Chris Jones has joined Clarion University Foundation, Inc., as director of development
for collegiate athletics. In this position, Jones will seek to secure gifts of $25,000
and above from donors, with his main focus on gifts which support Clarion athletics.
"This is an opportunity to lead a department in building and cultivating relationships, as well as securing funds for our student-athletes," Jones said. "It places me on a team of colleagues who are passionate about Clarion athletics and the university as a whole."
He is especially excited to be part of Clarion University's sesquicentennial celebration.
"As we celebrate the first 150 years, it will be a great opportunity for us to tell our story to donors and supporters, articulating what we need for us to see another 150 years and beyond," Jones said.
A former student-athlete, Jones has a passion for securing funds for intercollegiate
athletics.
"Unless we solicit on their behalf, they go without," he said.
"Jones brings to the position education focused on college athletics, past experience in the field as an athlete, coach, administrator and development officer, and his passion for all things athletic," said Michael Keefer, CEO of Clarion University Foundation, Inc.
Jones previously served as executive director of the athletic booster club and coordinator of annual giving and special events for Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Mo. As booster club director, Jones built the club from the ground up. He directed fundraising efforts for the club and provided its leadership and management. As coordinator of annual giving, he was a member of the development team responsible for the highest fundraising total in Lincoln University history.
Prior to his time at Lincoln, Jones served first as athletics development assistant, then as athletics development coordinator for North Carolina Central University, Durham, N.C. He also had worked as marketing director for the semi-professional Carolina Chargers football team.
His professional memberships include: National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics, National Association of Athletic Development Directors, Council for Advancement and Support of Education and Association of Fundraising Professionals. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Jones graduated from North Carolina Central University in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in physical education and in 2013 with a master's degree in athletic administration.
His alma mater has selected him as a 2016 honoree in their annual 40 Under 40 recognition. He will be honored at a gala in September.
In his spare time, Jones enjoys, traveling, exercising and spending time with family. He and his wife, Cassandra, live in Clarion.