News Article

Philip Jackson is a product of the university, he brings a special passion to his role in supporting our educational mission. And while accounting might be his career track, there is a definite sound track to our new President of the ASU Foundation.

Philip Jackson

Place of birth:

Little Rock, Arkansas

What I like about Jonesboro is...

it is home. I’ve lived here since 1967.

Why did you choose A-State?

As an undergrad, it provided me a quality education and the opportunity to stay close to family. As an employee, Arkansas State provides a stimulating and diverse environment that can be transformative for both the individual student and our region.

My hobby is...

playing music.

My passion is...

playing music.

In college, I was known for...

skipping class and playing guitar.

What is the one thing I’ve learned I’d tell my college self...

hard work actually does pay off.

What’s the value of a university education?

The university education opens doors, broadens perspectives and provides opportunities to experience a better quality of life.

What is the one thing you wish you could teach everyone about your field?

It is not about numbers: it is always about people.

What music is playing in your car?

Morrisey, Johnny Marr, The Beatles, Jason Isbell and Ryan Adams

What is your favorite podcast?

NPR Tiny Music Desk

My favorite motion picture is...

Hard Days Night.

The television series I must TiVo...

Austin City Limits.

The last book I read for fun was...

Who I Am by Pete Townsend.

What makes a good professor?

A passion for subject matter and a sense of humor.

Who was your favorite teacher (and why)?

Mr. Bill Walker at Jonesboro High School. He taught history in a way that was new for me. Up to that point, history had been presented in a somewhat boring linear fashion that focused on data; not themes. Mr. Walker incorporated elements of many disciplines; art, music, literature, religion, science and politics to examine the events of our country and world. He challenged you; he made you think and examine your positions. He brought out the best in many people who might have been considered under achievers or non-intellectuals. I am grateful for the good fortune of being his student.

My favorite trip was...

Amsterdam.

If I could travel anywhere it would be...

London and Paris.

Four people I’d take to coffee...

My wife Lisa, Jason Isbell, Jack Black and Amy Schummer.

The best advice I ever received was...

don’t tell people how they should feel.

Before you retire I want to...

see my kids graduate from college.

My pro sports team is...

the Washington Generals.

My pet peeve is...

people who ask me what my pet peeve is.

Cats or dogs?

Both. We have a dog, Winston, and a cat, Mondo. They both peeve me. They are my pet peeves.

My favorite meal is...

fried chicken.

E-book or hardback?

I fall asleep easier with a hardback.

Beach or mountains?

Mountains

Dinner or supper?

Supper... as in “hey grandpa what’s for supper?”

I wish I could...

get the world to sing in perfect harmony.

Only my friends know I...

I am Batman.

My favorite saying is...

A day without sunshine is like, you know, night.