Jackson's appointment will start August 16, and his salary of $309,218 was approved by the board on Tuesday. He will remain in the position until a new President is named.
Jackson has served Murray State University in several capacities over the last decade, including as co-chair of the University’s 2015-22 Strategic Plan, and heassumed the role of President of the MSU Foundation in 2013. Prior to that he was the Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Government Relations, where he successfully led the University’s “Hold Thy Banner High” capital campaign that raised more than $70 million.
He thanked the Board for their confidence in his leadership.
“This University has been here for nearly 100 years. I know that our entire campus community will rally in support of this fine institution. This is a special place,” Jackson said. “Our best days are in front of us.”
He has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Murray State University, a master’s degree in higher education from Antioch University and a doctoral degree in higher education from Western Kentucky University.
Jackson will be filling the spot of Bob Davies, who is resigning effective Sept. 1 to become the new President of Central Michigan University. Davis has served in that role since 2014.