George A. Jackson Award

Named for Dr. George A. Jackson, former assistant dean of the Graduate College (1994-2009), this initiative aims to promote ethnic diversity and inclusion of graduate students from populations historically underrepresented in American higher education. The Award advances Dr. Jackson’s strong commitment to and passion for the recruitment and graduation of underrepresented students.

Eligibility

You cannot apply for a Jackson Award as a student. You must be nominated by the director of graduate education (DOGE) of your home department or program and meet the following eligibility requirements:

• US citizenship
• Identify as African American, American Indian, Hispanic/Latinx, Alaska natives, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander.
• New student entering fall, spring, or summer into a masters or doctoral program. Currently enrolled students are ineligible.
• Continuously appointed as a half-time (20 hour a week appointment) graduate assistant.

Financial Support

• The Jackson Award is for two years beyond entry term for both masters and doctoral students.
• Doctoral students receive $12,000 each year (12 months) as a contribution to the assistantship stipend plus a $300 contribution towards mandatory fees for each registered term.
• Masters students receive 50% of tuition, which together with the tuition scholarship, gives 100% tuition coverage while the student remains in good academic standing and an automatic $300 contribution towards mandatory fees for each registered term.
• The second year of funding requires a fully approved POSC.

Program Expectations

Each nomination must include information about how you will be supported (onboarding, mentoring, advising, etc.) throughout your first year. Graduate College staff will follow-up with you at the end of your first semester and year to learn about your experience.

Student Expectations

As a recipient of these funds, students are expected to attend and present orally or in poster format (once for masters and twice for doctoral) at the Annual George A. Jackson Research Symposium. The Symposium is an event planned for graduate students by graduate students who receive diversity financial support from the Graduate College.

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