Julia Jackson Receives the Jane Lockhart Service Award

Joining the School in 2017, Jackson has played an essential role in keeping the School on track, whether that is through her support of the Head of School’s office, management of Commencement preparations, planning for special guest speakers and visitors, or coordinating between departments. “She is the backbone in the planning of most of the major events at Foxcroft,” shared Facilities Manager Danny Borror in his nomination. “She is always there with her experience and provides much input to help the events run as smoothly as possible.” Most recently, Jackson has supported the Board of Trustees and the Search Committee through a Head of School transition — including candidate visits, Zoom calls, communications, the announcement of Lisa Kaenzig's appointment, on-campus visits, and special recognition for retiring Head of School Cathy McGehee — all on top of her normal workload. 

“We have been through a lot together and she has always been by my side, a sounding board and a shoulder to cry on, from helping me in times of loss and crisis to sharing joys and celebrations,” shared McGehee in her remarks, who acknowledged Jackson’s service to the School has been felt and witnessed by so many. “And while I 100% support her nomination for this award, it is her colleagues and our students who overwhelmingly endorsed her for this well-deserved recognition.”

Nominations for Jackson came from departments across the School. “She has somehow managed to impact the life of every single Foxcroft employee, student, board member, and probably most alumnae in some way, despite being happily behind the scenes for most tasks,” shared a colleague. Another wrote, “She is one of the hardest working, most dependable, thoughtful, talented people working at Foxcroft. Sometimes the work is hard or can be inconvenient, but she doesn't let that stop her from pitching in and getting whatever needs to be done, done.”

Students were heartfelt in their nominations for Jackson as well. “She has played a vital role in my time here at Foxcroft. Through her guidance and constant support, I was able to power through tough times and appreciate the good ones.” Another student wrote, “She is always there, whether I need a snack or just want to talk. She is just a wonderful person, and she always has a warm smile for anyone who walks into her office.”

Congratulations, Ms. Jackson!

Watch the video of her award.

The Jane Lockhart Service Award goes to a distinguished member of Foxcroft's staff or faculty who "exemplifies a personal commitment to and understanding of all of our students.” This commitment is demonstrated among other criteria by this individual’s ability to raise the overall quality of life at Foxcroft, unselfish giving of time and energy to the School, and ability to empower students with self-confidence and instill in them the desire to learn, not only while at Foxcroft but also for a lifetime, thus exemplifying the passionate belief that “everything we do is curriculum.”

This award is given in the spirit of Jane Lockhart, Foxcroft staff member from 1966-2016, by the many students and their parents whose lives were enriched by Jane’s dedication to young women. Previous winners include Lockhart, Penny Alderman, Yvette McCarty, Warren Payne, Patty Boswell, Fred McMane, Brenda Trussell, Heide Hotchkiss, Erin Abbott, Courtney Ulmer, Danny Borror, Michelle Woodruff, and Bethany Stotler.