Landing at the Top

"How many times have we heard someone of great potential express frustration and a sense that they won’t be able to accomplish much in life? This aura of pessimism, almost of helplessness, is unfortunately becoming all too common, possibly fueled by a society whose messages are increasingly negative.

Enter Landing at the Top, an extraordinary book that shows, by example, how one can, indeed should, set big goals, and how to go about accomplishing them. The stories that the author, David Jackson, shares with us are inspiring, but also fun and exciting. If you ever dreamt of learning how to fly an airplane, but have been afraid to even try, Jackson will guide you through the steps that one needs to take to tackle the most ambitious, and apparently unachievable goals.

This book, that I hope many people will buy, read, and keep as a reference, is a quick read, but it packs a significant amount of practical instruction on how to pursue success. I was truly touched by the heartwarming nature of the stories that fill the book and at the same time impressed because the questions it poses to the reader are exactly what our youth needs, in this time of rapid change, evolving norms, and great uncertainty.

A book that I recommend not only to aspiring leaders, but also to mentors, teachers, parents, and anyone who is ready to set big goals and make them a reality."

― Daniele Struppa

President of Chapman University

"For anyone who dreams about being a transformational leader, Landing at the Top is a must-read. It not only gives the how-to’s of converting dreams into reality, but it also shows how passion trumps obstacles and roadblocks that stand in the way. David Jackson’s amazing life is an inspiration for those who want to make a positive difference in the world."

― Jim Doti

President Emeritus and the Rick Muth Family Chair in Economics, Chapman University

"It has been an honor and a privilege to be employed by Mr. David Jackson for over twenty years. In that capacity, I served under his leadership as an AP Calculus teacher; a position in which he gave me the freedom to dream big, for my students and for myself as an employee of Fairmont Schools. As a result of his unrelenting belief in me and his student population, Mr. Jackson spearheaded one of the most successful AP Calculus programs ever commenced in the entire country. And as such, his school, Fairmont Preparatory Academy was recognized as the Calculus Mecca of the United States for twenty years; literally changing the paradigm as to what was possible and what could be expected if you dared to have a BHAG―Big Hairy Audacious Goals; and you were not afraid to relentlessly chase it, work for it, and accomplish it.

As so clearly demonstrated in his book, and more importantly exemplified by his life, Mr. Jackson has devoted a lifetime to inspiring others to be great and chase their dreams. And, as he would say, 'If anyone tells you otherwise, don't listen to them. Just keep reaching for the stars.' In this book, Landing at the Top, you will be driven to make the world a better place because others like David Jackson believed it was possible; a testament resounded by thousands of students who have graced the halls of Fairmont Preparatory Academy for over a half a century. This book is a must read for anyone who believes that there are no limits to anything in life if you are just bold enough to pursue it; in short, 'Attempt the impossible and you will achieve the improbable.'"

― Sam "Mr. Cal" Calavitta

Mathematics, Fairmont Prep Academy

"David Jackson’s Landing at the Top is an engaging, inspiring story of a man who dreams bigger than most of us, a man who tackles goals and challenges that might discourage those who lack his boundless determination and optimism. Jackson’s myriad accomplishments are impressive, indeed. Equally memorable is the honesty and humility of the man behind the accomplishments. Few authors of his stature so freely acknowledge weaknesses, admit failures, and generously credit those who helped them along the way. In this way, the book serves as much as a how-to, motivational manual as a memoir of a life well lived. Jackson generously shares his 'Golden Rules to Live By' and repeatedly cheers us on to a more expansive life with, 'If someone like me can have these successes, you can too.' Read this book and get inspired."

― Dawn Thurston

Author, Breathe Life into Your Life Story: How to Write a Story People Will Want to Read

"Throughout Landing at the Top, David Jackson delights us with a series of adventures and achievements that begin with dreams and beliefs, but are then mainly driven by doing, adjusting, and persevering. The 'doing' parts, for example, what David did to transform Fairmont Schools, are breathtaking, not just in what he sought to achieve but also how he went about it. Unorthodox to say the least!

Educators, students, and aspiring leaders, take note...sometimes ambitious common sense trumps commonly accepted professional practices! This is much more than a 'guy follows his dreams' book. Jackson dreams 'smart' as well as 'big.' I highly recommend Landing at the Top for anyone who dreams of making a difference in their schools, work or businesses, and even for your family."

