Alumni Snapshots: Q&A with Maggie Morton Jackson '06

When did you graduate from Severn? 2006

 

Where do you live now and how did you end up there? I am studying in Beijing, China this semester; however, I live in Yokohama, Japan, with my husband, Nicholas, who is a Naval Aviator. I am on a Fulbright grant to study renewable energy and the low-carbon energy transition.

 

What stops did you have along the way? I graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2010 and served three tours as a Surface Warfare Officer. I lived in Japan, San Diego, and Washington, DC. I also spent two years in the US Navy Reserves while I worked on my master’s degree at Georgetown University. We lived in DC until last summer when we moved to Asia.

 

Please tell us about your professional/career journey thus far: What did/do you enjoy most about your career? One month after graduation from USNA, I stood as a newly commissioned Ensign in front of a division of 20 Sailors who looked to me for direction. Leading men and women from all over our nation was the most rewarding part of my job. Whether we were preparing for a critical engineering inspection or a transpacific voyage to Singapore, I was always inspired by the work ethic and the sacrifice of the Sailors working with me. We also visited some incredible places and felt like we were on the leading edge of American diplomacy in some remote areas of the world. Now that I sit behind a desk most days, I miss the adventure and the excitement of my time at sea. The Navy prepared me well to solve complex challenges, be decisive, and work with people from different backgrounds. I am drawing on those skills as I transition to a new career in sustainable development and energy security.

 

What influence did Severn have on your life’s path? Your career path? Severn taught me the importance of tradition, hard work, and service. It also fostered an environment where I could try new things and grow in new ways. I mention tradition because my grandfather attended Severn before he went to the Naval Academy. It meant a lot to be able to follow in his footsteps. I bring up service, not only because of Severn’s legacy of Naval service, but also because the school encourages students to be stewards of the environment and the greater community. I remember the impactful experience of leading a group of students to rebuild in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina for a senior project. Finally, Severn taught me to put myself out there: to try out for a new team, run for Student Council, take a painting class, or participate in a play. I didn’t always succeed but it taught me the important lesson to keep trying which has deeply influenced where I am today.

 

What are your favorite things to do in your free time? I travel a lot and my favorite thing to do is walk the side streets and observe everyday life, rather than only heading for the central tourist destination. These days, I enjoy wandering the hutongs (small alleyways) in Beijing. I also love cooking and trying new dishes.

 

If you could give advice to the Class of 2019 what would it be? It’s important to work hard now to set yourself up for opportunities later down the line but remember to invest time in yourself and what you enjoy, as well as the people who are most important to you. And don’t underestimate your own potential! We change the world one person at a time.

 

Tell us about 2 things that bring you joy in life. My husband, Nicholas, with his sense of humor and unwavering support, brings me the most joy in life. Number two is eating delicious street food in Asia!

 

What teachers had the most influence on your at Severn? My advisor Mr. Lenham had the most influence on me at Severn. His stories about living in Africa inspired me to consider living abroad and think about how to make an impact in other areas of the world. The list can go on forever though! I think back to Ms. Gray’s and Mr. Buckley’s history classes, Chem Team with Mr. Witzel, and freshman English with Ms. Abruzzo. These teachers gave me such a solid foundation for my further education, I really am so grateful.

 

What is one of your favorite Severn memories? Painting Woods Hall pink. Shortly before graduation, we staged the prank from my house down the road in the dark of night and somehow pulled it off. I’m sure the administration heard of our plans but they let us get away with it because they planned to tear the building down that summer anyway.

 

What is the most valuable asset you inherited from your Severn education? Did Severn have a lasting impact on who you are today? If so, in what ways? My friends! They qualify, right? I feel lucky to have such amazing relationships with my high school friends. These are people who got up with me and Mia Stender ’06 the morning we checked into the Academy for Plebe summer, those who welcomed me back to DC after many years of deployments away, and the people I miss the most being across the world. They encourage and inspire me all the time.

What 3 words would you use to describe Severn School? Tradition, community, excellence