On August 25, 2026, legendary country singer, actress, philanthropist, and businesswoman Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80. Dolly Parton was the fourth of 12 and grew up in a two bedroom home in Tennessee in extreme poverty. Known for her extravagant look, hit songs such as “Jolene” and “9 to 5,” and her amusement park Dollywood, Dolly Parton was extremely successful. However, it is what Dolly did with that success that should be a daily reminder to student leaders to do it like Dolly.
Remember where you came from
Dolly never forgot the home where she was raised nor the music that filled it. While her father worked, her mother stayed home with the children and instilled a love of music in Dolly. Many of Dolly’s songs focused on her Tennessee home. Additionally, The Dolly Parton Scholarship is awarded to students in the county where Dolly grew up.
As a student leader, remembering what led you to your role is essential. It is easy to focus on the future and what you hope to achieve but remembering what brought you to this place at this time is just as important. Reflecting on how you felt at a previous time in your life can help you as a student leader better connect with your residents as they navigate similar circumstances. Remembering where you came from is not living in the past, it is utilizing the past to enhance your future.
Be kind, always
It is rare to hear a story about Dolly Parton that does not highlight her kindness. In multiple interviews and on social media, Dolly Parton said “If you see someone without a smile, give ‘em yours.”
The hustle and bustle of being a student leader can be downright exhausting. It can be easy to see a problem and want to solve it quickly so you can move on to the next task but remember to pause and show a little extra kindness. If a resident knocks on your door and apologizes for bothering you, don’t skip over that. Remind them that you are happy to help or that they can always come to a student leader for assistance or just tell them that they aren’t a bother! A second of kindness in an awkward or tense situation can make a difference the next time a student needs help.
Give back when you can
Dolly Parton consistently gave back to not only her home state of Tennessee but globally. In honor of her father, who could not read, she began Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library which has gifted over 300,000,000 books to children. She also donated $1 million to COVID-19 vaccine research.
As a student leader you might not be able to give back at the same level Dolly did but that does not mean you are unable to do anything. Did someone help you when you couldn’t help yourself? Did someone go out of their way to make you feel seen? Sometimes giving back looks like giving of your time and talents. You may donate to a food pantry in your community and encourage your residents to do the same. You might find ways for your floor to volunteer to complete community service.
Remember to Shine
Dolly Parton frequently dressed in sparkles (check out her Instagram) and flashy outfits. She literally could light up a room.
As a student leader you may feel like there is no space for vibrant outfits but vibrant outfits do not make you less professional or less capable. Wearing or doing something that brings you joy will help your light shine from the inside out. It is okay to let your light shine even if others want you to dim it.
Thank you, Dolly, for making the world a brighter place. Student leaders, when it’s hard try to do it like Dolly – it might just get easier.
To learn more about the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, check out these links that helped inform this article.
