 11.07 million viewers in the 18-49 age group, have been captivated by the hit show. Students on the campus of Jackson State University are no exception and are tuning in every Wednesday to see what the Lyon family had in store. The music industry is a key component to this hiphop soap opera. The starring actors include veterans Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson. Award winning producer Lee Daniels of the movie “Butler” fame and Danny Strong are the creators for “Empire”. The music is produced by hit maker and producer Timbaland. This music soap opera has intertwining stories of all the characters involved. Fear not Empire fanatics, according to EOnline, “Empire” has been renewed for a new season. By Ashton Nash
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itting at the edge of your seat, biting your nails with your heart racing is what will happen while watching the movie, “American Sniper”. Based on the life of former Navy SEAL sniper, Chris Kyle, this movie provides action-packed drama along with heart wrenching scenes that ensured its Oscar nomination for Best Picture.
Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring veteran actor Bradley Cooper of “Hangover” series notoriety, the movie focuses on the military veteran’s life. Kyle is known as the most lethal sniper in American history. The Texas native served and protected the country he loved during four Iraqi tours. However, Kyle was tragically killed at a Texas gun range at the age of 38 by a fellow veteran he was trying to help who was allegedly suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. The movie has garnered six Oscar nominations, including Cooper’s stunning portrayal of Kyle, leading to his winning the BFCA Critics’ Award for Best Actor in an Action Movie and an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. Eastwood zoomed in on the life of Kyle and how he managed to the lookout for his army buddies as they search for terrorists in the country of Iraq. Kyle vowed to protect his brothers at any cost, even if it involved gunning down a child who is a threat to the entire armed forces. By Dwayne Joseph, Jr.
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Apple is doing it BIG with
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pple presented bigger and better smart phone technology on Sept. 9 during an Apple Live Special Event video on their website.
Expanding and creating high tech and innovative products since 1976, the recent updates to their product line are the thinnest and largest iPhone to date. The iPhone will come in three different colors; gold, silver, and space gray. The iPhone 6 screen measures 4.7 inches and is 6.9 mm thin with the iPhone 6 Plus measuring in with a 5.5 inch screen and a thickness of 7.1 mm. The new iPhone will be equipped with better resolution, a powerful A8 chip with an M8 motion coprocessor, better battery life, an even more powerful camera, faster LTE download speeds, and when connected to Wi-Fi, the speed will be up to three times faster! Both iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus can be purchased with up to 128 GB of flash memory. Prices for the iPhone 6 ranges between $199 and $399 depending on the gigabytes. Prices for the 6 Plus range between $299 and $499, depending on the gigabytes. Not only is Apple coming out with new phones, they are coming out with new updates that better enhance the experience on the phones. The new iOS8 update allows you to share content with your family in a new way, rediscover favorite photos, new photo editing tools, “tap to add” voice content to messages, a new keyboard that suggests contextually appropriate words, recognizes whether you’re typing an email or message, and allows you to seamlessly continue a project on another apple device. The software update makes things easy for you while allowing you to discover what the phone has to offer.
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T
he purpose of standing on that highway corner was to acquire a relationship with God,” said the man who went from being homeless for 19 years to a job as an announcer for Kraft Mac & Cheese. Ted “Golden Voice” Williams visited Jackson State University and was the guest speaker on April 2, 2015 at the Community In Action (CIA) Reception hosted by the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning held at the Mississippi e-Center. “The Harden Center for Service wanted a platform where we could recognize students and student organizations for all of the service they have done, and also encourage them to continue to serve,” said Kimberly Harris, Community Service/ Service-Learning Resource Specialist/NSE Coordinator. She added: “Who better to help convey this idea than Mr. Ted “Golden Voice” Williams whom has been on both the receiving end as well as the giving end of service.” Williams’, who co-authored the book, “Faith, Hard work, and Humility Brought Me from the Streets to Salvation,” was homeless in 2011 when a videographer from the Columbus Dispatch discovered him in Ohio on the side of the road holding a cardboard sign touting his vocal abilities for donations. Williams’ story went viral and many learned how years of drug and alcohol abuse caused him to lose everything he held dear. By Dwayne Joseph, Jr.
Ted Williams uses ‘Golden Voice’ to inspire others
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Student Spotlight F
or the first time on the Rose E. McCoy main stage, national awardwinning playwright and Jackson State University alumnus, Prince Duren, presented his new play, “Like Fine Wine.” The playwright and director, who is also an instructor in the JSU Department of Speech and Theatre, explained that his play was about following one’s dreams and never giving up on one’s hopes and passion. Duren’s mission as a playwright is to introduce his people (AfricanAmericans) to something different other than the same old drama. He invites audiences to come prepared for a show -stopping, music- filled, family drama. He is also currently working on his first gospel play called “The Walls of the Church.”
