Dr. Stanton Jones HON joined Wheaton faculty in 1981 and was appointed provost in 1996. Last year, he announced that he would step down after 20 years as provost to return to teaching at the end of the 2015-16 academic year. 

As provost, Dr. Jones enhanced Wheaton’s academic profile and influenced thousands of faculty members, staff, and students across campus. In addition to overseeing the hiring of 80 to 85 percent of Wheaton's current 203 full-time faculty members, Dr. Jones strengthened the Biblical and Theological Studies Department by increasing its faculty from 17 members to 29 over the years and adding a doctoral program in 1999. A major highlight of his tenure will be the launch of a new general education curriculum this fall, Christ at the Core.

During his term of service, Dr. Jones made an intentional effort to increase the number of female faculty members and faculty of color on campus. The percentage of female faculty has increased more than 12 percent, and the percentage of faculty of color has risen from less than 5 percent to over 12 percent. The academic administration has changed accordingly.

“When I stepped into my job it was all men reporting to me, and now it’s 50 percent women,” Dr. Jones says. “They are all great administrators and leaders.” 

Dean of Humanities and Theological Studies Dr. Jill Baumgaertner describes her relationship with Dr. Jones as “a real partnership,” noting that “Dr. Jones has been always available, always faithful, and a remarkable mentor.” 

Commended by colleagues as “authentic,” “humble,” and “hospitable,” Dr. Jones is deeply committed to the integration of faith and learning on campus. He notes one of his most important contributions to Wheaton as the strengthening of the Faith and Learning training program for faculty. This fall, he looks forward to teaching a freshman seminar section for Christ at the Core.

“I love teaching, research, and being with students,” Dr. Jones says. “This fall, for the first time in my academic career, I’ll be sitting down with 18 freshmen. I’m really looking forward to that."