Many alumni fondly remember their time at Drury University, but for Summer Rascoll-Jones, the impact went far beyond graduation. Witness the enduring power of the “Drury Difference” – a commitment to personal growth and community support. Revisit Summer’s original post here, and learn more about Drury’s graduate programs on our website.
Past
Five years ago, I was about to walk into the O’Reilly Family Event Center to receive my master’s in organizational leadership and change. It was an exciting time but also one of the most challenging moments of my life. I was a new mom, was unsure of what I wanted in my career, and didn’t have a job lined up. I was also grieving the loss of my little brother, Gene, to suicide at the beginning of that final semester.
But somehow, I knew I would be okay.
Some of that comfort came from the Drury Difference. I had the academic, professional, and personal support I needed from my colleagues and classmates, which made the unknown feel like a safe next step.
So, where did I end up five years later?
Present
Exactly where my education teed me up to be: Healthcare! Now, please understand I am so far from clinical; I passed out once, watching others give blood. But, Drury taught me to push for good culture and mission-driven organizations. I continue to do that by supporting those who assist our community members at their most vulnerable times.
Initially, at CoxHealth, I taught new hires about their mission, vision, and values. I helped leaders’ construct best practices to guide their teams.
Now, at Jordan Valley Community Health Center, I travel the country bringing in right-fit doctors and advanced practice providers to heal the underserved throughout the Ozarks.
This is where the Drury Difference kicks in again. Every national conference I go to, I always find a Drury grad. The network of strong professionals this university builds feels unmatched.
Over the summer, I will welcome two family practice physicians to Jordan Valley, both Drury grads. They will join our longest-standing Jordan Valley provider, now a medical director, Dr. Chan Reyes, also a Drury grad. I have several mentors and colleagues who are also Panthers for life. When I need to refocus, take a breath, or need help finding my next step, this network has become my best-sounding board. This is the Drury Difference continuing.
Future
What will my next five years bring? I have no idea, but I know the Drury Difference will stay deep in my DNA as it has since I first walked on campus in 2016. I look forward to seeing how my Drury experience continues to guide my career and personal achievements. With each step I take, in the back of my mind, I’ll always be humming the rock version of our favorite song:
“We spur our quest;
Grand be thy destiny
For thee we pray;
Hail! Alma Mater
Drury Alway.”
Drury Alway.
About the Author
Summer Rascoll-Jones graduated from Drury University with a Master’s in Organizational Leadership and Change. A mother and dedicated professional, Summer has built a rewarding career in healthcare, fueled by the skills and connections she fostered at DU.
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