First-Generation Medical Student Succeeds with UNCF STEM Scholarship

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) play a significant role in training the next generation of doctors, with 70 percent of Black dentists and physicians earning their degrees at these esteemed institutions. In 2023, 13 percent of Black medical school graduates came from the three major HBCU medical schools—Howard University College of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine and Meharry Medical College, according to UNCF data.

Ashton Jackson graduated magna cum laude from Tennessee State University (TSU) with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. He wanted to attend the school’s Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute, established in honor of the renowned heart surgeon and alumnus. While he’s not the first in his family to attend college, Jackson is the first to attend medical school.

“I was inspired by its mission to increase the number of minority physicians in the United States,” he said. “I saw it as a unique opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. The program played a pivotal role in both my academic and personal development.”

Jackson’s graduation represented a major personal milestone and the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. “Completing my degree in just three years through an accelerated program made the moment even more meaningful,” he shared.

Next, he is working to gain clinical experience before entering medical school. His goal is to return home to Memphis to serve his community as an oncologist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

At TSU, Jackson was a recipient of the Slater-Millner Scholars Fund. In partnership with UNCF, Dr. Nancy Slater and Dr. Alan Millner developed the scholarship to provide financial assistance to sophomores who are on a pre-med track with a demonstrated interest in serving underserved communities. The program, administered by UNCF, also offers mentorship and advising services through the Ascension Medical Educators – Aspiring Physicians Program.

“The Slater-Millner Scholars Fund from UNCF was an invaluable resource in my journey toward becoming a physician,” Jackson shared. “Beyond alleviating the financial burden of my education, the program provided mentorship and guidance that were instrumental in shaping my path, especially as someone aspiring to be a first-generation medical doctor.”

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity provided by UNCF and Drs. Slater and Millner,” he continued. “This program has made a lasting impact on my life, and I look forward to one day paying it forward by supporting future students in the same meaningful way.”

UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Ashton Jackson in their academic endeavors.