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Tribute endows Jones Leadership Program

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Bill Jones, left, and his wife, Maurine,
greet former Gov. and Mrs. George Duekmejian at a tribute honoring Jones.

A gala tribute to honor Secretary of State Bill Jones' 20 years of service to California and to establish an endowment to create a leadership program named for him at Fresno State, his alma mater, was held Jan. 12 at the Fresno Convention Center.

Among the dignitaries on the program was former California Gov. George Deukmejian.  State and regional agriculture, business and government officials attended, along with 700 friends and colleagues of Jones. State Senator Charles S. Poochigian of Fresno, another Fresno State alum, was the master of ceremonies.

Proceeds from the dinner program benefit the Ag One Foundation and the College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, which will establish the "Bill Jones Leadership Development Program" to provide an educational opportunity for the development of future leaders.

The Jones Leadership Program will focus on undergraduate students and will be modeled to some extent on the California Agricultural Leadership Program, providing students with service opportunities. Participants will be encouraged to intern in a nonprofit organization or political office to gain exposure and additional leadership experience.

"This leadership development program will be a wonderful educational opportunity for our students, our future leaders," said Daniel P. Bartell, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.

Fresno State President John D. Welty, one of the tribute committee chairs, commended Jones' record of public service.

"Secretary Jones is an outstanding example of the fine alumni from Fresno State who are making significant contributions around the state and nation," said Welty.

Jones started his political leadership as student body president at the university in 1970-71. He graduated from Fresno State in 1971 with a degree in agriculture. He began his elected career by serving in the State Assembly for 12 years. While there, he co-authored the "Three Strikes and You're Out" anti-crime law. He also was a strong advocate for agriculture and the San Joaquin Valley.

In the late 1970s, Jones along with several faculty, alumni and friends of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, started the Ag One Foundation. Today, the Ag One Endowment Fund stands at more than $3.3 million. Over the years, some 2,100 students have received more than $1.3 million.

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