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Aarick Jackson: A New Chapter for IU Northwest
With a cup of coffee warming his hands behind a neatly organized desk, Chancellor Aarick Jackson begins his new journey at Indiana University Northwest. Having taken the mantle of leadership on July 1, Jackson is in a unique position to steer the university toward a promising future. Amidst the quiet backdrop of summer, he is setting out to build connections and a deeper understanding of Northwest Indiana—a region that is not just a dot on the map for Jackson but a place that evokes a sense of belonging.
Resilience and Education: A Foundation for Success
Jackson's story is not just a chronicle of professional achievement but a powerful testament to the transformative role of education against the backdrop of life's adversities. Raised in Saginaw, Michigan, Jackson faced the early loss of both parents, experiencing first-hand the unsettling reality of life without parental support. His adopted mother, Frances, emerged as a guiding light, embedding in him the values of hard work and the critical importance of education. This familial emphasis nurtured a competitive spirit that would later propel Jackson through the military and higher education.
“Education is something you have to get to change your life,” Jackson recalls, a principle that resonates through the achievements of his siblings—all of whom hold advanced degrees. Fueled by Frances's teachings, Jackson enrolled at Delta College at just 17, before switching paths to military service—a decision that reinforced his commitment to discipline while exposing him to a greater world of opportunities.
The Military Experience: Lessons in Discipline
Many individuals find their path shaped by extraordinary experiences, and for Jackson, enlisting in the Army taught him the rigor necessary to succeed not just in academia but in life as a whole. His service across six years, split between field artillery and military intelligence, instilled in him the discipline and resilience crucial for his later academic pursuits. Jackson's sense of duty and competitive spirit actually fueled his ambition to return to his studies, as he navigated challenges of personal and communal significance back in his home state.
The Pursuit of Knowledge: Unforeseen Paths
What connects Jackson's tumultuous past to his successful academic career is a simple yet profound philosophy: often, life does not go as planned, and that's okay. While his military service equipped him with various skills, it was the competition with his brother that motivated him to accelerate his college completion from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Later, with a master's and Ph.D. from Washington State University in criminal justice and political science respectively, Jackson underscores the importance of seizing unforeseen opportunities—a mindset he hopes to instill in IU Northwest students.
A Vision for IU Northwest
As Jackson embarks on his chancellorship, he’s not just focused on immediate tasks ahead like increasing campus enrollment and developing strong community relations, but also on ensuring that IU Northwest remains a beacon of opportunity and growth for Lake County residents. His dynamic approach emphasizes collaboration and the development of a thriving campus culture, where students from diverse backgrounds can realize their potential. “I just really look forward to working with my team members and accomplishing some tremendous things here,” he emphasizes, exhibiting a genuine eagerness to engage with his new environment.
Bridging Connections: Community and Education
The role of education extends beyond the classroom, playing a critical role in the lives of community residents. As Jackson builds connections within Lake County, he aims to create partnerships that foster a symbiotic relationship between the university and the community it serves. By encouraging dialogues about education, workforce development, and cultural engagement, he envisions IU Northwest as a pivotal institution that plays an active role in community upliftment.
A Call to Action: Join the Movement
For Lake County residents in Gary and beyond, Jackson's tenure at IU Northwest promises to be a transformative journey. Community members are urged to connect with the university, participate in events, and provide feedback that can help mold the university's initiatives. Education is a collaborative endeavor; Jackson’s commitment to creating a nurturing atmosphere can only flourish with active involvement from all local stakeholders. Let’s rally together to support this vision for a community that continually evolves through knowledge and innovation.
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