Haley Jones- "There is power in taking action"

Leaders experience doubt. This simple fact is often ignored but is full of truth. Some of the greatest leaders in history have at times doubted their abilities, leading them to question their very purpose. But it is not the existence of these questions that is significant. It is instead the response of the leader in times of despair that speaks to their character.

Haley Jones is a leader on the C of O campus. Her presence is felt in various clubs and activities across campus, and contagious personality brightens the day of all who come in contact with her. But even someone as energetic and positive as Haley has been faced with leadership challenges. However, her constant commitment to serving those around her and allowing God to light her path has directed her through even the most challenging of times. 

Haley was raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in a strong and loving family environment.

“I grew up in a very close and loving family. They really gave me the encouragement to become a very social child. I remember a time when my parents actually had to set boundaries of how much I could spend time with people. It’s all I wanted to do!”

Her social abilities shined through her schoolwork, but the high standards she set for herself caused conflict in her life.

“Having a strong work ethic was a blessing. It got me to where I am. But there were definitely times, especially with schoolwork, where I would almost take it too far. I would make myself sick over grades and would be so discouraged if I got anything less than an A. Guess you could say I was kind of a perfectionist back then.”

Unlike many households where responsibilities of the home were divvied up according to gender, Haley and her sisters were encouraged to roll up their sleeves and learn any skill traits they were interested in.

“I was sort of raised in a women empowerment environment. My Dad always says, ‘Girls can do anything men can do. They just look better doing it.’ But he also taught us that sometimes recognizing weaknesses can be a powerful strength. I have always looked up to him so much.”

It was actually a connection through Haley’s Dad that brought College of the Ozarks to her attention.

 

“A family friend invited me to work one summer with Kanakuk at Kids Across America and my cabin co-leader was an alumnae of C of O. She brought me along with her to Honor America the summer before my senior year of high school, and instantly I knew. I turned to her and I said ‘I’m supposed to go to school here!’ I did not pursue any other options. I just…knew.”

The time Haley has spent so far at C of O has already developed her within her career field. She said she was drawn to Public Relations because of her extroverted personality and her love for language and communication. However, there is more behind it for Haley then the press releases and news conferences.

“Personally, the opportunity to be a PR professional is the opportunity to take on a cause that I am passionate about and advocating for that cause. I want to be a voice for the voiceless in all that I do, just as the Holy Spirit has spoken for and through me.”

She is open to wherever God is leading her, but currently feels drawn to the Native American population in the United States.

“Sometimes, in the field, missionaries can be too busy doing basic survival work to take the time to communicate their needs. I would like to be able to intercede on their behalf and advocate for them so they can be on the front lines.”

Haley says that her missions work is humbling, and she often grows greatly during the process.  

“Missions work is not always about what God wants to do through you, but instead focuses on what He wants to do IN you. That’s what it is really about.”

The growth she has experienced and leadership opportunities she has been given have not been without struggle. Nevertheless, she recognizes the positive in it all.

“I have struggled a lot this semester with what it means to be a good leader and it has honestly had me discouraged at times. Why do I try to act as if I have it all together? How can someone as messed up as me be a leader? It is during these times of self-doubt that I rally lean on others and on God. I can see the changes He is calling out in me, and sometimes we have to suffer through it, but He once suffered as well. Being transparent, admitting when I do not have it together, leading by example: that to me is what leadership is about.”

To others who may be struggling in their faith or purpose, Haley has some simple advice that has inspired her.

“You have to get through the pain by leaning on God and those around you. Never lose sight of His plan and continue to share what He has done for you with others. There is power in taking action."