Strolling across campus, Huey Jones takes time to stop and chat with everyone he meets, even strangers.

In his office amidst years worth of Penn State paraphernalia, the Division of Undergraduate Studies adviser kicks back in his chair and relaxes while working through his busy schedule, greeting all who pass his office with an enthusiastic "Hello! How are you?"

Jones, a Louisiana native, attended Southern University, a predominantly black university in Baton Rouge, where he always wanted to be an academic adviser "to inspire young people to take advantage of opportunities for education." Jones said he "transported Southern hospitality to Penn State" when he arrived in State College in 1973.

Jones' friendliness and good nature complement his devotion to his work.

"My job is extremely important and relevant, and I enjoy the challenges immensely," Jones said. "It is rewarding and challenging to consistently inspire and motivate students to live up to their academic potential."

Lawrence Young, director of the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, used the oxymoron, "laid-back intensity," to describe Jones' style, explaining that people do not always necessarily see the intensity of his efforts.

"He gives the appearance of being laid back, but in reality he is dedicated, devoted and intense in what he puts his efforts into," Young said.

"He is one of the people here at Penn State who has 'labored in the vineyards' anonymously but has had a tremendous impact on helping students through the system, and he is not often recognized or rewarded."

Students who rely on Jones for advising agree that he works hard not only to give them sound academic advice, but also to become friends.

"He's more than an adviser --he's a friend to me," said Minerva Matos (sophomore-division of undergraduate studies). "Just about everything you can think of, he's helped me with."

James Stewart, University vice provost for underrepresented groups, also praised Jones' dedication in his relations with both colleagues and students.

"Penn State can be a very impersonal place," Stewart said. "Huey Jones brings a sense of concern and humanity to his work. We need more of that at Penn State."

Besides his work as an adviser, Jones also participates in several student organizations on campus. He serves on the University Appeals Board as well as the Forum on Black Affairs.

But Jones' Southern hospitality extends far beyond the University. Since his arrival in State College more than 20 years ago, Jones has been involved in numerous community activities.

The State College Tree Commission, of which Jones was a member, tries to "make sure State College stays aesthetically beautiful" and focuses especially on the condition of area trees, Jones said. If trees are incorrectly planted or diseased in any way, the tree commission helps save them.

Although he no longer serves on the commission, Jones still enjoys gardening and landscaping whenever he finds time. His diverse interests also include rejuvenating and restoring antique and classic cars as well as cooking Cajun-style foods with his wife Ireen. He admitted that although he enjoys cooking, he is "a lousy cook" and he usually relies on his wife to create culinary masterpieces.

Ireen Jones, like her husband, is also very active in the State College Community. She was recently profiled in The Centre Daily Times for her work as a founding member of the Bethune Memorial United Methodist Church.