Jackson State University recently introduced a new program, aptly named V.I.B.E., that is considerably reducing costs for digital textbooks. Get the full story from Alonda Thomas at JSU in the official release below.

(William Kelly/University Communications)

Jackson State University President Thomas Hudson today announced the university would cover the textbook fees for undergraduate students this fall through the JSU V.I.B.E program. This support will total $2.3 million in savings for undergraduate students. The announcement comes on the heels of the institution’s previous $3.2 million sponsorship to cover students’ tuition balances during the coronavirus pandemic.

“This global pandemic has been extremely challenging on our student scholars who have persevered despite the stress of the past year,” said Hudson. “The administration was able to use the government funding to clear approximately $3.2 million dollars in balances for our students from spring 2020 to summer 2021. This relief allowed nearly 3,000 students to have the means to clear their balances and continue their matriculation at Jackson State. This fall, we will provide relief in the form of a textbook waiver as another way to help our students afford the increasing costs of higher education.”

In partnership with the JSU Campus Store, the JSU V.I.B.E. (Virtual, Interactive Technology, Books, and Educational Supplies) program is an inclusive access textbook program that allows students to rent or purchase digital textbooks at a reduced cost. With today’s announcement, the university will cover these textbook fees for the semester.

Vaccination Incentive Program for On-Campus Students

Additionally, Jackson State will offer a residential student vaccination incentive program effective immediately. Residential students who apply for the incentive program and show proof of vaccination will receive a $1,000 housing credit, which will be dispersed in two (2) $500 payments for the fall and spring semesters, respectively.

“The African American community has been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, and we want to do everything we can to encourage our students to get vaccinated,” said Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Alisa L. Mosley, Ph.D. “Having students to get vaccinated prior to arrival will help protect our students while they are en route to return to campus. Additionally, we will continue to host our on-campus vaccination clinic to help make access to the vaccine as convenient as possible.”

The Jackson State initiatives are made possible through the federal government’s grant program, the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.