Jackson State University, located in Mississippi, is in the process of selecting a new president. The Search Committee, appointed by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees, has begun reviewing applications from a total of 79 candidates. The committee, consisting of Dr. Steven Cunningham, Dr. Ormella Cummings, Bruce Martin, Gee Ogletree, and Hal Palmer, held a meeting to discuss the received applications.
During the meeting, which took place at the Universities Center building at the Mississippi Research and Development Center, the committee voted to enter a closed or executive session to delve into personnel matters. This decision was made via a teleconference online meeting platform. The committee did not take any questions from reporters after adjourning the meeting, which lasted for approximately two hours.
The responsibility of the committee is to determine which candidates will proceed to the next level and be invited for interviews. Kim Gallaspy, assistant commissioner for government relations for the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, stated that the Board of Trustees has received a total of 79 applications for the position of President of Jackson State University. However, the schedule for conducting interviews has not yet been finalized.
Regarding the position of the current Acting President, Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony, there is uncertainty. The committee did not disclose whether or not she is still considered an active candidate for the president’s role. The Board of Trustees maintains confidentiality for all applicants and refrains from commenting on specific individuals. Dr. Hayes-Anthony expressed her desire to be involved in the decision-making process for the future of the university.
Jackson State University has been under the leadership of Acting President Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony since Thomas K. Hudson was placed on administrative leave earlier this year by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, ultimately leading to his resignation. Dr. Hayes-Anthony, a Jacksonian, is eager to contribute to the progress of the university and has expressed her interest in becoming the next president.
As the search for a new president continues, the committee will carefully evaluate the candidates before making their final selection. The future president of Jackson State University holds the responsibility of leading this esteemed institution and shaping its future.
