Bobby Kenneth Jones II was named the 2025 Lee University Honorary Alumnus of the Year during the recent Homecoming celebrations. He was recognized for this distinction at the Traditions of Lee Music Showcase and during the men’s basketball game. 
 
The Honorary Alum of the Year Award is given to the person or people who demonstrate achievement in their field of craft and are recognized by Lee as a person or people who the university wants as its own, despite not having graduated from or attended Lee.    
 
“It was with great joy and pleasure that we recognized Ken Jones as the Honorary Alumnus of the Year at Lee University,” said Carman Lastoria, director of alumni and donor relations. “Mr. Jones has played an influential and impactful role in Lee’s growth and development and leads with excellence in all that he does. He has not only advanced our mission through his generous contributions and leadership on our board, but he has played a key role in advocating for Lee and inviting others to support our vision for the future. This is a well-deserved honor and speaks to the wonderful legacy of the Jones family.” 
 
Jones has been a long-time member of the Lee Board of Directors, and his advocacy, personal engagement, and generosity have helped elevate Lee’s visibility and growth. He has been instrumental in cultivating partnerships that benefit Lee University and its students. His leadership extends beyond Lee, as he actively supports educational and charitable causes throughout North Carolina.  
 
President and CEO of the Deacon Jones Auto Group of North Carolina, Jones has carried on his father’s legacy by expanding the company’s dealerships across the state and into Virginia working to uphold the dealerships’ reputation for excellence and customer service. 
 
Jones’s commitment to Lee’s mission and his impactful leadership in both business and philanthropy exemplifies his charitable spirit and his deeply rooted values of community, faith, and service. 
 
Jones and his wife, Donna, have two children, both graduates of Lee, and three grandchildren.