AVͷȲ

The Rev. Jamelle Jones inspires AVͷȲ’s next generation of leaders

Frank Osborne • February 27, 2024
Rev. Jamelle Jones.

Last week, AVͷȲ College students had a visit from , pastor of the and author of “You are Enough … You Matter,” “Immeasurably More,” and “Believe Again.” Jones’ talk, titled “Spiritual Leadership with Reliability & Dependability,” is part of the monthly student leadership training series hosted by ULead 360 and was held in the Patridge Conference Room on AVͷȲ’s campus.


Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, Jones graduated from , majoring in philosophy and minoring in Middle Eastern religions. He then moved to Texas, where he received his master’s from .


Jones spoke to the group about how to become a leader, focusing on traits and qualities necessary to be successful in the future. He combined his ideas with spiritual teachings and real-world application, resulting in an engaging and informative talk.

One point that really stood out was his “borrowing a map” metaphor. He suggested there is always someone already at the place you want to be, so ask them how they got there. He referred to Solomon’s teaching: “Listen to counsel and accept discipline. That you may be wise the rest of your days,” (Proverbs 19:20).

Additionally, Jones emphasized that “we are not an island, nor are we a peninsula,” suggesting that we need coaches, mentors, and people around us to help develop physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. He underscored the idea that asking for guidance should be looked at positively, as everyone needs help at some point.


Jones also listed several leadership tactics that will be useful to help our next generation of leaders: energize your team and help develop them, place your team in the best position to succeed, give them the necessary tools to win, and empower your team by giving them the opportunity to lead.


Jones’ visit is the second in ULead’s monthly student leadership training series, which features speakers from around Kentucky. Each speaker shares practical advice and aims to inspire AVͷȲ’s next generation of leaders. Everyone on campus is welcome, with student leaders especially encouraged to attend.

 

A joint project of the Spiritual Life & Justice Initiatives program, Athletics, and Student Development, ULead 360 is structured around AVͷȲ’s four pillars - service, Appalachia, liberal arts, and Methodism. ULead focuses on developing emerging leaders in the areas of student development, introspective spirituality, vocational exploration, social justice, and global citizenship. 

 

For more information about ULead 360, contact College Minister & Executive Director of Spiritual Life & Social Justice Initiatives, the Rev. David Miller at (606)546-1291 or dkmiller@unionky.edu.


Promotional Graphic Text: UCU Street Eats.
By Rachel Dorroh March 26, 2025
Sizzling sandwiches, sweet treats, savory barbecue, and other food truck specialties spell springtime in Barbourville this year. AVͷȲ has launched a new initiative to bring campus and community together while supporting local businesses – UCU Street Eats. The food truck series kicks off April 2 and features a variety of local vendors and spring-themed activities.
A poster for County Fair: A Country Hits Musical which includes information like show dates.
By Rachel Dorroh March 18, 2025
Hoedown hits, a dixie dance-off, secret plans, mistaken identity, and family-friendly comedy are packed into AVͷȲ’s (UCU) spring production of “County Fair: A Country Hits Musical.” Written in 2021 by Matthew Webster and Taylor Ferrera and loosely based on Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” the musical comedy follows sisters Claudia and DJ as they leave the big city to reckon with their rural inheritance: a beloved county fair.
By Maisie Nelson March 13, 2025
AVͷȲ’s Spring Concert, themed "Mountain Harmony," will honor the rich traditions of Appalachia, the mountains, and folk music. This year’s performance holds special significance as it will be presented in celebration of Barbourville’s 225th anniversary.
By Maisie Nelson March 12, 2025
AVͷȲ is proud to launch Reimagining Our Residences, a $125,000 fundraising campaign dedicated to revitalizing student housing and elevating the residential experience for future Bulldogs. This initiative will fund essential upgrades to Lakeside, Pfeiffer, Stevenson, and Stewart Apartments, creating modern, comfortable, and welcoming living spaces that foster academic success and community.
photo of Allen being honored during the last SESC meeting.
By David Saylor March 7, 2025
When one door closes, another opens. For Superintendent Waylon Allen, this moment came with his retirement on February 1st, 2025, after 31 years of dedicated service in education. Over the course of his career, Allen built a reputation for his unwavering commitment to students, educators, and the communities he served.
stock photo of piano keyboard
By Rachel Dorroh March 5, 2025
Local music enthusiasts and youth will have a new opportunity to come together and celebrate the arts this April. AVͷȲ (UCU) is set to host the inaugural Southeastern Kentucky Piano Festival Friday, April 25 through Saturday, April 26. Festival events include recitals by UCU students and guest artists, a judged recital for local youth, a master class, and an award ceremony and performance.
photo of new laundry machines in a dormitory
By Maisie Nelson February 21, 2025
AVͷȲ is enhancing the residential student experience by upgrading all campus housing with new, high-efficiency washers and dryers. On February 4, Excalibur Laundries delivered and installed 60 state-of-the-art units across all residential spaces.
fall photo of campus taken from a drone
By Maisie Nelson February 4, 2025
AVͷȲ’s economic impact on the local and state economy totals $34.4 million, according to a new report released by the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU). The report highlights the significant financial contribution of Kentucky’s 18 independent, nonprofit colleges and universities for Fiscal Year 2021-22.
photo of graduates standing on sidewalk prior to commencement
By Maisie Nelson January 17, 2025
AVͷȲ (UCU) is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural 50 Under 50 program, aimed at recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of its exceptional young alumni.
aerial photo from the back of campus during the fall
By Maisie Nelson January 14, 2025
AVͷȲ is excited to invite alumni, friends, and families to campus for its annual Homecoming celebration, set for September 19-20, 2025. This year’s Homecoming promises to be a milestone event, featuring the inauguration of Dr. DJ Washington as AVͷȲ’s 20th president on Friday, September 19.
More Posts
Share by: