Our Minds, Our Voices Woman Of Distinction 2019 Honoree: Kristi Jones

Durham, NC – The Aura Galleria recognize Kristi Jones as a “Woman of Distinction” for her work in the field of civil service at its third annual “Our Minds, Our Voices” event on March 2nd. This powerful awards luncheon, in observance of National Women’s History Month, will honor ten influential and phenomenal women in the categories of education, medicine, social justice, civil service, public service, technology, mental health, business, humanities and fashion and beauty. 

 “Always do your best” was repeated constantly to Kristi Jones throughout her childhood by grandparents, parents and teachers. The words of encouragement and assurance is one of the lessons that influenced Kristi in her professional and personal endeavors.

A cum laude graduate of North Carolina Central University, Kristi earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree. She continued her studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she earned a Juris Doctorate of Law.

She started her career in non-profits organizations, first at Opportunities Industrialization Center of Wilson and later in Greenville, North Carolina. These employment opportunities instilled in her an appreciation for non-profits and an understanding that nonprofits fill gaps of unmet needs that may not be provided by private or public agencies. Jones continues to support the work of non-profits by volunteering, serving on boards, and offering personal financial support.

Her public service career started as a staff member to Governor James B. Hunt, Jr. as the Executive Director of the North Carolina Initiative on Race. This innovative initiative was instrumental in improving race relations in North Carolina by fostering private and public collaborative relationships among business and community leaders.

In 2017, North Carolina’s 75th Governor, Roy Cooper, appointed Kristi as the first African American female to serve as Chief of Staff for Office of the Governor. Kristi has the responsibility of implementing the Governor’s agenda and goals by working with cabinet secretaries, senior staff, communities and corporations to improve the quality of life for all North Carolinians. Prior to this appointment, Kristi served for 10 years as Chief of Staff for the NC Department of Justice.

The Wendell-Wake Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People bestowed the honor of Humanitarian of the Year to Jones for her grassroots and statewide work as a public administrator and volunteer.

Each day Jones is mindful of the sentiment said to her early in life. She tries to “Do her best” in all facets of life. She feels humbled and blessed to have unique professional experiences and is personally grateful for the love and support from her husband, Muye Akinkuotu.

This year’s “Woman of Influence” is the media pioneer Cathy Hughes, an African-American entrepreneur, radio and television personality and business executive. Hughes founded the media company Radio One (now known as Urban One), and when the company went public in 1999, she became the first African-American woman to head a publicly traded corporation. In the 1970s, Hughes created the urban radio format called “The Quiet Storm” on Howard University’s radio station WHUR with disc jockey and fellow Howard student Melvin Lindsay.

On Saturday, March 2, 2019, this electrifying event is expected to draw 300 women and men of all ages and ethnicities to the JB Duke Hotel, 230 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708. The day begins at 9:00 am with the Our Minds, Our Voices Women’s Expo, a vendor showcase of fine wears (clothing and accessories) and corporate sponsors with consumer products and services. The Women’s Expo is free to the public.

 Ballroom doors will open at 11 am for the Our Minds, Our Voices awards luncheon. Tickets can be purchased online at www.thearuagalleria.com, by phone 919.419.9868 or visit the Aura Galleria at 3742 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC  27707.