Dr. Jalin Johnson: A true inspiration and role model. Coming into the Doctoral program at Brandman University I had no idea the relationships I would build or mentors I would gain for a lifetime. Dr. Jalin Johnson has been not only been a mentor, but a counselor, teacher, role model, leader, and someone I would consider a close family member. I will never forget meeting her at immersion during the meet the chairs. I had no idea I would find my dissertation chair during this time, but when I spoke with Dr. Johnson, I knew instantly that she would get me to the finish line. The first words that came out of her mouth were “I am on your team and I want to get you done.” I will never forget these words because as a leader you know that in order to be successful you have to have a good support team that will get you where you need to be. From that day forward Dr. Johnson stood by those words and December 10th, 2018 I was officially announced Dr. Tiffany Ware.
Without her motivation, strength, and drive to push me to the finish line, I do not think I would have finished. Until this very day her quote “Be well” has stuck with me. Though it is so simple, these words always sit with me and put a smile on my face because I know she genuinely means it.
She has the true characteristics of a leader and I thank God for her passion to help students be the best and bring the best out of them.
Another quote she stands by is by Dr. Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” If this quote does not reflect Dr. Johnson to the core I do not know what else does.
Dr. Johnson makes sure her students feel appreciated and respected during classes and even after they are completed.
Thank you, Dr. Johnson, for being the motivation in my life and standing by me to ensure that I would be the leader I set out to be.
With Great Honor,
Dr. Tiffany D. Ware
US Army Veteran & CEO of Veteran Confessions tware03@gmail.com