Dear Jacksonians:
It is a pleasure to bring you greetings from Tiger World! I am delighted to serve as the Director of Alumni and Constituency Relations at Jackson State University (JSU). Over the years, I have had the opportunity to meet alumni from across the United States. Jacksonians are successful, dynamic and highly committed to our beloved alma mater. We are teachers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, entrepreneurs, professors, government employees, accountants, scientists, judges, authors, musicians and more. Our passion for JSU is beautifully displayed on our vehicles and apparel, and in our hearts, homes and families. That same passion extends into our everyday conversations with friends and colleagues, which keeps others connected to JSU. Similarly, alumni chapter members are sharing their enthusiasm for Jackson State while working with the JSU National Alumni Association, Inc.
Indeed, we have a lot to be thankful for. From the dedication of our former presidents and under the current leadership of our ninth president, Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr., enrollment has increased with a diverse population of students. In addition, our faculty members are continuing their outstanding work in teaching and research, and Jackson State has been highly ranked in higher education publications, including Diverse Issues in Higher Education, June/July 2006; Black Enterprise, September 2006; and Washington Monthly, September 2006. Not only is Jackson State excelling academically, our athletic department has garnered numerous Southwestern Athletic Conference championships: football (2007); women's basketball (2008); women's indoor track and field (2008); women's outdoor track and field (2008); men's golf (2008) and women's golf (2008).
If you have not visited JSU for awhile, I highly recommend that you plan a tour of the campus. Various renovations and new constructions are underway to enhance the university and the West Jackson Community, and you will be amazed with all the changes.
Indeed, this is a great time to be a Jacksonian and to continue the rich, historic legacy of our esteemed university. That is why the success of "The Campaign for Jackson State" is crucial in securing the future of JSU. Gifts to the campaign will support scholarships, endowed faculty positions and the university's various programs. As always, alumni support is critical toward reaching our goal by December 31, 2010. If you would like to make a contribution, please e-mail me at gwen.caples@jsums.edu, or call me at (601) 979-2281, or 1-800-578-6622. I will be happy to talk with you.
Together, with our resources and talents, we can elevate Jackson State University to even greater heights while "Challenging Minds and Changing Lives."
"True Blue" for JSU,
Gwen Caples, ’77
Director of Alumni and Constituency Relations
