Yvette Jones (MBA ’95), whose career at Tulane University spanned 36 years, officially retired as executive vice president for university relations and development on July 31, 2016.
A member of the Business School Council and an executive MBA graduate of the Freeman School, Jones was an integral part of four different administrations at Tulane, serving in senior roles including chief of staff, vice president of finance and operations, senior vice president for planning and administration, and chief operating officer. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Jones strengthened and grew Tulane’s development, alumni relations, government affairs and communications efforts, and as chief advancement officer, she led the university’s historic “Promise and Distinction” campaign, which raised more than $700
million and became the largest university fundraising initiative in the history of Louisiana.
In April, Jones was honored with the Tulane University President’s Medal, which is awarded at the discretion of the president to individuals who have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the institution. Tulane also established the Yvette Milner Jones Award to recognize her three decades of leadership, dedication and service to the university. The award will be bestowed to an outstanding Tulane staff member or administrator for his or her superior achievement, dedicated service and involvement in the affairs of the Tulane community.
“Yvette was a truly outstanding administrator and leader, but also a rare individual — a dedicated colleague who made all those who worked with her better at their jobs and better people,” said Ira Solomon, dean of the Freeman School. “I’m very sorry to see her retire, but I look forward to continuing to work with her on the Business School Council and I wish her the best in all her future endeavors.”
