Most people plan to travel after retirement, but Linda Flake Jackson, a 72-year-old from Houston, had another goal in mind—earn a college degree.
And she did. Jackson recently graduated from Lone Star College-University Park with an Associate of Arts field of study degree in Criminal Justice.
“Getting my degree was number one on my bucket list,” said Jackson. “From the time I walked onto campus, I knew everyone wanted me to succeed. Even down to the security guard who greeted me with a smile! Everybody was on board with my goals.”
In May, LSC-University Park held a virtual ceremony for 1,128 graduates representing a diverse population of students. Some entered college directly from high school, while others enrolled following a break from school. For Jackson, the break was an extended one – close to half a century.
“We strive to offer the best academic education and support network so that any student, at any stage, can achieve their goal,” said Dr. Shah Ardalan, president of LSC-University Park. “Linda’s story is inspiring, and it shows that no one should ever give up on their dreams.”
Coming back after so many years naturally left Jackson with a few questions as to the best path for her success. After a 24-year career with an oil and gas company, and then 20 years with the Department of Homeland Security, she was leaning toward a psychology degree. But she credits close assistance from her adviser and a dedicated professor with helping her solidify her degree plan in criminal justice.
“After just one criminal justice class with professor Jermaine Johnson, I was hooked,” said Jackson. “I love justice and making sure everyone is done right by the system.”
Jackson plans to volunteer with a local nonprofit for criminal justice reform – the Innocence Project of Texas would be her dream gig – after earning her Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Houston-Downtown. She starts classes there this fall.
Despite her parents’ lack of education, the pursuit of a degree was front and center for Linda and her eight brothers and sisters. Her oldest brother has a Ph.D. and a sister has a master’s degree. She grew up in the Acres Homes area of Klein ISD and was part of the first integrated class at Klein High School in 1966.
“My parents worked hard to support our family,” said Jackson. “They instilled that work ethic in their children. Education was paramount. I always knew that I wanted to come back to get my degree. Life got in the way, including getting married, having children, and starting a career, but I knew when I retired that I was ready.”
“Linda’s level of enthusiasm and gratitude is inspiring to me,” said Dr. Ardalan. “Our programs and success initiatives foster in students a desire to affect positive change in their own lives and the lives of others. It’s a ripple effect of inspiration throughout the community. Our faculty and staff are passionate about teaching, mentoring and seeing students succeed through graduation and beyond. Everything we offer on campus has been designed to fully support their individual needs. We want everyone who walks through our doors – whether they are 17 or 72 – to be successful.”
For information on taking classes at LSC-University Park, visit LoneStar.edu/StartUP or call 281.290.2600. Registration for both summer and fall semesters is ongoing and classes are filling quickly.