Federal Relations

The Division of Research and Economic Development serves as Jackson State University’s voice in Washington, D.C., advocating for the interests of our faculty, students, and staff before Congress, federal agencies, and national higher education associations.

Our core mission is to promote JSU’s priorities on the national stage, enhance the university’s visibility among key federal stakeholders, and support policies and funding that advance our teaching, research, innovation, and service goals.

We work closely with the Mississippi Congressional delegation and national partners to create strategic opportunities for JSU to contribute its expertise to pressing national challenges. Through proactive engagement, we connect JSU faculty and campus leaders with federal program officers, identify competitive funding opportunities, and support proposal development for Congressionally Directed Spending and agency-based research initiatives.

The Division also monitors and analyzes federal legislation, regulations, and policy developments to inform JSU’s leadership and campus community. By organizing visits to Washington, hosting Members of Congress and staff on campus, and facilitating JSU’s participation in federal and national forums, we ensure the university’s voice is heard and our impact is recognized.

As a resource to the JSU community, the Division of Research and Economic Development fosters open communication, provides timely updates on federal priorities, and supports faculty and administrators in building long-term relationships with federal decision-makers to strengthen the university’s research profile and national engagement.