History

Group Solutions RJW, formerly Robena Jackson Agency, celebrated a decade in business in 2002. Founded in the fall of 1992, Robena Jackson, the “RJ” in RJW, began the company around her desire to help people coalesce, communicate, and achieve worthy goals. John Whitfield, the “JW” in RJW, joined the company two years later.

At its onset, the company focused almost exclusively on visioning and strategic planning. Visioning is a process whereby individuals and organizations declare what they want and, through goals, objectives, and metrics, actively set out to reach exciting new milestones. Clients included St. Edward’s University, Texas City Management Association, City of Georgetown, City of Ft. Worth, Precision Camera, Jewish Federation of Austin, and the National Council of Contractors Association.

In 1997, the focus of the business evolved. Robena and John decided to grow the company with a core of creative, principled people working on behalf of clients, communities, and the company. With an increased focus on public involvement and a refined mission – to inform, engage, facilitate, and problem-solve – the company has worked in neighborhoods across Texas and into Oklahoma.

Today, the company employs 10 professionals. It is an award-winning public involvement firm.

Principals

Company President Robena Jackson is an acknowledged expert on group behavior. She was presented the 2001 Peacemaker Award by the Dispute Resolution Center and is a former Fellow for the Center for Public Policy Dispute Resolution. She is well known in business, environmental, and neighborhood circles for her ability to develop effective communication strategies and bridge the gap among many populations.

Vice-President John Whitfield brings a strong business and customer service background to Group Solutions RJW. Before his association with the company, John founded and operated successful businesses in the Austin area.