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Perris Jones ’17 Shares Leadership Lessons at Fall Captains' Dinner

At the second annual Fall Captains’ Dinner, Perris Jones ’17 delivered a powerful message to student-athletes. Drawing from his own experiences as a University of Virginia (UVA) football player and his remarkable journey of resilience, Jones outlined what he believes to be the core tenets of leadership: “Leadership is not about control; it’s about service.” 

Through earning a scholarship to UVA, going from a walk-on freshman to a starting running back, and recovering from a life-altering injury, Jones has learned leadership requires consistency, integrity, and empathy. He encouraged current EHS captains to be role models both on and off the field, noting that leadership is a lifestyle that demands authenticity and credibility. “My experience as a walk-on shaped my belief that leadership is rooted in empowering, serving, and uplifting those around you,” he said. “It was one of the most trying but rewarding experiences in my life.”

Jones also reflected on the adversity he faced. In November 2022, just weeks before the end of the season, four of his teammates were shot by another player, leaving three dead — including his roommate — and one severely injured. This tragedy led to the cancellation of the remainder of the Cavaliers’ season but strengthened Jones’ resolve to return to football in honor of his late friends and teammates. “I’m giving UVA everything I have for one last ride. Running it back this time for the ones lost #1, #15, and #41,” he shared in a social media post as he returned for one final season.

During his last season a year after the shooting, Jones suffered a spinal injury that left him partially paralyzed in a game against the University of Louisville. Just 20 days after the injury, Jones walked out of the hospital, showing yet again  his determination and optimism.

Jones left the student-athletes with a lasting message: “Leadership is a conscious decision to be the same person in every aspect of your life.” This sentiment resonated deeply with the captains, inspiring them as they prepared to lead their teams through the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming fall sports season.
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