For Rollin “RJ” Jackson, Morehouse was more than just a college—it was the proving ground where he found his voice, purpose, and a brotherhood that would shape his destiny. A political science major with a concentration in international studies, RJ served as the 93rd President of the Student Government Association (SGA), continuing a legacy that stretches back decades—including within his own family. His father, Dr. Rollin Jackson ’92, and uncle, Markyle Rondon ’13, both paved a path of excellence that RJ not only followed—but elevated.
From his first year, RJ hit the ground running. Whether serving as Freshman Class Council Director of Public Relations or rising through the ranks to become Sophomore Class President, Executive Director of the 92nd SGA, and eventually SGA President, leadership was never just a title for RJ—it was a calling.
But RJ’s impact extended far beyond Robert Hall. He served as a Resident Assistant, DuBois Hall Director of Public Relations, and a member of the inaugural Morehouse Men’s Volleyball Team. Through the Bonner Office of Community Service, he contributed meaningfully as both a UPS Community Scholar and an Emma and Joe Adams Scholar, showing an unwavering commitment to service and scholarship.
His academic achievements speak for themselves: Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude, Pi Sigma Alpha, and Omicron Delta Kappa, to name a few. He was named Maroon Tiger Sophomore, Junior, and Man of the Year, and was inducted into the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in Spring 2023.
Still, RJ’s journey wasn’t without its challenges.
“I struggled with imposter syndrome,” he reflects. “But Morehouse taught me that I’m exactly where God wants me to be. Each room I walk into, I was destined for.”
His spiritual grounding has been a guiding light: “God’s timing > mine,” he says with conviction.
RJ has always been globally minded. From hosting exchange students at home to traveling through Mexico, El Salvador, London, and Japan during his time at Morehouse, he sought understanding across borders and cultures. That curiosity and drive led him to a UPS Global Public Affairs Internship and an upcoming Summer 2024 internship with Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) as a Senate Communications Intern.
Next, he heads to Johns Hopkins SAIS, one of the top international relations programs in the world, with his sights set on becoming a Communications Director on Capitol Hill or in the White House—a role that remains scarce for Black men.
“I want to be the voice behind the vision—crafting messages that move the nation,” he shares. “Few of us hold that seat. I plan to change that.”
For RJ, the heart of Morehouse is the brotherhood.
“I never had biological brothers growing up—but now, I tell my parents I have 2,600,” he says. “They’ve been there through my highs and lows. They helped me see ‘losses’ as lessons.”
He gives thanks to his “Day 1 brothers” from New Student Orientation—James, Miles, David, Jelani, Brayden, Tyler, Grant, Will, Kyshan, Jordan, and Kioi—and to his line brothers, the Redeemed 15.
“Being a Morehouse Man means constantly striving for the crown placed above your head. It means lifting others as you climb and never forgetting to reach back.”
RJ credits his success to his unwavering faith, his parents, and his village—from his baby sister Paige (“my first important title was ‘big brother’”) to faculty, mentors, and every Morehouse brother he’s met.
His advice for young men considering Morehouse?
“Don’t throw away your shot,” he says, referencing Hamilton. “You only get one chance to attend Morehouse. The experiences, the opportunities, the brotherhood—you won’t find this anywhere else. If you’re doubting it, let me be the one to tell you: Morehouse is the place for you.”
Rollin Jackson came to Morehouse a young man with a dream. He leaves a leader, a scholar, and a servant with a global mission and a Morehouse heart. His crown isn’t just above his head—it’s already shining.
Tag(s):
Student Success