Bobby Jones (academic)

Bobby Jones, PhD (13 January 1942 - 18 April 2001) was a noted American educator who distinguished himself by becoming the first African American to earn tenure at Mercer University, a highly selective private university. Jones later became chair of the Education Department at Mercer University. Dr. Jones was instrumental in the development of innovative teaching techniques that are used as standards throughout the education industry to this date. Dr. Jones inspired literally hundreds of students to go on to become educators as highlighted in the best selling literary work, A Joyful Passion for Teaching. Dr. Jones is also credited for assisting in destroying the racial divide that existed throughout central Georgia in the novel Macon Black and White. Dr. Jones devoted his life to helping others realize their goals. He was instrumental in the establishment of Mercer University's first Upward Bound Program where he mentored aspiring, educationally talented, under-privileged youth. Dr. Jones assisted them in the pursuit and achievement of their collegiate aspirations.