Published on Oct. 22, 2025

By Kampbell Hemeyer

Finding solutions to public health issues is part of senior Jackson Wiley’s daily tasks. The pre-professional health science major from Nixa, Mo. has certainly contributed impactful work in research and service at Mizzou. Deeply committed to academics and campus life, Wiley’s mission to improve public health began during Welcome Week his freshman year.

“I met a lot of great, like-minded people with drive and motivation like myself,” Wiley said. “I found my community through my Freshman Interest Group (FIG), which I was introduced to at Tiger Walk. We’re all still friends to this day.”

FIGs are groups for first year students with similar classes and academic interests to collaborate and connect over their studies and more. Collaborating with his FIG helped Wiley develop lasting friendships, but it also changed the trajectory of his academic career. His FIG mentor, Thomas Phillips, Ph.D., often shared his wisdom and extensive experience in the healthcare field with Wiley and his FIG. Philips helped him discover his passion for human-centered care and public health, driving his decision to shift from a double major in health science and chemistry to a pre-professional health science focus.

The now retired Phillips also introduced him to the wide range of undergraduate research opportunities at Mizzou. After consulting with The Office of Undergraduate Research, Wiley was directed to the Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative Orthopaedics. There, he researches ways to boost recovery from musculoskeletal conditions such as ACL repairs.

Before becoming an undergraduate researcher, Wiley worked with MU Extension, helping address statewide issues like food insecurity. His passion for the issue is rooted in his rural upbringing, having grown up witnessing the persistent struggle within his own community.

“I grew up in a poverty-ridden town where you can see people living at different levels of poverty and socioeconomic statuses,” Wiley said. “My experiences and what I’ve learned at MU extension directly mirror this and the issue’s presence throughout Missouri and surrounding states.” 

At MU Extension he conducted research for the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy exercise program which sought to keep senior adults sharp and in shape. He has also partnered with Missouri farmers markets working to increase awareness of their presence in local communities. He also worked with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as a student assistant paraprofessional. 

In addition to his academic achievements and innovative research, Wiley is improving his leadership skills and taking advantage of professional development opportunities by engaging in student life. He’s an active member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Mizzou Future Providers of America and served on the 2024 Homecoming Steering Committee, organizing and facilitating numerous events and traditions.

Today, he is preparing for the next step in his academic journey as he applies to medical schools where he will pursue a career in public health. Wiley specifically hopes to work in healthcare administration or policy, using the skills he has developed in and out of the classroom. 

“In medicine, as any other professional field, [medical professionals] must grapple with systems, resources, circumstances and people and our own shortcomings,” Wiley said, quoting author and public health researcher Atul Gawande. “MU Extension has shown me how I can help the most people in a growing field.” 

Visit Undergraduate research or MU Extension to gain hands-on experience and start turning your passion into action. What are you waiting for?