Kathy Jones Named 2026 Emerson Nominee

GODFREY - For nearly a quarter of a century, students at Lewis and Clark Community College have found an advocate, mentor and educator in Professor Kathy Jones. This fall, her peers recognized her commitment to student success by selecting her as the college's nominee for the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.

Jones serves as Professor of Psychology and Human Services, as well as Program Coordinator for both the Human Services and Career Development programs. Since joining Lewis and Clark in 2002, she has spent 24 years helping students not only understand the science behind human behavior but also discover how they can make meaningful contributions to the lives of others.

"I am fascinated with people and why they do the things they do," Jones said. "Psychology helps me understand the 'why,' and Human Services seeks ways to help improve the quality of life for people."

Originally from Kiel, Wisconsin, and now a resident of Godfrey, Jones has built an impressive academic and professional background throughout her career. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, a Master of Arts in Psychological Counseling from Southeast Missouri State University, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Prior to LC, Jones held positions in student affairs and residence life at several universities, including Southeast Missouri State University, Western Kentucky University and Western Michigan University. She also taught at Northcentral Technical College in Wisconsin and has worked in counseling centers and healthcare settings, including conducting mental health evaluations in hospital emergency departments.

Her diverse professional experiences help bring classroom lessons to life for students enrolled in courses such as Child Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Human Sexuality, Health and Personal Growth, Introduction to Human Services, Mental Health First Aid and Crisis Intervention.

"I try to relate the material to students' lives," Jones said. "I want them to know how the material will prepare them for their careers, but also how it will impact their lives."

That practical, real-world approach has become a hallmark of Jones' teaching philosophy. She strives to help students understand the direct connection between classroom concepts and everyday experiences while building skills they can carry into their future careers.

According to her peer nomination form, "Kathy is approachable, and acts as a mentor to both students and faculty alike. She is never content to do something just because it is the way things have always been done."

The Human Services program, which Jones helped develop and took over after the passing of colleague Chad Keller, is among her proudest accomplishments. Now in its second year, the program continues to grow and create opportunities for students interested in helping professions.

"The program offers a practical, hands-on approach to helping others," Jones said. "Students learn counseling skills, crisis intervention and ethics, and they complete two semesters of internships where they work directly with local agencies."

The program's strong community partnerships provide valuable experiential learning opportunities and prepare students either to enter the workforce after earning an associate degree or continue their education in fields such as human services, psychology or social work.

While Jones enjoys teaching course content, the most rewarding aspect of her work is watching students succeed long after they leave campus.

"The best part of my job is when former students come back and tell me about all their successes," she said. "I am so proud of them and pleased to see all they have accomplished."

Many of her former students have gone on to complete bachelor's degrees and graduate programs, a testament to the foundation they built during their time at Lewis and Clark.

Asked what she appreciates most about the college, Jones points to the sense of community that exists among students, faculty and staff. She also credits supportive colleagues and motivated students for helping make the Human Services program successful.

As an educator, Jones understands that students often face challenges outside the classroom that can affect their ability to succeed. Helping them navigate those obstacles while reaching their goals remains one of the most meaningful parts of her profession.

"The most rewarding part is knowing that I can make a difference in the lives of my students," she said.

For those considering a career in psychology, human services or related fields, Jones offers straightforward advice: pursue work that inspires and fulfills you.

"Choose a career that will motivate you, bring you joy and challenge you," she said. "Choosing a career solely based on money will tend to make you unhappy in your work."

To learn more about the Human Services program, visit https://www.lc.edu/academic-programs/degrees-certificates/human-services.html .