I give of my time, effort and money for education because it plays an important role in providing economic growth and stability, which results in improving lives and changing our world. Education provides individuals an opportunity to advance and become successful in life. I believe when I give, it encourages others to do the same. Helping students to attain that success is an investment that benefits our communities, and provides a better place to live for us all.

Candie Simmons
SVP, Geography Marketing Strategist - Regions Bank

Entergy Mississippi has long partnered with Jackson State University to help ensure they can offer students and potential students a competitive learning environment. This not only helps JSU attract and retain the best and brightest students, it also ensures there’s an educated workforce for Entergy and other Mississippi businesses to recruit from. That helps ensure students will have good jobs when they graduate and businesses will have talented people to hire. And Mississippi communities will be stronger and more prosperous for it.

Haley R. Fisackerly
Entergy Mississippi President and CEO

I give back because I understand how Jackson State University contributed to my social life and professional career. I want to give students who may have challenges an opportunity to attend and experience my alma mater. They will have an opportunity to attend a great university with a HBCU experience and receive an equally great education.

This may be true of all colleges and universities, but there’s something special about getting a degree from Jackson State University. Being able to attend class, study and then graduate with those that not only look like you but shared similar struggles and ambitions of the world is a beautiful thing. It creates a bond that you only experience at THEE Jackson State University. It creates a “Tiger” family forever. It’s the gift that keeps on giving…

Debra Mays-Jackson, Ph.D.
Chief of Staff & Vice President - Jackson State University

“If not now, when? If not here, where? If not me, who?” I have always been taught that it is better to give than to receive. Give means to freely transfer the possession of something to someone. Although I am not a graduate of JSU, I am a product of an HBCU. As an employee of JSU, it is important to and for me to “give” by transferring what I have to an institution that invests and believes in students who were just like me!

Mitchell M. Shears, Ed.D.
Executive Director, Title III - Jackson State University

One of the most important things I can do is give back to the college that gave so much to me. I give to invest in our collective future. I know my contributions go toward creating a pipeline of talent – young men and women – who will take on key roles in industries and organizations in every walk of life. Just knowing that my contributions help make a significant difference in the lives of students is all the satisfaction I need.

There was an alumnus who gave when I was a student. That someone made a contribution to my education, professional development, and success more than 20 years ago without even knowing my name. They contributed to my career journey that ultimately resulted in me becoming a vice president in a company that is in the top 15 percent of the Fortune 500 companies. It is often stated that it takes a village…well, I am a part of a village of alumni who know that giving to Jackson State University makes a real and true difference in the lives of so many.

Karmyn Norwood
Vice President- AMMM International Programs - Lockheed Martin

“Jackson State is a great institution with strong academic and athletic traditions. JSU has an extremely strong community spirit and is positioned to continue its positive influence in the Jackson metro area.”

“I fully support the vision and leadership of Dr. Bynum. His enthusiasm and passion for Jackson State is contagious and I consider it a privilege to partner with him in this endeavor.”

David Gates
President, Mississippi Division- Atmos Energy