Dr. Jones has held the position in an interim capacity since November 2022.

She is a tenured professor of economics at the University of Guam, specializing in development economics, with subspecialty research in health care and environmental policy. She also served as Business Administration Division Chair.

“Dr. Jones’ leadership at SBPA comes at the right time as we continue to innovate and be responsive to the changing demands in our evolving workforce and island,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez.

Dr. Jones said SBPA will rise to the demand for degrees and programs that students, the island community, and islands in the Western Pacific region are seeking.

She also aims for SBPA to connect with more businesses to create more internship opportunities for students who would bring skills as strategic thinkers and problem-solvers along with their academic knowledge.

There are also plans to broaden professional certificate programs at SBPA to improve and update the knowledge and skills of those who are already in the workforce.

Dr. Jones earned a Ph.D. in economics and regional planning from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Jones also holds a Master of Arts degree in City and Regional Planning and a Master of Government Administration from the Samuel Fels Center of Government at University of Pennsylvania.