Introduction
Jackson State University (JSU) is a historically black university located in Jackson, Mississippi. It was founded in 1877 as Natchez Seminary and later became Jackson College in 1924. Today, JSU is one of the largest universities in Mississippi, offering over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs to a diverse student body. In this blog post, we will explore some fun and interesting facts about Jackson State University that you may not have known before.
Fun facts about Jackson State University
JSU’s Mascot: The Sonic Boom of the South
JSU is known for its marching band, The Sonic Boom of the South. The band was founded in 1948 and has been a major source of pride for the university ever since. The Sonic Boom is one of the most well-known and respected marching bands in the country and has performed at numerous high-profile events, including several presidential inaugurations.
The Sonic Boom has a long and rich history at JSU. In the 1970s, the band was known for its innovative halftime shows, which featured complex dance routines and intricate musical arrangements. The band was also one of the first to incorporate hip hop and rap music into their performances.
Today, The Sonic Boom continues to be a major force at JSU, with over 300 members and a reputation for excellence. The band’s high-energy performances are a highlight of JSU football games and other campus events.
JSU’s Famous Alumni
Jackson State University has produced many successful alumni over the years, including several famous athletes, politicians, and entertainers. Here are just a few notable JSU alumni:
Walter Payton: Known as “Sweetness,” Walter Payton was one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. He played for the Chicago Bears from 1975 to 1987 and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993. Payton attended JSU in the early 1970s and played football for the Tigers.
Mara Brock Akil: Mara Brock Akil is a television writer and producer who is best known for creating the hit TV shows “Girlfriends” and “Being Mary Jane.” She graduated from JSU in 1991 with a degree in journalism.
Edgar Ray Killen: Edgar Ray Killen was a Ku Klux Klan leader who was convicted in 2005 for his role in the 1964 murders of three civil rights workers in Mississippi. Killen attended JSU in the 1940s and was a member of the university’s debate team.
JSU’s Student Organizations
Jackson State University has a vibrant student life, with over 100 student organizations on campus. These organizations cover a wide range of interests, from academic clubs to social organizations to service groups.
One of the most popular student organizations at JSU is the Blue and White Flash Marching Band. This group performs at various campus events throughout the year and is known for its high-energy performances.
Another popular student organization is the Gospel Choir, which is open to all students who are interested in singing and performing gospel music. The Gospel Choir has performed at several high-profile events, including the inauguration of Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour in 2008.
JSU’s Research Initiatives
Jackson State University is also known for its research initiatives. The university is classified as a “high research activity” institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, which means that it conducts a significant amount of research and has a large number of doctoral programs.
One of JSU’s major research initiatives is the Center for Nanoscience and Technology. This center is focused on developing new nanotechnology-based applications for energy, environment, and health. The center is home to several state-of-the-art research facilities, including a clean room, a scanning electron microscope, and a transmission electron microscope.
Another major research initiative at JSU is the Mississippi Urban Research Center. This center is focused on addressing the challenges facing urban communities in Mississippi, including poverty, inequality, and access to healthcare. The center works closely with community organizations and government agencies to develop and implement programs that address these issues.
JSU’s Campus Landmarks
Jackson State University has several notable landmarks on its campus that are worth exploring. One of the most famous landmarks is Gibbs-Green Plaza, which is named after two JSU students who were killed by police during a protest in 1970. The plaza is now a gathering place for students and is home to several statues and memorials that honor the legacy of Gibbs and Green.
Another notable landmark on campus is the H.T. Sampson Library, which is named after a former JSU president. The library houses over 400,000 volumes of books and journals and is home to several special collections, including the Margaret Walker Alexander Collection of African American Literature.
JSU’s Athletic Programs
Jackson State University has a proud athletic tradition, with several successful sports teams at both the varsity and club levels. The JSU Tigers compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and have won numerous conference championships over the years.
One of the most successful sports teams at JSU is the men’s basketball team. The Tigers have won eight SWAC championships and have made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The team’s most famous player is probably Lindsey Hunter, who played for the Tigers in the early 1990s before going on to a successful career in the NBA.
Another successful athletic program at JSU is the women’s bowling team. The Lady Tigers have won six SWAC championships and have made several appearances in the NCAA Bowling Championship. The team’s most famous player is probably LaVerne Carter, who won several individual titles during her time at JSU and went on to compete professionally.
JSU’s Community Outreach Programs
Jackson State University is also known for its community outreach programs, which are designed to help improve the quality of life in the surrounding area. One of the university’s most successful outreach programs is the Jackson State University Development Foundation, which provides funding and support for community development projects in Jackson and throughout Mississippi.
Another notable outreach program at JSU is the Margaret Walker Center, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting African American literature and culture. The center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including poetry readings, book signings, and film screenings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jackson State University is a vibrant and diverse institution with a rich history and many notable achievements. From its famous marching band to its successful athletic programs to its innovative research initiatives, JSU has a lot to offer students, faculty, and the surrounding community. Whether you’re a current student, an alum, or just someone interested in learning more about this great institution, there is something for everyone at Jackson State University.