In 1963, the Tennessee General Assembly responded to recommendations made in the Pierce-Albright Report by establishing a group of state community colleges. Jackson State was selected as the first such institution in West Tennessee. Dr. F.E. Wright was appointed the first President of Jackson State on March 15, 1967, and served the institution with distinction until his death on May 15, 1976. Dr. Walter Nelms assumed the presidency in July 1976 and led the college toward continued progress until his retirement in June 1997. In July 1997, Dr. Charlie D. Roberts, Jr., became Jackson States third president and is continuing the journey to bring greater opportunities to the people of West Tennessee.
