Tyrone Jackson has been appointed president of Southeast Arkansas College, effective July 1.
Jackson, the president of Mississippi Delta Community College for the past five years, was selected from a trio of finalists who interviewed publicly on SEARK’s campus last week. He will succeed Steven Bloomberg, who left in February after six years to become chancellor of the Kern Community College District in California.
Jackson, 52, boasts more than 30 years of experience in education, including leadership roles at Hinds Community College in Mississippi, according to a news release. Jackson obtained a doctorate of education in professional studies/educational leadership, master of education in social sciences/sociology and bachelor of science in general studies/sociology, all from Delta State University in Mississippi.
“I am honored to be named as the next president of Southeast Arkansas College,” Jackson said in a news release. “I thank the Board of Trustees for their confidence in me to serve as SEARK’s new leader. I am committed to collaborating with internal and external stakeholders with the ultimate goal of promoting student success. I am excited and look forward to arriving on campus in July.”
Jackson, who grew up in Rosedale, Miss., began his professional career at nearby Delta State as an admissions counselor shortly after earning his baccalaureate degree. He then became the university’s associate director of housing and residence life and director of multicultural affairs, director of graduate studies, assistant dean and interim dean. He is credited with reinstituting the Graduate Studies Office, helping Delta State’s graduate school experience a record increase in enrollment.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Jackson then became associate vice president and dean of student services at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and went on to associate VP for student services and VP for the Utica, Miss., campus of Hinds.
Boards on which Jackson served in the Delta region include Habitat for Humanity, United Way and United Village. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity named a scholarship at Mississippi Delta in his honor.
“With Dr. Jackson’s 30 years in education and extensive experience in community college leadership and accreditation, the board of trustees is confident in the future success of Southeast Arkansas College,” SEARK board chair Rebecca Pittillo said. “He fully understands the importance of working with key stakeholders to accomplish the college mission of building a community of lifelong learners committed to becoming the leaders of tomorrow.”
Jackson is married to Kashanta and father of Tyler and Kennedi.
ACCT Search Consultants were used during the search for SEARK president. Other finalists included Utah State University Eastern chief administrator Douglas Miller and Lee College associate vice president Dometrius Hill.