03/20/2025
(JACKSON, Miss.) Jackson State University is working to make history for the next generation of black lawyers. On March 17, 2025, JSU introduced the 3+3 Accelerated Law Program in partnership with the University of Mississippi School of Law.
This event recognized JSU’s continuous dedication to preparing students for life after school; while also highlighting the importance of guiding the next generation of black lawyers in an industry where they remain underrepresented.
"It is a great day to be a tiger. As tigers, we do everything well and in an excellent way," Marcus L. Thompson, President of Jackson State University, said.
Thompson's words set the tone for the event, reassuring students that they belonged in the new opportunity presented to them.
The 3+3 Accelerated Law Program allows students to begin law school early. Once a student completes their junior year at JSU, they will transition to the University of Mississippi School of Law, fulfilling the remainder of their undergrad requirements.
Hence, the program's name, 3+3, students will complete three years of undergrad and three years of law school.
"This Program is more than finishing law school sooner; it is about [having] access and [the] opportunity to a clear path to a legal career," Thompson said. "JSU alumni have already set high standards in the field of law. Now, you can follow in their footsteps and take it even further.”
Many hands worked together to design this program, including the Department Chairperson for the College of Health Sciences, Brandi Newkirk-Turner and Executive Director of QEP and General Education, Dr. Kristina Phillips. While there were several hands to play a part, the initiative was spearheaded by First Lady
Latoya Redd Thompson, who herself earned a degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law.
There are three majors within the program: history, political science and health, physical education and recreation (H.Y.P.E.R). History majors are expected to understand historical legal developments, gaining insights into key issues like civil rights, constitutional law and gender discrimination. Political Science majors will seek to gain a strong foundation in civil rights, constitutional and criminal law by examining government systems, legal structures and the process that shapes
legal frameworks. H.Y.P.E.R aims for students to be prepared for medical-legal issues in careers like healthcare law and sports law, regulatory affairs and public health policy.
Dr. Phillips stated that JSU is working on adding other majors to the program, such as business, english, criminal justice, sociology, psychology and social work, to expand students’ opportunities. She listed the steps for enrolling in the 3+3 Accelerated Law Program.
"…students will complete an interest form, which is routed to the Academic Advising Center, where Dr. Galina Bennett, Director of the Academic Advising Center, will guide students,” Phillips explained. “The next step is to meet with a pre-law advisor to help ensure students receive the guidance necessary for law school preparation and their career pathway. After completing these steps, students will request to change majors or add a concentration form.”
First Lady Thompson invited respected legal professionals to host a Q&A. The panelists touched on topics such as law competitiveness, journey through law school, networking, transitioning from undergrad to grad and how the culture shock impacted them.
Attorney Kellie Grizzell, a University of Mississippi School of Law grad, advised students that grades do not open doors for them, but networking does. Grizzell explained that she received her first job because they spoke highly of her, not because of her resume or law school GPA. The room was filled with applause when Grizzell confidently bragged about JSU's ability to prepare students.
"Sitting in a classroom full of people that do not look like you and knowing that I have a Jackson State education was invigorating,” Grizzell said. “Jackson State gave me everything I needed to be in that classroom.”
Attorney John Hall II, another University of Mississippi School of Law grad, stressed the importance of relationships.
"Your character is what is going to drive you,” Hall said. “The relationships you have [are] what is going to get you ahead. Having a good transcript is good but having a phone call is always better.”
Attorney Keishunna R. Webster's advice was to work hard and stay focused.
"Make sure you find your people who can help you through the process because the process is not easy. [It] is not a sprint. It is a marathon," Webster, a University of Mississippi Law School grad, explained. "Please do not be intimidated at Ole Miss by people who do not look like you. We are all equal. You are the holder of your destiny.”
JSUTV is a commercial broadcast station in Jackson, MS. JSUTV is an affiliate of America One network
