Rosalyn Vann Jackson

I attribute my success to the leaders who came before me; mentors, trailblazers, and everyday heroes whose shoulders I am honored to stand upon. Their wisdom, courage, and example created pathways I was brave enough to walk, while my commitment to being a lifelong learner continues to stretch my perspective and sharpen my purpose. My journey has been fueled by an innate belief that growth begins on the inside and that resilience, faith, and hard work can transform obstacles into opportunities. I have learned that the word impossible quietly holds the truth: “I’m possible.” My story is shaped by those who lifted me and by a determination to keep lifting others, so the next generation can see even farther.

The best advice I ever received was simple but life-changing: it does not matter whether others believe in you; what matters is whether you believe in yourself. Those words taught me that confidence cannot be borrowed; it must be built from within. I learned that waiting for outside approval only limits what is already possible, while trusting my own voice gives me the courage to step into rooms I once thought were beyond my reach. That belief has carried me through uncertainty, stretched me beyond fear, and reminded me that purpose is not validated by applause but by the willingness to keep moving forward anyway.

My advice to young women is to trust the quiet strength already inside you and never shrink from making others comfortable. Be curious about the world and commit to being a lifelong learner; your mind is one of your greatest gifts. Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow, but remember that your worth is not determined by anyone’s approval. Take risks before you feel ready, ask questions without apology, and treat setbacks as teachers instead of verdicts. Protect your character, your peace, and your dreams, and don’t be afraid to outgrow spaces that no longer fit who you are becoming. Most of all, believe deeply that your voice matters and that the future needs the unique light only you can bring.

One of the biggest challenges in education and coaching today is meeting diverse learner needs in a rapidly changing world while ensuring equity and access for all. At the same time, there is an incredible opportunity to harness technology, personalized learning, and data-informed practices to empower individuals, deepen engagement, and support meaningful growth for both students and professionals.

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith, integrity, service, and growth. I believe in leading with compassion, treating people with dignity, and keeping my word even when no one is watching. Service reminds me that leadership is not about position but about lifting others and creating opportunities for them to thrive. I value being a lifelong learner, staying humble enough to grow and brave enough to change. Above all, I strive to live with gratitude and purpose, building relationships that reflect kindness, trust, and a commitment to leaving people and places better than I found them.