Jackson State University President, Thomas Hudson, today unveiled the university's new strategic plan, JSU Elevate, which will serve as the innovative roadmap for the institution for the next 5 years.
“The Elevate Strategic Plan embodies our vision to take Jackson State University to higher heights as we produce more distinguished scholars, global leaders and community servants,” said President Thomas K. Hudson, J.D. “We are invested in our student body’s academic success, and we have a game plan to enhance every facet of the college experience, from exploring cutting-edge research to improving the sustainability of our campus resources, to supporting our scholars to graduate on time and on budget.”
The comprehensive plan includes input from the entire campus community and was spearheaded by a cross-disciplinary committee of faculty, administrators, staff and students to propel the JSU forward and achieve growth in the areas of academics, research, athletics, facilities, customer service and brand management. JSU Elevate is a framework of six institutional goals that Jackson University will execute to raise the institution’s profile”
Goal One: STUDENT SUCCESS: Jackson State University will become one of the most student-centered universities in the country by implementing relevant and appropriate student success strategies, developing students holistically, and ensuring student Return on Investment (ROI).
Goal Two: ACADEMIC PROMINENCE: Jackson State University will become one of the most respected and prominent academic institutions in the country by becoming a Top 10 U.S. News & World Report ranked HBCU, providing quality teaching using various modalities to develop technologically-advanced, ethical, and global leaders, and having the largest and best HBCU online degree program offerings.
Goal Three: RESEARCH EXCELLENCE: Jackson State University will raise the level of research prominence and reach R1 “very high research activity” status by increasing our research capabilities, growing strategic partnerships, driving innovation and economic development, and providing opportunities for faculty and students to engage in impactful collaborative research.
Goal Four: ATHLETIC PROWESS THROUGH ENHANCED PROGRAM SUPPORT: Jackson State University will become one of the premier NCAA FCS sports programs in the country where student-athletes compete fearlessly on and off the field; are retained and graduate; have access to quality coaching, mentorship, and facilities; and are actively engaged in campus life beyond athletics.
Goal Five: IMPROVE CAMPUS AESTHETICS AND SUSTAINABILITY: Jackson State University will retain and grow its status as one of the most beautiful and attractive urban campuses in the country by continuously investing in its physical plant and grounds, repairing and renovating older facilities, and building new structures in order to compete favorably for students, faculty and staff.
Goal Six: IMPROVE THE CAMPUS CULTURE AND ENHANCE THE JSU BRAND: Jackson State University will become nationally known for quality customer service, efficient and effective operations, nurturing, caring and competent faculty and staff, and alumni who readily give of their time, talent, and treasure; and fulfilling our desire to be a great community, city, and state resource and partner
The Strategic Plan Steering Committee was led by Dr. Sheila Porterfield, associate dean of the College of Business. She stated the strategic plan is built on Jackson State University’s strengths and accomplishments which serve as inspiration to the University community to strive for even greater achievements as it embarks on the implementation of JSU Elevate.
“The new strategic plan has been fashioned through the enthusiastic input, contributions, and collaborations of stakeholders from the JSU community. It will illuminate and guide our path forward as we work together to shape the future of Jackson State University and elevate the University to even greater heights,” said Porterfield. “I extend sincere thanks and appreciation to all faculty, staff, students, administrators, alumni, and members of the University’s extended community who participated in this important endeavor.”
To view Jackson State University’s strategic plan, visit: https://www.jsums.edu/strategicplan/.