NEWS

Louisiana Tech University has named Dr. Paul Jackson the new director of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry. Jackson, a faculty member with more than 12 years of experience at the University, brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and leadership to his new role.

A native of Hargis, Louisiana, Jackson has made significant contributions in both the classroom and the community. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northwestern State University, a Master of Science in Environmental Biology from Louisiana Tech, and a Ph.D. in Horticulture from Auburn University.

Jackson has taught several plant science courses at Tech, including greenhouse management, pest management, landscape plants, and landscape design and contracting. His research focuses on tree seedling nursery management, with the goal of improving seedling quality and survival rates for successful planting.

In addition to his teaching and research, Jackson is actively involved in community outreach. He has collaborated with local organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners, the Ruston Farmers Market, and area schools, reflecting his commitment to education and community engagement.

Dr. Gary Kennedy, dean of the College of Applied and Natural Sciences, praised Jackson’s appointment.

“The College of Applied and Natural Sciences is pleased to have Dr. Paul Jackson named as director of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry,” Kennedy said. “He has won multiple college-level awards for his outstanding teaching and service activities and has been successful in obtaining external research funding, as well as Board of Regents Enhancement Funding that provided new equipment for the Lomax Hall greenhouses. Dr. Jackson has a broad vision for how our agricultural sciences and forestry programs can contribute to the sustainable natural resource systems that support society.”

In his personal life, Jackson enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, running, and vegetable gardening. He is married to Melissa, a speech-language pathologist with the Lincoln Parish School System. The couple has three children: Brennan, 15; Matthew, 12; and Anna Kate, 10, who attend Ruston High and A.E. Phillips School.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the director of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry,” Jackson said. “We have one of the most premier agriculture and forestry programs in the region, and I look forward to working with our talented faculty and staff to make it even better. My primary focus as director will be to create an academic environment that helps students succeed in their chosen careers.”

As director, Jackson is dedicated to advancing the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry and fostering an innovative and collaborative learning environment for students, faculty, and the local community.