Shelton-Jones named to IU Indianapolis’ Top 10 undergraduates

Ally Shelton-Jones has done something no one in her family has done before. Not only is she the first to attend college and earn her degree, she also was selected as one of IU Indianapolis’ top 100 undergraduate students for 2025.

But her accolades advanced beyond that—Shelton-Jones soon learned she also was a top 10 undergrad at the university.

“I felt humbled, honored, and validated,” she adds.  “This isn’t just my win; it’s a win for my family, my community, and every student who has ever doubted whether they belong in these spaces.”

She says it was a “full-circle moment” to be recognized at this level.

“My degree represents more than just coursework,” she insists. “It’s a reflection of my passion for justice, advocacy, and making a meaningful- impact in my community.”

Even before arriving at O’Neill, Shelton-Jones was passionate about advocating for marginalized communities and addressing systemic injustices.

“Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how the justice system disproportionately affects minority populations,” she recalls. “I wanted to be part of the solution. O’Neill’s slogan, ‘Major in Making a Difference,’ resonated deeply with me because my ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between communities and the justice system through outreach, policy reform, and education.”

For her, working in criminal justice provides the chance to directly impact people’s lives. While some assume a criminal justice degree leads only to a career in law enforcement or the courtroom, Shelton-Jones argues it provides a foundation to not only enforce laws, but to ensure those laws are enforced fairly and provide an opportunity for rehabilitation.

“With the right people in the field, the justice system can shift from being reactive to proactive, addressing root causes of crime like poverty, education disparities, and mental health challenges,” she says. “I want to be a part of transforming the system into one that truly serves and protects all communities.”

After graduation, Shelton-Jones plans to pursue a career in community outreach and advocacy, specifically focusing on providing resources for minority populations and helping to bridge gaps between the justice system and underserved communities.

Her foundation has been set through not only her personal experiences but also through the coursework she has completed at O’Neill. She says the experience has been challenging, inspiring, and rewarding. She also points to the impact O’Neill’s small class sizes have had on providing meaningful and diverse discussions and helping her create strong relationships with faculty.

“The faculty and staff are incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in student success,” she stresses. “My fellow students are passionate and driven, many of them bringing unique lived experiences that make classroom discussions even more impactful. The curriculum is rigorous but purposeful, ensuring that we graduate with not just knowledge, but also real-world skills.”

Those real-world skills have been learned through hands-on experiences, networking with professionals in law enforcement and public policy, and attending community forums on justice reform. She credits these experiences with allowing her to see the system from multiple angles.

“Whether it’s working on community-based research or organizing events that promote equity, O’Neill has given me the space to turn my knowledge into action. The opportunities here are endless and the faculty and resources are designed to equip you with the knowledge, connections, and experience you need to thrive.”

She says that’s why she would encourage other students to enroll at O’Neill.

“If you want to make a difference, O’Neill is the place to be,” she says. “It’s not just about earning a degree—it’s about preparing you to be a changemaker.  My journey is just beginning, and I’m committed to using my story, my degree, and my faith to uplift others and be the change I want to see in the world. If you’re passionate about creating real change, you’ll find your place at O’Neill.”