Celebrating Alumnae: Dr. Kaylan Kelsey Jackson and Taylor Dodson

Department of Natural Sciences Recognizes Accomplishments of Chemistry Graduates

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Students are the focus of Gardner-Webb University’s mission. Faculty members seek to engage students with unique, experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for their next steps. Whether they choose to begin a career or accept the academic challenges of graduate school, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead and serve. Additionally, through GWU’s supportive and diverse Christian community, students are inspired to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others.

Recently, two chemistry alumnae shared news of their success.

Dr. Kaylan Kelsey Jackson

Dr. Kaylan Kelsey Jackson, ’18, was awarded her Ph.D. in chemistry from Clemson (S.C.) University. She has accepted a remote position as a chemistry consultant in the Cell and Gene Therapeutic Division of Johnson & Johnson. While at Clemson, Jackson was honored with the Graduate Faculty Award and an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Fellowship.  View a previous story on Jackson, here.

Taylor Dodson

Taylor Dodson, ’17, is defending her Ph.D. in medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry from the University of Toledo in Ohio. She has accepted a position as a visiting professor of microbiology for the fall semester at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) in Tacoma, Wash. In a recent email to her professor, Dr. Ben Brooks, Dodson wrote, “During the application process for PLU, I wrote a teaching philosophy, and I realized that everything I love about teaching came from you, Dr. (Venita) Totten, and Dr. (Stefka) Eddins. I learned so much from each of you and you’ve all shaped the way I want to teach. Thank you.” View a previous story on Dodson, here.

Stay connected

Gardner-Webb’s faculty and staff are eager to hear about and celebrate alumni news and success. There are three ways to share your story with us:

• Contact a faculty member.
• Touch base with Alumni Relations.
• Share your story here.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.