For many years, Cairo has weathered its own storms, facing economic hardship and the pressures of decline. Yet within this community, a quiet resurgence is taking shape, and it’s people like Dorlissa Jones who are leading the way.

Dorlissa’s journey to becoming Cairo’s new junior high and high school principal is one filled with grit, perseverance, and a deep-seated belief in the power of education. Born and raised in nearby Pulaski, Dorlissa grew up in a family that understood hardship but also the value of community. “I’m a Meridian Bobcat,” she says proudly, recalling her 1995 graduation from Meridian High School. But her path to Cairo began with an unexpected turn.

After spending 16 years as a paraprofessional at Meridian, where colleagues continuously encouraged her leadership potential, Dorlissa set her sights on becoming a teacher. But life had other plans. Her first husband was tragically shot and killed in Cairo, forcing her to put her education on hold while raising two young children. “I had to show them that in spite of trauma, we have to let that build us into who we need to be,” she reflects. “You don’t let life’s circumstances define your future.”

And she certainly didn’t.

Despite her personal hardships, Dorlissa went on to earn not one, but two bachelor’s degrees, and later, two master’s degrees. After a stint teaching at Meridian and Charleston, Illinois, Dorlissa became a student academic specialist in Cairo. It was here, in the heart of a community that mirrored her own struggles and strengths, that she found her calling.

“The superintendent told me, ‘When I wrote the job description, I had someone else in mind,’” Dorlissa recalls, a hint of a smile forming. “But when I came in for the interview, I changed their mind.” That ability to change minds and hearts is a hallmark of Dorlissa’s leadership. She took on the role of principal when no one else applied, sensing that the district needed her—and she, it.

What makes Dorlissa special is her unwavering commitment to Cairo’s students, many of whom have faced adversities of their own. “There’s so much potential here,” she says, noting the academic strength often overshadowed by the area’s economic struggles. “The kids can be academically sound. They just need the right guidance to bring it out.”

But Dorlissa also understands the challenges that extend beyond the classroom. “We’ve been hearing negative things about this community for so long. It’s always been about what’s wrong. But there’s greatness here, too—outside of sports, outside of the usual stories,” she insists. Her aim is not just to be a principal, but a mentor, someone who can help students navigate the barriers in their lives—just as she did.

Building trust hasn’t always been easy. “At first, they didn’t know me. I’m from Meridian, I live in Charleston, so why would they trust me?” But with patience, Dorlissa has become a magnet for the students, a figure they gravitate toward because she sees something in them that others may overlook. “The kids know I’m firm, but they also know I care. They know it’s for their benefit.”

And it’s not just the students she’s guiding. In her first year as principal, she’s also making strides in aligning the staff with her vision. “I’ve been in every role— paraprofessional, teacher, admin—so I understand the challenges. But if we can all get on the same page and bring consistency, we can really make a difference.”

Dorlissa is quick to point out that the Cairo community is on the rise, even if progress is slow. “We’re building something great here, but it’s going to take time.” Her determination is palpable. “The kids are seeing that great things can happen, and even though they don’t always agree with me, they trust that the outcome will be greater.”

In many ways, Dorlissa’s journey mirrors the story of Cairo itself. Resilient, often underestimated, but full of untapped potential. As she continues to inspire those around her, she’s not only leading the district’s next generation—she’s helping the entire community believe in a brighter future.

For Cairo, and for Dorlissa, the best days are yet to come.