Carson-Newman names Jones as recipient of 2025 Founders’ Day Medallion

Carson-Newman University honored long-time music professor Ann Jones with the institution’s 2025 Founders’ Medallion on Oct. 23 during its annual Founders’ Day Ceremony. Presented during its homecoming week, the award is one of the most prestigious accolades given by the University.

Jones served with excellence in Carson-Newman’s Music Department throughout her career. It was an area she was well familiar with having once been a music student within the department. After graduating from C-N in 1961, she decided to continue her education at Indiana University, earning her master’s degree.

She landed her first teaching job at Mississippi College before returning to Carson-Newman in 1965. The homecoming allowed her to join her new husband, Charles “’Fessor” Jones, in Carson-Newman’s Music Department. He oversaw A Cappella Choir, and she taught voice. The duo was able to travel together on A Cappella Choir tours across the South

A growing interest in choral music and conducting led to an opportunity for Jones to oversee C-N’s Women Singers.

Her work and reputation with Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity and C-N’s Alpha Gamma chapter is legendary. Her involvement and leadership within the music fraternity presented students with opportunities and elevated Carson-Newman’s profile in music circles.

During her tenure, Carson-Newman’s chapter earned the fraternity’s Chapter of Excellence Award 49 consecutive years – more than any other chapter in the nation. She served as president of the international organization until her term ended – leading Delta Omicron to change its bylaws to allow her to ultimately serve 10 years at its helm.

When she retired in 2017, Jones was the University’s longest tenured faculty member – serving 52 years at Mossy Creek.

The University has recognized her commitment to the institution and her students awarding her with such distinctions as the Distinguished Faculty Award and the induction into the University’s Robert Reedy Bryan Society.