Central State University student launches Lansing HBCU Initiative to inspire next generation

Empowered by his own journey and driven by community pride, Nasaan Jackson is opening doors for Michigan youth to discover HBCUs. 

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When Nasaan Jackson first set foot on Central State University’s campus during a game day visit in 2022, he had no idea his college decision would lead him to organize one of Michigan’s most ambitious HBCU awareness events. 

The Lansing, Michigan native is now a junior studying business administration with a concentration in marketing. He was introduced to Central State through Brandon Davis, a Central State alum and former Director of Enrollment Management. Davis, also from Lansing, brought Jackson to campus for College Preview Day during a matchup with Kentucky State. That visit — and the immediate sense of family Jackson felt — changed his life. 

“I just fell in love with the family atmosphere,” Jackson said. “I got accepted on the spot and later received the 1890 Land-Grant scholarship, which covered my tuition, housing, and books.” 

Now, Jackson is on a mission to provide younger students in his community with the same opportunity. On Aug. 9, he will host the inaugural The HBCU Initiative: Empower, Educate & Excellence, a free event from 1–4 p.m. at the Lansing Shuffle, 325 Riverfront Drive. The event will bring together Historically Black Colleges and Universities to engage with local high school students and families. 

“The love I have for my hometown of Lansing, Michigan runs deep,” Jackson explained. 

“This city has shaped me in so many ways, and now I feel called to give back to the community that gave me so much.” 

Participants will include Central State University, Wilberforce University, and representation from multiple HBCUs across the country. The event will also feature Divine Nine Black Greek letter organizations and an HBCU panel where students can hear firsthand experiences. 

“The HBCU Initiative is an event that’s all about pouring into our youth, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the legacy of HBCUs,” Jackson said. 

Jackson says the idea was placed on his heart last December, and he spent the following months cultivating partnerships, promoting the event in schools and community spaces, and leaning on a network of peers, alumni, and fraternity brothers. 

“In Lansing, there's a real lack of awareness about HBCUs,” Jackson said. “I didn't even know what an HBCU was until I was a senior in high school."

"I don’t want students coming up after me to miss out on these opportunities.” 

His goal? Attendance from at least 100 students — and more importantly, seeing 10% to 20% of them ultimately apply and enroll at an HBCU. 

Jackson’s leadership extends well beyond this initiative. At Central State, he serves as Mister Junior on the Royal Court, vice president of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Delta Xi Chapter, and is a member of Marauder Men of Distinction. His Royal Court platform, “The Heart of a Champion,” celebrates resilience and perseverance as keys to greatness. 

His passion for giving back is inspired by mentors like Davis, who continues to advocate for CSU and regularly brings students from his hometown to campus. 

“Central State changed the trajectory of my life,” Davis said. “I grew up not knowing HBCUs existed — just like Nasaan. When I got to Central, I felt a love and support I’d never experienced. We’re trying to bring that same opportunity back home to Lansing.” 

For Jackson, the HBCU Initiative is about more than just college recruitment — it’s a mission rooted in impact. 

“I’m hoping this is just the beginning,” he said, adding his personal motto: Trust the process. 

How to support the Lansing HBCU Initiative 

The Central State community can support Jackson’s efforts through donations or by promoting the event. Funds beyond his event budget will go toward student scholarships, school supply giveaways, and raffle prizes such as laptops. 

For more information or to donate, contact Jackson at nasaanjackson5@gmail.com.  

Let’s help him bring the HBCU experience home.