The Office for Institutional Equity and Diversity (OIED) will welcome Melvin “Jai” Jackson as its new assistant vice provost for faculty engagement on Monday, March 1, 2021.

Jackson holds a doctorate in educational leadership, research and counseling from Louisiana State University and has experience at private and public predominantly white institutions of higher education. Over the last three years, he has served as the director of graduate student recruitment, mentoring and success in the College of Education at NC State University. Prior to that, he served as the chair of the department of advising and academic development at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Additionally, he served as director of new student programs, residence coordinator, communications coordinator and social media consultant at Duke University.

Jackson additionally holds adjunct faculty positions at Wilmington University and Tiffin University. While matriculating at Louisiana State University, he was an instructor in the School of Education and a Louisiana Board of Regents/SREB Doctoral Fellow.In preparation for joining OIED, Jackson expressed, “I want to share my enthusiasm for the opportunity to join such a dynamic team of professionals focused on elevating the efforts and initiatives of diversity, equity and inclusion at NC State University. I sincerely believe that diversity, equity and inclusion are the foundation for educational prosperity and I am dedicated to doing my part towards bringing to fruition the mission, vision and goals of the organization and NC State University. As I have been entrusted with the opportunity to work with faculty, staff and students to support their engagement as they further their understanding and commitment, I am steadfast in my commitment to go the extra mile and model our university’s motto to “Think and Do.” I have seen our diversity across campus and throughout our state, and I believe that we must champion our narratives, elevate our identities and set the standard for how a world-class institution of higher learning creates a campus culture and community built on mutual respect, admiration and appreciation. I welcome all champions, allies and advocates to join me in this mission, and I encourage those more curious to reach out as we partner to strengthen our foundation.”

Jackson will work with the Inclusive Excellence and Strategic Practice unit. His most immediate responsibilities will involve the implementation of a virtual Building Future Faculty program, revamping the Faculty Cultural Competence Certificate program and examining the evaluation data of the DiversityEdu training for faculty.