INSTITUTE, W.Va. – West Virginia State University (WVSU) Vice President for University Advancement Trey Jones has been recognized as a 2026 Diamond Award Honoree for his civic and community service work.
Presented by The Not Alone Foundation, Inc. and The Academy of the Diamond Awards, Jones received the organizations’ Diamond Award: Crown Jewel of Transformational Philanthropic Leadership, Institutional Advancement & Humanity-Centered Educational Impact, which honors individuals whose leadership demonstrates extraordinary impact, service and purpose.
In its official proclamation, The Academy recognized Jones’ national impact in the areas of philanthropy, strategic partnerships, and university advancement.
“Your career is a living testimony to transformational philanthropic leadership, one that transcends professional excellence to embody compassion, civic duty, and the enduring belief that education is the truest pathway to human advancement,” said Mark Dodd, founder and CEO of The Not Alone Foundation. “You are more than a leader – you are a keeper of the flame.”
Jones’ visionary approach to philanthropy, strategic partnerships, and university advancement have galvanized record-breaking fundraising success at WVSU. Under his leadership in October 2025, the university launched the public phase of a capital campaign that has already raised more than $23.1 million toward a $25 million goal. His career has spanned over higher education, hospitality sales, and healthcare operations.
“I am very appreciative of this recognition from The Not Alone Foundation, Inc. and The Academy of Diamond Awards,” Jones said. “It reflects the collective commitment of an incredible team of colleagues, partners, and community members who share a belief in service, access, and the transformative power of higher education. It is a privilege to work with so many talented people to support work that advances opportunity for our students and uplifts communities.”
In addition to his work at the university, Jones also serves on the Board of Directors for Goodwill Industries of the Summit, the YMCA of the Kanawha Valley, Communities in Schools – Wake County (North Carolina), and serves in the Advisory Council for the Salvation Army Red Shield Youth Center of Charleston. In addition, he is a graduate of the FBI Charleston Citizens Academy and is a frequent guest speaker at events to motivate and inspire students from various grade levels and backgrounds.
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