OSU student selected as Truman Scholarship finalist
Wednesday, March 1, 2023
Media Contact: Elizabeth Gosney | CAS Marketing and Communications Manager | 405-744-7497 | egosney@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University junior Meg Jackson has been named a finalist for the 2023 Truman Scholarship, a highly competitive graduate scholarship for aspiring public service leaders in the United States.
The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation reviewed 705 applications from 275 institutions for the scholarship and Jackson is among 199 finalists. Each year, the foundation awards 55-65 students with $30,000 to apply toward graduate education in a variety of fields.
“This is an impressive accomplishment that speaks to not only the caliber of College of Arts and Sciences students, but also the mentorship and advising offered by our faculty and staff,” said Dr. Keith Garbutt, CAS interim dean. “It is wonderful to see students recognized for their academic accomplishments, and their passion for serving others and bettering the future.”
Jackson came to OSU as an Oklahoma State Scholar Society Fellow from Edmond, Oklahoma. She is now a junior studying political science with minors in social justice and applied music. Jackson is an active member of the Honors College, a member of the President’s Leadership Council and a facilitator with the Better Conversations program. She is also an accomplished cellist and member of the OSU Symphony Orchestra.
“Meg embodies the commitment to public service that is the hallmark of the Truman Scholarship,” said Jessica Sullins, director of scholar development and undergraduate research at OSU. “Her fierce determination to improve the lives of others is a testament to the land-grant mission of OSU. We are immensely proud to have her represent the university at the national level.”
Following graduation, Jackson plans to pursue a law degree. She hopes to work as an ACLU staff attorney for the Supreme Court docket to address violations of immigrants’ rights in the U.S.
“I am confident that being named as a finalist will be an important first step in my public service career,” Jackson said. “This opportunity will grant me access to a public platform where I can advocate for the policies I hope to implement throughout my career. I am proud that my career aspirations to advocate for vulnerable populations in U.S. courts have been recognized by the Truman Foundation.”
Jackson and other regional finalists will interview on March 15 in Denver. For more information on the Henry Bellmon Office of Scholar Development, visit their website or contact Jessica Sullins at jessica.sullins@okstate.edu or 405-744-7313.
Story By: Erin Milek, CAS Communications Coordinator | erin.milek@okstate.edu