News Summary

The Florence City Council honored Bishop Donald Jackson for his 31 years of dedicated service to Francis Marion University. A special resolution was presented, highlighting his contributions and influence at FMU. The naming of the Donald Jackson Atrium & Garden reflects his longstanding impact. Bishop Jackson’s leadership extends through various initiatives, including mentorship of the Young, Gifted and Blessed Choir, and advocating for cultural awareness. His legacy emphasizes the importance of community and education.

Florence City Council Honors Bishop Donald Jackson for 31 Years of Service at Francis Marion University

The Florence City Council recognized Bishop Donald Jackson for his 31 years of dedicated service to Francis Marion University (FMU) during a ceremony this week. The occasion included the presence of Bishop Jackson’s family and local officials, reflecting the community’s appreciation for his long-standing contributions.

Councilwoman LaShonda Nesmith presented a special resolution to Bishop Jackson, acknowledging his impactful work at FMU and beyond. The resolution encapsulated the breadth of his contributions and highlighted his significant role within the university.

Bishop Jackson has served at FMU with distinction, greatly adding to the academic life of the institution. As a testament to his influence, the FMU Board of Trustees has approved the naming of the Donald Jackson Atrium & Garden in the Stokes Administration Building, a tribute to his lasting impact on the university community.

Furthermore, Bishop Jackson is a founding member and currently serves as the Vice President of the African American Faculty and Staff Coalition, where he advocates for cultural awareness and professional development at FMU. His leadership extends into the arts, as he has served as the advisor for the Young, Gifted and Blessed Choir for the past 20 years. Under his mentorship, the choir has reached significant milestones, notably performing before Reverend Jesse Jackson.

In addition to his work with the choir, Bishop Jackson has impacted the lives of countless students, instilling in them the principle of serving Christ while young. His dedication was recognized in 2015 when he received the Marvin W. Lynch Humanitarian Award, honoring his commitment to caring for others.

Community Support and Recognition

During the recognition event, Florence Mayor Lethonia “Peaches” Barnes also attended, showing the city’s support for Bishop Jackson’s contributions. Councilwoman Nesmith expressed gratitude for his hard work and dedication to both the university and the broader Florence community.

Legacy of Service

Bishop Jackson’s legacy of service at Francis Marion University is characterized by his unwavering commitment to education, community building, and mentorship. His efforts not only enhance the university’s environment but also provide a framework for students to thrive both academically and personally. His initiatives in fostering an inclusive atmosphere underscore the importance of diversity in academic settings.

The Florence City Council’s recognition serves as a reminder of the vital role educators and community leaders play in shaping the lives of individuals and the society at large. As Bishop Jackson continues his work at FMU, the community looks forward to the ongoing impact of his dedication and service.

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Additional Resources

• WPDE News
• Wikipedia: Bishop Donald Jackson
• York Daily Record
• Google Search: Francis Marion University
• Times-Herald
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
• WATE News
• Google News: Community Engagement in Education