Photo of Iesha Jones

After a long day of classes, exams and extracurriculars, students at Utica University know exactly where to find a familiar face and a comforting conversation. Behind the counter of Pioneer Café, Iesha Jones greets students with a warm smile and a simple question, “How was your day, love?” 

She’s more than just a staff member to a lot of customers, she’s family. 

For many students at Utica University, a late-night stop at Pioneer Café is about more than just food—it’s about seeing Jones. 

“She’s like a second mom,” sophomore Keisha Davis said. “No matter what kind of day you’re having, she’s always got something to say that makes you feel better.” 

Jones, who works the night shift from 4:30 to 11 p.m., has become a beloved figure on campus. Whether students need a listening ear, a laugh or just someone who remembers their usual order, she’s there. 

Jones has been working at Pioneer Café for seven years, but her impact goes far beyond the counter. Her ability to make students feel at home has earned her the affectionate nicknames “Ma” and “Auntie” from those who’ve grown close to her. 

“I never expected to become that person for so many students,” Jones said. “But when you see the same faces every night, you start to build relationships. You learn their stories, their struggles, their dreams, and I just try to be there for them.” 

Her genuine care hasn’t gone unnoticed. Students often linger a little longer after ordering, not just for the food, but for the conversation. 

“She always asks how my day was, and she actually listens,” senior Michelle Holland said. “It’s not just small talk, she remembers things, she follows up, and she makes you feel like you matter.” 

Jones’ connection with students is rooted in her own experiences. She knows what it’s like to navigate a new environment, especially so far from home. She understands students need a support system and strives to be that. 

“College is stressful,” Jones said. “Sometimes, students just need to vent. Sometimes, they just need to hear that they’re doing okay. I’m happy to be the person they turn to.” 

Jones grew up in East New York until the age of 9 before moving to Bed-Stuy Brooklyn, then Utica at the age of 20 where she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for 12 years in most of the nursing homes in the region. However, she had to stop working in the field after being diagnosed with Graves’ disease.

Jones has been at Utica University since November 2017. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and kids. Her hobbies include enjoying a good book and sipping wine. 

Her kindness extends beyond the café. Students have shared stories of times when Jones offered advice, helped them through tough moments, or even just brightened their day. 

“She has this way of making you feel seen,” senior Tori Rentas said. “You can tell she really cares.” 

Though her shifts end at 11 p.m., the impact of her words and kindness lingers far beyond closing time. For many, Jones represents the kind of warmth and familiarity that makes a campus feel like home. 

As for Jones, she says the best part of her job isn’t the work itself—it’s the students. 

“They keep me going,” Jones said. “I hope they know that just as much as they say I help them, they help me too.” 

Jones may serve meals, but to students at Utica University, she’s serving something even greater—comfort, connection, and a reminder that even on the hardest days, someone is in their corner. 

“The best part of working here is talking to the students, especially when they had a bad day,” Jones said.