Name: Juawn Jackson '16

Age: 27

Major at GC: Political Science, certification in Leadership

Why did you choose Georgia College?

I was looking for a college that was not too far from home (Macon) that had a great political science program. To my amazement, I found that plus more! I am grateful for my time spent at Georgia College.

Did you have a favorite professor or class?

Oh, wow! My academic journey at Georgia College was greatly impacted by Dr. Janet Clark (public speaking), Dr. Brandy Kennedy (public administration), and Professor Gregg Kaufman (public deliberation). I learned a great deal from each of them that has impacted my sense of community and my leadership style tremendously.

How has your journey progressed from graduating to working in the field of education (both as an advisor for Educational Talent Search and the Bibb Board of Education)?

My journey has been one that is truly God ordained. The opportunity to apply my passion for higher education by preparing middle and high school students for college has been my greatest joy. Now, as an elected member of the Board of Education, I can identify even more barriers that prevent students from reaching postsecondary opportunities and provide assistance. 

What got you interested about the career you do now?

As a first-generation college graduate, I was faced with several barriers that I had to work hard to overcome. I knew that if I wanted to go to college that I would have to research options, find a way to pay for it, and identify resources to help me be successful there. With that in mind, I found great success in my collegiate journey and have since been determined to assist others with finding a cost-efficient way to postsecondary success.

As a product of Macon-Bibb County, I wanted to give back to a community that has given so much to me. I spend over 24 hours a week in our schools. I see how hard our students are working, the creativity of our educators, and the dedication of our support professionals. I ran because I wanted to be a cheerleader for our system and ensure that resources are available for every child to be successful. From the records that we have been able to review, it appears that I am the youngest ever elected member of the Board of Education. I plan to use my youthfulness to connect with students and become better advocates for them. 

My curricular and co-curricular experiences have played an integral part of my development as a college access counselor and now as an elected official. Georgia College has an all-star Political Science department that truly opened my eyes to the commitment of public service. Additionally, being able put into practice what I learned in the classroom as Student Government President is what motivated me to remain connected to education. As president, I was tasked with major responsibilities and Dr. Dorman, Dean Miles, and others, provided the space for me to think creatively and lead responsibly. 

What are some items you would like to accomplish during your term on the Board of Education?

During my term as a board member, I will be focus on creating a robust economy and a stronger community. We must focus on retaining current businesses and industries and creating opportunities for new economic development while addressing poverty by ensuring that we continue to provide a high-quality public education that ensures our students are college and career ready. We can do this by expanding industry partnerships, championing entrepreneurship, and recruiting and retaining quality educators.
 

Follow Juawn Online

Linked In: Juawn Jackson