By Rebekah Martin

Hartselle Enquirer

Hartselle City Schools superintendent Dr. Dee Dee Jones has been selected as the 2018 Alumna of the Year of Jacksonville State University.

Jones said the nomination last December came as a surprise thanks to her daughter Caroline, her administrative assistant Jan Byrd and Hartselle head baseball coach William Booth. Jones said she is honored to be chosen for the award.

“I would have never dreamed that I would have the opportunity to receive this award because most of the time it goes to a very prestigious recipient,” Jones said.

Byrd said she was happy to help with the nomination process and believe Jones is deserving of the recognition. “She has experienced so much in her educational career,” Byrd said. “She has a very broad experience, but it’s also deep. I knew she would be a great representation for Jacksonville State … She’s very deserving this honor, and it’s something Hartselle can be very proud of.”

According to the university, several of Jones’ peers and colleagues submitted nomination letters on her behalf that spoke highly of her qualifications. Those people included Booth, former superintendent Vic Wilson, local attorney Randy Sparkman and Hartselle Mayor Randy Garrison.

JSU alum Tyrone Smiley served on the alumni association award committee that chose Jones for this year’s award.

“We were looking for someone who has been great in their profession and done great things in their community as well – just an overall exceptional person,” Smiley said.

Jones will participate in a parade and be recognized during halftime at the university’s homecoming game this September.