School of Allied Health Professions dean receives national recognition

Craig Jackson, JD, MSW, FASAHP, dean of the Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions, received the 2026 President's Award from the Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) during the organization's annual conference in Nashville.

The ASAHP president presents the President's Award at their discretion to recognize an individual whose leadership, service, and commitment have contributed significantly to the organization and its mission.

Jackson currently serves as ASAHP's immediate past president, having led the organization as president from 2023 to 2025. During more than a decade of service to ASAHP, he has also served as president-elect, a member of the board of directors, a member of the nominations and elections committee, and faculty for the ASAHP Leadership Development Program. He was inducted as an ASAHP Fellow in 2012.

"It is especially meaningful to me to present this award to Dr. Craig R. Jackson, who led ASAHP before me and whose dedication continues to have an impact on our work today," said Jon Williamson, PhD, FASAHP, dean of the School of Health Professions at UT Southwestern Medical Center and current ASAHP president.

"Dr. Jackson consistently championed the highest standards of professionalism, service and excellence, while giving generously of his time and wisdom to strengthen ASAHP and engage its members," Williamson said. "I am grateful not only for all he accomplished as president, but for the example he set for those of us who have the privilege of carrying this work forward."

ASAHP is a national organization representing colleges and schools that educate health professionals across a wide range of disciplines. The organization's annual conference, themed Harmonizing the Future of Health Professions Education, brought together academic leaders and educators from across the country.

As dean of the School of Allied Health Professions, Jackson has focused on advancing health professions education, leadership development, and interprofessional collaboration while preparing graduates to serve communities locally and around the world.