Historically Black Jackson State University in Mississippi has signed an agreement with Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Connecticut, that aims to provide a seamless transfer for students who enroll at JSU after completing their two-year degree at the community college.
Housatonic Community College enrolls about 3,800 students, according to the most recent data available from the U.S. Department of Education. African Americans make up 30 percent of the student body.
The agreement allows Housatonic Community College students to transfer credits and enroll at Jackson State University at the in-state tuition rate.
“This memorandum of understanding solidifies our commitment to helping HCC students elevate to the next level of their educational journey,” said Thomas K. Hudson, president of Jackson State University. “It also reinforces our mission of being a student-success driven institution creating a diverse pipeline of talent that helps fuel our nation’s economy.”
Dwayne Smith, the leader of Housatonic Community College, added, “Certainly, a priority is for Housatonic scholars to transfer to Connecticut educational institutions. With that said, Jackson State University offers additional excellent, diverse educational opportunities that are affordable for our scholars.”
Thomas Hudson and his upper echelon decision makers at Jackson State University (JSU) should be duly ashamed for this misguided partnership with a Historically White Community College called Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, CT.
I challenge Thomas and his Boule card carrying BOT members to expend the same time, energy, and fiscal resources in establishing a similar partnerships with predominantly Black American community colleges in Al, GA, FL, NC, SC, DC, PA, MI, NJ, TX, and IL. HBCUs should not be in the busy of trying to be “All things to all People”.