JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning announced that Dr. Marcus Thompson has submitted his resignation as president of Jackson State University (JSU), effective immediately.

The Board of Trustees has named Dr. Denise Jones Gregory, provost and vice president of academic affairs, as interim president.

The IHL named Thompson the 13th president of JSU in November 2023. Before he was president, Thompson served as deputy commissioner and chief administrative officer of the IHL.

The IHL did not provide a reason for Thompson’s resignation. WJTV 12 News reached out to JSU for a statement, and we have not heard back.

The Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc. (JSUNAA) released the following statement to WJTV 12 News.

In moments of transition, it’s easy to give in to speculation and division. But that’s not who we are. Jackson State has weathered many seasons, and through it all, we’ve risen—together.

Let me be clear: we support our beloved alma mater as we always have and always will. We stand with our scholars—those brilliant young minds who represent the very best of what’s next. And we affirm our full support for JSU Alumna, ’94, Dr. Denise Jones Gregory and the current leadership team as they guide Jackson State into its next chapter.

We urge all alumni to speak only with love and pride about our university. Let us lift JSU with every post, every conversation, and every action. Refrain from public comment during this sensitive time, and let our message be one of unity, dignity, and unwavering support.

Patrease Edwards, JSUNAA president