― Guilbert C. Hentschke

Dean Emeritus, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California

"In his memoir, Landing at the Top, David Jackson chronicles his life filled with overcoming challenges and proving naysayers wrong. His incredible life story recounts the tale of a man who transforms personal setbacks and professional obstacles into a life of 'dream achievement'–a life that shaped and impacted thousands of young lives as the leader of a prestigious private school in Orange County, California. His inspirational story of enduring positivity and abundant perseverance will serve to energize and encourage you to always pursue your dreams. This motivational work will provide enduring resolve for young adults to view setbacks as opportunities and will be a source of continued tenacity for those with big obstacles, but even bigger dreams."

― Dr. Steven Sherman

Head of School, Palm Valley School

"David Jackson’s Landing at the Top is an exceptional story that inspires you to reach your big, hairy, audacious goals. It captures the reality of the ‘ups and downs’ of life in regards to reaching success. David Jackson’s trials prove that the struggles of life can become your greatest strengths, instead of weaknesses. As a 20-year-old who is just beginning his journey of setting big, hairy, audacious goals, this biography serves as an inspiring reminder that setting goals leads to the realization that anything is achievable. As you embark into the world of accomplishing your goals, allow David Jackson’s life to be an example to you that there is nothing anyone can say or do to diminish your potential."

― Dylan Barajas

"We are truly limited by our imagination, and the content of our successes is only limited by our attitudes and actions. Dave Jackson’s Landing at the Top is a great aid to maximizing what can be accomplished in one’s own life."

― Ronald Stein, P.E.

Founder of PTS Advance, Author, Columnist, Energy Literacy Consultant, and Co-author of the Pulitzer Prize nominated book Clean Energy Exploitations

"Landing at the Top is a must read book for the aspiring entrepreneurs and dreamers of the world. David Jackson captures the true essence of leadership as he takes you on his journey, both personally and professionally, with optimism and courage. His valuable insights, passion, and willingness to never accept the status quo, is a true testament to his success as a servant leader. As his colleague, I have observed in awe as he grew his business by setting ambitious standards of excellence for himself and his team. David’s tenacity to overcome obstacles without losing heart is truly inspiring. I am grateful he has shared his story with us."

― Sherry Adams

Co-Founder Stratford School and Vice Chairwoman Spring Education Group

"My first tour of David Jackson's Fairmont Private Schools campus confirmed most, if not all, of my first impressions of this man. Purpose driven, tenacity and an unwavering commitment to positively make a difference in young people's lives which would ultimately improve our world. Over the next 20+ years, I learned that he was a man with big dreams and where others might ask, 'Why?' David would ask, 'Why not?' In his book Landing at the Top, Jackson shows us by example how we too can not only reach for the stars, but snatch them on our way to living our best life!"

― Jack Daly

CEO Coach and World Recognized Serial Entrepreneur

"This book is more than an autobiography; it's a life guide that illustrates the transformative power of resilience, belief, and audacity in the face of adversity. Jackson's personal journey, from overcoming significant challenges to becoming a leader in education, serves as a testament to the idea that anyone can transcend their limitations. His stories of personal and professional triumphs, underscored by the pivotal role of a sixth-grade teacher who believed in him, highlight the importance of support and belief in unlocking potential. It is this same support and belief he cultivated at Fairmont, where I studied from preschool through high school, that I still use today as a practicing physician. This book highlights remarkable achievements and challenges, as well as showcases the profound impact on students' lives, including mine, that Jackson has had. This narrative doesn't just recount events; it encourages readers to chase their dreams, embrace failure, and persist despite obstacles. It's a compelling call to action for dreamers and doers alike, offering practical wisdom for anyone looking to make an indelible impact in their personal and professional lives. An essential read for aspiring changemakers."

― Rani Berry MD

Gastroenterologist

"Mr. David Jackson, you have lived a very productive and successful life. Your life was full of adventures, interesting events, successful contracts, and actions. Your book of memoirs will inspire young people to have concrete aims in their future life.

David Jackson’s book, Landing at the Top is a very interesting and unordinary story of a man, who reached his dreams in life. It is a special story which can teach us how to set up small aims to reach a bigger goal. The book is like a manual that gives helpful advice on how, through different accomplishments and actions in life, our dreams can come true.

I am sure you must read Landing at the Top, and you will get inspiration to do something new and good in your life."

― Mikheil Elizbarashvili

Chairman, Association Diabetikon