Jackson State University, often abridged as Jackson State or by its initials JSU is a historically black university located in Jackson, Mississippi founded in 1877. Jackson State University has been especially noted for its successful business and computer departments, being among the highest ranked in the United States. Its current president is Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr. Jackson State is a member school of the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund.

Jackson State University was founded in 1877 as the Natchez Seminary by the American Baptist Home Mission Society in Natchez, Mississippi. The seminary hoped to promote the moral, religious, and intellectual improvement of Christian leaders of the colored people of Mississippi and the neighboring states. In 1882, the institution moved to Jackson because of its central location in the state, and shortly thereafter the name was changed to Jackson College.

For sixty-three years the school operated as a private church school. In 1940, the college became a state institution for training rural and elementary school teachers. The first bachelor’s degrees were awarded in 1944. In subsequent years, the name changed to Jackson State College.

The year 1970 was marked in history by the infamous Jackson State killings, in which two students were left dead after a riot.

Expansion of the curriculum and facilities elevated the college to university status in 1974; thus, the name changed to Jackson State University.

In 1977, the school celebrated its centennial. In 1979, Jackson State University was officially designated the Urban University of Mississippi, and as such, seeks solutions for urban problems through its programs and activities. The University is pledged to the advancement of a free society and continued progress of democracy.

In 1980, JSU became the first and only historically Black institution to offer the Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology. JSU now leads the nation in the education of Black professional meteorologists and atmospheric scientists - many of whom work in media, government, and private endeavors.

In 1983, the University completed an $11.2-million capital campaign that resulted in the renovation and improvement of several campus buildings and provided for expanded programs offered in continuing education. New buildings and extended renovations began in the 2003-2004 academic year, including processes of beautification and extension.

JSU is the first historically Black university, and one of only two historically Black universities, to have an AACSB accrediated Ph.D. of Business Administration program.

Website: http://www.jsums.edu

School Legends

1. Walter "Sweetness" Payton
2. Kevin Dent
3. Jerome Barkum
4. Robert Brazile
5. Jackie Slater