Spirit of Innovation

Amy Shope Jones

Amy Shope Jones, director of annual giving, regularly comes up with new, innovative ways to raise much-needed funds for students, particularly Wright State’s emergency fund. She spearheaded the start of the Wright Day to Give, which brings in over 1,000 annual donors and raises over $150,000 in a single day.

Jones created Wright Day to Give five years ago and it has grown into an event that has helped Wright State surpass fundraising and donation goals, particularly during the pandemic. She manages the fund drive behind the scenes to ensure that giving campaigns across all the colleges, athletic programs and other university divisions are successful.

“Amy is one of the hardest working members of our division,” said Brooke Leppla, associate director of alumni and donor marketing and communication. “She tirelessly works to create new and innovative ways to engage our alumni and community and raise dollars for funds all across campus.”

Greg Scharer, executive director of alumni relations, has been Jones’ supervisor for 10 years. He said that Jones is a tireless advocate for students and Wright State.

“Our students directly benefit from Amy’s hard work and dedication,” Scharer said. “Wright State is a better place because of Amy Jones.”

Jones’ work has helped raise money for much-needed funds on campus, such as emergency funds, the Raider Food Pantry, colleges and the Department of Athletics, all to benefit students.

Jones has built a relationship with almost every college and department on campus and works with each group to identify their biggest needs. She works with each department and unit to find their biggest needs and finds ways to raise resources and money that can address individual needs.

“Her ability to relationship-build and problem-solve, combined with her stellar work ethic, have helped to create many processes and programs that will continue to benefit Wright State University for years to come,” Leppla said.

Bill Bigham, interim vice president for advancement, commended Jones’ pursuit of innovation and growth for the university. He said that as technology and circumstances change, Jones easily adapts to any challenges and works hard to lead her area towards new opportunities.

“Amy’s work is a continual pursuit of innovation and adaption,” Bigham said. Her can-do spirit and positive attitude are foundational to her ability to take on challenges and make the best of them in order to make sure objectives are met.”