Dr. Oscar J. Jackson, M.D., FACS, left an enduring mark on the field of medicine through his groundbreaking work as a surgeon and his unwavering commitment to empowering future generations of physicians. As part of his extraordinary legacy, Dr. Jackson established two significant endowed scholarships—one at Howard University College of Medicine and another at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine. These scholarships reflect his lifelong dedication to supporting students from underserved and disadvantaged communities, particularly those of African American descent.

The Howard University Endowed Scholarship 
A proud double graduate of Howard University, Dr. Jackson earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 1951 and his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1955, both with honors. His time at Howard was marked by exceptional academic achievement, including his recognition on the Chemistry Department's Wall of Honor and his induction into the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. Dr. Jackson fondly recalled his Howard days and esteemed classmates, such as Dr. Gage Johnson, Drs. William and Eleanor Miles, and Drs. Charles and Roselyn Epps.  

In 2018, Dr. Jackson endowed the Dr. Oscar Jackson Sr. and Mrs. Norma Jackson Scholarship at Howard University through the Howard University Medical Alumni Association (HUMAA). This scholarship was designed to provide financial support to medical students from underserved and disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate good moral character, academic promise, and financial need. Dr. Jackson envisioned the scholarship helping students pursue careers in medicine, particularly in areas of research and clinical practice addressing conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease that disproportionately affect African American communities. The scholarship also emphasized the importance of serving inner-city populations, continuing Dr. Jackson's lifelong dedication to health equity.  

The first scholarship was awarded on March 1, 2019, during the HUMAA Scholarship Ceremony. Dr. Jackson's foresight ensured that generations of Howard University medical students would have the opportunity to achieve their dreams and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The UCSF Endowed Scholarship
In parallel with his contributions to Howard University, Dr. Jackson also endowed the Dr. Oscar and Mrs. Norma Jackson Endowed Scholarship at UCSF School of Medicine in 2018. This scholarship provides lasting support to medical students who are committed to serving African American communities, aligning with Dr. Jackson's core values of service and educational empowerment.  

Administered by the UCSF Foundation, this scholarship fund was structured to grow over time through investments, ensuring perpetual support for medical students. It includes provisions for future contributions from other donors and adaptability to the university's evolving mission, ensuring its relevance for years to come.  

Dr. Jackson's UCSF scholarship reflects his deep commitment to health equity and mentorship, extending his legacy to one of the nation's premier medical institutions where he had once made history as the first known African American surgeon on record.  

A Vision for the Future
Through these two endowed scholarships, Dr. Jackson not only honored his alma mater and professional achievements but also addressed systemic barriers that limit access to medical education for students from marginalized backgrounds. His generosity has paved the way for countless aspiring physicians to follow in his footsteps, fostering a new generation of leaders dedicated to advancing health equity, serving diverse communities, and tackling the pressing health challenges of the modern era.  

Dr. Jackson's foresight and philanthropy embody his unwavering belief in the transformative power of education and his enduring commitment to bettering society. This legacy will inspire and support future medical professionals for generations to come.