Theresa Jackson, a 1994 graduate of Alabama State University, has turned her passion for food and family into a local business. Her restaurant, J.W. Beverette’s Soul Food, located at 1172 S. Decatur Street offers both traditional and innovative takes on classic soul food dishes.

The inspiration for J.W. Beverette’s Soul Food came from Jackson’s family gatherings, which she fondly remembers as celebrations of “food, family, friends, and fables.” These gatherings were filled with laughter and storytelling that spanned decades. She wanted to recreate that atmosphere for her customers, making the restaurant a place where memories are made and traditions honored.

The name J.W. Beverette’s itself is a tribute to her family legacy. The “J” stands for Jackson, her father’s family name; the “W” represents West, her mother’s maiden name; and “Beverette” honors her paternal grandmother’s lineage. Her signature dish, “Grandma Lacey’s dressing,” is a recipe passed down through generations, perfected over time, and made entirely from scratch.

“When people call and ask if we have stuffing, I tell them, ‘No, baby, we have dressing,’ because it is made from scratch,” Jackson said.

Jackson’s path to becoming a restaurant owner was shaped by both her family history of entrepreneurship and her time at the university. Although she initially planned to major in criminal justice, she found herself drawn to the business department and its resources. Ultimately, she earned a degree in education but carried with her the drive and determination instilled by her family.

“My father and grandparents always owned businesses, and that was just in me,” Jackson said.

However, as a first-generation restaurant owner, Jackson had to learn the business through trial and error. She recalls moments when divine timing helped her overcome challenges, including finding a grease trap cleaning service shortly after learning it was required by the health department.

“When something is ordained and it is what you are supposed to do, doors open a little easier,” she said.

Jackson credits much of her success to the values she learned at the university, such as punctuality and professionalism. She remembers influential instructors like Johnnie Witcher, Ed.D., and Vivian DeShields, Ed.D., who modeled these qualities for their students.

“One thing we always learned at ASU was to be on time. If you are early, you are on time,” Jackson said.

Her connection to the university remains strong. She donates annually to the university, particularly supporting the band and athletics programs. Each Thanksgiving, she contributes to feeding the Marching Hornets, continuing a tradition of giving back to the institution that played a pivotal role in her life.

Jackson offered advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, urging them to seek mentorship, conduct thorough research, and create a solid business plan. She also encouraged students to make use of the university’s small business development program and to prioritize building and maintaining strong relationships.

“Have the tough conversations to maintain relationships that will be meaningful throughout your life,” she said.

She continued.

“This is the best time of your lives,” Jackson said, reflecting on her time at ASU. “The relationships you are building now will last a lifetime, so cherish them and stay connected. Food brings people together, and that is what I hope to do every day at J.W. Beverette’s Soul Food.”