Jarvis Christian University President Dr. Glenell M. Lee Pruitt has announced the appointment of
Dr. Yolanda Jones as the Interim Assistant Vice President for Institutional Research and
Effectiveness, effective July 1, 2024. With over 25 years of extensive experience in higher
education, Dr. Jones brings a robust background in academic, student affairs, student success,
enrollment management, athletics, and administrative roles to this pivotal position.
Dr. Jones has been an integral part of Jarvis Christian University since July 2021, serving as the
Executive Director for Student Success Services and Director of the Early Start Summer
Program. Additionally, she has held the position of Interim Assistant Vice President for
Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions. Her extensive experience at Jarvis
Christian University highlights her deep commitment to the institution and its mission.
As Interim Assistant Vice President for Institutional Research and Effectiveness, Dr. Jones will
lead efforts to guide, design, and conduct research that supports academic planning, decision-
making, enrollment management, accreditation, and program assessment. Her responsibilities
will include collaborating with academic and non-academic departments to integrate and utilize
data from all major units, including Admissions, Information Technology, and the Registrar’s
Office. Dr. Jones will also oversee the submission of federal and state reports.
“I am excited to serve Jarvis Christian University during this pivotal time in higher education,”
said Dr. Jones. “I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to our university’s growth and eager to
build strong relationships with administrators, faculty, staff, and students as we work together to
elevate the university and propel it to new heights.”
Before joining Jarvis Christian University, Dr. Jones had a consecutive and distinguished 19.5-
year career at Mississippi Valley State University within the Division of Student Affairs, where
she served in various roles, ending her career at MVSU as the Dean of Student Development in
2021.
A proud native, from the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Greenwood, Mississippi, Dr. Jones holds
a Bachelor of Science in Hearing-Impaired Education and Disabilities Studies, a Master of
Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree, all from Jackson State
University, in Jackson, Mississippi. She also earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from
Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi, and attended Grambling State
University in Grambling, Louisiana. Currently, she is pursuing a degree in American Sign
Language at Tyler Junior College in Tyler, Texas. Dr. Jones is an active member of several
federal and state professional associations.