Turner College Grad Jennifer Joyner Speaks about Service with the Georgia Education Advancement Council

Jennifer Joyner is the Assistant Vice President of Donor Experience at Columbus State University and a longtime leader within the GEAC community. She earned her BA from Mercer University and her MSOL from the Turner College and has been part of Georgia Education Advancement Council for nearly 15 years, including about a decade of service on the Board of the GEAC. Joyner recently spoke about her service with the GEAC.

Why did you get involved with GEAC?

“I got involved with GEAC because, generally speaking, I’m not a fan of conferences. However, GEAC is different. It brings together people and institutions that share similar mindsets, challenges, and experiences. The networking opportunities and the relationships I’ve built with colleagues across the state - people I know I can call on for advice, support, or collaboration - have been truly invaluable. I was also encouraged to get involved, and I’m so glad I said yes. When someone reaches out and invites you to help or become involved, take the opportunity and jump in. You never know where those connections and experiences may lead, and you certainly won’t regret it.”

What’s one lesson you’ve learned that you wish you knew earlier in your career?

“Be courageous and creative enough to try new things, even if success is not guaranteed. I think there is often pressure to be ‘perfect’ in everything we do, but some of the greatest growth and innovation come from being willing to take risks, think differently, and learn through the process. As a manager, I’ve learned that encouraging creative thinking and giving people the freedom to approach challenges in new ways often leads to the best and sometimes the most surprising results. Not every idea will work exactly as planned, but creating an environment where people feel comfortable experimenting and sharing ideas fosters growth, confidence, and innovation in ways perfection never could.”

What’s one challenge in advancement you enjoy tackling?

“I love developing and managing new projects and experiences. There is something incredibly rewarding about taking an idea from concept to reality and creating meaningful experiences for others to enjoy. Seeing people connect with and genuinely appreciate those experiences brings me the greatest sense of joy and fulfillment. What makes it even more meaningful is when those experiences inspire support, engagement, and pride for the institution. Knowing that the time, energy, and hard work invested can ultimately strengthen relationships and create lasting impact makes every challenge and long hours worthwhile.”

Morning person or night owl?

“I am definitely a morning person, but I have to bring out my night owl when helping Wes host the Hospitality Suite during the conference! I’m truly like Cinderella but get lots of caffeine during the conference. Hosting the Hospitality Suite with Wes is what makes the conference special for me.”