Chris Jones, director of development for athletics at Clarion University Foundation,
Inc., is one of 20 minority athletics administrators who was selected to participate
in the 2017 NCAA Leadership Institute.
Through the institute, the NCAA leadership development staff provides professional development programming over the course of a calendar year, including one-week programs at the beginning and conclusion of that year. For the administrators who participate, the program offers an opportunity to gain insight into every facet of an athletics department, preparing them to become well-rounded leaders who are equipped with the tools an effective athletics administrator needs.
"I am thankful to have been selected by the NCAA to participate in such a prestigious program that will hone my skills as a leader and help me be an even greater asset to the Clarion University Foundation," Jones said. "I look forward to joining fellow colleagues in taking a more in-depth look at the core functions of collegiate athletics and ways we can provide better support, then applying that knowledge to our department here, as we continue enhancing Golden Eagle athletics."
"The Leadership Institute is an unmatched opportunity, exposing qualified minority athletics administrators to the latest information and robust experiences, delivered by practiced experts in the field," said Bernard Franklin, NCAA executive vice president of education and community engagement and chief inclusion officer. "Administrators who complete the program not only gain technical knowledge, but graduate with confidence and quality decision-making skills."
The participants gathered July 7-15 in Tampa, Fla., for the first in-person sessions. Participants enhanced and mastered skill sets while also exploring and planning for future career goals and paths. In addition, they will take part in continuing education activities throughout the year and have access to an extensive alumni group.
NCAA leadership development, located in Indianapolis, coordinates and facilitates education and training for student-athletes, coaches and athletics administrators. The staff annually hosts programs, at little or no cost to members, using expert curriculum designed to enhance the well-being and personal development of college athletes. The staff also provides ongoing education and topical training to athletics professionals who identify and serve student-athlete needs. For more information, visit ncaa.org/leadershipdevelopment.