Featured Falcons: Joyce Jones

April 7, 2025

What is your name and current title with the University of Montevallo?

My name is Joyce Jones, and I serve as the director of Engaged Education and Public Service at the University of Montevallo.

Where are you from, and where do you currently reside?

I am a Montevallo native. I graduated from Montevallo High School and began my college education at Livingston University (now the University of West Alabama) before returning home to Montevallo, where I started my family. Although we moved to Pelham three years ago, my roots remain deeply connected to Montevallo.

What degrees do you hold, and from which institutions?

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Montevallo in fall 2023, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Education in Applied Instruction, which I will complete this May.

How long have you worked at the University of Montevallo?

I began working at the University in November 2005, so this November will mark my 20th anniversary at Montevallo.

Have you held any previous positions at the University? If so, what were they?

Yes, I started as an administrative assistant in the Admissions Office. Later, I transitioned to the role of program assistant for Graduate Admissions and Records. When the Graduate Admissions and Records office was dissolved, I returned to the Admissions Office. In spring 2023, I was promoted to my current position as director of Engaged Education and Public Service.

What brought you to Montevallo?

Montevallo is my home. It provided the perfect balance for me to have a fulfilling career while also being the best possible parent to my four children. Working at Montevallo allowed me to contribute meaningfully to my employer while remaining actively involved in my children’s lives.

What’s the best thing about working at Montevallo?

Without a doubt, the best part of Montevallo is the people — both students and colleagues. The University has also given me the opportunity to grow personally and professionally in ways I never imagined. When I first started working here 20 years ago, I could not have envisioned the life I have now. Montevallo has transformed not just my future but also that of my entire family. My husband and three of my children are also Montevallo graduates, making this university an integral part of our family’s journey.

What is your proudest accomplishment at the University of Montevallo?

My proudest accomplishment is the journey from being a student in the Upward Bound Program during high school to becoming the director of Engaged Education and Public Service. In my current role, I have the opportunity to foster meaningful collaborations between our students and the broader community, creating partnerships that benefit everyone involved. I love my community and this university, and my position allows me to serve both with passion and purpose every day.

Are you currently working on or have you recently completed any interesting projects?

I am currently developing ValloVolunteers, a student volunteer program designed to connect students with diverse community service opportunities throughout the academic year and even during the summer. This program does not require a long-term commitment — students and student organizations can participate at any time simply by filling out an application and selecting a volunteer activity that interests them. Students who accumulate enough community service hours can earn a service-learning cord at graduation, recognizing their dedication to civic engagement.

Why do you belong at Montevallo?

I believe I embody the value of a Montevallo education and experience. Montevallo has shaped me into a skilled professional, but more importantly, it has helped me grow into a better person. Because of my time here, I am not only able to make an impact at the University but also serve my community in meaningful ways. As I continue my journey, I am committed to passing that legacy on to the next generation — mentoring students, fostering opportunities for growth and ensuring that Montevallo remains a place where individuals can discover their potential, pursue their passions and create lasting change in their communities.