Dennis Jackson Leadership Program
Murray State Athletics officially launched the Dennis Jackson Leadership program, powered by Swift & Staley, in January of 2023 to provide the needed tools to Murray State student-athletes in the areas of personal growth, life skills and professional development. From recruitment through retirement, the program is a guide for student-athletes to be successful people both with their families and in their careers.
During their time with a Racer sports program, the goal is to focus each student-athlete on their academic pursuits, career readiness, leadership and civic engagement, NIL preparedness, brand management, financial literacy and mental health.
The program is named for Dennis Jackson, who became the first African American student-athlete at Murray State in 1960 and excelled to All-Ohio Valley Conference status in two sports. A native of Murray, Jackson graduated from Murray State with degrees in history and physical education.
Â
PILLAR 1 – CAREER READINESS
- Networking Development
- Micro-Internships
- Career Planning
- Mentorship
- Career Hiring Events
- M Club Membership – Connect with former Racers
- Resume Building
PILLAR 2 – LEADERSHIP & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
- Speaker Series
- Community Service
- Voter Education
- Chamber, Local Government, Economic Impact Engagement and Education
- Trip to State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky.
PILLAR 3 – NIL PREPAREDNESS & BRAND MANAGEMENT
- INFLCR
- Co-Branded Group Licensing
- Brand Consulting
- Social Media Coaching
- Attire & Wardrobe Prep
PILLAR 4 – FINANCIAL LITERACY
- Murray State Business School Connections
- Local Bank Partners – Savings and Checking
- Retirement and Benefits Planning
- Investment Education
PILLAR 5 – MENTAL HEALTH
- Mental Health Resources
