Our Collaborative Mission
The Jackson Heart Study (JHS) is the largest single-site investigation of cardiovascular disease in African Americans. It is a collaborative effort involving Tougaloo College, Jackson State University, the Mississippi State Department of Health, and the University of Mississippi Medical Center, with support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Within this collaboration, Tougaloo College serves as the Undergraduate Training and Education Center (UTEC). UTEC’s role is to prepare students who are underrepresented in the biomedical and health sciences to carry out research studies like the Jackson Heart Study and to pursue advanced degrees in health professions and public health.
Through research, training, and community engagement, the Jackson Heart Study seeks to understand why African Americans are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular diseases—and to build the knowledge, workforce, and partnerships needed to change those outcomes.
Focus Areas
Understanding and preventing heart disease, stroke, and related conditions in African American communities.
Conducting world-class biomedical research that advances knowledge of cardiovascular health and disease prevention.
Preparing high school and undergraduate students for advanced study and careers in biomedical and public health fields.
Building the Next Generation of Researchers
The mission of the Jackson Heart Study Training and Education Center is to train students who are underrepresented in biomedical science to carry out medical research studies like the JHS and to pursue careers that improve cardiovascular health in their communities.
The specific goals of the Undergraduate Training and Education Center are organized around four pillars:
Student Preparation
Create a pool of well-prepared high school students who can successfully complete undergraduate and graduate or professional degrees in health professions and public health.
Academic Foundation
Introduce college-level coursework that prepares students for advanced study in public health, epidemiology, and related fields.
Hands-On Experience
Involve students in hands-on research and enrichment experiences that spark interest in public health and biomedical careers.
Professional Development
Provide foundational training in epidemiology and research methods for aspiring health professionals.
Pathways into Public Health & Biomedical Careers
Through its summer programs, the Jackson Heart Study introduces high school and undergraduate students to cardiovascular research, public health, and biomedical science—while building strong academic and professional foundations.
SLAM Program
The SLAM Program provides a large pool of well-trained high school students who, upon entering college, are prepared to complete rigorous undergraduate curricula and pursue careers related to cardiovascular disease and public health.
Tougaloo College’s summer workshops offer intensive enrichment in science and math, designed to prepare students for success in higher education and to cultivate lasting interest in health professions.
Scholars Program
The Scholars Program provides Tougaloo undergraduates with opportunities to learn about careers in public health, medicine, and other health disciplines.
Scholars benefit from intensive reading and math preparation for entrance exams such as the MCAT and GRE, conduct research with experienced mentors, and participate in hands-on training that builds competitive applications for graduate and professional schools.
Locally Rooted, Globally Significant
The Jackson Heart Study tracks more than 5,300 African American men and women in the Jackson metropolitan area over time to understand risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Researchers monitor traditional factors—such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity—as well as genetics, access to care, and social and emotional determinants of health.
This locally grounded work has global reach. By collecting, translating, and sharing high-quality data, JHS provides a vital resource for researchers, health care providers, and communities seeking to reduce cardiovascular risk in high-risk populations.
Alongside Tougaloo College, Jackson State University, and UMMC, partners such as the Mayo Clinic contribute expertise that expands the study’s national and international impact.
What JHS Makes Possible
- Identifying genetic, environmental, and social factors that contribute to disproportionate rates of cardiovascular disease.
- Developing future research directions, medical interventions, and treatments tailored to high-risk communities.
- Preparing African American and other minority students for careers in health science and research.
- Engaging communities in understanding complex health issues and supporting heart-healthy lifestyle changes.
Become Part of the Jackson Heart Study Community
Ready to advance cardiovascular health and pursue a career in biomedical or public health research? Explore our programs and learn how you can connect with the Jackson Heart Study at Tougaloo College.
Whether you are a high school student, undergraduate, educator, or community partner, there is a place for you in this work.
Support the Jackson Heart Study at Tougaloo
Your investment in the Jackson Heart Study Training and Education Center helps prepare diverse students for biomedical and public health careers, advances cardiovascular research, and strengthens community outreach that promotes longer, healthier lives.
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