In continuing the golden theme of Hall of Fame X, Garry Jones, the President of Full Sail University, imparted some glowing nuggets of wisdom to a student of the Media Communications Bachelor of Science Program (MCBS). The students had the privilege to find out what Mr. Jones considers gold to him. In this case, the term gold was an allegory for the concept of success and accomplishment. After the foundation was laid, Jones had to define what was gold for him when he graduated college: “A God-given confidence that life was going to work out okay for me...I did not have fear about what was next after college.”
Jones continued to describe how his gold transformed after college: “My gold has changed and evolved over the years. My gold is seeing students learning, enjoying the process, working hard and moving towards their dreams. My gold is the hearts of our students. When you think about passion, loving something, enjoying life, enjoying your career, having a dream, it all ties back to the person's heart. Being a part of that is precious.”
After that powerful statement, Jones had to enlighten his audience about staying connected to his gold: “Two ways...even when the times are not glowing and obvious. One is leaving the house with the frame of mind of ‘what good can I do today in the lives of other people?’ The second thing I say is decide to be a creator instead of a victim. We can make incredible stories, probably helping people along the way. What good will come out of this situation?”
Some might perceive Mr. Jones as being on the proverbial Mount Olympus--that he made it to the top. Jones insisted that he is a regular guy and gave some insight into what his passion is for Full Sail University.
“This place, because of the people, is my passion. I feel this place, Full Sail University, is my mission field. I feel almost paternal about it. My students, my graduates, faculty, and staff: I have this beautiful heartfelt care for all of you. I live my life around people I adore."
Author: Kage
Photographer: Angel Ortiz
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