Debbie Jones, 2023-24’s Staff Member of the Year

At the end-of-year Faculty-Staff Appreciation Luncheon, one faculty member and one staff member are named Faculty Member of the Year and Staff Person of the Year. Current HSU employees nominate and vote for each recipient. Receiving a nomination is an honor in itself. A well-sought-after accolade, this marks one of our community’s most diligent, kind, and affable members here at HSU.

Ms. Debbie Jones received her award from President Bruntmyer.

Ms. Debbie Jones, Director of the Six White Horses, was named the 2023-2024 Staff Person of the Year. 

As the Director of the Six White Horses, Ms. Jones faces many challenges and responsibilities in her day-to-day work. Not only is she responsible for the care and maintenance of the horses, but she also provides training and direction for their riders and the organization involved in booking and traveling to events. Though she has the help of part-time and student workers, most of the responsibilities surrounding the Six White Horses fall firmly in her palm. Despite the wealth of work, she performs diligently each day, and her persistence shows in the majesty of the animals, the aptitude of the riders, and the tidiness of her barn. 

Even with all these responsibilities, Ms. Jones never forgets her desire to serve the community. “We travel a lot, and really, our goal is to promote the school,” she shared when asked about her goal when attending events. “We attend ninety or more events a year, and we aim to serve the university by giving service to the community.” As she works to present the Six White Horses throughout the year, the events they attend can vary from full parades to appearances outside of events. No matter where they are, the Six White Horses represent campus, and Ms. Jones ensures they are always in perfect shape. 

Regarding the award, Ms. Jones mentioned, “I want to thank Stacey Martin for nominating me, but I also want to thank the entire faculty and staff. I care very deeply for HSU, and being here has filled me with purpose that I could never have found without all of them.” As with many members of the HSU community, the people surrounding Ms. Jones are her strength. 

With such a storied career here at HSU, it’s no wonder that Ms. Jones was awarded Staff Member of the Year. Her persistence and sincerity in her work are a testament to her faith and service to both the HSU community and beyond.

Thank you, and congratulations, Ms. Jones!