Black History Month Spotlight - North Carolina A&T's Jesse Jackson, Sr.
Rob Washburn
In celebration of Black History Month, the CAA is recognizing one current or former student-athlete, coach or administrator from each of its 13 member institutions who have made a significant impact in the community. The conference is proud to promote these men and women for their outstanding accomplishments.
Today we recognize North Carolina A&T’s Jesse Jackson, Sr.
Jesse Jackson, Sr., Football, North Carolina A&T
Jesse Jackson, Sr. was a member of the North Carolina A&T football team from 1962-64. He played quarterback for the Aggies and was part of a team that won a CIAA championship in 1964. Along with his role on the football team, Jackson was elected student body president.
Jackson went on to a remarkable career as a political activist, Baptist minister and politician. For six decades, he was a major player in domestic, international and political causes. Jackson started Rainbow/PUSH (People United to Serve Humanity) to advocate for social justice and civil rights. The organization worked to improve economic opportunities for Black people and poor people of all races.
Jackson ran for President of the United States in 1984 and 1988. He received more than 18 million votes in the 1984 primary, which was an 18 percent share. His influence extended to international matters, where he helped secure the release of a captured American Navy pilot from Syria in 1983 and also played a major role in freeing captive Americans in Cuba and Iran.