Jackson named president of Southern Medical Association

Dr. Christopher Jackson, an Augusta University/University of Georgia Medical Partnership alumnus from the Class of 2015, has been named the 118th president of the Southern Medical Association (SMA).

Jackson was installed as president during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly in Greensboro, North Carolina on October 28.

With this installation, Jackson is breaking barriers— Jackson is now both the youngest president and the first Black president to serve SMA.

“Being both the first Black president and the youngest president of the SMA, I am filled with immense pride and joy,” said Jackson. “It’s a milestone that is a testament to my hard work and determination and the progress we are making as a society in embracing diversity and inclusivity. It’s a humbling experience, and simultaneously, it’s exhilarating to be a part of this historic change!”

A native of Augusta, Georgia, Jackson graduated from Emory University with a degree in biology and sociology. After receiving his MD from the Medical Partnership, Jackson completed his residency in internal medicine in patient safety and quality improvement at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) in Memphis.

Jackson currently serves as associate professor of medicine, assistant dean of student affairs, and associate program director for curriculum at (UTHSC).

“With his innovation and passion, Dr. Jackson is poised to lead SMA in a promising and exciting direction,” said Randy Glick, SMA executive director. “He believes strongly in education and lifelong learning, both of which are foundational pillars of the Association.”

Jackson’s goals during his tenure as president will be to focus on mentoring initiatives and foster an environment of inclusivity and collaboration.

“I am grateful and enthusiastic about the opportunity to lead this prestigious organization,” said Jackson. “It’s an exciting journey that I am eager to embark on, with the commitment to uphold the values and standards of SMA. I am committed to ensuring that the SMA continues to be a beacon of medical progress and a pillar of support for all healthcare professionals.”