Dr. Jackson has an extensive career in state and local government. After college, she served 11 years as a transportation and community planner at the Cumberland County planning department. Next, she served as a zoning administrator and Transportation Director in Hoke County. Dr. Jackson then served as a transit analyst for the City of Fayetteville. She taught High School civics and economics at Hoke County High School. Most recently she served as a Cumberland County Magistrate. Frances has served on several local boards including the Hope Mills Zoning Commission, the Cumberland County ABC Board, and several scholarship committees.