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ospel and R&B are not two genres usually associated together, but that’s exactly what Avery Ward, a senior theater major from Morton, Miss., embodies. The up and coming singer, who goes by the moniker ‘Jesus Baby’, grew up in the church and was always surrounded by music. Although he was raised in the church, his love for Hip-Hop and R&B is what really motivated him to pursue a singing career. Ward describes his music as gospel R&B because his heavy R&B influence is reflected through his music and makes him stand out as a Christian artist. Ward is currently signed to Orangutan records, out of Sacramento, Calif. and has a hot new single called “Temptation” available on iTunes, Googleplay and Spotify.com. He believes he has a bright future ahead of himself and hopes to inspire many with his music, while also being a role model to youth.
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ormer Jackson State University student and rising fashion mogul, Dalvin Brown, is definitely making his dreams come true in the Big Apple.
Brown is a 21-year-old native of Meridian, Miss. and the oldest of eight children. Growing up, he was always creative and had a passion for art. His love for sketching fashion flourished in the sixth grade, from then on he knew his purpose, despite what others thought. Attending JSU was big for Brown but he did not know that it was only preparing him for a life changing opportunity. The first day of school, he heard a presentation about the National Student Exchange program and was immediately interested in the program once he learned that it was an opportunity for him to live in New York City while gaining college credit. The following semester, Brown embarked on his journey to New York City. He found himself overwhelmed from lack of research and planning, which made his first day in the city of dreams a complete nightmare. He was taking classes as part of the JSU curriculum at Queens College in New York. After finishing the first year of the NSE program, he decided to transfer to Queens College as a full-time student. Brown said JSU was the stepping stone to pursuing his dreams. Brown’s future is bright. He plans to produce his own clothing line, become a motivational speaker, and most of all continue to work on his own happiness.
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ven though Sierra Jackson’s clothing brand is named Filthy Broke Fashion, she is rich in her efforts to clothe the less fortunate. Jackson launched the Denim Project clothing drive in conjunction with R.U.F. after she heard a sermon in church about giving and not receiving. The partnership will also bring attention to Tiger Closet, which is a newly implemented program at JSU that will help students that do not have the resources to buy clothing or daily essentials. Jackson provided three huge boxes for people to drop off donations. Denim jeans were preferred but all clothing was accepted for men, women, and children. Jackson said that there is more to come from the Denim Project. She is currently working on setting up a date for her next clothing drive. She also gave advice to students who want to start their own projects on campus. The donations will benefit families in Jackson and the surrounding areas. All donators were able to take a picture with a life-size Filthy Broke Fashion Instagram cut out.
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raveling across the world through Jackson State University’s Study Abroad program can be a very enlightening and a once in a lifetime experience for students. But for one young lady, her experience changed her outlook on the world as she knew it. Amber Brown, a senior business marketing major from East St. Louis. Ill., spent the fall semester of 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa doing an intern abroad. During her time interning for the South African marketing firm HGG Financial Group, she lived in a house with 12 other young women from around the world where she was the only person of color. To Brown, it was a dream come true for her to travel to Africa because for as long as she could remember she wanted to experience the continent for herself. Throughout her travels across South Africa, Brown saw and experienced both the beautiful parts of the country as well as the other parts that have been ravaged by poverty. Over time, she developed a unique personal connection to the South Africans and spent most of her time in the townships, the poorer communities in Cape Town. Since she has returned from South Africa, Brown credits her experiences of living with very little and simply living off the environment as something that made her into a better person.
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ortez Bryant, an alumnus of JSU and music industry mogul, has exemplified the true meaning of receiving a quality education and gaining life-changing experiences from his dear ol’ college home. Bryant, who grew up as a disadvantaged youth in the streets of New Orleans, La., started his journey to JSU after receiving a scholarship for the Sonic Boom of the South band program under the leadership of Band Director Lewis Liddell. After graduating from JSU in 2004 with a degree in mass communications, Bryant decided to go into the music business. He was introduced to the industry by his friend Dwayne “Lil’ Wayne” Carter, Jr. Bryant faced some difficulties when starting his career. Ten years later and with a fearless attitude, Bryant is one of the youngest power players in the music industry. He is the Co-CEO of The Blueprint Group, which manages the careers of Lil’ Wayne, Nicki Minaj, T.I, and many more artists. He is also the Chief Operating Officer of Young Money Entertainment where he conducts all the business side of Young Money. Bryant said the most significant accomplishment in his career was when Lil’ Wayne’s album, “The Carter III”, sold one million albums in one week. “If your heart is in it and you feel like it’s your calling, do it. It can be flipping burgers, the music business, being an artist, or a journalist. Just go for it and pray on it. I’m spiritual, that’s one thing that’s a testament to my success. You have to stay grounded, prayed up, and always work hard. Don’t be afraid of failure, in life there will be ups and downs. It’s not going to be easy but don’t give up,” he said.
