Retired U.S. Army Colonel brings three decades of leadership, policy and higher education experience to Hampton
HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University has appointed Elmore J. “Jay” Jones Jr. as its new Compliance Officer, bringing an accomplished career in military leadership, policy, personnel management and higher education administration to the University.

A retired U.S. Army Colonel, Jones served for 30 years in leadership positions across the United States and abroad. His career included assignments with the Defense Intelligence Agency and Department of the Army at the Pentagon, U.S. Army Human Resources Command and multiple Army divisions and commands. His work included policy development, personnel management and senior-level organizational leadership.
In his new role at Hampton, Jones will support the University’s commitment to institutional integrity, accountability and adherence to applicable policies and regulatory requirements.
“Mr. Jones brings the kind of disciplined leadership and sound judgment that are essential to a strong culture of compliance,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams ‘83. “His experience leading complex organizations and developing policy at the highest levels will be an asset as Hampton continues to strengthen its operations and advance its mission.”
Jones most recently served at Tennessee State University, where he held several leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Director of Veterans Affairs and NCAA Certification Officer. He is also pursuing an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at Tennessee State.
A graduate of Norfolk State University, Jones earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and was commissioned as a U.S. Army officer through the university’s Army ROTC program. He later earned a master’s degree in human resource development from Webster University and completed a yearlong National Security Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School.
During his military career, Jones completed three operational deployments supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve. His honors include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Meritorious Service Medal, among other distinctions.
Jones’ appointment reflects Hampton University’s continued investment in strong institutional governance and operational excellence as the University grows in reach, research and impact.
About Hampton University
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is one of the nation’s strongest Historically Black Colleges and Universities and a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution. For more than 150 years, Hampton has prepared world-ready leaders of character and consequence through a distinctive educational experience grounded in academic excellence, leadership, innovation, and service.
Home to students from 44 states and 32 countries and territories, the University is nationally recognized for groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer research, cybersecurity, marine and environmental science, and other disciplines that address society’s most pressing challenges. With an annual economic impact of $515 million across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton continues to advance discovery, strengthen communities, and prepare graduates to lead with purpose in an increasingly interconnected world. Learn more at www.hamptonu.edu.
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