Lane College alumna, Danielle Jones (’01), is a shining example of excellence, leadership, and service. A Criminal Justice major during her time at Lane, Jones has built a distinguished and impactful career with the Jackson Police Department, where she now serves as Major in Command of Investigative Services.
Beyond her professional role, Major Jones is deeply committed to community advocacy. She serves as a board member of The Place of Jackson, is a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Human Trafficking Task Force agent and is a former Board Chair for WRAP (Women’s Resource and Rape Assistance Program). Through each role, she exemplifies Lane College’s mission of developing leaders who serve with purpose.
Lane College proudly celebrates Major Jones’ recent promotion and her continued dedication to strengthening the Jackson community through leadership, integrity, and service.
What professional or personal achievement that you are most proud of since graduating from Lane College in 2001?
I am proud of the career I have been able to have at Jackson Police Department (JPD). since graduating from Lane College. I never thought that I would get into Law Enforcement but being at the College challenged me and allowed me to get to know a new me, one that I did not think existed. Had I not gone to Lane, who knows what my life would look like now. I am always grateful for LC!
What is the most rewarding part about your current career/position?
Helping people has always been the greatest reward for me. I may not always get it right, but I commit every day to giving my best efforts.
I strongly believe that if we want our community to be better, we must be willing to take actions that show what that means. Being present in the community and representing what is possible when we operate toward common goals is humbling and fulfilling.
How did your experience at Lane College help shape your career path or prepare you for life?
While at Lane I had the opportunity to complete an internship with the Jackson Police Department (JPD) that completely changed my trajectory. I will forever be grateful to Lane College for that experience.
Being from East Jackson, I knew about the discord between law enforcement and the Community. I originally had ambitions of becoming an attorney. but my internship helped me understand exactly where I could best contribute as part of the solution. Since then, I have dedicated my career to restoring trust and strengthening those relationships.
Was there a specific faculty member, mentor, or campus experience at Lane that played a pivotal role in your development? If so, how?
Yes! Dr. Ernest Brooks and Richard Donnell were some of my best professors at Lane. I loved how they taught in ways that made you really think and understand different perspective. For example, the law is not black and white. There are many gray areas that can be interpreted in so many ways. I can recall one classroom exercise that we did in Prof. Donnell’s on eyewitness accounts that still sticks with me today because of how impactful it was! Now, I use those lessons in my personal and professional life.
What advice would you give current and/or future Lane College students who hope to follow a similar path to yours?
Always look for ways to be a part of the solution no matter the situation. Lane instilled in me a sense of pride in my hometown and its potential. The College also taught me that life will not always be easy. We must be willing to stand firm in our beliefs and do what is right, always.
Many trailblazers came from Lane before us and fought for equality and justice. As Lanites, we should always honor that legacy and carry the torch. Immerse yourself in the full experience that is Lane College and be as engaged as you can in the community that nurtures you.