Commonwealth University Dedicates Eileen G. Jones Honors College at CU-Bloomsburg
Bloomsburg, PA (09/05/2024) — Commonwealth University's Bloomsburg campus celebrated a momentous occasion with the official dedication of the Eileen G. Jones Honors College on Thursday, Sept. 5. This landmark event marks a significant chapter in the university's history, made possible through a transformative $7 million gift from Stephen J. Jones '83 and Melanie Sanchez-Jones. Their extraordinary generosity will benefit students across all Commonwealth University campuses, including Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, Mansfield, and Clearfield.
Named in honor of Jones' late mother, the Eileen G. Jones Honors College will serve as a beacon for attracting and supporting high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds. This dedication highlights CU's unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
"When I first became president in the fall of 2017, we identified three key priorities: improving student retention, increasing graduation rates, and expanding our Honors Program into an Honors College," said CU President Bashar W. Hanna. "Seven years later, thanks to Steve and Melanie, we're standing here today dedicating the Honors College, an investment in current and future Huskies, Bald Eagles, and Mounties."
John Wetzel, chair of the CU Council of Trustees, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the tremendous impact of the Joneses' generosity. "On behalf of the Council of Trustees, I extend our deepest gratitude for this gift and for investing in the future of Commonwealth University and its students."
The celebration also featured the dedication of a newly named lobby within the Honors College, made possible through a generous contribution from Marc '93 and Diane Steckel. The space will offer honors students an inviting environment for collaboration, mentorship, and professional development, further enriching their academic and social experiences.
Both the Jones and Steckel families were honored following the ceremony with the unveiling of their names on Bloomsburg's prestigious Wall of Distinction, which recognizes donors who have given over $1 million in support of CU-Bloomsburg students.
Interim Honors College Dean John Hintz spoke of the lasting impact of these gifts. "It may sound like a cliche, but it's true: we could not achieve this without the generosity of the Jones family, the Steckels, and so many other donors."
Stephen J. Jones, chair of the Bloomsburg University Foundation Board of Directors, reflected on his personal connection to the university and the inspiration behind the gift. "Our mother always pushed us to become the best versions of ourselves. For me, Bloomsburg was the place where I could do that. Naming this Honors College in her memory is a way to honor her legacy and support a university that means so much to me."
In addition to providing scholarships and professional experience grants, the Joneses' endowment will bolster faculty support and enhance programming across all CU campuses. These initiatives will position the Honors College as a leader in high-impact educational practices, including experiential learning and close faculty mentorship. CU aims to enroll 10% of its student body in the Honors College, aligning with its strategic vision for academic distinction.
For more information on the impact of philanthropy at Commonwealth University, please visit giving.bloomu.edu.
Media Attachments
Shown from left are members of the Jones family: Tom Jones, Sue Sparhawk, Steve Jones, and Alex Jones.