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Hill-Jackson Honored with T-Camp Namesake

4/2/08

It has been said that when an Aggie graduates the most important thing they walk away with is not their diploma or Aggie Ring, but their connection to the Aggie Family. Transfer Camp, or T-Camp for short, is every transfer student's introduction to the Aggie Family. And the namesakes and counselors that make up T-Camp help welcome these students into the Aggie Family with enthusiasm and care.

Valerie Hill-Jackson, clinical assistant professor in the College of Education and Human Development, is one of the few Texas A&M faculty chosen to serve as a camp namesake for T-Camp 2008.

"T-Campers should feel the same Aggie kinship and sense of belonging as all other Aggies who have the privilege to go through Fish Camp," Hill-Jackson said. "There is a culture of family and honor that all Aggies embrace and take with them and transfer students should not be the exception."

Hill-Jackson was surprised with her purple T-Camp namesake honor through a pre-Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. She was selected by several of her former students for her unwavering commitment to student excellence and the personal attention and support she gives them. She will be honored at a special T-Camp gala in April.

"It is truly great to be recognized by students who frequently interact with you and know your character," she said. "Every organization needs leaders and mentors, and I want to be involved in whatever way T-Camp needs me."

T-Camp is a student-run organization that is composed of over 100 current students. It began in 1987 for transfer students and seeks to create a fun and open atmosphere in which they are welcomed into the Aggie Family. At T-Camp, campers are introduced to the many opportunities that exist at Texas A&M and the long-standing traditions that embody the true meaning of being an Aggie. Campers leave with a newly ignited Aggie Spirit and many lasting friendships.