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Rolling Tigers vs. Greek
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ackson State University students were able to get firsthand experience of the obstacles faced by the disabled at the Disability Awareness Day Informational. The informational was held on the Gibbs-Green Pedestrian Walkway on Oct. 28. During the month of October, many issues are observed, including Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness, but many people do not know that Disability Awareness is also observed. To recognize this month, Disability Services created events that got the entire student body involved. Monica Walls-Jones, the Assistant Director of Disability Services, wanted to start hosting events that teach students more about the disabilities that some students have on campus. Along with the simulations at the informational, students were able to listen to different life testimonies from disabled students and speakers. Disability Services also hosted a wheelchair basketball game, ‘Rolling Tigers vs. Greek Unity’ in the Walter Payton Center at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 29.
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Senior Timeline
2011 -2012 Filmmaker Spike Lee speaks at Black College Day at JSU Nearly 3,000 people came to the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center to hear film producer, actor and Tisch School of the Arts—NYU Graduate Film professor, Spike Lee, share life experiences at Jackson State University’s Black College Day. Lee’s first student film, “Last Hustle in Brooklyn” was completed when he was an undergraduate at historic Morehouse College. He went on to produce such films as “Do the Right Thing,” “School Daze,” “Malcolm X” and “Mo’ Better Blues.”
Students welcome Spike Lee to JSU during Black College Day.
OTHER NOTABLE EVENTS OF THE YEAR JSU names Dr. Vivian Fuller new Athletics Director Judge Karen Mills-Francis speaks at JSU Constitutional Day program JSU out-sources dining services to Aramark JSU freshman Harold Owens III wins the 2011 U.S. National Yo-Yo Championship Mea Ashley launches Queen’s Campaign fundraiser for student scholarships Tuskegee Airmen speak at Veteran’s Day program JSU launches it mobile application JSUGO CSCEL hosts first International Alternative Break to China JSU Volleyball teams wins SWAC Championship Iyanla Vanzant speaks at Capitol City Classic event at JSU JSU changes commencement to Fall and Spring JSU students react to death of Pop icon Whitney Houston Dr. Dollye Robinson retires from JSU after 60 years of service JSU Presidential Inauguration of Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers Jackson State University student Nolan Ryan Henderson III killed JSU students can ride the JATRAN city buses for free with school I.D. American Navy Seals kill Osama Bin Laden, orchestrator of 9/11 terrorist attacks
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2012 -2013 JSU Celebrates Scholar Athletes at Breakfast of Champions The Jackson State Division of Athletics held its first annual „Breakfast of Champions“ event to honor its scholar student-athletes who earned at least a 3.0 grade point average through the summer of 2012. A total of 84 Tigers and Lady Tigers were recognized during a breakfast ceremony Thursday morning at the JSU Student Center Ballroom. The guest speaker for the event was JSU’s interim provost Dr. James C. Renick. During his speech, Renick told the crowd of approximately 150 people that he was humbled to be in the company of such greatness.
A total of 84 Tigers and Lady Tigers honored with Wheaties box designation. OTHER NOTABLE EVENTS OF THE YEAR Hurricane Isaac forces campus closure Miss JSU Sarah Brown implements her Molding the Minds mentorship program Michael Teasley, first White JSU NAACP president, dies Hurricane Sandy Strands JSU students in New York Capitol City Classic becomes Magnolia Soul Bowl New trial ordered for man convicted of 2007 slaying of Latasha Norman JSU Tiger Volleyball team wins 2nd straight SWAC Championship President Barrack Hussein Obama wins second term as United States President JSU announces opening of Madison campus location Devastating tornado rips through Hattiesburg, MS Mississippi ratifies 13th amendment after years of overcite Susan Taylor, Essence Editor Emeritus, speaks at Women’s Emphasis Week program Basketball coach Tevester Anderson retires as Men’s Tiger Basketball Coach Wayne Brent named new Men’s Tiger Basketball Coach Christopher Cathey elected 2013-2014 SGA President Deja Knight elected 2013-2014 Miss JSU Housing renovations begin for Alexander Hall and Stewart Hall to be demolished. Community Service Civic Engaged Learning renames center to honor Alice V. Harden Terrorists bomb Boston Marathon
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2013 -2014 JSU Celebrates Scholar Athletes at Breakfast of Champions The Jackson State University Lady Tigers soccer team defeat the Alabama State University Lady Hornets 1-0 and win the 2013 SWAC Soccer Championship on Sunday, Nov. 10. Several Lady Tigers were named to the All-Tournament Team. Alex Goutier (F), Kimberlie Hernandez (D), Sie’Yara Wells (F), Jalana Ellis (M), and Taylor Emerson (G) all received the honor. Emerson, junior goalie, was also named MVP with a 3 game shutout.
