Providing for Our Children's Future

Dr. Alfred Martin, Jr.

There are a lot of reasons that I give back to Jackson State University. To assist future students cover their tuition. To engage other graduates to give back. To show my gratitude for what the school has given to me and to my family. Even to prove the neigh-sayers wrong. To show the world that we love JSU and will demonstrate by digging deep into our pockets to give. Also, in my case as the Immediate Past Chairman of the JSU Foundation Board, giving countless hours as a professional volunteer. My degrees have always been my investment into my future. I'd like for other graduates to cherish their degree or degree's as well! Many of our students struggle to find the money to pay for college. That's unfortunate! I cringe when I hear the unconscionable amounts of loans that students are taking out. Giving and thus scholarships ensure that these students can manage the costs while getting a great education.

However, if I had to sum it all up, why I to give to JSU? I want to continue the legacy of my family! My grandmother graduated from Jackson College in the late 1930's to begin her teaching career. My mother received her Master's Degree from JSU in the early 1970's. My sister earned a degree in biology in 1979 and is a successful physician in Memphis, TN. My wife also has a JSU degree. My son just graduated in December 2018. Now, my oldest granddaughter is a freshman at JSU on a Presidential Scholarship. Lastly, JSU afforded me the opportunity to obtain my BA, my MBA and a doctorate. The list of goes on and on..... So why do I give back, both financially and giving my time? Because I love this place! How can we not love it?

I completely understand, cherish, appreciate and respect the fact that I am JSU and JSU is me! I can't expect anybody else to do what I am supposed to do if I am not willing to roll up my sleeves and to serve and to give!

Alfred Martin Jr., Ph.D.
Class of 1984, 1987 and 2010!

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