Family, friends, and classmates of Kevin R. Jones ’94 celebrated his deep commitment to social justice and student success at and beyond Haverford by creating a fund to support internships for current Haverford students who share Kevin’s commitments. These funds will assist students with demonstrated financial need in maximizing their college experiences and professional opportunities.
The heartfelt tribute quickly grew to become a permanently endowed resource. The first intern will be named for the summer of 2022. As an undergraduate, Jones co-founded the Sons of Africa, a student group that continues on campus today (as Black x Brown) and provides academic and social support to students of color. The group will establish a support network to mentor the interns.
“This is an inspiring effort led by alumni volunteers of color, honoring a beloved alumnus by making a difference in the lives of students and helping the College meet its goals of long-term, sustainable change,” notes Acting Vice President for Institutional Advancement Deb Strecker. “Kevin’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion will have an enduring, powerful impact at Haverford and beyond.”
Not long before his death from cancer in 2020, the California attorney noted the imperative of removing barriers faced by Haverford students. He was a champion of the underdog and eager to see African American, first generation, and economically disadvantaged students have a fair chance at success. “Through his light and kindness, Kevin brought people together and demonstrated the power that compassion at all levels can have in righting wrongs. His gentle nature sat comfortably alongside uncompromising ethics and strength, creating sanctuary for many,” his friend and classmate Uzma Wahhab ’94 remembers.
Internships enable students to gain experience and contribute to the valuable work of an organization. Interns will also develop and enhance professional skills and gain industry knowledge through the hands-on opportunity.
“Many of the summer internships offered outside of the College in social justice and community building are unpaid, which makes it challenging or impossible for underrepresented and low-income students to take advantage of these opportunities,” explains Dean of Career and Professional Advising & Associate Dean of the College Amy Feifer. “This fund will allow students to gain experience in a field of interest while receiving a summer stipend,” she continues.
“College was a special time in Kevin’s life—one where his conviction, sense of justice, and ethical compass developed and solidified in a way that would guide his steps through the years,” notes Kevin’s sister, LaKeisha Jones. “It is fitting that an award created in his name will live on at Haverford to support generations of students in need and we look forward to seeing how lives will continue to be shaped by his generosity of spirit,” she concludes.
To support the Kevin R. Jones ‘94 Career Development Internship Fund: hav.to/krj.