03.05.12 / Category: Volunteer Spotlights

Q & A with NPHC President Jennifer Jones

Jennifer M. Jones (aka JJ) is currently serving as the 33rd National President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc. The NPHC is composed of nine International Greek letter Sororities and Fraternities and promotes interaction among these organizations. Jones has previously served on the Board of Trustees for the Circle of Sisterhood Foundation and works at Southern Methodist University. She lives by the mantra, ” I am because someone else was.  I must give back.” She took a few minutes to reflect on her involvement and in the importance of the Circle of Sisterhood Foundation. We hope she will inspire some NPHC groups across the country to explore a partnership with the Circle of Sisterhood.

What motivated you to get involved with the Circle of Sisterhood?

My motivation was Ginny (Circle of Sisterhood Founder) and her excitement and passion.

When you read the book, Half the Sky, how did it impact you?

When I read the book it made me think, that could have been me.  I have been so blessed with the life God has given me.  Then I thought about my favorite quote: Service is the rent that you owe for the space that you occupy, and I thought CoS is a way to give back to those who have not been given the opportunities that I have.

What was your take-away from your experience with the Board of Trustees?

My experience working with the board was when you get a group of individuals who cares, boy, the things that you can achieve in a short amount of time.

As you serve as President of NPHC, how would you like to see those organizations embrace the foundation? 

Practically for the sororities, what is being done through the foundation is what we do.  There are several programs that our organizations do that can benefit from the resources of the foundation.  I would like the organizations to become partners with CoS. Collective efforts lead to empowerment.

What tips do you have for other administrators working with students to get them excited about philanthropy & service? 

One tip that I have is to make Half the Sky your first year reading assignment if they have such a program.  The message is in the book.

What do you see in the future of the Circle of Sisterhood? 

It is destined to grow and be an international phenomena!