Elizabeth City, N.C.—Jasmine Jackson isn't just a name you'll find on the Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) women's basketball roster; it's a name etched into the heart of the university's mission to inspire, lead and achieve. From the courts to the classrooms and beyond, this kinesiology major and public health minor from Richmond, Virginia, is showing the world how to "play it forward" in ways that redefine the role of student-athletes. 

Jasmine's journey to ECSU began with a heartfelt connection. According to Jackson, she developed a great relationship with Jennifer Brown, associate professor of kinesiology. "I connected with her and other kinesiology instructors during open house and through email," Jackson said. "Dr. Brown's enthusiasm for teaching and dedication to students inspired me. We clicked instantly." 

In addition to ECSU's welcoming atmosphere, Jackson also credits her decision to attend ECSU to its strong kinesiology program. Beyond academics, the university's balance of athletics and academics sealed the deal for Jackson, a three-sport athlete excelling in basketball, cross-country and bowling.   

"As a student-athlete, I was not going to compromise my academic pursuits for athletics. I was looking for an HBCU that not only offered the opportunity to continue my basketball career but also offered a stellar kinesiology program," Jackson said.    

Jackson isn't just playing the game—she's rewriting the playbook for civic engagement. As a civic captain in The Team's 2024 Civic Captain Initiative, a national organization whose initiative is focused on integrating civic engagement into college athletics, Jackson has been unstoppable.   

"Last month, I concluded my participation in their inaugural class," Jackson shared. "As a civic captain, I was able to leverage my platform as a student-athlete to advocate for civic responsibility and improve institutional civic engagement and voting practices within my athletic department and campus at large."   

A highlight of Jackson's experience was her role as a panelist for the "Beyond the Game" virtual event, where she discussed the role of HBCU athletes in shaping their communities alongside leaders like Carmelo Anthony and his organization, the Social Change Fund United.   

Her efforts earned her the Civic Captain Highest Voter Actions Award, with an impressive 226 actions taken. However, Jackson's real victory was inspiring her peers to recognize their power. "Being the first student-athlete at my school to sign a name, image and likeness (NIL) deal tied to civic engagement was a powerful reminder that NIL opportunities can be leveraged for good, especially to encourage others to participate in shaping their communities," she said.   

Her impact stretches far beyond civic engagement and her resume reads like a Viking's playbook for success:  

  • Academics: Maintaining a 3.9 GPA, earning a spot on the Chancellor's List, and excelling as an ECSU Honors Program member.
  • Achievements: Recognized for her leadership and advocacy, Jackson received the Eastern Region Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. Young Citizen of the Year (Collegiate) Award. This prestigious honor acknowledged her outstanding efforts in upholding and advancing the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.
  • Leadership: Sophomore Class President, Peer Wellness Ambassador and Study Abroad Ambassador.
  • Global Perspective: Studying abroad in Costa Rica with the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship and preparing for a monthlong academic journey in Barcelona this summer.

"Being a Viking means striving for higher places and standing out in a crowd," Jackson said. "ECSU may be small, but it's preparing me to represent the school on larger platforms. I've learned that even as a student-athlete, I have the power to inspire change."  

Jackson's advocacy doesn't end on campus. From volunteering at the Coast Guard Marathon to serving on the North Carolina Association of International Educators Student Leadership Team, she's a force for good in her community. Last summer, Jackson spoke in front of hundreds at the North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus Foundation HBCU Scholarship Banquet.  

Jackson gives many thanks for her continued success to the many people she has encountered at ECSU. According to Jackson, they are a part of the mixture, making her who she is.   

"I'm incredibly grateful to the entire Viking community—my professors, coaches, teammates and the entire athletic department, as well as fellow students, the faculty and staff—for supporting me and this initiative every step of the way," Jackson said. "ECSU isn't just a place where we learn; it's a place where we grow, lead and create real change together. This journey has shown me that when we come together as a community, we have the power to make a lasting impact. Thank you for believing in me and being the change-makers who inspire me daily."  

Jackson's story is one of resilience, leadership and ambition—qualities that make her a standout Viking and a role model for anyone seeking to leave their mark. As she continues her journey at ECSU and beyond, one thing is sure—she is more than just a name. She's a movement.