BIO

Shirley Jackson: Renaissance Geoscientist, Artist, Advocate, and Visionary

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Shirley Jackson: Renaissance Geoscientist, Artist, Advocate, and Visionary

Shirley Jackson is living proof that reinvention knows no age limit, and resilience can overcome even the greatest obstacles. After years navigating diverse careers, including stand-up comedy—Shirley courageously transformed her life's direction. In 2009, at age 49 and while managing the daily realities of a painful and permanent disability and caring for aging parents, she made an extraordinary leap, enrolling at York College to pursue her lifelong passion: science.

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Against all odds, Shirley, a high school dropout and first-generation college student, graduated with honors, earning a B.S. in Geology from York College (2013) and an M.S. in Sustainability from The City College of New York (2017). Her academic journey wasn't merely impressive, it was groundbreaking. She balanced rigorous studies with leadership roles including President of Student Government, Varsity team member, campus executive board leader, spokesperson for students with disabilities, and first runner-up for York College Campus Queen.

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Shirley’s determination took her around the globe—from study-abroad programs in Argentina and Hawaii to service-learning in Senegal. Recognized with City Council Citations, Chancellor Awards, and prestigious scholarships, she delivered a powerful speech as a featured speaker at her York College’s 2013 commencement ceremony.

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Today, Shirley inspires students as adjunct faculty at York College and College of Staten Island, tirelessly breaking stereotypes about who can succeed in science. She empowers students to dismantle harmful myths: "Science is not for women," "Geology isn't relevant in urban environments," or "GeoScientists don't look like me."

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Shirley Jackson has also emerged as a powerful voice nationally, selected as a 2023 GSA Pardee Keynote Symposia Speaker. She serves in leadership roles with the Association for Women Geoscientists (AWG), American Geosciences Institute (AGI), PSC-CUNY Union, Geosciences ASCEND RCN, International Association for Geoscience Diversity (IAGD), National Association of Black Geoscientists (NABG), and is part of the writing team for the influential "Second National Conference of Justice in the GeoSciences 2072 Report."

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At the heart of Shirley’s visionary leadership is her steadfast commitment to broadening access to geoscience knowledge, particularly for communities excluded from these opportunities. By actively opening doors for underserved populations, she is fostering sustainability and driving meaningful change for society and our planet.

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Driven by passion, purpose, and an unquenchable enthusiasm for the "WOW WOW EARTH," Shirley Jackson continues to inspire us all to see the fabulousness and possibilities in our world.

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