There is no doubting Deion Sanders‘ impact and influence on the Jackson State Tigers football team.
In two seasons he’s led the team to a 15-5 record, signed two of the top players in the country, donated half of his salary to help complete renovations to the program’s football facility and has made his program one of the most talked about in both HBCU and all of college football.
Now we’re seeing his power impact the university overall.
On Friday, the JSU athletic department scored an early touchdown ahead of the regular season when it announced a partnership with American Airlines that made the carrier the Official Airline of Jackson State University Athletics.
“This is a significant moment for Jackson State University as we welcome American Airlines into the JSU Family,” said Vice President / Director Of Athletics Ashley Robinson in a statement. “American Airlines is the global leader in air travel, and we look forward to all supporters and friends of Tiger Nation benefitting from this unique agreement. This is a game changer for Jackson State University, and we are excited about partnering with American Airlines.”
American Airlines becomes both the Official Airline and Airline Rewards Program sponsor, providing JSU fans with VIP rewards and benefits if they use their American Airlines AAdvantage number.
The airline will also create initiatives for both the university and the surrounding community, which include internship opportunities for students.
And now Deion and his JSU football program will have chartered flights to away games on American.
“American is a proud supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and our partnership as the official airline partner to Jackson State University is a reflection of our vision in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for all,” said Kevin Williams, Managing Director of Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at American.
Deion Sanders continues to build his program and university.