Fort Valley State University President Paul Jones Named Among Georgia Trend’s 2025 “500 Most Influential Leaders in Georgia”

Fort Valley State University President Paul Jones Named Among Georgia Trend's 2025 "500 Most Influential Leaders in Georgia"

Fort Valley State University (FVSU) President Paul Jones, Ph.D., has been named one of Georgia Trend's 2025 "500 Most Influential Leaders in Georgia" in the education category. This marks the third consecutive year that President Jones has received this recognition, honoring his exceptional leadership, commitment to educational excellence and lasting impact on higher education across Georgia and beyond.

Each year, Georgia Trend magazine recognizes influential leaders from a variety of sectors, including education, agribusiness, health care, the arts, communication, real estate and transportation. The annual list celebrates individuals who exemplify a steadfast commitment to advancing Georgia's communities, industries and public life. President Jones' continued inclusion among the state's most influential leaders underscores his visionary work at FVSU and his dedication to student success, innovation and social mobility.

"It is a tremendous honor to be recognized once again among so many outstanding leaders across Georgia," said President Jones. "This recognition reflects the collective effort of the entire Fort Valley State University community to provide transformative educational experiences that empower students to lead and serve."

Now approaching his 10th year as president of Fort Valley State University, Jones continues to lead the institution to new heights during a landmark year-FVSU's 130th anniversary. Under his leadership, FVSU achieved a major institutional milestone in 2025 by earning the Research College and University designation in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, becoming the only University System of Georgia institution to advance from the Master's Colleges and Universities: Small Programs category.

FVSU has also been recognized as Georgia's #1 public HBCU for eight consecutive years and continues to receive national acclaim for promoting social mobility-ranking #1 in Georgia among all public and private institutions by U.S. News & World Report. The University remains a driving force in helping students from underrepresented backgrounds achieve upward economic mobility and lifelong success.

For nearly four decades, Georgia Trend has highlighted the achievements of the state's most impactful leaders. Its annual "500 Most Influential Leaders in Georgia" list stands as a testament to the vision, dedication and service of those shaping Georgia's business, nonprofit and educational landscapes.

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