A Journey of Leadership

Pat Jones-Horton has consistently demonstrated a commitment to leadership throughout her life. Her beginnings as a Girl Scout cookie seller and the hopscotch champion in third grade hinted at her determination to carve her own path. This trajectory has led her through various realms, including business, politics, and nonprofit leadership.

From Business to Politics

In 1980, Pat co-founded Dan Jones & Associates, a public opinion and marketing research firm in Utah, with her late husband Dan. Initially, she faced challenges in gaining recognition for her contributions. “Clients would always ask him the questions — they wouldn’t look toward me. I was an accessory,” she noted. However, her husband ensured her efforts were acknowledged, recognizing her as the brains behind the operations.

A Voice for Education

Pat’s passion for advocacy led her to politics in 2006, motivated by a desire to improve public education funding in Utah. Despite the risk to her business during this politically charged period, she won a seat in the Utah House of Representatives and later transitioned to the Senate. Over a span of 14 years, she held influential leadership positions, deeply investing in understanding diverse political perspectives.

“I made a point to go sit with Republicans to get to know them better,” she shared. This strategy not only allowed her to build rapport but also enabled her to address educational needs effectively.

Leading the Way for Women

In January 2015, Pat transitioned once again, stepping away from politics and her business to embrace a new role as the leader of the Women’s Leadership Institute. Under her guidance, the nonprofit initiated the “Elevate HER Challenge,” which encouraged organizations to establish measurable goals for increasing women’s representation in leadership positions.

“It’s a commitment for companies to think intentionally about elevating women,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of gender equity in decision-making roles.

A Life Beyond Work

Throughout her career, Pat has balanced her professional pursuits with family life, raising four children and becoming a grandmother to 17. Even after her recent retirement, she remains active in pursuing personal interests like biking, line dancing, and music—activities she enjoys alongside her husband, Professor Joe Horton.

A Lasting Impact

Pat Jones-Horton continues to embody the spirit of advocacy for justice and equality. “I’ve learned a lot,” she concluded, “but one thing hasn’t changed: we all deserve a seat at the table — and I’m going to keep fighting until we’re all there.”