Jackson State University’s new mural memorializes legacy of literary icons
By William H. Kelley Jackson State University’s (JSU) College of Liberal Arts unveils a new mural in the Department of English and Modern Languages (EML) thanks to a $5,000 project grant awarded by the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC). The mural is dedicated to literary icons Margaret Walker Alexander and Phillis Wheatley and the 50th Anniversary reconvening of the Phillis Wheatley Poetry Festival that occurred in November 2023. JSU alumnus, grant writer, and EML English Instructor LaWanda Dickens hope that students, faculty, staff and visitors feel a sense of connection and legacy when spectating the one-of-a-kind piece. “Every Jackson State student hears about Dr. Margaret Walker.