Jackson State Lady Tigers soccer team win the 2013 SWAC Soccer Championship OTHER NOTABLE EVENTS OF THE YEAR Tiger Plaza opens downtown as demand for housing increases at Jackson State UPS Store opens to provide products and services to JSU students Homecoming week activities mared by Grambling football game forfeiture JSU seeks legal action against Grambling State University for game cancellation Deja Knight crowned the 2013-2014 Miss JSU during Homecoming coronation LNC holds “Paint the City Purple” forum to bring awareness to domestic violence JSU Tiger Soccer team wins 2013 SWAC Championship JSU football team makes it to SWAC Championship final but loses to Southern Jaguars JSU hires NFL and Big 12 Conference coach Harold Jackson to lead Tiger Football Starbucks franchise store opens in the H.T. Sampson Library Apple store opens in the Jackson State University student center Affordable Care Act mandates that all have insurance by March 1st JSU 2014 graduates required to have 120 hours of community service Mayor of Jackson, Chokwe Lumumba dies, Tony Yarber wins special election Anissa Butler wins Miss JSU and Keonte Turner chosen to lead SGA as president
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2014 -2015 JSU students participate in ‘Hands up/Walk out’ Approximately one hundred Jackson State University students gathered on Dec. 1 to participate in the “Hands Up Walk Out’ rally and silently protest the non-indictment of Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo. Students with their mouths covered with duct tape held signs displaying “I am Black Excellence” and “Black Lives Matter” walked from the Student Center along the Gibbs-Green Pedestrian Walkway to the pavilion across from the Jacob L. Reddix office complex.
JSU students silently participating in the national movement, ‘Hands up, Walk Out’. OTHER NOTABLE EVENTS OF THE YEAR Hail Mary Pass wins JSU vs Florida A&M University game Constitution Day depicts journey from oppression Homecoming Street Jam features Rae Sremmurd The Ivy Brothers face off in JSU vs MVSU matchup Students speak out to get to-go boxes back in dining hall Jackson State Tigers lend a paw to those in need Former NOLA mayor Marc Morial speaks at fall commencement CIA Fair featuring Ty-Licia Hooker, shows students how they can serve JSU students get easier access to studying abroad with Passport to the World program Shabazz and Evers-Everett honor their fathers at forum JSU Students react to Sigma Alpha Epsilon video JSU student attend commemoration of Selma March Residential students required to have insurance Spring Break burglars hit the JSU Palisades Jackson State student hold sit-in protest in Heritage Dining Hall Rashad Sayles chosen as SGA President & Charence Higgins as Miss JSU
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Acknowledgements The Division of Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Charles N. Smith, Vice President Student Publications Staff: Kierra D. Thomas, Graphic Designer Shannon D. Tatum, Publication Manager eXperience eYearbook Staff William Kelly Student Photographers/Writers William Kelly Reese Tornes Guy King Contributors: Chris Chapman The Blue & White Flash Staff University Communications Wesley Peterson, Athletics Media Charles A. Smith, JSU Photographer
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In Memoriam
The Jackson State University Family would like to express its condolences to the friends and family of the JSU students we lost during the 2014-2015 school year.
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Jackson State University, founded in 1877, is a historically black, high research activity university located in Jackson, the capital city of the state of Mississippi. Jackson State’s nurturing academic environment challenges individuals to change lives through teaching, research and service. Officially designated as Mississippi’s Urban University, Jackson State continues to enhance the state, nation and world through comprehensive economic development, healthcare, technological and educational initiatives.
The only public university in the Jackson metropolitan area, Jackson State is located near downtown with four satellite campuses throughout the city. Jackson State is accredited by the Commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award 43 bachelor’s degrees, 36 master’s degrees, three specialist-in-education degrees and 11 doctoral degrees.
Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers, President 1400 John R. Lynch Street Jackson, MS 39217 www.jsums.edu
The 2014-2015 eXperience e-Yearbook was produced by the Student Publications unit of the Division of Academic and Student Affairs at Jackson State University.
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