FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

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

President Cheryl Evans Jones Announces Retirement from Paine College

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 Paine College, effective June 30, 2024.  President Jones has been a transformative leader, guiding Paine College through a period of growth and innovation, and leaving an indelible mark on the institution.

Under President Jones's leadership, Paine College 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 Transformation Plan 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 Paine College's position as a beacon of higher education in the CSRA.

Reflecting on her time at Paine College, President Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as president and highlighted the dedication and resilience of the Paine College community. "It has indeed been my pleasure and honor to serve at Paine College 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 Paine College, 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 Paine College 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 Paine College," said Michael Thurmond, Chair of the Board of Trustees.

The Board of Trustees will begin the search for Paine College'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 Paine College 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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