Gary and Kathleen Jackson

Gary and Kathleen Jackson established the Brian Jackson Memorial Scholarship in Agriculture in honor of their son, the late Brian Jackson, a 1999 graduate of UW-Platteville with a degree in Soil and Crop Science.

Brian had a deep appreciation for the environment and agricultural production, interests that shaped both his education and his career. After graduating from UW-Platteville, he worked for several years as an agronomist in Wisconsin before following his adventurous spirit to Alaska. There, he worked for the State of Alaska as a Natural Resource Specialist.

Brian’s career gave him the opportunity to experience nearly every part of Alaska while pursuing his love of the outdoors and adventure. Among his many accomplishments was completing a 100-mile trek through the Alaskan wilderness. He embraced life fully and was always eager to experience his next adventure.

Brian’s life was tragically cut short in 2016. His family and friends find comfort in knowing that he made every second of his life count and lived with a genuine passion for the things that mattered to him.

Through the Brian Jackson Memorial Scholarship, Gary and Kathleen hope to honor Brian’s memory by helping current UW-Platteville students pursuing studies in agriculture find their own passions and make the most of their opportunities. The scholarship supports a continuing student majoring in Agriculture, providing encouragement and financial assistance as they pursue their education and future careers.

The Jackson family hopes Brian’s adventurous spirit, appreciation for agriculture and the environment, and commitment to making every second count will continue to inspire the next generation of UW-Platteville students.