HOUSING & RESIDENCE LIFE

Conference Housing Guide

Planning a conference, camp, institute, or group program on campus? Everything your group needs to host with Jackson State University Housing & Residence Life.

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Welcome

Jackson State University Housing & Residence Life

Thank you for considering the Jackson State University campus as the host site for your conference, camp, institute, or group program. Housing & Residence Life is pleased to welcome guests to our residential communities and provide a supportive, safe, and engaging environment for all participants.

Our summer conference season typically runs from late May through July, depending on the University academic calendar and facility preparation needs. JSU offers residential accommodations at competitive rates that are often more cost-effective than local hotel options while providing access to a vibrant collegiate environment.

Each summer, Housing & Residence Life serves a wide variety of guests, including youth programs, academic camps, athletic camps, leadership institutes, and professional conferences. Our goal is to ensure that every group has a successful and well-coordinated experience while maintaining the integrity of our residential communities.

We encourage all new and returning group organizers to review this guide carefully as they begin planning. Please contact Conference Services with any questions during the planning process.

Before You Apply

Planning Considerations

All groups interested in hosting a program at Jackson State University must complete a Summer Conference Inquiry Form. Requests are accepted during the designated planning period and are reviewed based on availability, staffing, and operational capacity.

Early submission is strongly encouraged. Submission of an inquiry does not guarantee approval or availability. Organizations should not advertise dates, confirm lodging, or make commitments to participants until formal written approval is issued by Housing & Residence Life.

Once reviewed, Conference Services will provide an official approval or denial, along with next steps if applicable.

Conference Housing Agreement / Contract

If a program is approved, a Conference Housing Agreement will be issued for review and signature. The agreement must be signed and returned by the designated deadline to secure reservations.

A deposit invoice may be issued based on estimated program costs. Failure to submit required documentation or payment by established deadlines may result in cancellation of the reservation.

Parking

Conference parking is limited and must be arranged in advance. Parking permits are required for all vehicles associated with conference groups. Please contact the Department of Public Safety for additional information.

Guests may be directed to designated visitor parking areas, and all campus parking regulations must be followed. Unauthorized parking in restricted areas, including fire lanes, handicap, or reserved spots will result in citation or towing.

Onsite Coordination

Each approved group will be assigned a Housing & Residence Life conference coordinator. The coordinator will communicate with the group leader prior to arrival to review check-in procedures, housing assignments, policies, and expectations.

An onsite meeting will be scheduled upon arrival to ensure all logistical details are confirmed and understood.

During Your Stay

While On Campus

Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor space reservations may be available upon request and are subject to availability. Fees and locations vary based on group needs. Approval is not guaranteed and must be coordinated in advance.

Meeting Spaces and Common Areas

Limited meeting spaces may be available for conference groups upon request. Reservations must be submitted in advance and are subject to availability.

Residence hall lounges and common areas are shared spaces and are not reservable for private group use.

Residence Hall Occupancy

Conference housing facilities may host multiple groups simultaneously. Guests are expected to be respectful of shared spaces, noise levels, and community standards at all times.

Parking (While On Campus)

Visitor parking is limited. Guests must adhere to all posted signage and campus regulations. Fire lanes and restricted areas must remain clear at all times.

Staff Presence and Support

Housing & Residence Life provides trained staff and front desk coverage in all conference facilities. Staff are available to assist with lockouts, maintenance concerns, directions, and general support.

Security and staff conduct regular rounds to support safety and facility oversight.

Internet Access

Guests are provided access to the University’s wireless network. Users must comply with all acceptable use policies.

Keys and Access

Keys and access credentials are issued at check-in and must be returned at checkout. Lost or unreturned keys will result in replacement charges. Failure to return keys on time may result in additional billing.

Amenities

Conference facilities include laundry rooms, vending machines, trash disposal areas, and common amenities. Laundry access is included; however, guests must provide their own detergent.

Wrap-Up

After Your Event

Final Invoice

An itemized final invoice will be issued following checkout. Charges will include cleaning, and damages. A post-event survey may also be included.

Payment

Payment is due within five (5) days of receipt of the final invoice. Late payments may result in additional fees, administrative action, and will jeopardize the ability of Housing & Residence Life to host future camps or conference programs.

The Rules

Conference Policies

Safety and Security

All guests are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful environment. Exterior doors are secured and should not be propped open or bypassed. Suspicious activity should be reported immediately to staff or University Police.

Emergency Procedures

In the event of severe weather or emergency conditions, guests must follow instructions from Housing & Residence Life and University officials. Emergency alerts should be monitored through official University communication systems.

Firearms and Weapons

Firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited in all conference housing facilities. Any violation will result in immediate removal from housing and referral to University and law enforcement authorities.

Group Behavior

All guests are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with University policies. Housing & Residence Life reserves the right to remove individuals or groups for violations including, but not limited to, misconduct, damage, illegal activity, or safety concerns.

Alcohol

Alcohol use must comply with all applicable laws. Underage consumption is strictly prohibited. Alcohol use by legal-age guests must occur responsibly and in designated private areas only.

Supervision of Minors

Groups hosting minors must maintain appropriate adult supervision at all times, including overnight supervision when applicable. Required supervision ratios and expectations will be provided during the planning process.

Fire Safety

Evacuation during fire alarms is mandatory. Guests must immediately exit buildings and follow staff instructions. Elevators may not be used during emergencies.

Housing Policies and Compliance

All guests must comply with Housing & Residence Life policies, including those related to safety, conduct, and facility use. Violations may result in removal from housing and financial responsibility for damages or penalties.

Facility Use Expectations

Guests are responsible for maintaining cleanliness in assigned spaces. Decorations must be removable and may only be attached using approved materials. Any damage or excessive cleaning needs will be billed accordingly.