Some of the classes that University of Wyoming College of Business professor John H. Jackson teaches, such as work and human behavior and human resources management, have shaped the lives of many of his former students.

“John’s contributions go far beyond the classroom. As the co-author of the nation’s best-selling text on human resources, John’s name is known across the nation,” says a colleague who nominated him for the award. “He maintains an active research agenda – generating new ideas and improved practices – that impact others’ understanding of the discipline. It is clear that John teaches students about life as well as personnel management. He is a consummate educator.”

Former and current students talk about the human side of Jackson’s teaching style.

“I can honestly say that, other than my father, Dr. Jackson has most influenced my life, and my career, and in turn the quality of life I can offer my own family,” says the former student. “I know of no professor that better represents and supports the College of Business, the University of Wyoming, and the state of Wyoming. His character is without compromise. Students label him as their toughest, yet best professor. Dr. Jackson is an adviser far more than in title, and a professor who teaches far more than academics.”

Another former student who is now a business department chairman in an out-of-state college writes, “The education I received from Dr. Jackson both in the profession of business and in how to be a professional, influenced my entire career. Many of my successes are directly the result of his guidance and training. We have remained friends and colleagues for over 20 years, and he can name numerous other former students who remain in contact with him and who continue to benefit from his unparalleled abilities.”

A current student shares the same sentiments: “Dr. Jackson brings to the classroom a great deal of personality, integrity and business world experience. All of these things, in my opinion, are very valuable to my education. He is one of the best instructors I’ve ever had the privilege of learning under, and one of the greatest assets the University of Wyoming possesses.”

Another colleague, who took an MBA course from Jackson, says he “Was the most inspirational and real world instructor I encountered. He has a marvelous gift for making human resources theory applicable in the day-to-day practice of business with simple but profound techniques. I find myself repeatedly applying the principals I gleaned in his class.”

Jackson, who has been at UW since 1973, received a B.B.A. (1967) personnel management and an MBA (1968), both from Texas Tech University, and a Ph.D. (1973) in management and organization from the University of Colorado.

Go to Awards page