West Virginia State University has hired Melvin Jones vice president for business and finance. Jones, who held the position previously in an interim capacity, also served WVSU as an assistant professor of accounting from 2009 to 2011.

“Melvin brings significant experience in corporate and non-profit financial operations,” said President Brian O. Hemphill said. “He will play an important role in returning the University to a healthy, sustainable fiscal position.”

Prior to joining WVSU, Jones was vice president and chief financial officer for beBetter Business Networks Inc.

“I look forward to being consequential to the future of the University,” said Jones. “I’m excited to be a member of the new leadership team and I believe President Hemphill is leading us in a direction that will ensure the viability of the University for generations of West Virginians to come.”

Jones earned his master’s and bachelor’s degrees in business administration from the University of South Alabama, Mobile. He currently serves on the board of trustees for the Clay Center and on the board of trustees of the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation on the Finance, Audit and Distribution Committee.

Jones volunteers as treasurer of the board of directors of Kanawha Institute for Social Research and Action. He has served as first vice chairman and treasurer for the Avampato Discovery Museum and as chairman of the board of “Keep a Child in School.” theStateJournal