Linda Jones ‘In giving, we are blessed’
Jones stated, she believes in giving of her time, talents and treasures to others. I know that it is through our giving we are blessed”.
Most people look at retirement as the end of a chapter in one’s life. Linda Houston Jones sees retirement as a chance to solely focus on her commitment to giving back. For forty years Jones worked in the public school system helping students reach higher heights. When she wasn’t on a school campus, Jones was working tirelessly creating opportunities for children to explore their artistic and cultural gifts. To under-score her compassion for others and giving back, Jones decided to have a fundraising event for her favorite causes instead of having a personal retirement gala.
Linda Houston Jones is a firm believer in the old adage, “to whom much is given, much is required.” Thus, she takes every opportunity possible to pay it forward. Jones is the founder and president of Ashanti Cultural Arts, Inc., a non-profit organization that facilitates cultural arts, literacy, wellness and after-school programs for the community in line with her love of the arts. She is also the president of Newrelj, a recording label founded by her late husband, musician Emridge “E.J.” Jones.
In terms of public service, Jones serves on the boards, of three cities with days named in her honor: Lauderhill, Fort Lauderdale, and Lauderdale Lakes. Additionally she sat on the boards of the Broward County Cultural Commission, The Broward County Diversity Advisory Board and the Starting Place.
Her fervor for service is also defined in her active organizational participation. Jones is a charter member of the Pompano Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the North Broward County Chapter of the Links and the 1000+ Club as well as Mount Hermon AME Church in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Jones dedication to service has not gone unrewarded. As such, she is the recipient of numerous awards, including the ArtServe Art Administrator of the Year Award, President Bush Volunteer Action Award, March of Dimes Woman of Distinction, Price Waterhouse Outstanding Business Leader, JM Family Enterprise, African American Achievers Award in the Arts and Girl Scouts Juliette Lowe Arts Award.
Jones holds a Bachelor of Science and Master’s degrees from Florida A&M University and Nova.
Southeastern University in Media Specialization, Learning Resource, and Administration Supervision and is also a graduate of Leadership Broward Class of XXXVI.
Among Jones’ proudest achievement is her family. The Daytona Beach, Florida native is the proud mother of two beautiful children, Jemilah & Emridge, III., and one “daughter in love” Iyinka Jones.
If you would like to attend the fundraiser on Saturday, May 31, 2014 , or make a donation to Ashanti Cultural Arts, contact Jemilah Jones at (954) 792-3700.
