New Dean At Hendry-Glades College Center

Edison State College Welcomes Familiar Face to Hendry/Glades Center Leadership Position


LABELLE, FL. -- Edison State College names Dr. Robert Jones as new Dean to oversee the Hendry and Glades County Center serving students in Hendry and Glades Counties. Dr. Robert Jones has accepted the new leadership role effective November 1, 2009.

''This is an important time for Edison State College and our commitment to Hendry and Glades Counties," said Dr. Kenneth P. Walker, President of Edison State College. ''We carefully balanced the needs of the community, the students and the college. I feel confident Dr. Jones brings a well-qualified background to the Center and will be welcomed by the students he will serve.''

Jones was instrumental in developing the relationship between Edison State College and the Hendry and Glades communities throughout his tenure at the college. Administrators say Jones led the partnership between Edison and LaBelle High approximately 10 years ago.

Most recently Jones worked to secure the purchase and move to the Center's new location at 1092 E. Cowboy Way that opened this Fall with an increased student enrollment.

''I look forward to building upon the hard work, enthusiasm and achievements that have come from Edison State's partnerships in Hendry and Glades Counties,'' said Jones.

''The communities of LaBelle, Moore Haven, Clewiston, and Alva will benefit from his exceptional experience in administration combined with his longstanding familiarity with the local community,'' said Dr. Randall Parrish, Edison State College Board of Trustees Chairman and Hendry County representative. ''His breadth of knowledge of these communities provides a natural pathway for expansion and new opportunities."

Leaders at Edison State College say they feel strongly the Hendry/Glades Center will continue to thrive and expand in the next few years.

''I feel so confident the students at our Center will thrive with the experience Dr. Jones brings to the position,� said Julia G. Perry, Edison Board of Trustees member representing Glades County.'' This campus will become an educational and cultural center that will one day become home to two and four year degree programs.''

Edison has served Southwest Florida for nearly 50 years with campuses in Lee, Collier and Charlotte Counties. The Hendry/Glades Center at Edison State College serves approximately 500 students each semester.

Dr. Jones has served Edison State College since 1991. He holds a Doctorate in Education from NOVA Southeastern, an MBA from the University of Texas at Tyler and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin with a major in Economics.

He and his wife, Betsi have two daughters, Kate and Emily.