BLACK HISTORY: TRENT JACKSON

After residing in Georgia for a few years, Jackson and his family relocated to Rochester, NY.

By the late 1950’s, he found that he had a natural talent and love for sports, lettering in football,track, & baseball. Jackson went on to set numerous records while attending Benjamin Franklin High School. To this day, his name is still on the record holding billboard for his 9.4 sec 100 yard dash.

When Jackson finished high school, he took his talent to the University of Illinois where he became a Collegiate All-American athlete and Big 10 Champion. While at the University of Illinois he continued to dominate in sports, breaking multiple records. He obtained the AAU 100 meter championship and qualified for the Olympic trials 100 meter dash. In 1965 he even finished 3rd at the NCAA 60 yard dash.

Then in 1966, Trent was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals but instead decided to play football in the National Football League for the Philadelphia Eagles. At the end of his football career, he returned home to give back to his community.

Upon his return to Rochester he devoted his life to enriching the children of this community with the knowledge and skill set to succeed in basketball and track. Working over 30 years with the RCSD he won 6 Section V basketball championships and 3 Section V track and field titles.

On March 25, 2007 he passed away. His life, legacy, and impact continue to live on within our community.