FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The University of Arkansas Graduate School is pleased to welcome Dr. Johnny D. Jones as the new assistant dean for Graduate Recruitment and Retention. Jones joined the university on Jan. 10, and his salary is $62,000.

“We are delighted that Dr. Jones has come to Arkansas to direct the Graduate School’s recruitment and retention efforts,” said Collis Geren, dean of the Graduate School.  “As we increase the numbers of graduate students at the University of Arkansas, we are also very focused on our diversity goals. Dr. Jones’ background in recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups will be invaluable to the Graduate School team.  We are pleased to welcome him.”

Jones was most recently director of recruitment and retention for the College of Education at Washington State University, where he also served on the faculty. Jones taught in the areas of leadership and student affairs at WSU and directed the College of Education’s Future Teachers of Color program. 

Jones earned his Doctorate of Education at Berne University, West Indies, his master’s in Educational Administration at Springfield (Mass.) College, and his bachelor’s degree from Mississippi Valley State University.

A native of Mississippi, Jones cited a return to the South and the opportunity to be closer to home as part of his motivation for joining the U of A.

 “While my appointment at Washington State University was interesting and challenging, I was very interested in moving back to the South, and I am excited about the opportunities for growth that we have here at the University of Arkansas,” said Jones. “I look forward to working with students, faculty and staff as we meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”