Jackson State University Earns National Innovation and Economic Prosperity Designation
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Posted By: Will Moss on April 19, 2026 APLU recognition positions JSU among leading institutions driving economic growth, workforce development and community impact JACKSON, Miss. (April 17, 2026) - Jackson State University has earned the Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) designation from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU). The designation places Jackson State among a network of more than 90 higher education institutions - and only three historically Black colleges and universities - nationally recognized for advancing economic development through research, workforce alignment and community engagement. Historic Achievement: JSU joins only two other HBCUs - Prairie View A&M University and North Carolina A&T State University - to receive this prestigious national designation. The IEP designation follows a rigorous application and self-study process that evaluates how universities integrate talent development, innovation and place-based impact into a coordinated economic engagement strategy. "Jackson State University continues to set Thee Standard in aligning research, talent and community engagement to strengthen economies and expand opportunity," said interim president Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. "This designation recognizes the leadership and work across our Division of Research and Economic Development, along with our faculty, staff and partners advancing innovation and economic impact across Mississippi." Leading Mississippi's Economic DevelopmentAs Mississippi's only urban research university, Jackson State plays a critical role in preparing a workforce for evolving industry demands while supporting economic growth statewide. The university's strategy focuses on three key priorities:
Through its Division of Research and Economic Development, Jackson State has expanded workforce training programs, strengthened industry partnerships, and increased support for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Key initiatives include:
"Earning the IEP designation validates the strength of our partnerships and the work we have done to align research, workforce development and economic opportunity," said Almesha L. Campbell, Ph.D., vice president for research and economic development. "Through this work, we have established clear pathways that connect research to industry, strengthen workforce outcomes and position Jackson State as a driver of economic growth across Mississippi." National Recognition for Economic ImpactAPLU President Waded Cruzado emphasized the vital role of public universities in economic development: "From cultivating talent and advancing research to strengthening communities, institutions like Jackson State University play a vital role in driving economic progress. We are proud to recognize Jackson State for its commitment to advancing innovation and opportunity." The designation also reflects Jackson State's efforts to strengthen how it communicates research and economic impact through integrated storytelling and digital platforms. "We have strengthened our visibility, sharpened our platforms and continued to ensure the work across the university is clearly connected to its impact on our communities and economy," said Tangelia Kelly, Ph.D., chief communications officer and executive director of university communications. Looking Forward: Insights from the self-study process have informed a forward-looking Growth and Improvement Plan focused on expanding workforce and economic development infrastructure, strengthening cross-unit coordination and enhancing how outcomes are measured and communicated over time. Since the program launched in 2013, 94 institutions have earned the IEP Designation. The university will be formally recognized at the APLU Annual Meeting in November. For more information about Jackson State University's research and economic development initiatives, visit research.jsums.edu. About Jackson State UniversityJackson State University, founded in 1877, is a historically Black, doctoral university classified R2 by the Carnegie Classification for its substantial research activity and doctoral degree production. Jackson State's nurturing academic environment challenges individuals to change lives through teaching, research and service. Officially designated as Mississippi's Urban University, Jackson State continues to enhance the state, nation and world through comprehensive economic development, healthcare, technological and educational initiatives. The only public university in metropolitan Jackson, Jackson State is located near downtown and has four satellite locations throughout the area. For more information, visit www.jsums.edu. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
