The NW Injury Law Center of Vancouver wants to award a $1,500 college scholarship to an incoming college freshman of color who is an aspiring writer.
The scholarship is named for Portland-born author Mitchell S. Jackson, best known for his novel, “The Residue Years.”
“When I was a senior at Jefferson High, I won a $1,000 academic scholarship from Rotary,” said Jackson. “It made me so proud. Writing has helped me transform my life, and I want another young person to have that experience, too.”
Jackson went on to earn his MA in writing from Portland State University and an MFA in creative writing from New York University. He now resides in Brooklyn.
Don Jacobs, principal at NW Injury Law Center, said he was looking for a way to give back to the community when he met Jackson, who is the brother of Jacobs’ son-in-law.
“Lawyers relate easily to writers and storytellers,” said Jacobs. “When I address jurors to tell them about an injured client, I frame the events in the form of a story – to make it interesting and easy to follow. If we can encourage a future writer and storyteller, that is rewarding. I think these are skills that are important in many careers.”
Scholarship details are available at www.nwinjurylawcenter.com/mitchell-s-jackson-scholarship.