When it comes to teaching human resource management, John Jackson wrote the book.
Jackson's book, "Human Resource Management," is now in its 12th edition and remains among the best selling human resources textbooks in history. As a result, Jackson, professor and chairman of the University of Wyoming Department of Management and Marketing, is one of the best known professionals in the field of business education.
But that's not the main reason why he was selected to receive one of UW's most prestigious teaching honors, the John P. Ellbogen Lifetime Teaching Award, which recognizes sustained teaching excellence for the length of one's career. The number one reason he is being recognized is because of the influence he has had on the lives of his students during his 35-plus years as a UW faculty member.
"I can honestly say that, other than my father, Dr. Jackson has most influenced my life, and my career, and in turn the quality of life I can offer my own family," says a former student.
Since coming to UW in 1973, Jackson has continually strived to ensure that his students received the best education possible, equal to or exceeding that being offered at the nation's top business schools.
Many of his former students have gone on to distinguished careers and are leaders in their professions, and they are quick to cite Jackson's influence on their lives. Not only do they appreciate the business-world experience he brings to the classroom, they also recognize him for his personality, humor and integrity.
Student evaluations illustrate Jackson's professionalism, and many rank him among the best professors they have encountered in their college careers.
"He genuinely cares about his students and is always willing to help," one student writes.
"His lectures are extremely interesting and worthwhile. His exams and the paper we had to write were quite difficult, but extremely thought proving and helpful in the learning process."
Brent Hathaway, dean of the UW College of Business, describes Jackson as "a master at balancing the tough love and nurturing required for exceptional learning in difficult courses."
Hathaway adds he was amazed that so many former students came forward with stories of how Jackson had influenced their lives.
"John Jackson would have been extremely successful had he chosen to pursue a career outside of higher education, whether private industry, non-profit or government service," Hathaway says. "Many students he has touched over the years, as well as I, are grateful he channeled his talents to teaching our current and future business leaders at the University of Wyoming."
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2009