By HEIDI KNAKE
UNK Communications
MARSHALL, Minn. – When David Jones first arrived at the University of Nebraska at Kearney in the early 1990s, becoming a university president was not part of the plan.
The social studies teacher from Des Moines, Iowa, was simply looking for a graduate program that would invest in him as much as he’d invest in it.
He found that and more at UNK.
Jones earned a master’s degree in community counseling while serving as a graduate assistant and hall director for what was then the newly built University Residence South, which has since been demolished. Although that building is gone now, the foundation Jones established at UNK remains.
“It was really a special time at UNK when I was there,” the 1995 graduate said. “I knew I didn’t want to be a day-to-day counselor, so the faculty worked with me. They allow you to carve out and customize what it is you want to learn. I’m a living example of that.”
That flexibility and mentorship from UNK faculty and administrators allowed Jones to uncover his passion for higher education.
“From my time at Kearney through now, I’ve only continued to work in higher education,” he explained.
The third-generation educator has more than 30 years of experience in higher education, including leadership positions at the College of William and Mary, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Alabama and Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Jones took the next step in his career last summer when he was named interim president of Southwest Minnesota State University. The Board of Trustees approved his permanent appointment last month, making him the 11th president of the campus in Marshall, Minnesota.
His positive experience at UNK helped develop his leadership style, which emphasizes collaboration and open communication. He prioritizes campus and community connections, working to create a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere where students feel supported and engaged.
While at UNK, Jones said it wouldn’t be surprising for an upper administrative professional such as a dean, vice chancellor or chancellor to reach out to a staff member or graduate assistant, like himself, to help make the best decisions for students.
“I love that,” he said. “I’ve tried to model that every place I’ve worked.”
Now leading a Division II university similar in size and mission to UNK, Jones sees clear parallels between his alma mater and current school. Both institutions serve regional communities and support a large number of first-generation college students.
“The most fun thing is watching the journey of the student who might be the first in their family to attend college or doesn’t have the confidence and watch them grow over the three or four years,” said Jones, who holds a doctorate from William and Mary.
The journey he now celebrates in his students mirrors his own transformation. Jones may lead SMSU as a proud Mustang, but he remains connected to his roots at UNK.
“I’m super proud of my time as a Loper,” he said. “I continue to cheer them on from afar and hope that the university continues to do great things.”
