Introducing...The Viking Statue The dedication ceremony for a statue that symbolizes the Jackson High School Viking mascot was held on June 2, 2008. The original double-sided bronze statue, which took nearly a year to complete, was created by artist/sculptors Kenneth M. Thompson and Leslie Adams, both present for the dedication.    The statue, which portrays a man and a woman Viking, is mounted on a half-sphere globe carved from granite. The statue symbolizes strength and leadership, as well as the importance in the power of education.  Hands are joined in solidarity.    The statue arrived in time for graduation ceremonies held May 23, 2008 and stands at the east end of Jackson High School near Reynolds Hall.   The Jackson High School drum line opened the dedication ceremony. Superintendent Dan Evans welcomed JPS staff, students, School Board and community members, and thanked

the many benefactors for their generous contributions to this project.   Dr. and Mrs. Harish Rawal (see photo) joined Mr. Evans as the statue was dedicated in the memory of “Mother Raval”, Dr. Rawal’s mother.  Vasantiben Raval, had only a fourth grade education and was widowed at age 35. In a country with no social programs or assistance, she worked hard to raise and educate her four children.   Each of her children earned master’s degrees, and her youngest son, Dr. Harish Rawal became a neurosurgeon and has been in Jackson for 28 years.   Dr. Rawal shared his mother’s inspirational story, reminding the crowd that no matter the circumstances, “It can be done”.   Afterward, spectators walked around the statue, admiring the work of art that will be a point of pride for Jackson High School and JPS for years to come.

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