We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Taurus Jackson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Taurus, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
As the one in the room who has so often looked like no one else, I have learned that effectiveness and success is rooted in authenticity, preparation and a sense of one’s calling. Early on, I learned that I couldn’t control what other people thought of me, but I could control how I showed up—consistently, confidently, and with excellence. I do prepare, I prepare well, I know my subject, and I engage with passion and force.
I get the magnitude and the obligation of representation. Instead of viewing it as a stigma, I’ve come to view it as an opportunity—to pave the way for others, to defy the odds, and to be the change. My lived experiences are what I bring into the room, not a liability, but a power that informs my world view and influences my leadership.
In the end I am grounded in my “why.” Be it in education, research, or public engagement, I often find myself remembering that I’m not just in the room for me; rather, I’m in that room for those that are not in the room yet. That mentality keeps me centered, tenacious and purposeful in all spaces I occupy. This has helped me to go forward with and motivate others.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I wear a few different hats in my professional life, but they all revolve around a central mission: empowering others through knowledge, technology, and community. I currently serve as an Information Systems Security Manager, where I lead efforts to protect and secure critical digital infrastructure—an ever-evolving challenge that keeps me both on my toes and deeply engaged. Cybersecurity is not just about firewalls and encryption; it’s about trust, responsibility, and staying one step ahead to protect the systems people rely on every day.
In addition to my work in cybersecurity, I’m also an Instructor of Business, Computer Technology, and Cybersecurity. Teaching gives me the opportunity to pour into the next generation of tech leaders and problem solvers. Whether I’m breaking down complex concepts or mentoring students, I find it incredibly rewarding to help others see their potential and step confidently into high-demand fields where diverse voices are urgently needed.
Outside of the classroom and the office, I proudly serve as a board member for several nonprofit organizations. This allows me to give back in meaningful ways—supporting missions that promote equity, education, and digital inclusion. It’s important to me that my work doesn’t just live in theory or behind screens, but has a real and lasting impact on the communities I care about.
What’s most exciting to me about my work is the intersection of technology, education, and advocacy. Each area feeds into the other. I bring real-world cybersecurity experience into my classroom, and I bring an educator’s heart into boardrooms and strategic planning. My brand is about bridging gaps—between people and opportunity, between education and industry, and between problems and sustainable solutions.
If there’s one thing I want people to take away from my journey, it’s that representation matters—in leadership, in tech, in education, and beyond. I strive to be a visible example of what’s possible, and to open doors for others to walk through, better equipped and more confident than ever.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Resilience
Resilience has been one of the most powerful attributes on my path—the ability to continue on when the way is difficult or unclear. Mistakes are just part of the game in both cybersecurity and teaching; they include failed projects, difficult classroom dynamics, and feeling like an outsider at times. I have learned to view obstacles as opportunities to develop and grow. To those just starting, I’d say: seek challenges. But don’t let them define you — let them refine you.
2. Lifelong Learning
Technology moves fast—sometimes faster than we expect. One thing I’ve learned is that staying relevant means being a lifelong learner. For me, that’s looked like everything from picking up new certifications to attending conferences or just rolling up my sleeves and exploring a new programming language. I’ve come to see learning not as a checkbox, but as a mindset.
If you’re just starting out, my advice is simple: invest in yourself. Stay curious. Ask questions—even the ones you think might be “too basic.” Read, listen, and don’t be afraid to connect with people who know more than you. You don’t need to have all the answers, but being open to learning will take you further than you think.
3. Communication and Relationship-Building
Having technical skills can definitely open doors—but it’s your ability to connect with people and communicate clearly that really helps you grow and move forward. Over the years, I’ve learned that being able to break down complex ideas so anyone can understand them, working well with folks from different backgrounds, and building trust across teams are just as important as any certification or degree I’ve earned.
If you want to grow in this area, start by listening—really listening—to others. Be clear and thoughtful when you speak, and don’t shy away from feedback. The truth is, relationships matter. No matter what field you’re in, people will always be at the heart of the work. At the end of the day, success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you grow, how you adapt, and how you bring others along with you.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
There are a few books that have really shaped me, both personally and professionally—but the one that’s had the biggest impact is the Bible. For me, it’s more than just a spiritual guide. It’s influenced how I lead, how I serve, and how I show up for others. One verse that’s always stuck with me is, “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12:48). That reminds me that leadership isn’t just about holding a position—it’s about being responsible for the people and purpose behind it. The values woven throughout Scripture—integrity, humility, perseverance, compassion—have become the foundation of how I try to live and lead, whether I’m in a meeting, a classroom, or working out in the community.
Another book that’s made a real difference in my leadership journey is “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John C. Maxwell. One idea that really hit home for me is the “Law of the Lid.” It basically says your team, your organization, or whatever you’re leading, can only grow as far as you grow. That’s something I think about all the time—it pushes me to keep learning, keep improving, and never get too comfortable.
Faith and leadership go hand in hand for me. Between the Bible and books like Maxwell’s, I’ve learned that great leadership starts with knowing who you are, staying grounded in your values, and always being willing to grow. That’s the kind of leader I strive to be—someone who leads with purpose, builds trust, and makes a real impact.
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