In 2019 Clay and Debbie Jones made a landmark gift to UT’s Center for Leadership and Service.
Clay Jones (’71) began his lifelong passion and gained an understanding for the importance of leadership in his own roles at UT with Phi Delta Theta, the Student Government Association, and the Air Force ROTC. He graduated with honors in political science and was named a Torchbearer, the highest honor an undergraduate student can receive. After eight years as an Air Force fighter pilot, he had a 34-year career with Rockwell International and Rockwell Collins Inc., serving as chairman and CEO for 12 years each.
In 2000, Clay and his wife, Debbie, helped create the Torchbearer 2000 Endowment, which supports UT students involved in activities and community service. In 2009, they established the Director of Leadership Programming Endowment, which is used to expand students’ leadership opportunities across campus.
Their gift will help give students opportunities to grow in their leadership and service skills and go on to make an impactful difference out in the world as Volunteers.
– Wayne Davis, interim chancellor
In 2019 the Joneses made a landmark gift to UT’s Center for Leadership and Service, which will enhance programs and initiatives that help educate and engage students in meaningful leadership and service opportunities. After their gift, the UT Board of Trustees voted to name the center in their honor.
Signature programs at the Clay and Debbie Jones Center for Leadership and Service include the VOLbreaks alternative break program, the Ignite program, Leadership Knoxville Scholars, Leadership and Service Ambassadors, and the Clifton M. Jones Student Leadership Conference.
“Clay and Debbie have always been leaders in supporting the development of our students and giving to the university,” says Interim Chancellor Wayne T. Davis. “Their gift will help give students opportunities to grow in their leadership and service skills and go on to make an impactful difference out in the world as Volunteers.”
