Inspiring Your Greatest You

About Dr. E. Marcel Jones

Dr. E. Marcel Jones is an accomplished public speaker, author, and workshop presenter with a passion for inspiring others to become the greatest version of themselves. His journey towards leadership and self-expression began as a drum major in high school, where he discovered his natural aptitude for leading and motivating others.

After being inspired by one of his college professors, Dr. Jones majored in English and went on to teach British Literature to high school seniors and Language Arts to middle schoolers. His dedication and expertise in education led him to administrative leadership roles, including the founding principal of Dexter Middle School located in Cordova, TN. This role further solidified his reputation as a capable leader and catapulted him to a managerial position of Teacher Placement and Recruitment in the Human Resources Department, where he served an additional 15 years.

Driven by a deep sense of purpose and passion to inspire others to greatness, Dr. Jones resigned from the Shelby County Schools District to take on his current position as the Pastor of Cummings Street Church in Memphis, TN.  An influential figure in his community, Dr. Jones is known for his practical, dynamic, and thought-provoking teaching style. Whether he is conducting leadership workshops or preaching on Sunday mornings, his messages not only resonate with a diverse audience but also have helped countless people discover deeper ways to live, serve, and grow.

Dr. Jones’ academic achievements are remarkable, having earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in English, a Masters of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Memphis.  Nonetheless, throughout his career, Dr. Jones has faced numerous challenges, including being told by a university professor that he wasn’t cut out for Master’s level coursework. His resilience and determination, however, garnered him accolades, including the Outstanding Doctoral Candidate Award and led to an Adjunct Professor position at Christian Brothers University, where he imparts his knowledge and experience to future school administrators.

Dr. Jones enjoys serving the Memphis community and is a former advisory board member for the Neighborhood Christian Center, Hickory Hill Community Post Office, and the University of Memphis Career Services. In addition, Dr. Jones has contributed to various local publications, including Grace Magazine and Spirit Magazine, and has co-hosted a television program entitled, The Street.  His writing talents have earned him the prestigious Tri-State Defender’s BEST IN BLACK Award and a nomination for the Richard Wright Literary Award.  Justrecently, Dr. Jones was recognized with the Trailblazer Award from Agape Child & Family Services.

With a wealth of experience, a commitment to leadership, and a heart for inspiring others, Dr. E. Marcel Jones continues to make a significant impact on individuals and communities alike through his speaking engagements and workshops.  However, his impact extends beyond his speaking engagements as the owner of Verse One Enterprises, a publishing company he founded in 2019.  Dr. Jones has published over 40 books, including two paperbacks that he co-authored with his two teenage children.

Beyond his professional endeavors, his greatest joy comes from his family—his wife and two children—who provide unwavering support for his endeavors. With a genuine passion for inspiring others and a commitment to positive change, Dr. E. Marcel Jones continues to leave a lasting impact on the lives of those he encounters.