February is traditionally and historically recognized for being Black History Month, but it seems like Black History Month has rolled on over into the month of March! Black people have been showing out, and in the best way ever, breaking barriers and making history! From Viola Davis, to Drake, Queen Bey and now, Mr. Milton H. Jones Jr.! Mr. Jones is the first Black person to hold a chair seat on the board of the United Negro College Fund.
Mr. Jones is an Atlanta business leader and civic activist, as well as the co-founding member of Peachtree Providence Partners Holding Company, according to the announcement made in an official press released from the institution. He will be charged with growing the endowment that benefits the 37 HBCU’s that belong to the UNCF network of member institutions. After reading his LinkedIn, Mr. Jones was a shoo-in for the position, given his incredible background working in business and finance. He’s on the board of several different institution’s, including the Board Treasurer and National member of the 100 Black Men of America. He’s also served as a board member on the Budget and Finance Committee Chair and Director for UNCF.
Now let’s stop for a second and let that sink in. He is the FIRST BLACK person to hold a chair seat on the board of an institution made for us, by us! if you scratched your head and raised your eyebrow at that fact you are not alone because, so did I! The UNCF has a history for providing Black students looking to attend college with financial support, so it’s pretty insane that it took so long for this type of achievement to be made. It makes you wonder, well who has been making decisions aiding in the futures and best interest of Black women and men, if not a Black person?!
The news, while it is great and well overdue, only proves that more Black men and women should be placed in these high leadership roles. Our voices, our influence, our walk of life and where we come from has a huge impact and is immensely valuable when it comes down to the decision making that goes on in those board rooms. It can make such a difference in the way business is conducted and we all know, representation matters! This is especially vital within an institution known for its commitment to Black people, or so it should be.
In closing, we want to give Mr. Jones his flowers and applaud him for his many years of service and commitment to the city of Atlanta and wish him the very best as he embarks upon a new chapter in his new role within the United Negro College Fund!
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