Started by Jack Ubadi Sr., Jack’s has been apart of the Alcorn State University (ASU) campus since the 1980s serving and coming to the aid of many Alcornites. After Jack Sr.’s death three years ago, his son Jack Ubadi Jr. became the proprietor.
Jack’s is a small convenience store that is located in front of Revels’ dormitory South of the main gate. The store is sometimes called a “mini Walmart” says Ubadi who would love to expand on the store but has to await the approval of the University.
As one walks throughout the store they may notice the plethora of pictures hanging on the wall, but you would be surprised to know that there are over 5,000 more pictures stashed away in boxes upstairs. The tradition of students coming in and hanging pictures was started by Jack Sr. and you can still hang your own picture there today. You will see Alcornites from years ago, at games, before parties, or just hanging out at the store. The establishment serves as a yearbook from the past, present, and future.
The community, the students, and good laughs are what Ubadi Jr. loves about the campus. His best memories come from highly anticipated games (Alcorn vs. Southern, Alcorn vs. Jackson State, and Alcorn vs. Grambling) and Homecoming, although he has never attended any games due to his commitment to the store. Ubadi Jr. stated, “In order to continue the legacy of the store and to make it a staple on the campus it takes hard work and being here for the community and the students.”
Outside of Jack’s is a certificate, presented by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Zeta Chapter and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Chapter honoring the store for its kindness towards the blue and white family. The allegiance Jack’s has to the surrounding area is unmatchable and it shows.
Jack’s is still as authentic as it was when Jack Sr. owned it, besides the new pumps, security cameras and new products that have recently been added. Ubadi does not plan on leaving Jack’s anytime soon. He wishes to carry on as his father did.“The sky is the limit and I will not stop until my goals for this store are achieved,” stated Jack Jr.