The state-of-the-art studio at the NU Idea Center downtown played host to a community podcast, Midland In Our Own Words, on September 13 featuring Jonathan Haynes as host and special guest Dr. Betty Jones, PhD., who shared her experiences as an African American woman living in Midland.
The studio is available for use by all members of the Northwood community. The NU Idea Center is the central hub for students, community members, educators, artists, and professionals to gather to advance diverse entrepreneurial ideas. The Center provides resources and space for local artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. The Center is a community resource and is open to all members of the Midland community and beyond.
Jones is known as an innovative leader in education. A teacher, author, social worker, and mentor to young people. She is a role model for young women. She is one of Midland’s African American pioneers who made a difference in the community.
Betty retired from Delta College as Vice President of Instruction and Learning Services. She is a member of Midland’s Black Coalition, a charter member of the Mu Alpha Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha. She led in creating a partnership with Delta’s sister college, Rift Valley Institute of Technology in Kenya, which named their first library the Dr. Betty B. Jones Library and Media Center.
Haynes was born in Midland and graduated from Midland High School. He currently works for Microsoft as a government affairs specialist in Washington, D.C.
Midland In Our Own Words is a collection of oral history accounts from the people of Midland County, Michigan. Developed by the Midland County Historical Society, Midland In Our Own Words is a living oral history project to uncover stories of influencers and modern explorers in the community.
