Sylvester Jackson
Power Words
Where were you born?
Chicago, Illinois
What school did you attend?
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, University of the State of New York, Albany, NY The George Washington University, Washington, DC, Troy State University, Troy, AL
What gained you interest in the NIH?
As a child, I was always interested in science, but I had no idea then that I would be where I am now. My nascent interest in science drove me toward science-oriented pursuits in high school, college, the military, and private industry. As I grew professionally, I discovered that I had a real talent for administration and I also realized that I could match that talent with my enduring interest in science to give birth to a successful career in medical research administration. When a fortuitous opportunity presented itself to me to join the NIH, I was thrilled!
What kind of work do you do at the NIH?
I am an Administrative Laboratory Manager. I use professional judgment, initiative, and leadership to plan, direct, and coordinate administrative and business management activities for the Division. I review processes to identify areas for improvement. I make authoritative recommendations to senior management and I lead the development, implementation, and communication of changes to policies and/or processes. Specifically, I analyze priorities and provide a wide range of liaison services to support program and/or administrative functions, including the development and implementation of policies and procedures for areas that include regulatory compliance, travel, budget execution, contract administration, project management, procurement, space utilization, safety, facilities management, equipment maintenance, space renovations, shipping, property management, and records management.
What message would you like to send to young Blacks who are considering going to college?
Do it! While college ultimately is not for everyone and a college degree is not a guarantor of success in the future, education has long been a pathway from poverty, disenfranchisement, and despair for our people. It is absolutely worth a try. When a man becomes educated, he never again becomes uneducated --education is truly the gift that keeps giving.