Dr. Debbie Jackson, Director of the Emeritus College was selected as this year’s recipient. Dr. Robert Hogan, Chair of the Emeritus College’s Awards Committee made the announcement at the college’s annual Emeritus Day. This award was established by the late John Kenelly to recognize emeritus faculty members who have made outstanding contributions to Emeritus College, Clemson University, the greater Clemson community and to society.
Debra Jackson contributions include serving as the Emeritus College Director since January of 2019. During her tenure programming has increased by more than 60 percent. During COVID, Jackson switched programming to virtual sessions. Today, programs continue in a hybrid format, allowing Emeritus College members to participate remotely. Under her leadership, donations continue to increase, and new programs continue to be added to the long list of Emeritus College offerings. Jackson and her husband Vince have established “The Debbie and Vince Jackson Endowment for Music” allowing the Emeritus College to expand and support musical events. Jackson’s contributions to the Clemson Community include serving as a board member of the Community Foundation of Greater Clemson, Jackson’s contributions to the Clemson Community include serving as a board member of the Community Foundation of Greater Clemson and as the chair for the Grants and Awards committee. For 25 years, Jackson authored a health column in a local newspaper. She continues to serve as a strong advocate for mental health care. At the national level, Jackson served on advisory committees for the American Cancer Society and NIH Digestive Disease Coalitions.
