LENORE JACKSON

I am an User Consultant/Information Specialist with the NASA Science Internet. This is a NASA sponsored network established specifically in 1989 to provide networking capabilities to the NASA community. I work with scientists and researchers to ascertain their networking needs and coordinate the various project components to enable the requirement to be fulfilled. This means, I initiate the request, verify the validity through a NASA HQ sponsor for the various disciplines and codes i.e. space science, etc and then follow the request through the various cycles until completion. I am the main point of contact for the customer and the implementation process.

I enjoy the fact that I work at a NASA installation where there is constantly cutting edge technology being utilized and created right here in my presence. I also enjoy seeing the end result of the fruits of my labor being used to increase knowledge worldwide as well as bringing people together on-line. I also enjoy the travel and meeting well renowned authors and scientists. I enjoy attending science conferences and meeting colleagues face to face after having exchanged e-mail for years. This allows me to put a name to a face. My most exciting moment was watching a shuttle launch in person at Kennedy July/1994. It was AWESOME!

I excelled in English and the social sciences when I was in school. So when I entered college, I majored in political science. I always liked to mix in fun courses such as swimming or sewing to broaden my horizons and be exposed to a myriad of things.

I was directed toward business math after being told by my 12th grade guidance counselor that I would probably not go to college anyway! I have since graduated from Morgan State University and have attended the University of Maryland paralegal program. I will be finishing up a second degree in paralegal studies in the near future.

Being a woman and African American involved in networking in 1989 was a rarity. But I refused to be discouraged and by making good decisions and working hard, despite the obstacles, I have been able to prove that this is where I belong.

To succeed, you must make your own decisions about what you like and dislike. Don't always follow the crowd, especially if they are going the wrong way. Be kind to others and considerate. Also, practice being kind and helpful to others and good things will happen to you. Think positive and look on the bright side of things. there is some good in everything! And remember "The Lord helps those who help themselves!"