Brandon Jackson didn’t always plan to be involved in higher education. In high school, he knew he wanted to be a psychologist or psychiatrist and, going into college, he stuck with that plan. However, the cancellation of his college’s psychology graduate program left him questioning what to do next. “I didn’t know of any other schools I wanted to attend, so I ended up transitioning to higher education,” said Jackson.
Jackson, Elizabethtown College’s new coordinator of multicultural programs and residential communities, took interest in the multicultural and residential position at E-town after seeing the unique merging of two areas. “It’s a blending of multicultural programs and residence life, which not a whole lot of schools do,” he said. “When I saw the position posted, I thought, ‘I’ve been doing these programs but never has there been such an infusion of both departments’. I think that’s really the way to go when it comes to multiculturalism.”
Jackson brings many new ideas and programs to the office. “One thing I would like to do is a connection program in the residence halls,” he said. “This way we will be able to connect students with resources they need and give them the opportunity to explore.” He also hopes to bring in some quality programs this year for students and the surrounding community. “Hopefully it will show that Elizabethtown is very welcoming, and we can get more students that way.”
I want students to experience all types of diversity so, when they leave the college, they will be prepared.”
As part of his job Jackson will be coordinating the multicultural programs on campus. He wants to make sure that underrepresented students feel welcomed and included. In addition to race, the department will discuss other types of diversity — economic, geographic, religion and sexual orientation. “I want students to experience all types of diversity so, when they leave the college, they will be prepared,” said Jackson.
The new director attended Georgia College & State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in public administration. Previously, Jackson was assistant director of admission at Georgia College. He also worked at Joliet Junior College, the nation’s first community college.
Online Extra: In this short video, find out how Brandon got his start in higher ed and what item he has in his office that he bets no one else on campus has!
(video by Kelly Derbes)