Wave Magazine Online Jacksonville University News Hub
By Chelsea Wiggs
JU Communications Major
Jacksonville University’s Dr. Sherri Jackson, division chair of Social Sciences, has been named one of four finalists for the Times-Union’s prestigious EVE Award in education.
While the EVE Awards reflect the achievements of women from the previous year, Jackson’s career reflects a lifetime of great accomplishments.
In addition to writing four textbooks on statistics and research methods, Jackson was named JU’s Professor of the Year in 2004, University Woman of the Year in 2005, winner of the University Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Professional Activity in 2003 and winner of the University Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2009, just a fraction of her numerous achievements.
Jackson however, remains humbled and honored about being named a finalist for the EVE Awards.
“This is a recognition from the community, something outside of JU, so it’s very different,” she said.
Although the EVE Awards are a reflection of contributions made by women in Northeast Florida, Jackson’s JU family knows her personally and can attest to the worthiness of her nomination. Douglas M. Hazzard, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, has worked with Jackson for more than 20 years and said she is deserving of the honor.
“She’s extremely efficient, she loves the students and she loves to teach,” he said. “She’s demanding but very fair; I’m extremely excited for her, and I think it’s richly deserved.”
The winners of the EVE Awards will be chosen at a noon luncheon Friday, May 31, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. Jackson and her fellow EVE finalists will be joined by supporters, distinguished members of the community, friends, coworkers and family members, as the celebrated “Golden Apples” are awarded to the winners.
Jackson said she looks forward to seeing some of the supporters of the EVE Awards at the luncheon, including one whom she already knows personally: Former JU President Frances Bartlett Kinne, now chancellor emeritus and winner of the EVE of the Decade award for 1970-1980.
She’s also excited to meet the other women nominated alongside her.
“I’m very honored,” she said. “Just being a finalist is a really big honor, especially with the other people nominated, they are all very impressive.”