Focused on student-centered leadership

One of the first things people notice about Dominic Jackson, Ed.D., is his sense of style. Impeccably tailored and thoughtfully accessorized, his image is polished without feeling showy. But for Jackson, style is less fashion and more about purpose.

Jackson learned about the value of intentionality and presentation as a student at Hinds Community College in Mississippi, when dean Tyrone Jackson, Ed.D., noticed the way he carried himself. The mentorship that grew from that first meeting helped shape Dominic’s future. Today, that same intentional approach to growth, leadership and relationships guides his work as Lenoir-Rhyne University's new assistant dean of students.

"Early in my college experience, I had a mentor who invested in me and helped me understand the importance of belonging," Jackson said. "I still talk to Dr. Jackson, and he continues to influence the way I think about student success. My dissertation focused on the impact of mentorship for African American men and their sense of belonging — not only to their institution, but to their community. That work was born from my own college experience."

A first-generation college student from rural Mississippi, Jackson understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating higher education. He earned an associate degree in business administration from Hinds Community College before transferring to the University of Mississippi, where he completed a bachelor's degree in business with minors in political science and education. He later earned a master's degree in higher education administration from Mississippi College and an Ed.D. in higher education leadership from Maryville University of Saint Louis. Along the way, he spent nearly a decade in student affairs, serving in roles spanning orientation, first-year experience, student engagement, student conduct and student success.

Those experiences shaped Jackson's belief that a college education extends well beyond the classroom. For Jackson, student organizations, leadership opportunities, residence life and other campus experiences give students the chance to develop the communication, accountability, conflict resolution and time-management skills that prepare them not only for a career, but for life.

"The classroom prepares your mind to do a job," he said. "We prepare your mind to keep the job. We help you with conflict resolution. We give you time-management skills. We teach you how to communicate and grow beyond the academic space."

That philosophy also shapes his approach to leadership.

"Student-centered means keeping the best interests of students at the forefront," Jackson said. "Sometimes that means having difficult conversations. Sometimes it means helping students recognize opportunities for growth. Every decision should support their success and development."

When he interviewed at Lenoir-Rhyne, Jackson said he saw those same values reflected across campus.

"I really enjoy that this is a place where everybody is somebody," he said. "I met with students, campus partners, direct reports and President McGee, and everyone shared the same message. Students truly come first here."

Now settling into his new role, Jackson looks forward to helping students discover opportunities to become involved, build meaningful relationships and find a sense of belonging on campus. His advice to students is simple.

"You get out what you put in," he said. "Be intentional about engaging in opportunities, connecting with your resources and finding your people. These can be some of the best years of your life, and they'll impact you in ways you may not understand yet."