Shonda Jones to lead academic programs at the School of Professional Studies
After 10 years with the School of Divinity, Dr. Shonda Jones has accepted a new role as executive director of academic programs at the School of Professional Studies. Dr. Jones will develop and oversee a compelling portfolio of flexible, affordable and relevant academic programs for the new school. Her work will produce a collection of high-demand degree and non-degree offerings to meet the evolving needs of working professionals in the Charlotte community and beyond.
“This is an exciting time for the University and a pivotal time in higher education. We must be able to respond not only to the current marketplace but anticipate what innovations and untapped opportunities exist before us,” Jones said.
“Dr. Jones’s strategic leadership and innate ability to decipher what students, as well as her colleagues, need to foster strong relational ties and successful academic experiences will greatly benefit the School of Professional Studies,” said Jonathan Lee Walton, dean of the Wake Forest University School of Divinity.
Since joining the School of Divinity’s leadership team in 2011, Jones has served as the senior associate dean of strategic initiatives and integrative learning and assistant teaching professor of intercultural theological education. She is also the Principal Investigator for the Gilead COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, a role she will continue. Jones led the efforts to secure the $5 million grant that supports the work of the Center.
“Dr. Jones’s proven track record for innovative program development and her vast knowledge of the higher education market make her an ideal choice to carve out new offerings in several key areas including Faith, Health, Inclusive Leadership and Ethics,” said Charles Iacovou, School of Professional Studies dean and vice provost of Charlotte programs.
