Distinguished Alumni
Chuck Jones
Awarded 2019
Chuck Jones learned valuable leadership skills that would prove useful in life as he worked his way through college. Earning a BBA in finance from Sam Houston State University, he began a banking career in Huntsville with American Bank.
Since that time, Chuck served as senior vice president/indirect production manager and also senior vice president/division manager for Wells Fargo Dealer Services and founder/president of Strategic Automotive Consultants, LLC.
Today, as senior vice president/national head of indirect lending for SunTrust Bank, Chuck oversees a financial services line of business that serves the lending needs of 4,100 retail auto dealers across the nation. He was also recently installed as chair of the American Financial Services Association’s Vehicle Finance Board. Prior to his appointment, he served a one-year term as vice chair.
By any measure, he has had a successful career but, to Chuck, true success means much more than a title or the bottom line. He sees the greatest success in helping others.
As a Life Endowed Member of the SHSU Alumni Association, he continually gives back to Sam Houston State. Each year, he and his wife Debbie sponsor numerous SHSU scholarships, across various academic disciplines; helping first generation students achieve their educational dreams. He has served on numerous university committees and is currently a member of the SHSU COBA advisory council. Chuck was inducted into the College of Business Administration Hall of Honor in 2011.
Philanthropy has always played an important role in Chuck’s life. Since 1993, he has sponsored three international children in need. He is actively involved in the American Cancer Society, Habitat for Humanity and other charities. The Texas Masonic Lodge in Dallas recognized him as ‘Community Builder of the Year’. Chuck has extensively supported his fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha and its educational foundation, serving as vice chair and is a volunteer mentor with Lambda Chi students. Chuck also serves as a board member for the Development Authority of Lumpkin County. The Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber recently recognized Chuck as ‘Volunteer of the Year’ and ‘Government Affairs Committee Volunteer of the Year.’
Charles and Debbie reside in Smyrna, Georgia and have one daughter, Lauren.