For too long, the leadership selection process at JSU has failed the institution and its stakeholders. It has bred instability, eroded public trust, damaged our university’s reputation, and squandered taxpayer dollars. These are not minor missteps—they are systemic failures. The process has lacked the transparency, inclusivity, and consistency that any respected academic institution should demand.
JSU is a high-performing, research-driven, and nationally recognized HBCU. We do not simply need leadership, we need visionary, accountable, and bold leadership that reflects the excellence of our students, the dedication of our alumni, and the legacy of our institution. It is time to chart a new course.
We demand the following actions:
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.