Meet Jeffery Bowles, hidden staple of MTSU’s Honors College

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Raised in foster care in Indiana since he was only 4 years old, Middle Tennessee State University custodian Jeffery Bowles made a decision in high school that would set him on a path for much of his life.

Always very social and friendly, he dropped out of high school right before his senior year and attended beauty school on a scholarship and became a hairdresser for more than 30 years.

“I started doing hair and didn’t really think about finishing,” he said, noting that it has always been on his bucket list to get his diploma.

Pictured here outside Middle Tennessee State University’s Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where he works in custodial services, Jeffery Bowles has become a mainstay in the Honors College community. (MTSU photo by Robin E. Lee)

Over the years, he frequently donated items to needy and elderly individuals. He moved to Tennessee in 1999. Now, at age 59, he is working on finally completing his high school education online.

When he is not busy ensuring the University Honors College building is well maintained, he writes poetry and is active with the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Murfreesboro. A lifelong learner, he has taken advantage of opportunities available across campus, such as the writing class offered at the College of Education.

“Throughout the years I’ve gotten to know Jeffery quite well, and I can say without a doubt he is not only an exceptional employee, but a fantastic person. He is charismatic, compassionate, a critical thinker, and a very supportive person,” said Bowles’ supervisor Anthony Myers, assistant unit director for SSC Services at MTSU. “He has always been a dedicated employee who goes well beyond the standards and requirements. Working with Jeffery is a privilege, and I’m grateful to know him.”

He has now been with MTSU for 13 years and has worked in several buildings on campus. At the University Honors College, he is often seen listening to music while he works. He admits that his favorite song is “Getting to Know You” from “The King and I,” but stated he has an eclectic music collection.

“I have tried to treat every job I’ve held with the utmost respect,” Bowles said, recalling a time when he worked at McDonald’s. “Working at MTSU has inspired me to continue my education after I earn my high school diploma.”

“Jeffery really takes his job at the Honors College seriously,” said John R. Vile, dean of the Honors College. “Although he usually begins work at the time that most of us are leaving, he still seems like part of the Honors College community. He has been one of the friendliest and most conscientious workers we’ve had.”

— Robin E. Lee (Robin.E.Lee@mtsu.edu)