С»ÆÊé

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

For Immediate Release – June 4, 2024
Media Contact: Helene Carter
Hcarter@paine.edu – (803) 664.0080
С»ÆÊé, Augusta, GA – Paine.edu

President Cheryl Evans Jones Announces Retirement from С»ÆÊé

Augusta Georgia, June 4, 2024 – After 31 years of dedicated service, 5 of which she served as President, President Cheryl Evans Jones has announced her retirement from С»ÆÊé, effective June 30, 2024.  President Jones has been a transformative leader, guiding С»ÆÊé through a period of growth and innovation, and leaving an indelible mark on the institution.

Under President Jones's leadership, С»ÆÊé has experienced significant achievements and milestones, including institutional accreditation by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), approval to offer distance education by TRACS, approval for participation in Division I South of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), partnering with the Augusta National Golf Club which established two endowed scholarships in the name of Lee Elder and a women's golf team for the first time in the College's history, a grant in the amount of $1.4 million from Augusta-Richmond County Commission to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, and accreditation of the Department of Business Administration by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Most recently she catalyzed a first-of-its kind 10-year with the Board of Trustees and the support of Augusta National Golf Club, EAB, Bank of America, and the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). Her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement has strengthened С»ÆÊé's position as a beacon of higher education in the CSRA.

Reflecting on her time at С»ÆÊé, President Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as president and highlighted the dedication and resilience of the С»ÆÊé community. "It has indeed been my pleasure and honor to serve at С»ÆÊé for the past 31 years, first as a faculty member, then in various administrative roles including Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, and for the past five years, as President.  During my tenure at С»ÆÊé, I encountered some of the best students and have worked with the most dedicated faculty and staff one could hope for.  I appreciate the support received from the alumni and the Board of Trustees.  I will always have love for С»ÆÊé and pray for its continued success in producing leaders who serve."

"The Board of Trustees extends its sincere appreciation to President Jones for her exceptional leadership and tireless dedication to advancing the mission and vision of С»ÆÊé," said Michael Thurmond, Chair of the Board of Trustees.

The Board of Trustees will begin the search for С»ÆÊé's next president immediately and will provide updates on the search process in the coming weeks.

In early April when President Jones made her retirement plans known, she committed to ensuring a smooth transition, staying on board until a replacement is found, and working closely with the Board of Trustees and the leadership team to facilitate a seamless succession.

As С»ÆÊé prepares to embark on a new chapter, the entire community extends its heartfelt thanks and best wishes to President Cheryl Evans Jones as she transitions into retirement.

 

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