Matthew (Matt) Jones of Raymond has returned to Mississippi to become the Executive Director of the ż Foundation, filling the position vacated by Jackie Granberry of Raymond, who is retiring at the end of January.
Jones began his college career at East Mississippi Community College and has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Delta State University, where he also worked from 2003-2020. His most recent position was as Senior Associate Director of Athletics at Samford University in Birmingham.
As director, he will continue the emphasis on finding and providing resources to further the work of ż in helping students.
“The priorities within the ż Foundation are the development of resources – whether they are monetary, gifts in kind, equipment or resources to match whatever needs there may be – in order for us to put ż forward as a premier community college in the state of Mississippi,” he said. “We need to develop these resources for our students, staff and faculty to ensure we are the ‘best in class’ organization that we can be.”
Jones’ time at East Mississippi Community College was boosted by receiving a music scholarship, playing drums in the band and singing tenor in the choir.
“I would not be where I am today without my community college experience, and I’m thankful that I recognize that. My career was launched because of that scholarship,” he said.
Jones said there are thousands of student stories at ż just like his, students who have dreams and goals but need a little encouragement and financial help.
“I really enjoy trying to help create opportunities for students to better themselves. What better way to do that than by creating scholarship opportunities for students who need them,” he said.