Dr. Dan Jones, photo credit: tamuc.edu
Texas A&M University-Commerce President Dr. Dan Jones, 64, died Friday morning. Jones is survived by his wife and two daughters. The cause of his death is unknown at this time.
The following email was sent to university faculty and staff this morning:
Dear Texas A&M University-Commerce Lion family,
It is with extreme sadness that I inform you that our leader, President Dr. Dan Jones, passed away early this morning.
We send our deepest thoughts and sympathies to the family of Dr. Jones.
Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp sent this message from the Texas A&M System: “Dan Jones was one of our great presidents. He had a vision for the future that was brilliant and courageous. We will make sure his plans become reality. We will miss him greatly.”
Our counseling center staff and resources are available to faculty, staff and students during normal working hours on a walk-in basis. After hours, anyone needing assistance may call UPD at 903-886-5868 to request a counselor. Faculty, staff, and students may also contact Adapt Mental Health Crisis Line and Mobile Crisis Teams at 866-260-8000. Faculty and staff may also contact the Deer Oak Employee Assistance Program at 888-993-7650 to speak with a counselor.
I kindly ask that faculty work with any students who might need special accommodations during final exams week.
During this difficult time let us pull together and find solace and support in each other.
According to the Jones Family, arrangements are pending and the family requests both privacy and prayers at this time.
Sincerely,
Dr. Adolfo Benavides | Provost and Vice President
The university will close at noon today in honor of Jones.
Dr. Jones assumed the presidency of Texas A&M University-Commerce in July 2008. Prior to that, he served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Texas A&M International University in Laredo, Texas, from 2003-2008. Academically, his rank is Professor of English.
Dr. Jones served in several capacities at the University of Houston-Downtown from 1985 to 2002, including dean (University College), interim dean of Student Affairs, associate dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, acting chair and assistant chair for the Department of English. He also served as an instructor and student publications advisor at Casper College in Wyoming from 1982-1985.
Dr. Jones is survived his wife, Jalinna, and two daughters, Aislinn and Allyson.
