Phi Beta Sigma’s Dr. Robert J. Jones Named 34th President of the University of Washington

The University of Washington Board of Regents has announced that Robert J. Jones, currently concluding his nine-year tenure as Chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, has been selected as the institution’s 34th President. Jones will be the first African American to serve in the role, marking a historic milestone for the university.

Jones’ appointment follows the announcement by President Ana Mari Cauce that she will step down at the end of the 2024-25 academic year, after a decade at the helm. His leadership at Illinois has been widely recognized, particularly for initiatives that have expanded the university’s academic reach and research capabilities. Prior to his tenure at Illinois, Jones served as President of the University at Albany.

“I am honored to be joining the University of Washington and excited to lead this extraordinary public university in its mission serving students, families, and communities across Washington and beyond,” Jones said in a statement. “The UW is globally renowned as a home of outstanding teaching, research, innovation, and patient care. I look forward to working with the UW’s talented and dedicated faculty and staff to support and accelerate their work and to partnering with the UW’s supporters to advance students’ success, economic opportunity, and discovery for the public good.”

Jones’ academic background is in agronomy, a field he was drawn to as the son of Georgia sharecroppers. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agronomy from Fort Valley State College, followed by a master’s degree from the University of Georgia and a doctorate from the University of Missouri, both in crop physiology. His career in higher education began in 1978 at the University of Minnesota’s Twin Cities campus, where he became a tenured professor and later took on leadership roles in student development, faculty administration, and academic affairs.

Under his leadership at Illinois, the university launched the Carle Illinois College of Medicine—the first engineering-based medical school in the world—and spearheaded strategic partnerships such as the Chicago Quantum Exchange and the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago. These initiatives have positioned Illinois as a leader in quantum sciences and biomedical research.

Jones’ achievements extend beyond academia. A proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., he has been recognized for his contributions to education and leadership. The fraternity celebrated his new role in a statement: “Congratulations to Brother Dr. Robert J. Jones on becoming the new President of the University of Washington! A distinguished leader in education, Brother Jones was previously recognized as Univ. of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign Chancellor and received Phi Beta Sigma’s IMAGE Award in Education at Conclave Myrtle Beach.”

As he prepares to assume leadership at the University of Washington, Jones is expected to bring his signature vision of innovation, inclusion, and academic excellence to the Pacific Northwest’s flagship research institution. His tenure will begin in July 2025, ushering in a new era for the university as it continues to expand its impact nationally and globally.