Imagine facing significant health challenges and personal hurdles, only to emerge stronger and achieve a lifelong dream. That’s exactly the inspiring journey of Dr. Tijuani Theresa Phelps Jackson, who, at the remarkable age of 70, has earned her Ph.D. This incredible accomplishment makes her the first in her family to graduate from college and the first to earn a doctorate, proving that age and adversity are no match for determination.
A Passion for Community and Legacy
Dr. Phelps Jackson, a former K-8 school counselor, embarked on her Ph.D. journey in community engagement and leadership in 2022. For her, this wasn’t just about collecting a degree; it was about building evidence, establishing a legacy, and demonstrating what’s truly possible. Her research delved into the profound impact of travel on Black girls and women in the U.S.
She specifically explored how early exposure to different experiences influences career satisfaction, income, and long-term opportunities. Her extensive quantitative study of 100 Black women revealed a strong correlation between early exposure, particularly through travel, and improved life outcomes, enhanced confidence, and broader opportunities in adulthood. As she puts it, ‘exposure matters,’ and childhood experiences significantly shape who we become.
Overcoming Obstacles with Resilience
Just two years into her demanding Ph.D. program, Dr. Jackson faced a major health crisis: brain surgery. This significant challenge, coupled with a divorce after 33 years of marriage, could have easily derailed her academic pursuits. However, Dr. Jackson viewed these adversities not as roadblocks, but as catalysts.
Adversity will cause some people to break. But for others, it becomes the very thing that reveals who they were always meant to be. — Dr. Tijuani Theresa Phelps Jackson
Her resilience shone through, allowing her to continue her studies and ultimately achieve her goal. She celebrated her graduation in April 2025, surrounded by loved ones, including her 91-year-old father, marking a profound moment of family history.
A Testament to Commitment and Belief
Dr. Phelps Jackson’s achievement at 70 is a powerful reminder that destiny isn’t dictated by age. She emphasizes that true impressiveness comes from unwavering commitment, not the number of years lived. Her message is clear: ‘You don’t run out of time. You run out of belief.’
What inspires you most about Dr. Tijuani Theresa Phelps Jackson’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Leave a Reply