LEGACY STORIES

Jones College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program has received a significant boost thanks to a generous donation from AAA Ambulance Service. On Monday, February 17, 2025, AAA leaders visited the Ellisville campus to officially deliver a fully equipped ambulance to the college’s EMT program, reinforcing the strong partnership between the college and one of Mississippi’s most established EMS providers.

AAA Ambulance Service has been a loyal and committed partner of the Jones College EMS program since its inception, covering multiple counties across the Pine Belt region. The service provides students with critical hands-on experience through field rotations and employment opportunities, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce. As one of the oldest ambulance services in the state, AAA has led the industry for decades, and its ongoing support exemplifies the collaborative efforts between EMS providers and educational institutions in developing the next generation of emergency medical professionals.

Dr. Benji Sessums, Program Director of the Jones College EMT program, emphasized the importance of this donation in preparing students for real-world scenarios:

“You can train students in a classroom or even in a simulated ambulance, but nothing replaces the experience of working in a real, functional ambulance. Driving students around campus and allowing them to practice patient care in the same environment they’ll encounter in the field builds confidence and ensures they are truly ready for the demands of the job. Partnerships with local ambulance services like AAA are essential in producing a strong EMS workforce that is ready to work on day one after graduation. Without the support of local EMS agencies and hospitals like AAA, we wouldn’t be able to provide the level of education and training that prepares our students to serve their communities effectively.”

This donation aligns with the Jones College Foundation’s Health Science Program Strategic Initiative, which focuses on expanding resources for students pursuing careers in healthcare. Over the last 20 years, multiple EMS services have contributed to the program’s success by donating equipment, supplies, and occasionally ambulances. These contributions ensure that students receive practical, realistic training that mirrors the conditions they will encounter in the field.

The newly donated ambulance will be integrated into the program’s daily training exercises, offering students a unique opportunity to develop their skills in an authentic EMS setting. Having a real ambulance on campus enhances credibility and reinforces the program’s commitment to preparing highly skilled, workforce-ready EMTs and paramedics.

With continued support from industry leaders like AAA Ambulance Service, Jones College remains dedicated to providing high-quality EMS education that benefits not just the local community but the entire state of Mississippi.

To learn more about becoming a supporter of Jones College Health Science Programs, visit the Legacy Giving Campaign Homepage.