Provost Jones Among ‘Women of Excellence’

Posted on July 15, 2010

Provost Geraldine Jones is one of 50 Women of Excellence honored this year by the New Pittsburgh Courier, one of the oldest and most prestigious black newspapers in the United States.

The third annual award was presented July 14 to some of the Pittsburgh area's most successful and influential African-American women.

Nominated by New Pittsburgh Courier readers, the awardees were honored for their contributions to fields as varied as education, health care, finance, social services, media, law enforcement, business and the arts.

"I am truly honored to be a part of this event, and to be included in this amazing group of women," Jones said.

The awards were presented by Rod Doss, editor and publisher of the Courier, during a luncheon at the Westin Convention Center Hotel in Pittsburgh.

"One can not speak of the greatness of our city without including the distinctive contributions of African-American women," Doss said. "These women are living examples of how hard work, integrity and determination lead to success."

Jones graduated from Cal U in 1971 and began her career in education as a second-grade teacher. She served as program director for Upward Bound for 20 years, and in 2001 was named provost and vice president for academic affairs.

A member of the Cal U Alumni Association board of directors, Jones has received numerous honors, including the Cal U Alumni Association's John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service, the Black Alumni Association's Outstanding Service Award, and the Community Service Award given by the Minority Students Association at Penn State Fayette.

Jones is a lifelong member of Mt. Zion AME Church of Brownsville, where she has been the church pianist since age 14. She has been married to Jeffrey B. Jones of 35 years; they have two adult daughters and a granddaughter.