Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Image by Nadia Hassan, Pensacola State College
Dr. Jon Stephenson, a proud native of Walker County, Alabama, and a Sumiton Christian High School graduate, has built a distinguished career in higher education.
As Associate Vice President of Student Affairs at Pensacola State College, he oversees student services across six campuses, leveraging years of experience gained in a variety of roles.
Jon’s initial foray into education was unexpected. Though he admired his father, Dr. Devin Stephenson—a longtime leader in education and current President of Florida Polytechnic University—he didn’t initially plan to follow in his footsteps.
“I wanted to find my own way,” Jon admits. That perspective changed when several leaders within Alabama’s two-year college system recognized Jon’s potential and encouraged him to apply for a recruiter position at Shelton State Community College. “That job opened my eyes to the impact I could have in education,” he says.
This opportunity became the foundation of a career that has since spanned various positions and institutions, each teaching Jon new lessons about leadership and the student experience.
After his first role at Shelton State, he took a brief detour into mortgage loans, working alongside former teammates from UAB. However, education drew him back, and Jon soon found himself working on a contract basis at Bevill State Community College, assisting with programs and events like Upward Bound and the annual Torch Invitational.
“Being at Bevill felt like coming home,” Jon reflects. “I was able to connect with students in a way that reignited my passion for education.”
From there, his career blossomed.
As the Director of New Student Orientation and Career Coach at J.F. Drake State Technical College, Jon was instrumental in the school’s transition from a technical to a community college. “It was a time of growth and reinvention,” he says. “I learned how to navigate change and build something from the ground up.”
At Athens State University, he coordinated field experiences and internships. “That role stretched me,” Jon recalls. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me a better educator.”
At Wallace State Community College, Jon focused on student engagement and enrollment, helping the institution achieve record-breaking numbers. “It was rewarding to see how our efforts translated into real growth for the college,” he says.
These experiences prepared Jon for his current role, where he emphasizes a “student-first” approach.
“Higher education is constantly changing, and we must evolve with it,” he explains. “Every day, I’m looking for new ways to support students and my team to create the best environment for learning and growth.”
His leadership has contributed to Pensacola State College’s recent growth, with the institution celebrating its fifth consecutive semester of record enrollment.
He says that the functions of the Office of Student Affairs across secondary education institutions remain at the heart of higher education.
“It’s not just about directing students to a website or handing them a brochure,” he explains. “It’s about sitting down with them, understanding their needs, and guiding them every step of the way. Students who feel supported and connected are more likely to succeed.”
While Jon initially resisted following in his father’s footsteps, he’s come to embrace the parallels in their careers and credits much of his success to his father’s influence.
“Growing up, I watched him lead with integrity and inspire people around him,” Jon says. “Even now, in his 70s, he has this incredible ability to connect with and uplift others. He’s my biggest supporter and my toughest critic.”
He also credits his maternal grandfather, Howard Dodd—former Mayor of Sumiton—as a significant influence on his path in education. Dodd played a pivotal role in establishing Walker State Technical College, which later became Bevill State, as the first technical school in Walker County.
Despite his demanding career, Jon remains deeply connected to his roots in Walker County, and serene, picturesque Smith Lake remains a favorite retreat.
“It’s my favorite place to unwind,” he says. “Even though I live in Pensacola, I’ve only been to the beach twice. My heart is at the lake, where I can recharge and spend time with family.”
As he continues his work at Pensacola State College, Jon’s focus remains on making a difference in his current role.
When others ask about his next move, he says, “I don’t know what the future holds, but my priority is doing my current job to the best of my ability. Success isn’t about chasing titles; it’s about making a difference where you are right now.” WL