JACKSON — Denise Jones Gregory assumed the permanent presidency of Jackson State University on May 1 after serving one year in an interim capacity. As part of her transition, the university's new president will receive one year of outside leadership training.

The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board signed a $97,500 contract with AGB Search in September to provide the leadership training. This marks the first instance of the university president receiving formal transition training upon appointment.

Four individuals have held the presidency at the university since 2016. Carolyn Meyers resigned as president in 2016, and William B. Bynum Jr. resigned in 2020. Presidents Thomas Hudson and Marcus Thompson both resigned from the position without providing a public explanation.

The university is Gregory's alma mater. She is the second woman to hold the permanent presidency at the university in ten years. Gregory stated she is working to increase scholarship availability and maintain donor contributions.

Kim Bobby, a principal at AGB Search, said the training is designed to initiate a close relationship and establish communication expectations and protocols around the transition.

Gregory said, "Shifting from interim to permanent helps to ensure continuity with strong governance support and an effective transition." She also stated, "JSU faces challenges that require steady attention and measurable progress."