Author Stuart D. Jones, Ph. D.

Stuart D. Jones, Ph.D., hails from the south side of Lafayette, Indiana—where he grew up believing that every story, especially a family story, deserves to be told. For the Love of Stephen: The Story of a Boy Who Was Never Broken is his heartfelt debut, a year-long labor of love inspired by his brother’s remarkable life.

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Stuart’s journey is as rich and varied as the chapters in his book. He holds a Ph.D. in Education (Higher Education Leadership) from Northcentral University, an M.A. in Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary, a B.A. in Interpersonal and Public Communications from Purdue University, and a diploma from Jefferson High School. His work blends scholarship, spirituality, history, social commentary, and deeply personal insight.

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Before becoming a nationally recognized leader in higher education—known for his achievements in enrollment management, financial aid, and student success—Stuart spent more than a decade serving Indiana congregations as an ordained pastor. From youth and music minister to senior pastor, he wore many hats with grace and dedication. Over the past 30 years, he has helped shape the futures of students and institutions alike, leading record-setting enrollment initiatives at universities across the Midwest, South, and Northeast.

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His leadership has earned him prestigious honors, including the national Noel-Levitz Marketing and Recruitment Excellence Award. He was also the runner-up for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) Strategic Enrollment Management Award of Excellence. Today, as an in-demand speaker and college consultant, Stuart continues to share his expertise and passion nationwide.

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Outside the academic world, Stuart’s greatest joy comes from family—as a devoted husband to Terri and a proud father and grandfather. When he isn’t writing or teaching college courses part-time, you might find him enjoying a fine glass of wine, tracing his family roots, hunting for antiques, watching classic films, or—more often than not—trying in vain to improve his golf game.

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In For the Love of Stephen, Stuart brings together a lifetime of professional wisdom and personal warmth to tell an unforgettable story of love, resilience, and the power of family—written with heart, humor, and hope.

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Credentials & Highlights:

• Ph.D. in Education (Higher Education Leadership)

• M.A. in Divinity and Theology

• B.A. in Interpersonal & Public Communications

• National higher‑education leadership in enrollment, financial aid, student retention

• Noel‑Levitz Marketing & Recruitment Excellence Award;      AACRAO Strategic Enrollment Management Award of Excellence

• The Art Jones Champion of Youth Award: Boys & Girls Club

• Ordained Christian minister

• Global speaking experience

• Advocate for disability inclusion