For Chuck Jones, McMurry University was never just a place to attend college. It was a place close to home, grounded in faith, and filled with opportunities to grow. Raised in Abilene and a graduate of Clyde High School, Chuck knew he wanted to stay near family while continuing his education in a religious environment. McMurry offered exactly that, along with the chance to run track and utilize scholarship support from Methodist organizations. What ultimately kept him at McMurry, though, was the sense of belonging he found through the people and organizations that welcomed him in and made him feel part of something bigger.
Once on campus, Chuck fully embraced everything McMurry had to offer. His time as a student was marked by involvement in nearly every corner of campus life, from track and field to student government, Religious Life, Campus Activities Board, theater, and social clubs. That wide-ranging involvement shaped his college experience and helped him build lasting relationships while discovering his own passions and strengths.
Some of Chuck’s most meaningful memories come from moments that challenged him and broadened his perspective. As a freshman, he achieved a goal he had set even before enrolling by being part of the ASC Championship Track team and running his best-ever time in the 800 meters. Years later, his McMurry experience took him far beyond Abilene when he traveled with the Religious Life department to Melbourne, Australia, to attend the Parliament of the World’s Religions. The experience was transformative, allowing him to engage with global faith traditions and witness moments he never imagined, including participating in a Vodun blessing ceremony and hearing His Holiness the Dalai Lama speak.
After graduating in 2011, Chuck’s career began in retail sales before shifting into talent acquisition, a field where he has since built a successful and evolving career. He credits his McMurry education with preparing him not only academically, but personally. His coursework emphasized emotional intelligence, servant leadership, and interpersonal connection, skills that have proven essential in human resources. Those lessons now guide how he works with candidates, supports colleagues, and adapts to the ever-changing landscape of talent acquisition. Over the years, his professional journey has included promotions, serving as an advisor in operational change initiatives, and leading large-scale projects as both a recruiter and strategist.
Life after McMurry has also brought new priorities and perspectives. While his student years revolved around exams, papers, and a packed social calendar, today Chuck balances a full-time career with raising four children alongside his family. His goals now center on providing stability, supporting his children’s growth, and being present as a father, husband, colleague, and mentor, all while still finding time to read when he can.
Chuck’s deep appreciation for McMurry eventually led him back to campus in a new way through service on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, where he now serves as Membership Committee Chair. Feeling called to give back to the university that gave him so much, he welcomed the opportunity to support alumni engagement and stay connected to McMurry’s ongoing work. He believes a strong alumni pipeline is essential to the university’s future, not only through financial support but through storytelling and recruitment. Alumni who share their experiences, he says, help prospective students truly understand the impact McMurry can have on their lives.
Serving on the Alumni Board has strengthened Chuck’s connection to McMurry, allowing him to build relationships with alumni across generations and contribute to initiatives shaping the university’s second century. His pride in McMurry runs deep, especially as a first-generation college graduate. Earning his degree marked the fulfillment of years of hard work and remains a source of lasting pride for both him and his family.
When asked what advice he would give current students, Chuck’s message is simple and heartfelt. Try something new. Step out on a limb. McMurry is filled with people who will support, teach, pray for, and advocate for students every step of the way. All it takes is the willingness to try.
As he looks ahead, Chuck hopes to continue growing his involvement with McMurry, finding new ways to support the university and strengthen the alumni community. His story is one rooted in engagement, service, and gratitude, a reflection of the enduring impact McMurry University continues to have long after graduation.
Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We’d love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@mcm.edu to schedule an interview.