When Dr. Summer Jackson stepped into the role of Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) at Cal State East Bay in 2023, it was more than a professional milestone—it was a full-circle moment. A former Division I swimmer at the University of Arkansas and a proud inductee into the Sequim (Washington) Hall of Fame's inaugural class for her swimming accomplishments, Dr. Jackson brought with her not only an impressive academic background but a deeply personal connection to the student-athlete journey.

"As a former student-athlete, I can say without hesitation that the experience had a profound impact on my collegiate journey," Jackson reflects. "That sense of community and advocacy shaped who I am today professionally and personally. So, when the opportunity to serve as the Faculty Athletics Representative arose, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to pay that support forward."

Since joining the CSUEB faculty in 2017, Dr. Jackson has served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice, teaching a wide range of courses from Introduction to Criminal Justice to specialized upper-level topics like Women and Crime and Understanding Terrorism. Her academic career has been fueled by her passion for teaching and research, particularly in areas related to terrorism, deviance, race and ethnicity, and women in the justice system.

Now, as FAR, Dr. Jackson works as a liaison between academics and athletics, advocating for student-athletes and ensuring compliance with NCAA regulations. 

"I try to foster a culture of open communication, accountability, and academic support," she explains. "I know it's not always easy for students, especially student-athletes juggling intense schedules, to approach faculty when they're struggling. That's why I work to be a bridge and create an environment where they feel comfortable asking for help. I also work closely with academic advisors to ensure that our student-athletes have the tools they need to be successful."

Her mentorship style is rooted in empathy and lived experience. She understands the balancing act of practices, competitions, coursework, and personal growth. "I try to mentor by sharing my own experiences, both the good and the bad, and emphasize the importance of time management and balance. I encourage our student-athletes to be proactive and to use the support systems around them."

Dr. Jackson credits her own growth to the coaches and faculty who believed in her potential. "Sometimes, just telling someone they are worthy of greatness can change their entire trajectory," she says. It's a lesson she pays forward every day through her advocacy and teaching.

When CSUEB student-athletes are publicly recognized for their academic excellence, Dr. Jackson says it's a moment of celebration not only for the athletes but for the entire campus community. "Their success represents the hard work they put in and the collective effort of our campus supporting them. I recently attended the 2025 Honors Convocation and saw soccer players, water polo players, and swimmers being recognized for their incredible academic achievement."

To the newest generation of Pioneers arriving on campus, Dr. Jackson offers this advice: "I encourage incoming student-athletes to take full advantage of every resource on campus and never hesitate to ask for help when they need it. The relationships they build with teammates, classmates, coaches, and mentors will likely last a lifetime. Most importantly, I encourage them to be present and appreciate the journey. These moments will go by quickly and there is so much value in being fully engaged in both the challenges and success along the way."

From the pool in Sequim to the classroom in Hayward, Dr. Summer Jackson's journey is a testament to the power of athletics, education, and the mentors who help us find our way. Cal State East Bay's student-athletes are fortunate to have such a champion in their corner.