Illini running back-turned-research scientist Kevin Jackson is where he is today — holder of three UI degrees, recipient of 10 grants, author of 20 publications — thanks in no small part to a persuasive professor.
“Professor Matt Wheeler inspired a young football player from Robbins, Illinois to switch his major from biology to animal sciences, a decision that would change my life forever,” says Jackson, hematology program manager at Nashville’s Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute.
“I graduated with a Ph.D. from Dr. Wheeler's lab almost 20 years ago, and yet he still mentors me to this day.
“He has been an influential mentor for student-athletes for over 30 years, but more importantly, he's someone I'm glad to call my friend.”
