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When LaTora Todd Jackson graduated from Alabama State University in 1999, she didn’t envision being back on campus 25 years later to be recognized for her career achievements. But, her extensive career work, including being part of a team to earn a U.S. patent for vaccine research efforts, landed her a much-deserved spot on ASU’s 50 Under 50 list for 2024.

Jackson — an academic advisor for the School of Kinesiology in Auburn University’s College of Education — graduated from ASU with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and headed to Auburn University to pursue research endeavors. It was at Auburn where she was part of a team that earned a U.S. patent. She holds degrees from the University of Alabama and Auburn University at Montgomery and was initiated into the honor society of Phi Kappa Phi during her graduate studies. 

“The education that I received while pursuing my bachelor’s degree at ASU has always been the foundation for all else that I have accomplished,” Jackson said. “The history of the university made me feel a sense of pride while attending ASU. It also continues to make me feel proud to be a product of Alabama State University. One of my ASU proudest moments was my recent induction into Class VIII of ASU's 50 Under 50. I was honored to be nominated for and to accept this prestigious alumni award. I remain committed to giving back to ASU, just as the institution has contributed to my personal and professional growth.”

In Jackson’s current role as an academic advisor in the School of Kinesiology, she provides guidance to students majoring in exercise science who are planning to pursue health professions graduate programs. She also serves as an instructor of anatomy and physiology at Central Georgia Technical College and is a Nationally Certified Health Education Specialist.

Her teaching experience includes biology classes at Auburn University at Montgomery, and she also contributes to the UAB Montgomery Regional Medical Campus Advisory Board. In addition to her professional commitments, she dedicates her time to serving the community and is a member of the executive board of the Lee County Chapter of the ASU Alumni Association.

While at ASU, Jackson was a Presidential Scholar, a Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC) Scholar, a Golden Ambassador and was actively involved in the Biomedical Science Club and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

The Alabama State University Division of Institutional Advancement developed the 50 Under 50 alumni award to engage, re-engage, educate, honor and develop the next generation of advocates, donors and ambassadors for ASU. As ambassadors of the university the class members may be called on throughout the year to serve as speakers, panelists, advisory committee members and to participate in other unique opportunities throughout the university. The 2023 50 Under 50 class members will be officially honored and recognized at the 50 Under 50 Awards Celebration.