Tiffany Jackson: Building Bridges and Creating Opportunity at IWU National & Global
Everyone needs someone in their life who can help them view challenges from a different perspective. At Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) National & Global, that person is Tiffany Jackson.
As a partnership account manager, Jackson plays a key role in helping new students enroll in academic programs, despite the roadblocks they may face in their lives.
Specifically, Jackson collaborates with organizations to bring college opportunities to adult learners who may not be able to pursue degrees through traditional routes. Her work helps create pathways and opens doors to students who once thought higher education was out of reach.
Bringing together her passions, Jackson is continually refining her skills in facilitating conversations between the church, the community, and higher education. As she follows this call, IWU National & Global programs continue to grow.
“There’s so much potential to it,” Jackson said. “I haven’t even been able to scratch the surface of it yet.”
Jackson discovered her IWU role through a connection at her previous job. Her pastor, an IWU alumnus, also encouraged her to consider applying for the position. After learning more, she felt the opportunity was a perfect fit and realized that it could also help her pursue her longtime dream of earning a doctorate.
Even her former supervisor supported the move.
“They were like, oh my goodness, that’s perfect for you,” Jackson said.
Since transitioning to IWU, Jackson has embraced many opportunities to step into her calling. One responsibility she’s especially passionate about is the Bridge Initiative, a program focused on supporting nontraditional students.
“It’s kind of about those second chances,” Jackson said. “To help somebody see what they could be, even though all indications from their past say, ‘I won’t get a degree or can’t get a degree.’”
The Bridge Initiative enables students in local communities to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees with the support of their organizations. In most cases, IWU’s educational partnerships are with local churches.
The program also aims to achieve three core goals: expanding educational access, equipping future leaders through ministry experience, and fostering spiritual formation. With reduced tuition and fees, the initiative removes barriers for students, while also allowing them to stay within the communities they serve.
Jackson’s leadership has helped the program thrive, even amid challenges. She is not afraid to push boundaries and try new strategies, and she credits her team with encouraging innovation.
“I’ve never worked for an organization that was so open to doing things in a different, more effective way,” Jackson said.
Challenges are an integral part of the journey, and Jackson believes they provide growth opportunities. She stays grounded in her faith and trusts God’s guidance through each season.
“I’m here and committed,” Jackson said. “I feel obligated to give this place the best that I can.”
Planning to remain at IWU long term, Jackson hopes to continue expanding the Bridge Initiative and improving resources for students and partnering organizations. Her decision to follow God’s calling has already borne fruit, as she is currently enrolled and studying in IWU’s doctoral program.
Between her work and education, Jackson’s roots at the university continue to grow.
“I don’t see a future for me that doesn’t include IWU,” Jackson said.
