Dr. D'Andre Jones: A Legacy of Service and Leadership
"Everybody can be great because everybody can serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love." — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. D'Andre Jones, a native of Joiner, Arkansas, exemplifies this quote through his extensive service and leadership. After graduating from Rivercrest High School in 1991, Dr. Jones pursued higher education at the University of Arkansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education. His commitment to lifelong learning continued with a Master of Arts in Management, Leadership, and Human Resource Management from Webster University and, in 2018, a Master of Social Work from the Watts College School of Public Service and Community Solutions at Arizona State University. He also holds a graduate certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Leadership from Drury University. In 2024, Dr. Jones earned a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA and being inducted into the prestigious Honor Society and the Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement (SCLA).
Dr. Jones's career is marked by his dedication to public service and social justice. He served two terms on the Joiner City Council and was a staff liaison for US Congressman Marion Berry's 1st Congressional District. His expertise and passion for community service have led him to be a sought-after speaker and presenter at conferences, including the Arkansas chapter of the National Association of Social Workers and the annual Clinton Global Initiative University Meeting. As a prolific lecturer, he has contributed to numerous panels and podcasts focusing on social justice, racial diversity, and political activism, both locally and throughout the region.
In his leadership roles, Dr. Jones has made a significant impact on his community. As president and political director of the NWA Democratic Black Caucus, he led one of Arkansas's most progressive and active political organizations for minorities. His unwavering commitment to improving the lives of marginalized Arkansans is evident in his work with the Arkansas Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival, his service on the Executive Board of Directors of the Urban League of Arkansas, and his role as Secretary of the Fayetteville Civil Service Commission. Notably, he chaired Mayor Lioneld Jordan's African American Advisory Council, where he played a crucial role in leading the City's adoption of racism as a public health crisis.
Dr. Jones's influence extends to various other leadership positions. He has served as chairman of the Fayetteville Civil Rights Commission, a member of the Arkansas Disability Resource Council, and a board member of several local organizations, including the Yvonne Richardson Community Center and the NWA MLK Planning Council. His contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, such as the University of Arkansas's prestigious Black Alumni Society Community Service Award and the Envision Award at the City of Springdale MLK Unity Celebration. In February, he was honored by the State of Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission for his outstanding service to the community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Jones is deeply committed to philanthropy. He is a charter member of the Delta Omicron Omega chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated and serves as the court liaison and social services lead for NW Medical Behavioral Health in Springdale. In memory of his grandmother, he established and sustains a community food pantry and funds an annual scholarship at his alma mater, Rivercrest High School. These initiatives are a testament to his dedication to giving back and supporting his community.
As Fayetteville continues to grow, Dr. Jones's leadership in championing diversity, inclusion, equity, economic parity, health, and safety remains crucial. His vision for Ward 1, informed by progressive working-class values, focuses on creating equitable opportunities for all residents. Dr. Jones is committed to advancing policies that establish essential services, resources, and funding for Ward 1, ensuring that every family has the freedom and opportunity to thrive.
"My vision for Ward 1 is informed by the progressive working-class values of lifting from the bottom to ensure everyone rises. Equity, compassion, respect, and acceptance of all, regardless of their background, are key to solving problems together. Public health and safety, economic parity, support for marginalized communities, safe and equitable living, and environmental justice are vital for the growth and development of Ward 1." — Council Member Dr. D'Andre Jones.