Rosalyn Vann-Jackson, MBA, CDPT
In October of 2023, Rosalyn Vann-Jackson, MBA, CDPT, Chief Support Services Officer for Broken Arrow Public Schools (OK) was elected to serve a three-year term as Region 4 Director on the NAPT Board of Directors.
Shortly after the 2023 election, Rosalyn and other elected officers took part in an exclusive interview with School BUSRide, the official publication of the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT). During the interview, it was highlighted that Rosalyn would be the first African American woman to sit on the NAPT Board.
At the time, Rosalyn was asked: What does that mean to you (to be the first African American women to serve on the NAPT Board) and what does it mean for the pupil transportation industry?
…to which she replied: “Being the first African American woman on the board means that we can say that there is a seat for every person at the table. Regardless of their background, there’s an opportunity for anyone to bring their experience to the table. In all areas of leadership, there is a great deal of angst surrounding who will lead us in the future; we need to look at ways to attract the best pool of talent. For me to be in a leadership role gives others, who look like me, the mindset and determination to know that they too can be in a leadership position.”
During this Black History Month, we reconnected with Rosalyn to expand upon her initial thoughts and sought her advice for future generations. Here’s what Rosalyn has shared with us:
“Over the past two years, my understanding of leadership in the pupil transportation industry has deepened in ways I could not have fully anticipated when I first joined the NAPT board. While representation matters, leadership is about more than simply having a seat at the table—it’s about ensuring that all voices are valued, perspectives are considered, and the next generation is empowered to lead.
“While representation matters, leadership is about more than simply having a seat at the table—it’s about ensuring that all voices are valued, perspectives are considered, and the next generation is empowered to lead.”
We are in a time of great change, and as leaders, we must navigate uncertainty with resilience and purpose. The challenges we face—whether they stem from evolving workforce needs, operational constraints, or the shifting social landscape—can only be met with a commitment to unity, problem-solving, and forward-thinking leadership.
To future generations, I would say this: Step forward boldly. Leadership is not about having all the answers but about being willing to ask the right questions and work collectively toward solutions. Your voice, your experiences, and your passion matter. The work we do in pupil transportation directly impacts the lives of students, families, and communities, and it is our shared responsibility to make that impact meaningful.
Let’s continue to focus on what unites us and the work that drives us—ensuring safe, reliable, and equitable transportation for all students. That is a mission worth leading for.”