University College awarded Phyllis Washington, coordinator for IUPUI University College Twenty-first Century Scholar Success Program, the Barbara D. Jackson Award during the annual spring Honor Recognition Ceremony at the Scottish Rite Cathedral.

The Barbara D. Jackson Award recognizes and celebrates the efforts of IUPUI faculty, staff, and administrators who provide exceptional leadership in creating a positive learning environment for first-year students. “In receiving this award it is evident that University College and IUPUI recognizes and is committed to the importance of support for our first-generation and underrepresented students,” Washington said. She herself finds it “…important to create a nurturing environment that contributes to the students’ positive college experience with the goal of improving student performance and retention rates.”

Award winners display significant evidence of innovative contributions to first-year programs and curriculum that are sustainable over time. 

In her nomination letter, Sherri Session, IUPUI University College Grants Specialist, stated that Washington is committed to the success of every student that participates in the Twenty-first Century Scholars Success Program and gives tremendous care and concern to these students. “She works hard to ensure first-year students have the educational, social, and personal support needed to successfully transition to IUPUI,” Session said. “Washington’s outreach extends far beyond the walls of her office.”

“I am passionate about the work that I do and seeing the progression of students overcoming many barriers as they matriculate through college on to graduation,” Washington said. One of her long-term goals is to equip all of her students with the tools to become better advocates for themselves.

For more information, contact Harriett Bennett at 317-274-5036 or email hbennett@iupui.edu.