Jackson signs on as YSS Ambassador

Arianna Jackson made an immediate impact at Iowa State as a freshman on the women’s basketball team. In her second year with the Cyclones, she’s looking to make a difference off the court, too.

As the newest YSS Ambassador from Iowa State, Jackson will get that chance.

“I have always heard about YSS and the impact it has on youth in this community,” Jackson said. “This aligns with my goals of wanting give back to my community and make a difference in the lives of youth.”

Now a sophomore, Jackson played in 32 games last season, making 24 starts. She finished third on the team with 74 assists and shot 41.7 percent on 3-pointers — just the eighth freshman in program history to shoot over 40 percent from deep.

As an ambassador she will use her platform to help youth understand the importance of mental health.

“Over the years, through my involvement in athletics, I have learned that mental health is an essential component of everyone’s wellbeing,” Jackson said. “Organizations like YSS are important resources in our communities.”

The YSS Ambassador program collaborates with the We Will Collective, which compensates ISU student-athletes with donated funds while helping the athletes use their NIL to benefit the community. YSS creates opportunities for Ambassadors to get involved throughout the year, allowing them to use their influence to bring awareness to the organization’s mission and support local youth and families in need.

Jackson joins Iowa State men’s basketball star Tamin Lipsey and Cyclones football standout Jaylin Noel in the YSS Ambassador program. Both Lipsey and Noel are beginning their second year in the program.

The three athletes are excited to help YSS create hope and opportunity this year.

“The positive impact YSS has on the community is something I want to be a part of,” Lipsey said.