Jackson State university's
Competition Dance Team
We are j-suede and we promote
Talent, Dedication, and Cooperation
History
This organization has its beginnings as ‘The Jackson State College Dance Guild’ in 1965. The Dance Guild was open to all students. An organization such as this gave students an opportunity to be creative. In the year 1966 its name was changed to ‘Dance Troupe’ under the direction of Mr. Edward Fisher. During this time, it officially became recognized as a dance organization. It was comprised of students interested in the "Dance" as a form of recreation and physical development. The Members of this group took part in interpretative, folk and ballet dances. The objectives were: 1) To develop a rich intellectual background of thought and value of the human body. 2) To develop symmetrical bodily forms. 3) To provide an emotional outlet. 4) To encourage self-expression and creativeness. These objectives are the foundation in which this organization was built upon. In 1975, its name was changed to ‘Dance Ensemble’ under the advisement of Mrs. Narah Dean Oatis. As of January 2021 we go by the pseudonym J-SUEDE. The current advisors are Ms. Michelle Houston and Mr. Travis Burks. The Jackson State University Dance Ensemble is an incorporated 501(c) 3 non-profit organization.