Staff Spotlight: Rebel Jones
March 1, 2026 • Behind the Scenes
Staff Spotlights are an opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look into our office and learn a little bit about the dedicated Student Affairs team members who commit their time and energy to supporting student success and thriving.
Rebel Jones
Director, Testing and Evauation Services
What do you value most about working here?
What I value most about working here is the people. Our division is made up of some of the hardest-working, most dedicated professionals I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Beyond their work ethic, they are genuinely pleasant, positive, collaborative, and mission-driven individuals. There’s a strong culture of mutual respect and support, which makes even the most challenging days bearable. Being surrounded by colleagues who care deeply about doing excellent work—and about one another—makes DSA an exceptional place to contribute and grow.
What is an achievement you are proud of since joining UNT Health?
The achievement I’m most proud of is the role I’ve played in shaping how UNT Health approaches student assessment. I developed the evaluation systems that empower students to provide structured feedback on their courses and instructors. I implemented the ExamSoft platform over fifteen years ago and have guided its growth into a cornerstone of UNT Health assessment strategy. Seeing how these technologies have enhanced curricular oversight, strengthened competency tracking, and created a consistent mechanism for student input has been incredibly meaningful. The systems may operate quietly in the background, but their impact on academic quality and student experience is significant—and that’s something I’mproud to have contributed to.
How would you describe the team here in the Division of Student Affairs?
The team in the Division of Student Affairs is exceptionally hardworking and deeply dedicated to our mission. They consistently go above and beyond to support students, often working behind the scenes to ensure that students have the resources, guidance, and advocacy they need to succeed. What stands out most is their student-centered mindset—every decision is filtered through the question, “How does this benefit our students?” In addition to their strong work ethic, the team leads with compassion. They understand that students are navigating rigorous academic programs alongside personal and professional challenges, and they respond with empathy, patience, and genuine care. That combination of diligence and heart is what makes this team so impactful.
How do you balance work and personal life?
Balancing work and personal life starts with clearly defining your priorities—and keeping them in the right order. Work is important, but it should not occupy the top positions in your life. If it does, it’s worth taking a step back and reassessing what truly matters. I try to align my time and energy with my priorities. That means being fully present and committed while I’m at work, but also intentionally disconnecting at the end of the day. When I leave the office, I make a conscious effort to shift my focus away from work and toward the people and commitments that matter most. Family, friendships, and faith are foundational. Investing deeply in those areas provides perspective, renewal, and purpose—things that ultimately make me better at my work as well. Balance isn’t accidental; it requires intentional choices about where we give our time and attention.
What's the last book you read or show you binge-watched?
I'm an audiobibliophile, meaning I love to listen to audiobooks. I recently finished The Impossible Fortune (Book 5 in The Thursday Murder Club series). If you haven’t discovered the Thursday Murder Club books, I strongly recommend them all!
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
The Maldives.
What is a fun fact about you?
I saved two people in the span of one week. The first I brought back to life through CPR, and just three days later I put out a man who was engulfed in flames.
If you are a Student Affairs employee and would be interested in being featured in an upcoming Staff Spotlight or would like to recommend someone, please email studaffr@unthealth.edu.