Mary Jones, Coordinator, Ventura College Student Health Center
Describe your position in 2-3 sentences:
My primary role is to coordinate the Student Health Center at Ventura College. In addition, I co-chair our Safety and Wellness Committee and our Behavioral Intervention Caring Team. I am active on our Emergency Response team at VC and the District and set up our COVID-19 screening protocol for the campus.
How long have you worked for the District?
I have worked with the District since 1995—17 years at Oxnard College and 10 at Ventura College. I served as secretary, vice president and academic senate president for 3 years at Oxnard College.
Are you a VCCCD alum? If yes, which college?
I am not an alum, but I have taken several classes at both OC and VC to improve my Spanish (four semesters), and Introduction to Sign Language and PowerPoint. I taught a leadership course at OC for two semesters.
I received my registered nurse practitioner degree from Emory University and my master’s degree from UCLA.
When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy traveling. I have visited the world’s seven continents at least once and five of them— Africa, South America, Asia, Europe and Australia—twice.
I also enjoy volunteering in Guatemala as an RN. I am learning French and always enjoy reading a good book.
What do you find rewarding about your job or career?
I have been a practicing nurse for over 50 years, and my passion is helping a patient/student achieve their wellness goals. It has been a perfect fit for my personality.
Two words to describe yourself:
Empathetic and generous
Bonus Question: What’s your favorite book?
“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
