Valerie Jackson facts for kids

Valerie Jackson (born Valerie Richardson on April 3, 1949) is an American radio host. She is also known for her work helping others, called a philanthropist. Before that, she worked in advertising. Valerie Jackson is the wife of the late Maynard Jackson, who was a mayor of Atlanta, Georgia.

Valerie Jackson's Early Life

Valerie Jackson was born to Charles and Cora Ruth Richardson. She grew up in Richmond, Virginia. In 1963, she was one of the first Black students to attend her high school. She graduated from high school in 1967.

She then studied business management at Virginia Commonwealth University. She earned her degree in 1971. Valerie continued her education at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She received her master's degree in 1973.

Becoming Atlanta's First Lady

Valerie Richardson first met Maynard Jackson in 1976. At that time, he was the first Black mayor of Atlanta. They met at a party hosted by the singer Roberta Flack.

Valerie and Maynard were married in 1977. She became a stepmother to his three children from a previous marriage. Later, they had two daughters of their own. While her husband was mayor, Valerie helped with the city's economic growth. She helped bring big events to Atlanta. These included the 1988 Democratic National Convention. She also helped bring the 1996 Summer Olympics to the city.

Her Career and Helping Others

Valerie Jackson worked in advertising for Grey Advertising. She was also a marketing supervisor for Trans World Airlines in New York City. Today, she is the President of Jackson Financial Corporation. She is also the Chairman of the Board for Jackmont Hospitality, Inc.

Valerie Jackson is very active in helping the community. She especially works with groups that help people in need. She is the Chairman of the Board for the Maynard Jackson Youth Foundation. This foundation helps young people.

She has also served on many other boards. These include the American Cancer Society and Habitat for Humanity. She was also president of the Georgia Chapter of the International Women's Forum. Currently, she is on the board for Alliance for a New Humanity.

In 2003, Valerie Jackson started hosting a radio show. It was on WABE, the National Public Radio station in Atlanta. The show was called Between the Lines. On the show, she talked with smart people from around the world. These guests helped the world in many ways. They included politicians, writers, and media figures. She interviewed people like Jimmy Carter and Hillary Clinton. She also spoke with Deepak Chopra and Sidney Poitier.

She now hosts another WABE radio show. It is called Valerie Jackson In Conversation. This show airs sometimes on Sunday evenings.

Awards and Recognition

In 2002, Valerie Jackson was chosen for the YWCA of Greater Atlanta Academy of Women Achievers. The Atlanta Business League also named her one of the 100 Women of Influence in Atlanta.