2008 Louisiana Role Model

Clarence Jones, Jr., a native of Berwick, Louisiana, graduated from Sumpter Williams High School in Morgan City, Louisiana. His love for music was evident during his formative years when he sang in the school choir, performed in the band and represented his school in numerous state music competitions. He was awarded a scholarship in vocal music to attend Southern University and he speaks proudly of his participation as a student in the Concert Choir and his role as accompanist for many student performances. In 1966 he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Vocal Music and later an MS degree in Educational Leadership.

His extensive professional career began with teaching vocal music in several high schools, including the East Baton Rouge School System, where he has also served as a high school principal and central office administrator for East Baton Rouge Parish Schools. Concurrent with his professional career, he traveled throughout the world playing Jazz and promoting Louisiana tourism for nearly 20 years.

Mr. Jones organized the “Heritage” choir in 1976 and dedicated their music to the preservation of the Negro Spiritual.  Desiring to further promote the historical significance of that musical genre, he organized the Heritage Festival of Negro Spirituals, an event held annually in Baton Rouge. The choir has traveled to various cities in the USA. International travel has taken them to Mexico City for the Mexican Choral Festival, to London, England and Paris, France and to the Vatican in Rome, Italy to perform as special guest of Pope John Paul.  They continue to have an active involvement in the community through their signature program entitled “The Heritage Festival of Negro Spirituals” presented  annually for the past fifteen years in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Clarence Jones, Jr. , a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, is the proud husband of Janice Marie Auzenne-Jones and father of six children.