S mart people and good advice.
Part of that came from Indonesia Jackson, who is making a bit of a habit of showing up at the podium at UAPB.
Three and a half years ago, she was there as valedictorian of her class at Pine Bluff High School. Over the weekend, she was back as an honor student at UAPB where she received her bachelor’s degree in English as well as one of five Chancellor Medallion awards for her stellar academic work.
“I stand here today to say that we are strong individuals, and to be young, Black and educated in this world, we are already doing our part to make a change for the betterment of our country,” she told her fellow graduates at commencement.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Jackson had at first wanted to attend Grambling State University, just to change up the scenery. But UAPB made her decision easy, she said.
“What made me stay was not only the fact that (UAPB was) recruiting me, but the fact that it valued me and did not see me as just a number,” she said. “I can truly say there’s no place like home.”
That mindset that has been instilled in the staff at UAPB goes back to the strides made by the previous chancellor, Dr. Laurence B. Alexander, a replacement for whom is currently underway. The job of the search committee is to find someone with the same kind of verve for excellence.
That Jackson excelled in high school and then did the same in college gives voice to the idea that where one is can be quite a bit less important than what one does. She will undoubtedly push the envelope wherever she lands.
The keynote speaker, James L. Moore III, also had some keep-your-feet-on-the-ground sorta advice for the graduates who will now be looking for the next chapter in their lives to unfold.
“No matter where you go and the successes you have, it’s important to give back to the places that molded and shaped you,” he said. “As you embark on your existential career journeys, make a commitment to pay forward your success by creating opportunities for others.”
Good luck and best wishes to the close to 200 who gained their degrees — the world awaits you — and to the many times unsung faculty and staff that led, mentored and encouraged their students to reach high and not give up. None of this happens without them.