Meet Joshua Jones, the newly appointed director of Education Preparation Services at Tarleton State University, and a Wildcat for life. For nearly 18 years, Joshua Jones poured his heart into coaching basketball across Texas. But after 18 years on the court, he began to feel a pull in a new direction—one that would take him from the gym to the classroom and ultimately transform his life.
Joshua knew he wanted to take his career to the next level. “I was a basketball coach for 18 years, and well, football is king here in Texas, so I decided I needed to do something different with my career.” He wanted to make a difference in education, helping students grow both academically and personally. His search for the right program led him to Abilene Christian University, a choice that would set the foundation for the next chapter of his career.
Why Choosing ACU Online Was Easy For Joshua
When Joshua began exploring graduate programs, flexibility was key. “My wife and I were having kids, so I didn’t have time to sit in a classroom and learn,” he explained. “I needed a program that fit my life.”
ACU Online offered exactly that—a flexible, faith-based learning environment where Joshua could deepen his understanding of education while balancing his family and coaching responsibilities. Joshua was one of the first cohorts for ACU Online’s Master of Education in Instruction and Learning in 2008, and his Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership in 2018.
Called To Serve
Service runs deep in Joshua’s family. Inspired by his father and grandfather, he carries with him the principle to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” That philosophy has shaped his approach as an educator and mentor.
“Part of my role as an educator is to help others become who they are supposed to be,” he shared. “ACU taught me how to serve people in crisis and find solutions that truly benefit students and how they learn.”
Joshua’s impact stretches far beyond the classroom. Over the years, he officiated 17 weddings for former athletes and students—a testament to the relationships he’s built and the lives he’s touched. Seeing his former players grow into strong family and community leaders remains one of his greatest joys.
How ACU Online Shaped Joshua Into A Better Educator
Joshua credits ACU Online’s coursework for giving him the confidence and tools to excel. “I was able to pass my principal exam on the first try with flying colors,” he said.
Through his studies, Joshua explored leadership, conflict resolution and personal development—all lessons he applies daily. “Earning my certification in conflict resolution was one of the greatest things I’ve done for my educational career,” he reflected. “I use it with students, at work at church—everywhere.”
Joshua raved about the coursework and how it provided him with great skills at the moment and for his future. He was able to dissect different leadership studies throughout the program, which molded him into a better leader personally and professionally within his community.
Balancing Life, Career and School
When asked what the hardest part of his academic journey was, Joshua easily answered, balance. Being a basketball coach means having long nights for games, trying to spend time with his wife and children, and maintaining coursework and his dissertation. “ACU has an amazing faculty that is willing to help. Dr. Harper went above and beyond for me when I was writing my dissertation.”
Joshua continued to give praise to the ACU staff and faculty who gave him endless support that empowered him to never give up and complete his dissertation. “I can’t say enough about their support.”
What’s Next for Joshua In His Career
25 years as an educator is a milestone within itself, but Joshua is still looking ahead. Having recently accepted a position as the Director of Education Preparation Service at Tarleton, Joshua relies on a piece of advice he received while studying at ACU: “go where you’re needed.”
Taking this to heart, Joshua has chosen his next steps carefully as an educator, always seeking to be where he can do the most good for others. He now oversees education preparation programs and funding for students who need support in learning.
Joshua’s Advice To New Students
“Explore your options, but ACU Online has professors who are understanding of you and your situation. They are willing to walk with you throughout the entire program!” Joshua said he felt blessed to be able to learn under an amazing group of leaders who have taught him how to make an impact as an educator.
ACU Online for Joshua Jones was more than earning a degree; it was a major investment in his abilities as an educator. His experience helped fill in the gaps with skills that he applied as a coach and will continue to apply further in his career. If you’re interested in taking the next steps in your education career with ACU Online, visit our website or call 855-219-7300.
