Cathy Jones, Ph.D.
Cathy Jones, Ph.D., is the Chief Executive Officer of UP Partnership in San Antonio, Texas, where she leads a cradle-to-career backbone organization serving over 700,000 youth across Bexar County. In her role, Dr. Jones coordinates a coalition of more than 120 partners—including school districts, higher education institutions, philanthropy, government agencies, and community organizations—working toward the county’s North Star goal of ensuring that 70% of students engage in post-secondary education by 2030. She focuses on operationalizing the Future Ready Plan, aligning resources and initiatives, and building robust data systems to drive strategic decision-making and measurable outcomes for children and families.
With 35 years of experience in education and 14 years in nonprofit leadership, Dr. Jones began her career as a kindergarten teacher before advancing through roles as assistant principal, director of human resources, and assistant superintendent for school transformation. Prior to joining UP Partnership, she served as an assistant superintendent, where she led district-wide initiatives to improve student outcomes. Her work emphasizes systems innovation, youth development, and scalable strategies for educational transformation, blending classroom insight with executive leadership to create lasting impact.
Dr. Jones holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Leadership from the University of Texas at Austin, where she graduated from the Cooperative Superintendency Program, recognized nationally for excellence in superintendent preparation. She also earned a master’s degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Texas State University. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in mentoring, volunteering, and professional leadership programs, reflecting a commitment to service, integrity, and empowering youth through education.
• Delivering Successful Projects with Microsoft Planner
• School Superintendent
• The University of Texas at Austin - PhD
• University of Texas Cooperative Superintendency Program Alumni
• Leadership Austin Alumni
• Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor
• Real Life Church Member
• Austin Partners In Education
• Leadership Austin
• Real Life Church
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong work ethic, my faith in God, and a willingness to embrace the opportunities He has provided. My doctoral-level education, combined with over 35 years in education, has opened doors and allowed me to contribute as a knowledgeable voice on issues affecting youth, education, and systems. Above all, I am driven by the opportunity to create meaningful impact and serve the greatest number of people through my work.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always take the high road. For me, this means prioritizing integrity above all else. Job titles, positions, and accolades may come and go, but your character and the way you conduct yourself will always speak for you.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is moving from vision to execution. This involves operationalizing the Future Ready Plan by aligning over 120 partners around a shared North Star and building the data systems that provide the insights needed to make informed, strategic decisions on the path to 2030.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, faith in God, and a strong work ethic. I also prioritize balance and well-being, enjoying outdoor activities like snowboarding, jogging, wakeboarding, cycling, and swimming to stay energized and centered.
Locations
UP Partnership
San Antonio, TX 78248