Dr. Almesha L. Campbell Appointed Vice President of Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University

Paragraph 1: A New Era of Research and Innovation at Jackson State University

Jackson State University (JSU) is poised to embark on a transformative journey in research and economic development with the appointment of Dr. Almesha L. Campbell as its new Vice President for Research and Economic Development. Dr. Campbell, a distinguished alumna of JSU and a nationally recognized leader in innovation, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to this pivotal role. Her selection follows a comprehensive national search, underscoring JSU’s commitment to attracting top-tier talent to drive its research agenda. Dr. Campbell’s appointment marks a significant milestone in JSU’s pursuit of achieving Carnegie R1 classification, a prestigious designation recognizing institutions with the highest levels of research activity.

Paragraph 2: A Champion of Inclusive Innovation and Transformative Leadership

Dr. Campbell’s career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to inclusive innovation and her ability to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications. Her leadership at JSU has resulted in securing over $12 million in competitive grants and the establishment of impactful programs like the Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Development. These initiatives have not only enhanced JSU’s research capacity but have also fostered a culture of entrepreneurship and workforce readiness among its students and faculty. Beyond JSU, Dr. Campbell’s influence extends to the national stage, where she has served as the first Black and first HBCU-affiliated chair of AUTM (Association of University Technology Managers), further solidifying her position as a trailblazer in the field.

Paragraph 3: From St. Kitts to the Forefront of Academic Innovation: A Journey of Excellence

Dr. Campbell’s journey from her birthplace in Newton Ground, St. Kitts and Nevis, to her current leadership position at JSU is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the power of education. A two-time JSU alumna, she has remained deeply connected to the institution and its mission, consistently working to elevate its research profile and create opportunities for students and faculty to excel. Her personal story serves as an inspiration to aspiring scholars and innovators, demonstrating the transformative potential of higher education and the importance of giving back to one’s community.

Paragraph 4: Fostering Collaboration and Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

Dr. Campbell’s leadership philosophy centers on collaboration and empowering the next generation of innovators. She has forged impactful partnerships with prominent organizations such as HP, Princeton University, and Leidos, creating unique opportunities for JSU students and faculty to engage in cutting-edge research and development. Through programs like the Innovation Fellows Program and various NSF-funded initiatives, she has fostered a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship at JSU, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Paragraph 5: A Visionary Leader Poised to Elevate JSU’s Research Enterprise

JSU President Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., has expressed strong confidence in Dr. Campbell’s ability to lead the university’s research enterprise to new heights. He praised her strategic leadership, passion for student success, and commitment to excellence, emphasizing her alignment with JSU’s core values and its ambition to become a leading research institution. Dr. Campbell’s appointment signals a new era of innovation and growth for JSU, positioning the university to make significant contributions to the advancement of knowledge and the economic development of the region.

Paragraph 6: A Shared Commitment to Transforming Research into Real-World Solutions

Dr. Campbell has expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Vice President for Research and Economic Development at JSU and has articulated her vision for the future of the university’s research enterprise. She emphasized her commitment to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders to expand innovation, forge impactful partnerships, and elevate JSU’s research profile on a national and international scale. Her leadership promises to further solidify JSU’s position as a hub of innovation and a catalyst for positive change in the community and beyond, pending approval by the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning. Dr. Campbell’s appointment heralds an exciting new chapter for JSU, one marked by a shared commitment to transforming research into real-world solutions and empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators.