Spotlight of the Week: Janet E. Jackson
Janet E. Jackson is a name synonymous with pioneering leadership and transformative impact in Central Ohio. Over her illustrious career, Jackson has broken numerous barriers and championed the cause of children and families, making her a remarkable figure in the realm of child advocacy.
A Trailblazer in Leadership
Janet E. Jackson spent 14 years as president and CEO of United Way of Central Ohio, one of the largest United Way organizations in the country. Her appointment was historic, as she became the first woman and the first African American to lead the organization. Before her tenure at United Way, Jackson served six years as Columbus City Attorney, another first for a woman and African American in Columbus. Prior to that, she was the first African-American female judge in Franklin County, serving nearly ten years on the Franklin County Municipal Court bench.
Impact on Child Advocacy
Under Jackson’s leadership, United Way of Central Ohio expanded its role far beyond traditional fundraising. She mobilized the community to comprehensively address the root causes of poverty, with a significant focus on children’s welfare. Jackson’s efforts in promoting early childhood education have ensured that children from low-income families have access to quality educational opportunities, setting a strong foundation for their future success.
Jackson has been instrumental in educating local business and community leaders about poverty in Central Ohio, inspiring them to join forces with United Way to develop an integrated approach to providing opportunities for people to rise above poverty. Her initiatives have directly impacted children, ensuring they have access to essential health and social services. By addressing the broader socio-economic challenges, Jackson has worked tirelessly to create an environment where children can thrive.
Recognitions and Contributions
Jackson’s contributions have been widely recognized. Her honors include the Allies of Equality Award from Equality Ohio, the Woman of Achievement Award from the YWCA of Columbus, and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award from the Columbus Education Association. She was named the 2013 Professional Woman of the Year by the Women of Color Foundation and Woman of the Year by the Niagara Foundation. Inducted into the Ohio Women’s Hall of Fame in 2001, Jackson also received the 2015 Mortar Board Alumni Achievement Award and an honorary Doctor of Law degree from Capital University Law School. She was named Outstanding Head of Diversity in the Columbus Business First Diversity in Business Awards and won the Champions of Diversity Legend Award.
Ongoing Commitment
Beyond her professional achievements, Jackson continues to serve on various boards and committees, contributing her expertise to further child advocacy and community development. She is a board member of Installed Building Products and chairs its compensation committee, serves on the board of Wittenberg University, and is involved with the Task Force to Prevent Family Homelessness. Jackson is a member of the International Women’s Forum, IWF Ohio, and Women Corporate Directors, among other advisory roles.
Her ongoing commitment to the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio and the Columbus Community Trust Project Task Force, along with her participation in the Siemer Institute National Advisory Council and the Jazz Arts Group, underscores her dedication to creating supportive and thriving communities.
Conclusion
Janet E. Jackson’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to child advocacy have made a profound impact on the lives of children and families in Central Ohio. Her efforts have not only provided immediate relief and support but have also laid the groundwork for lasting, measurable change. Jackson’s legacy is a testament to the power of visionary leadership in transforming communities and ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.
