The Chronicle News Community Spotlight-Inspiring the Next Generation: Lansing Native Champions HBCU Initiative
- Yanice Jackson
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
In a city that raised him, Nasaan Jackson is now reaching back to plant seeds of opportunity for the next generation. A proud graduate of Waverly High School and current student at Central State University in Ohio, Jackson is the visionary behind the HBCU Initiative, a bold effort to expose Lansing students to the legacy, leadership, and love that define historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The HBCU Initiative will debut August 9 from 1 PM to 4 PM at Lansing Shuffle. The event will bring representatives and alumni from at least 10 HBCUs to the community, including Central State, Wilberforce, FAMU, Clark Atlanta, Tennessee State, Jackson State, and Prairie View A&M. But this won’t be your average college fair. This is a full experience.
“There’s going to be music, live stepping from the Divine Nine, DJ Frost spinning, panel discussions, networking, and alumni who can speak firsthand about their HBCU journey,” Jackson said. “I don’t want students to just pick up a pamphlet, I want them to feel it. I want them to feel the love, the energy, the possibility.”
A Calling Born From Experience
Nasaan's path to Central State began with a mentor, Brandon Davis, who introduced him to the HBCU experience in his senior year of high school. “I didn’t even know what an HBCU was until then,” Jackson recalled. “But when I visited, the vibe was so welcoming. I felt like I belonged.”
He enrolled in Fall 2023 and quickly made a name for himself as Mr. Freshman, then Mr. Sophomore. He later pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The connections he made, including mentor Myles Johnson, also an Alpha, helped him gain the confidence and resources to launch his initiative.
Now a proud 1890 Land Grant Scholar, Jackson’s scholarship covers his tuition, books, housing, and even includes internships and career placement support. It’s the kind of life-changing access he believes every student in Lansing should know exists. “I kept thinking about how many students went through the Lansing School District like I did, and never knew this was even an option,” he said. “That’s what pushed me to create this.”
A Movement, Not Just a Moment
What started as an idea for a December 2024 event was postponed, with divine timing. “I was told, ‘Just wait. Trust the process.’ And I did,” Jackson said. “God showed me the destination, but not the work it would take to get there.”
Jackson says the motto—Trust the Process—is the foundation of his work. “This isn’t just about college. This is about vision, faith, favor, and doing the work,” he said. “It’s about giving back and giving the next generation access and inspiration.”
Jackson doesn’t want this to be a one-time event. “I want to help students see they have options, that they are worthy, and that there’s a whole world out there waiting for them.”
Grassroots and God-Led
Though Jackson is not currently operating under a formal nonprofit, he has received community support, including media backing from The Chronicle Media Group. As Jackson continues to shape his mission, he’s calling on the Lansing community businesses, donors, churches, and civic leaders, to rally behind him.
An Invitation to the City
Jackson’s message to students is simple: show up, learn something, explore the possibilities. “If you’re in high school or even younger, this is for you,” he said. “Even if you don’t go to an HBCU, at least get the information. You owe yourself that much. Invest in your future.”
With DJ Frost on the turntables, alumni at the mic, and the Divine Nine stepping into the spotlight, this event promises to be more than informational. It promises to be transformational.
Event Details
Date: Friday, August 9, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Lansing Shuffle, Downtown Lansing
Hosted by: Nasaan Jackson, Central State University
Featuring: HBCU alumni, current students, panel discussions, Greek organizations, music, and more.
Want to donate or sponsor? Email Nasaan Jackson or reach out to The Chronicle Media Group at info@thechroniclenews86.com
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