Mark G. Jackson, '01

Tell me about your decision to attend Boyd School of Law. 

I was in line for admission at Tulane and LSU but wanted to find options outside of Louisiana. Becoming a law school “plankowner” was a big draw!

How did you first get into the legal profession? 

I was a Westlaw Student Representative during my time at Boyd. That led to becoming a Westlaw Academic Account Manager after graduation. Over the next 12 years, I managed law schools in the West and New England.

What brought you to Washington, D.C.? 

Becoming a Foreign Service Officer. I was based in Washington and deploying overseas regularly, so joining the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and staying here was an easy choice.

How did you get into the Intelligence Community (IC)? 

Entering the IC was much like joining the Foreign Service: a long, hard path. But my Boyd JD was a key qualification to becoming both a diplomat and a DIA officer, and it continues to garner credibility.

What drew you to THE Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and what do you like most about your work there?

I worked with DIA officers during my Foreign Service tenure, and they were genuinely passionate about their mission. What we do and the culture that drives it makes me glad I chose to come here. 

What was the toughest lesson you’ve learned so far in your career? 

That I can’t do everything I planned – and being at peace with that. Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis sank my diplomatic future, but what I learned from navigating my disability helped me earn multiple Foreign Service awards.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? 

I’ll have 20 years of Federal service in 2021, but I’m too active to transition just yet! 2029 will see me retired and practicing as a Professional Certified Coach.