For many students, college can feel overwhelming. New expectations. Challenging coursework. Uncertainty about what comes next. And in the middle of all of that, the difference often comes down to one thing:
Whether someone takes the time to truly support you.
At Miami University, Dr. Andrew Jones has built his approach to teaching around exactly that idea. As a professor in the Department of Chemical, Paper, and Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Jones has created a learning environment that extends far beyond traditional classroom boundaries. His goal is not just to teach material, but to help students understand how to succeed—academically, professionally, and personally.
That commitment shows up in the details. After every exam, Dr. Jones sets aside days to meet individually with students. These are not quick check-ins. They are intentional, one-on-one conversations designed to help students reflect, improve, and move forward with confidence.
For some students, that means working through challenging concepts.
For others, it means discussing career goals, internships, and future opportunities. Either way, the message is clear:
you matter more than your grade.
He has also reimagined accessibility. Recognizing that traditional office hours do not work for every student, especially student-athletes, Dr. Jones introduced evening “student hours” to better fit their schedules. It’s a small shift with a big impact—one that ensures more students have access to the support they need. But his influence goes even further.
After noticing that many students struggled to begin their job search, Dr. Jones took it upon himself to build a database of more than 700 alumni, tracking their career paths and employers. This resource gives students a starting point, helping them connect their studies to real-world opportunities.
It’s the kind of initiative that doesn’t show up in a syllabus, but changes everything.
His mentorship has also led to tangible outcomes. Students he has guided have gone on to earn prestigious national recognitions, present research at conferences, and pursue advanced academic and professional opportunities.
And speaking of conferences, Dr. Jones has worked tirelessly to make those experiences accessible. By raising more than $55,000, he has helped send students to national meetings where they can present their work, build networks, and expand their horizons.
Through all of this, one theme remains consistent: Connection.
Dr. Jones believes that when students feel known, supported, and valued, they engage more deeply, perform better, and see themselves differently. They stop feeling like a name on a roster. And start feeling like someone with a future. That shift is powerful. And it’s exactly what makes Dr. Andrew Jones a Higher Ed Hero.
👉Learn more about the Higher Ed Heroes campaign and nominate someone making a difference.
