The Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (JMAA) proudly partnered with Jackson State University (JSU) for an extraordinary celebration of Homecoming 2024. Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to community engagement, JMAA hosted a series of events at Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) that welcomed JSU alumni, family and fans, creating a festive and unforgettable experience.

Pop-Up Tailgate Events: A Warm Welcome at JAN

Throughout JSU Homecoming Week, JAN was abuzz with Tiger Pride. JMAA invited the JSU Alumni Relations team to host pop-up tailgate events at the JAN Information Desk and Welcome Center, transforming these spaces into hubs of celebration and connection. Alumni, travelers and fans were greeted with:

• JSU paraphernalia and event flyers to stay informed and spirited
• Photo opportunities in front of the iconic JSU step-and-repeat banner
• Meet-and-greet sessions with JSU alumni, sharing stories and fostering camaraderie

Digital signs and banners throughout the airport and lining International Drive proudly displayed the message “Welcome Home!” ensuring every visitor felt the electric energy of JSU Homecoming.

The JAN Airport Lounge Tailgate Experience: Tailgating Redefined

The pinnacle of JMAA’s involvement was its first-ever JAN Airport Lounge Tailgate Experience held on Homecoming Day, November 2. This luxury tailgate event, hosted under a spacious white tent, was a unique blend of style, comfort and excitement. Guests were treated to:

• Luxury accommodations, including turf flooring, fresh flowers, plush furniture and vibrant decor
• Culinary delights and drinks, courtesy of Carolina Concessions, LLC, complemented by an open bar
• Live music, door prizes and exciting giveaways, including Southwest Airlines merchandise
• Interactive activities like flight simulators, providing a fun aviation-themed twist
• Representation from JAN tenant Hudson by Avolta, connecting the aviation and local communities

Driving Engagement Through Innovation

To promote this groundbreaking event, JMAA launched an innovative digital campaign. QR codes linked to a brief airport survey were distributed, and participants who completed the survey received a digital ticket for exclusive access to the JAN Airport Lounge Tailgate Experience. This campaign, rolled out a week prior to Homecoming, garnered more than 300 completed responses and participants – a testament to the community’s enthusiasm.

A New Tradition is Born

The JAN Airport Lounge Tailgate Experience received rave reviews from attendees, solidifying its place as a signature annual event on JMAA’s community engagement calendar. By merging the spirit of JSU Homecoming with JMAA’s dedication to creating memorable experiences, this partnership highlighted the power of collaboration and innovation.

As JSU fans, alumni and family departed JAN, they carried not just the memories of Homecoming but the sense of community and pride that JMAA helped foster. This celebration marked a milestone for JMAA, and the team looks forward to expanding its collaboration with JSU for years to come.

At JMAA, we are more than an airport; we are a proud partner in the fabric of our community. JSU Homecoming 2024 demonstrated our commitment to uplifting local traditions and fostering meaningful connections. Here’s to many more celebrations to come!