Columbia International University names new president

Listen to this article

The Columbia International University board of trustees has named Bill Jones as the new president of CIU.

Jones currently serves as CIU chancellor and previously served as CIU president from 2007-17, according to a news release. Jones brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the position.

In his previous role as CIU president, Jones laid the foundation for the university to move into the next century, the release stated. His strategic approach included spearheading initiatives such as CIU’s first fully online degree program, and the Kepha Institute reaching students online in East Asia.

Other initiatives included establishment of CIU’s Cook School of Business, establishing intercollegiate athletics, the addition of six new buildings, and tripling the CIU endowment. Also, under Jones, the CIU Prison Initiative received full accreditation, the release stated. Through an associate of arts degree, the CIU Prison Initiative equips inmates to serve as chaplain assistants in prisons throughout South Carolina.

Jones’ Bible study ministry to marketplace leaders, including state and federal government officials, was recognized by South Carolina when he was awarded the Order of the Palmetto in 2019, the state’s highest honor, the release stated. He was also awarded the Key to the City of Columbia by Mayor Steve Benjamin in 2017. Having a passion for spreading the Christian faith, Jones co-founded Crossover Global in 1987, an organization that has planted over 4,000 churches around the world.

CIU Board Chairman Dr. Hans Finzel says Jones’ life reflects his deep commitment to CIU’s mission of educating students from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ.

“Dr. Bill Jones has a rich history serving Columbia International University and the community of Columbia,” Finzel said in the release. “We could not be more thrilled at his appointment as our next president as we enter our second century of impacting the nations with the message of Christ.”

Jones will begin serving as president on Feb. 1, 2024. Inauguration details will be forthcoming.

Jones replaces Mark Smith who resigned from CIU in February 2023 over health concerns, according to the release. Interim President Rick Christman will continue serving CIU as executive vice president.

Jones is married to Debby Jones, who holds a master’s degree in Christian Education from CIU.