Oct. 4, 2001

From Chicago to Washington

GW Freshman Duane Jackson Has Left His Mark Along The Way

By Nicholina Ferramosca

With an incoming freshman class that was 300 more than expected, it is easy to get lost in the crowd. But among those 2,550 students, Duane Jackson of Chicago, is already making his mark. Jackson says his life changed when he attended an all-school assembly during his sophomore year of high school.

The speaker was Greg Forbes Siegman, founder of the 11-10-02 Foundation. According to 11-10-02, its mission is to break down racial, cultural, social, and generational barriers, empower young people, and fund grants and scholarships for students. Jackson became inspired by the foundation’s mission and began writing companies and asking them to donate money to 11-10-02. When the foundation found out about Jackson’s efforts, they asked him to become a part of 11-10-02’s nationally acclaimed Brunch Bunch program. He joined the group and was able to meet with students from different backgrounds and several adult professionals.

Jackson continued his grant writing as the foundation’s first intern. He volunteered at a homeless shelter and nursing homes, and was active with many clothing and book drives. Jackson hosted the 11-10-02’s Scholarship Gala and was the recipient of a President’s Student Service Gold Award, given by the American Institute for Public Service. In addition, an anonymous audience member donated money to Jackson for tuition at the college of his choice, which, of course, was The George Washington University.

Every week the Brunch Bunch brings together Chicago school children and adult professionals. This program allows people to have honest discussions with people of other backgrounds and allows young people to learn from and network with established professionals in every field imaginable.

“The 11-10-02 foundation gave me an opportunity to meet a lot of prominent adult professionals,” Jackson says. “I truly appreciate the invaluable contacts with brunchbunch.com kids and adults.”

The group also has dedicated more than 600 volunteer hours to senior citizens. The 11-10-02 Foundation was created so that those individuals inspired by the Brunch Bunch contribute funds to their efforts. These donations are used to meet the needs of Chicago’s schools and their students.

Only a week into his first semester, when most freshmen are still trying to find their classes, Jackson began volunteering at Stevens Elementary School in Northwest DC, where he helps teachers and students weekly. While at GW, Jackson plans to stay active with extracurricular programs and his academics. He was chosen for the Emerging Leaders Program and is planning on receiving a BBA/MA dual degree in finance and information systems technology from the School of Business and Public Management. In addition, he wants to run for Freshman Senate and get involved with more community service projects.

 

Send feedback to: bygeorge@gwu.edu