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Gabriel Jackson
"I'll be spending my career opening doors for people in need."
Growing up, I saw so many disparities around me.
I decided that wasn’t going to define me or hold me back. I joined the Law and Leadership Institute and started working the polls for Franklin County. I was determined to be the change and part of the solution.
Currently, I work as a Tribal Relations Specialist for the USDA’s Rural Development (RD) Tribal Relations Team in their Innovation Center. This role connects Native communities with the resources and funding they need while supporting the state offices.
A real highlight for me has been my team's “Working in Harmony with Tribes & Tribal Communities" training for RD staff. We teach the importance of Tribal Sovereignty, Tribal Trust Responsibility, Tribal Consultation, and the History of Federal Tribal Relationships. I’ve really enjoyed having additional speaking opportunities and can see the impact being made. Our team recently won an Under Secretary Award for our training.
Whether I end up serving my hometown of Columbus at the local level or stay in this federal role in D.C., I know I'll be spending my career opening doors for people in need.
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