Madelyn Jones, employer relations director for the College of Education and Health Professions, recently won the Arkansas Association of Colleges and Employers' "President's Award."

Jones is serving her first term as a director of the AACE Board. The organization is made up of college relations and career service professionals, human resources professionals, employers and workforce development organizations working to ensure the success of college graduates.

A nomination letter noted that Jones took on challenging committee assignments and successfully oversaw transitioning back to an in-person conference after nearly three years following the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The success of this conference is a testament to Madelyn's attention to detail, willingness to brave uncharted waters where there is no precedent to follow and dedication to serving AACE and the career services profession," the award letter noted.

Jones said she feels fortunate to be a part of an organization that allows for substantial networking opportunities and strengthened relationships between university career services and employers.

"I appreciate that I have the chance to build connections that are state-wide that will ultimately enhance the career journey for students and young professionals," she said. "I am humbled and proud to be recognized for the President's Award and look forward to continuing many more years of service."

Jones was named the first director of employer relations for the College of Education and Health Professions in 2021. She serves as the contact for local and regional companies hoping to recruit and hire U of A students from the college, the university's third-largest, with more than 6,000 students. Most of the college's programs incorporate hands-on learning. Majors include nursing, teaching, exercise science, athletic training, occupational therapy, counseling, public health and communication disorders.

Jones coordinates employer recruiting on campus and schedules employer speakers. She also facilitates career events and industry tours and provides training for employers, faculty and students to increase awareness of employment opportunities. Jones was previously the college's career counselor, assisting students with career exploration, career development and transition to their professional careers.

Robert Ellis, who previously worked as the employer relations coordinator for the Career Development Center, was promoted to the career counselor role. He helps students by reviewing resumes and cover letters, facilitating mock interviews and assisting them with building a consistent professional brand.

Businesses are invited to email Jones at smj041@uark.edu or call 479-575-8636. Employers and organizations who want to get involved in the college may fill out an interest form. Students seeking career advice can email Ellis at rce002@uark.edu or call 479- 575-2933.

About the College of Education and Health Professions: The College of Education and Health Professions offers advanced academic degrees as well as professional development opportunities and learning communities in service to the education and health systems of Arkansas and beyond. The college provides the education and experiences for a variety of professional roles, ranging from community mental health counselors to school teachers and leaders. Programs in adult and higher education, along with educational technology and sport management, offer a broad range of options. In addition to education-related opportunities, the college prepares nurses, speech-language pathologists, health educators and administrators, recreation professionals, rehabilitation counselors and human performance researchers.