During the fall meeting of the Paine College Board of Trustees held October 18-19, 2019, the Board voted unanimously to appoint Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones Seventeenth President of Paine College. For more than four years, Dr. Jones served as Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs until the Board appointed her Acting President on July 1, 2019. She succeeded Dr. Jerry L. Hardee who retired June 30, 2019.

According to Attorney Barbara E. Bouknight, Chairman of the Board, Dr. Jones has proven leadership experience and understands higher education on multiple levels. "With over 26 years of service at Paine College, Dr. Jones has worn numerous hats and served with integrity and distinction. She has a special connection with students and alumni having served in the classroom for many years. Dr. Jones has played a vital role in the College's accreditation efforts. She served as the Accreditation Liaison to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), as well as Director of the Institutional Self-Study for Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)".

"I am honored to be chosen to lead this great institution. Paine College holds a special place in my heart. I look forward to working with the Board of Trustees, our esteemed faculty, dedicated staff, loyal alumni and the Augusta community to further the College's mission and growth. It is my sincere desire to create the best possible living and learning environment for our precious students. Together, we will write a new chapter in the life of Paine College."

For more information about Paine College, visit www.paine.edu or contact Helene T. Carter, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at 706.821.8323 and via email: Hcarter@paine.edu.