It is time for a change at MS Valley State University! Current President Jerryl Briggs has repeatedly failed those who he pledged to serve as the President of MVSU. Due to the reasons detailed below, we the current students, alumni, and supporters of MVSU believe that it is time for a change after 5 years of no progress.

Gov. Tate Reeves

Dr. Alfred Rankin Jr. & IHL Board members

State of Mississippi

Here are a list of complaints and issues under the Briggs Administration:

• 9% Decline in Enrollment
• Lack of University Advancement and Development. University Advancement publicly stating to Alumni that it is not their responsibility to RAISE funds for the university. University Advancement has failed to launch a major fund raising campaign since the "Race to a Million" under the Bynum Administration (2017).
• Financial Aid issues- antiquated processes and lack of customer service. The department currently does not have a director and has failed students with adequate advisement.
• Lack of Innovative ideas or ways to bring students to the Valley. Admission office is struggling with staffing.
• Negligence and lack of leadership
• Lack of infrastructure- Dr. Briggs continues to ignore issues related to campus wide infrastructures with buildings, campus internet and development of new facilities on campus.
• Failure to hold Executive cabinet accountable.
• Lack departmental communication and interaction. Briggs has not shown his face at many departments on campus and to students.
• Failure to address high employee turnover rates within the last 5 years. Several employees have resigned or been terminated over the years as well departments have been removed on campus.
• Underfunding & less emphasis of certain academic departments. Ex: Some departments are on the verge of losing accreditation and several other majors/programs will be removed from the university in the near future.
• Doesn't address university issues or ask for assistance from alumni.
• Employee salaries are not being increased. Briggs is not fighting for better salary ranges for faculty/staff.

The reasons stated above only represent a fraction of the issues under the Briggs Administration. For far too long, our school has operated on the principle of keeping MVSU’s issues out of the public eye. We share this petition to garner the support of our fellow classmates, alumni, families, and friends. Once we have gained enough signatures, a formal letter will be sent to the MVSU administration and board of trustees. If our concerns are not acknowledged and addressed, MVSU will continue to see a steady decline in admissions and donations. It is time for MS Valley State University to move into a new era. 

Lastly, if this petition is successful, the students and alumni demand transparency and a chance to be involved in selecting the new President of MVSU. Removing the current President from office will be fruitless if someone in his administration or cabinet takes his place.