Adrienne D. Jones is the Director of Community Development for the City of Daphne, the largest municipality in Baldwin County. Her department provides planning, zoning, and mapping services to citizens and technical expertise in support of the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Adjustment, City Council, and the development community. Adrienne grew up in Prichard and currently resides in the Belforest community of Baldwin County. She and her husband Tim have three loving children.
How long in business and/or related field:
I’ve been in the planning field since 1999 when I began working in Jefferson County, Alabamain the Office of Land Development. I was hired by the City of Daphne in 2006.
Share any relevant education, accolades, experiences related to your success:
I’m a proud graduate of the C.F. Vigor High School Class of 1990. I received a Bachelor’s degree in Community Planning and Urban Studies from Alabama A&M University in 1995 and a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning in 1999. I graduated from the Leadership Baldwin County Program Class of 2015 and previously served on the Steering Committee. I became a Certified Planner and member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) in 2020.
I currently serve as the Vice-chair of the Technical Advisory Committee of the Eastern Shore MPO and Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Alabama Chapter of the American Planning Association.
Tell us why you chose your profession, the value it brings to you and/or the community:
I grew up in the city of Prichard and recognized something that was different. I later learned that “something” was blight. I wanted to be a part of fixing such conditions. My role with the City of Daphne allows me to serve the community directly. My goal is to treat everyone fairly and with respect. My mission is to provide accurate information upon which to base a decision or form an opinion. I try to maintain a solution-oriented thought process in an effort to encourage harmonious development within the city.
Are you involved with the community, any non profits, etc. and why is that important?
I am very appreciative of the wonderful opportunities over the years to partner with community members in various cI’m very happy to be of service where needed. At this time, I am the secretary of the Ruff Wilson Youth Organization Board of Directors. “The Ruff” is an incredible empowerment center for school-aged children on the Eastern Shore. At Malbis Campus of City Hope Church, I also serve as a volunteer on the guest services and youth teams. Additionally, I serve as the Chair of the Educational Development Committee of the Baldwin County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
What is your vision or hope for women in the Mobile and Gulf Coast communities?
My hope for women of the Gulf Coast community is for all of us to use our unique gifts and talents to lovingly support one another in the pursuit of life where no masks (pretenses)are required, where we all can live life authentically and courageously.
What advice or suggestions can you give to women walking the path of empowerment or struggling with self-doubt?
I have several responses:
- God has a plan and purpose for you, one that is much greater than you can imagine. Have faith in that truth as you navigate life.
- Failure is a sign to change course, not to give up.
- Some things have to be dealt with: no if’s, and’s, or but’s about it. Stop trying to pray things away. Confront and conquer it.
- Mental health is as important as physical health. Seek help in every area that you need healing, be it spiritually, mentally, and/or physically.
- Spend time imagining the absolute best version of you (inward and outward), then strive with unshakable determination to attain that vision.
“I want to be the best human being that I can be. I want to play a part in making the world a better place by being a blessing to those around me.”
How important has education and/or continuing education been to you?
I’m a life-long learner. I enjoy having the opportunity to expand my horizons.
How important are relationships/networking to your personal and professional life?
Having solid relationships where everyone can be their true self is very important to me. I’m happy to have genuine people to share life’s journey with.
If you have been to the Focus conference, what impact do you think the organization has on the community?
The organization has a positive impact on the community because it uses a multi-faceted approach to highlight diverse issues that women face; opportunities to learn best practices to navigate challenges; and networking and professional development.
You seem to really love what you do, tell us why:
I desire to help bring about positive change where needed. I love helping, whether leading or following the leader.
How do you think professional environments need to change to support and/or be more welcoming to women?
Pay equality would be an excellent improvement.
What/who inspires you?
I want to be the best human being that I can be. I want to play a part in making the world a better place by being a blessing to those around me.
