[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 87 (Thursday, May 21, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E481]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING ASHLEY ROBINSON
______
HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON
of mississippi
in the house of representatives
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize
Mr. Ashley Robinson and his lasting impact on collegiate education and
athletics.
Mr. Robinson currently serves as Vice President and Director of
Athletics at Jackson State University. I honor his exceptional vision,
unwavering commitment, and dedication to advancing athletic excellence
at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. His leadership
continues to elevate both athletic performance and the overall student-
athlete experience.
A native of Bolton and Jackson, Mississippi, Mr. Robinson's journey
began at Murrah High School, where he was a standout point guard and a
member of a championship basketball team. He continued his academic and
athletic career at Mississippi Valley State University, where he was a
four-year letterman in basketball, became the program's all-time leader
in assists, and earned honors as Athlete of the Year and President's
Scholar-Athlete.
Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Robinson has received
numerous accolades, including HBCU Athletic Director of the Year, Black
Student-Athlete Summit Athletic Director of the Year, and recognition
from the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics. In
addition, Mr. Robinson will be enshrined in the Southwestern Athletic
Conference Hall of Fame Class of 2025, further cementing his legacy of
excellence in collegiate athletics.
Under his leadership, Jackson State (JSU) has experienced remarkable
success, including more than 20 championships and the prestigious C.D.
Henry Award for the top men's athletic program in the Southwestern
Athletic Conference. His tenure has been defined by strategic growth,
facility improvements, and a commitment to building a culture of
excellence that has elevated the university's national profile.
Prior to his tenure at JSU, Mr. Robinson served in key leadership
roles at Delaware State University, Prairie View A&M University, and
Mississippi Valley State University, as well as in the Southwestern
Athletic Conference office. These experiences helped shape the
visionary leadership he continues to demonstrate today.
During his time at JSU, Mr. Robinson has made impactful leadership
decisions, including the hiring of notable figures such as Deion
Sanders, Mo Williams, and Coach T.C. Taylor, further strengthening the
university's athletic prominence and visibility.
A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., Mr. Robinson attributes
his success to the people he surrounds himself with, emphasizing
teamwork, strong leadership, and a shared commitment to the success of
student-athletes.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Ashley
Robinson, whose leadership, vision, and dedication have brought honor
not only to Jackson State University, but to the State of Mississippi
and the Nation.
____________________