Shannon Jones

Biography

Shannon Jones has been serving as the Director of DEIA for Experience Columbus since July 2021. Prior to joining Experience Columbus, Shannon was a teacher in the Columbus City School District and a college access coordinator for KIPP Columbus, a charter school network committed to helping historically underrepresented children get to and through college and career. More recently, Shannon earned her PhD from The Ohio State University in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Additionally, during this time, she worked at OSU’s Student Advocacy Center helping students navigate obstacles during their college careers.

Currently at Experience Columbus she launched Columbus’ first ever Diversity Apprenticeship Program. This award-winning program was designed to create a pipeline for BIPOC individuals seeking leadership positions in the hospitality and tourism industry. Additionally, she works within the talent and culture team and manages all the DEIA related initiatives including leading their DEIA board and staff committees, talent acquisition, staff training and their staff service program. In 2025, Shannon was awarded Columbus’ Business First, 40 Under 40 award, which recognizes members of the Columbus community who have distinguished themselves as the regions next generation of leaders.