By Hadassa Ferreira, Contributor Writer
College time is a complex period, not only due to the substantial acquisition of crucial information, but also because it represents a pivotal moment in individuals’ lives that can alter everything. Choosing a professional path or determining what to do with the pursued degree can be challenging.
Therefore, having guidance on this journey is priceless, and Saint Leo’s Mission Driven Leaders program offers the perfect opportunity to gain insight into infusing purpose into a professional career, and to hear from successful professionals about their career experiences.
The event that occurred on March 21, at the Student Community Center’s boardrooms was hosted by Dr. Janis Prince of the department of social sciences and featured Jeannine Joy, the president and CEO of the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties, as the main guest.
Jeannine Joy is a Saint Leo alumna who graduated with academic honors in 1994, earning a bachelor’s degree in English after participating in the Honors Program at Saint Leo University.
In 2018, she completed the United Way Worldwide Advance Leadership Program, and more recently, she graduated from the Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program at Harvard Business School.
Joy has dedicated 28 years to working with the United Way organization, during which time she has helped raise and distribute over 200 million dollars, benefiting hundreds of communities.
Joy’s journey with the United Way began following a disillusionment with the academic field. Initially aspiring to be a teacher, she taught middle school students for a period before realizing it was not her calling.
However, upon joining the United Way, she found a deep sense of excitement and passion for the nonprofit sector and its mission. She began her tenure in the communication department, focusing on fundraising initiatives. Subsequently, she transitioned to the marketing department, eventually rising to the position of Vice President within that sector.
Due to her life experiences, Joy firmly believes in the importance of working in a field that one is passionate about.
“If you’re satisfied with your heart and your mind, it gets easier to go to work every day,” said Joy.
Joy is not only a dedicated and excellent professional but also deeply passionate about her profession and proud of her history at Saint Leo. Through her example, students had the opportunity to learn how the connections and choices made during college can profoundly impact their future careers.
For Joy, her time at Saint Leo University was not just about academic education, but also about life experiences. She highlighted how her English major honed her communication skills, enabling her to excel professionally. Additionally, her involvement in sports at Saint Leo taught her valuable lessons in time management.
“If you can tell a story well, anyone can be a connection to anyone anywhere.” She said regarding what she learned from her English major. “I am a procrastinator. So, the more I have to do, the more I manage my time.”
Joy also emphasized the significance of mentorship and guidance in her professional journey. She spoke about specific Saint Leo professors who played pivotal roles in her life, along with her mentor at the United Way, who served as the organization’s president before her. Additionally, she acknowledged the support of her father, who consistently encouraged her to pursue her dreams.
She said, “It is very important to have mentors throughout your career, they help you when you have a hard time figuring out what to do.”
The discussion with Jeannine Joy was truly enlightening, offering attendees an invaluable opportunity. As the leader of the 5th largest nonprofit organization in the United States, she shared insights into various aspects such as decision-making processes, nonprofit management, and the challenges of leadership, particularly as a female.
But undoubtedly, one of the most valuable pieces of advice she offered was the importance of kindness. From small gestures like holding the door open for the next person to larger actions that can be life-changing, being kind and empathetic is something Joy considers paramount.
Joy’s wisdom is noteworthy, and Saint Leo students departed the event feeling inspired and motivated to strive for the best versions of themselves.
