Dr. Jackie Lee
Director and Associate Professor of the University of Arkansas Fruit Research Station
Hometown: Mount George, Arkansas
Briefly describe your role:
As the director of the University of Arkansas Fruit Research Station (FRSS), I provide leadership and coordinate research efforts in fruit variety development and specialty crop production practices. Our focus is on blackberries, peaches/nectarines, muscadine grapes, and blueberries. I oversee 11 full-time staff and 9 scientists working on horticulture production and fruit breeding to enhance agricultural sustainability and profitability.
Q: Is what you’re doing now what you always pictured you would do?
A: Not exactly. I initially wanted to be an artist but I’m glad I changed my path. I completed my MS research at FRSS 17 years ago and, after completing my PhD, spent about 10 years in industry and as a professor at OSU. I never imagined returning to where it all began, but now I feel at home. It’s truly the most beautiful place to live and work.
Q: What do you see as the greatest challenges for women in your chosen industry? What are the greatest opportunities?
A: I am the first female research station director in the University of Arkansas’s history, which highlights the vast opportunities for women in agriculture today. There are many leadership roles emerging for women. However, one of the biggest challenges is finding a good work-life balance, especially when balancing career and family responsibilities.
Q: Who has inspired you in your life/career?
A: I was the first in my family to earn a BS and PhD. I grew up on a small farm next to my grandparents, and my grandmother, Imogene Graham, greatly influenced me. She left school in the 11th grade due to a teacher’s sexist beliefs but always told me, “There is only one thing in this world no one can take away from you once you have it, an education.”
Q: What advice would you give to an aspiring professional?
A: Always remain open-minded and eager to learn. Never shy away from change; embracing new practices has been key to my success. Doing something you are passionate about is vital—especially if it aligns with supporting your community, like my work with Arkansas growers.
Q: What’s been your secret to success?
A: Passion, hard work, embracing change, always learning, staying humble, and having a supportive family. Above all, I love what I do. I remind my team that we are incredibly lucky to get paid to farm while working in such a beautiful place, surrounded by the Ozark mountains. Life at the fruit research station is truly good.
