Jackson Free Press

A proud product of Jackson Public Schools, Janet Scott is a shining example that public school works. She's intelligent, well-rounded and constantly looking for ways to give back to her community.

After graduating from Provine High School, the Jackson native continued her education first at Hinds Community College and then left for a while to finish at Mississippi State University. When she attained her degree, she didn't stay in Starkville, or move somewhere else. Scott loves Jackson and came back here to make it her home.

"There are lots of things to do here," she says confidently.

This statement may be a surprise to those who claim that the city doesn't offer its residents enough cultural activities.

"We have a world-class symphony and opera, New Stage (Theatre). … I'm a sports fanatic, and now we have the Mississippi Braves!" Scott is also an avid duck hunter and has competed around the world with her husband.

The arts, however, are her passion.

As executive director of the Jackson Arts Council, Scott is primarily responsible for fund raising for the organization. For a lover of arts and culture, a job supporting the arts is ideal. Unfortunately, raising money has become increasingly difficult considering the devastating $29,000 the city cut from the council's budget in 2005.

Still, Scott says, "I want to nurture the arts." By granting funds that range from $250 to $5,000 to everyone from individuals to non-profit organizations, Scott and the Arts Council are doing just that.

"We've helped art students in their senior year who weren't able to afford all the supplies they would need to complete their senior projects with grant money," she says. Whatever she can do to ensure arts has its place, Scott is willing to do just that—even if that means walking through the application process with potential grantees.

Where Scott and her beloved city are concerned, she has quick comebacks for the naysayer. Having traveled rather extensively, she says she's always anxious to return home for more doses of that "good ol' Southern hospitality."

"Too many people want to sit back and criticize (the city)," Scott says. "This begs the question, 'What have you done for it?'" Apathy's never gotten anyone anywhere they wanted to be. For this reason, Scott's personal mission is to be a "behind-the-scenes person who watches, creates and pulls things together, and then watches them come to fruition," she says.

Previous Comments

ID

82505

Comment

Apparently a wonderful woman, and a good example of what's good about Jackson and Mississippi.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2006-07-13T09:29:52-06:00