Schanell Jones, MSW ’23, always knew she wanted to help people. As a child, she imagined herself in a classroom shaping young minds. But over time, she discovered a passion to be a reliable helper and connector for families, children, and individuals.

"I was inspired by the need and what I believe to be my purpose in life, to simply help those in need, to educate them to help themselves, and to help them gain access to those essential tools they may need to be successful in their lives and in the lives of those they encounter," Jones said.

Over 17 years, Jones built a career spanning SNAP and Medicaid programs, Child Protective Services investigations, and her current role as Program Specialist II with the Texas Department of State Health Services. With each chapter her expertise grew, as did her network of resources.

Today, Jones serves as a vital hub for families navigating the Texas Health Steps program, which connects Medicaid providers with clients, arranging transportation to medical appointments, sourcing food assistance, and ensuring children receive timely immunizations. Her days start at 7 a.m. with team huddles, then pivots between client calls, nonprofit outreach, and provider coordination. She moves constantly, connecting everyone to everything.

For Jones, success can be a subtle change in her client’s demeanor. It appears the moment a person's body relaxes, when what felt impossible, suddenly is not. It shows up in a client's smile, in a quiet "thank you," in the words "I understand" or, even better, "I can do this."

"Success in social work feels rewarding, refreshing, and renewing to your soul and to the profession," Jones said.

Her Walden University MSW journey deepened that conviction. During her second year of graduate school, her field supervisor and professor reinforced a truth she now carries into every client interaction: purpose is not solely about personal goals. Sometimes a life's work is about those you help navigate their most difficult moments.

"Sometime our purpose in life lies not solely in our personal goals, but in the fact that we have been assigned the role to be instrumental in developing the lives of others," Jones said. "We are being used in a very mighty way to enlighten, engage, and help evolve the lives of others in the world."

Jones proves that one helper, well-positioned at the hub, can make a tremendously positive impact.