Mississippi’s college board has shown, time and again, that it is not listening. They denied public comment, ignored basic accountability, and — according to a published report — installed Dr. Marcus Thompson as president despite his not even applying. We cannot allow another unqualified, unprepared insider to be ushered into the role of Jackson State’s 14th president. The board has failed to commit to a transparent, inclusive, and national search process — but we will be heard. Partnership and trust are the true currency needed to secure the principled leader our university deserves. Your voice matters, and our collective voices are power — use this tool to make them know who we are.
Accountability
A full and public accounting of the failures in the previous presidential search process.We echo the concerns of Gov. Tate Reeves, who questioned how IHL “got it so wrong at Jackson State.” Before any new search is initiated, IHL must take responsibility by clearly outlining the missteps, identifying what went wrong, and sharing the lessons learned. Without accountability, there can be no progress—and no trust.
Thorough Search Process
A national search for leadership of the highest caliber.The next president of JSU must be more than a manager—they must be a trailblazer. We expect a leader of unquestionable integrity, with a proven track record in higher education and the strategic vision to steer a complex institution through today’s challenges. Anything less is unacceptable. Our students, faculty, and alumni deserve nothing but the best.
Transparent Process
A process that is transparent, inclusive, and rooted in community partnership.JSU’s strength lies in its people. Every voice matters—students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members must be meaningfully involved in this process from beginning to end. This is not a courtesy; it is a necessity. And let us be clear: students must not only be included but empowered in shaping the future of their university.
