Jeremy Daniel is indeed an exemplary figure.

Having guided over 15 individuals in professional and community settings — alongside his own four children each day — he continues to find motivation in the time spent with others.

“Understanding the impact mentorship had on me as a mentee, it’s a noble responsibility for me to give back, to respect and acknowledge someone who dedicated their time to sit down with me. Now, I have the opportunity to carry on that ethos,” Daniel stated.

His commitment to fostering a stronger community was acknowledged recently with the President’s Fulfilling the Dream Award. This accolade was presented at the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Breakfast, hosted on Jan. 17, recognizing students, faculty, staff, and community members who embody the principles and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“I am both grateful and privileged to receive this award, particularly considering the legacy it honors,” Daniel remarked. “There’s still much work ahead of us.”

Daniel has been mentoring throughout his professional life and views it as a tribute to his own mentors. His journey began in the railroad sector, where he worked in management for five years. In 2014, he took a role with the University of Georgia’s Facilities Management Division as a project manager, a position he held for over two years. During that period, he began mentoring through the Clarke County Mentor Program.

“I realized right away upon arriving in Athens that I wanted to contribute to the community,” he shared. “Servanthood is not merely a title or skill. It’s a mindset.”

In 2016, Daniel transitioned to UGA’s Office of Student Conduct. Two years later, he stepped into a role leading the UGA Mentor Program, a position he held for more than three years. Currently, he is the assistant to the director for strategic initiatives within the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and the Public Service and Outreach unit.

Daniel maintains his mentoring involvement with the Clarke County Mentor Program. His fourth mentee is a seventh grader with whom he spends time biweekly, engaging in chess matches and discussing life, aspirations, and anxieties.

“His enthusiasm uplifts me. His character inspires me to strive for more and achieve greater,” he expressed.

Alongside community mentoring, Daniel also supports fellow university students. He has participated in both the Staff Mentor Program and the UGA Mentor Program.

“I aspire to be a beacon of hope,” Daniel stated. “In any role you find yourself in, how can you inspire hope in the individual across from you? We all need it.”

Daniel approaches mentoring with genuine curiosity and heartfelt care for the mentee. He perceives it as a mutually beneficial relationship where he gains just as much insight.

“It revolves around posing the right inquiries,” he remarked.

Daniel has contributed to the task force for the Clarke County Mentor Program and held various roles on the program’s board. He also recently became a member of the board for Family Promise of Athens.

“There’s never an ideal moment to start. Therefore, if you feel compelled to serve, begin right where you are,” he indicated. “Whatever cause calls to you, if you feel inclined to take action, just move forward.”

Daniel and his family also discover ways to serve collectively, such as volunteering with their church and at the local food pantry. This allows them to honor their faith and the memory of Solomon, the Daniel’s son who was stillborn in November 2016.

“I endeavor to exemplify a life of selflessness rather than selfishness,” he noted.

Daniel motivates everyone to contribute wherever they can.

“Look around and reflect on what ignites your passion and what pains your heart,” Daniel advised. “What is one way you can assist others within the next 30 days? Take a single step towards service, and if you do so, you will keep making those steps, and they will create ripples.”

The article Jeremy Daniel pays it forward through mentoring first appeared on UGA Today.