Alumni Spotlights

We are always proud of the amazing work of Jackson Public Schools alumni. Our spotlight series highlights the work of alumni who are using their skills and talents to make a difference. Follow us here and on social media.

To nominate a JPS Proud Alumnus, click here.

Alumni Spotlights

Alyssa Nichols

Alyssa Nichols is a Jackson native and a class of 2014 graduate of Murrah High School. She recently became the first FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) referee from the state of Mississippi.

Anton Vincent

Anton Vincent is a native of Jackson, Mississippi, and a class of 1982 graduate of Murrah High School. He currently serves as president of Mars Wrigley North America, maker of the world’s most beloved treats and snacks. Mars Wrigley is a subsidiary of Mars Incorporated, one of the world’s largest privately held companies.

Captain Zeita Merchant

A class of 1994 graduate of Lanier High School Captain Zeita Merchant was born in Chicago, Illinois and raised in Jackson, Mississippi. She is a class of 1994 graduate of Lanier High School. After graduation, Captain Merchant attended Tougaloo College and majored in biology. She planned to go to medical school after Tougaloo; however, a meeting with a Coast Guard recruiter on campus changed the trajectory of her life.

Cassandra Wilson

A class of 1973 graduate of Murrah High School Cassandra Wilson is an American jazz musician, vocalist, songwriter, and producer from Jackson, Mississippi. She is also a class of 1973 graduate of Murrah High School. After obtaining a degree from Jackson State University in mass communications, Wilson moved from Mississippi to New Orleans and worked as an assistant in Public Affairs at a local television station. In 1982, Wilson moved to New York.

Dathan Thigpen

A class of 1998 graduate of Forest Hill High School Dathan Thigpen is a native of Jackson, Mississippi, and a class of 1998 graduate of Forest Hill High School. While in JPS, Mr. Thigpen began his music journey at Casey Elementary, Morrison Elementary, and APAC. “JPS has been very instrumental in my success in music,” said Thigpen. “I started off at Casey Elementary where I played the violin and sang."

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