Interim President Leslie Burl McLemore introduces new University motto

Aug. 27, 2010

Dear JSU Faculty, Staff and Students:

For more than 130 years, Jackson State University has provided a path to success for thousands of students. We’ve welcomed students who may have arrived underprepared and watched them soar. We’ve welcomed students who may have been unsure about their futures and watched them exceed their own expectations. We’ve taken the brightest students and turned them into global leaders in their respective fields.

In keeping with that long-standing tradition, we introduce a new motto: Bridge to a Brighter Tomorrow. The motto reflects Jackson State University’s commitment to making this world a better place for all.

To that end, all University websites, broadcasts, and printed materials should reflect the University’s new motto. Let’s continue to work hard together, play hard together and be that bridge to a brighter tomorrow that this world needs.

Sincerely,

Leslie Burl McLemore, Ph.D.
Interim President

Memo from Interim President Leslie Burl McLemore regarding the start of the academic year

Aug. 20, 2010

Dear JSU Administrators, Faculty, Staff and Students:

As the Fall 2010 semester begins, I wish each of you a successful, enjoyable and productive academic year. Jackson State University has never been as great as it is right now, and I look forward to working with each of you to collectively move the University to new heights.

As we continue to provide quality education and research opportunities for our students, please keep the following in mind:

     -  Our primary commodity is service to our customers (students, parents, colleagues, visitors, etc.), and they come first at Jackson State University. All of us must work together to ensure that we maintain their trust and continued desire to do business with us. Good customer service is a must!

     -  I expect our world class faculty to show up prepared to teach on the first day of class, and our students are expected to come to class on Day One and every day thereafter!

    -  We are going to put forth our best effort in everything we do with the understanding that the conversation is about Jackson State University.

Let’s work hard and play hard. Can I count on your cooperation and team spirit?

  

Sincerely,

Leslie Burl McLemore, Ph. D.
Interim President

 

A message from Interim President Leslie B. McLemore

Dear JSU Administrators, Faculty, Staff and Students:

On July 1, 2010, I will officially become Interim President of this great institution, serving until the Board of Trustees, Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, confirms a permanent leader. While we are not sure how long this process will take, I am more than happy to serve as long as needed.

To be very candid with you, I am looking forward to working with all of you. We can collectively move a great University to new heights. We have this unique opportunity to bring about positive change in the lives of so many people.

Having spent nearly 40 years at Jackson State, I have a deep appreciation and respect for the University, its people and its mission. During my time here, and having worked in a variety of capacities, I have developed an intimate understanding of the University’s inner workings, goals and needs. With your help, I hope to move Jackson State forward, building on the great legacies of the previous leaders of the University.

I am open to hear your concerns and ideas to better Jackson State University. My door will remain open to you.

With best wishes,

Leslie Burl McLemore, Ph.D
Interim President