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Kwanza Jones

Class of 1999

Founder and CEO, Kwanza Jones & José E. Feliciano Initiative

Kwanza Jones is a catalyst. Her life’s work lives at the intersection of culture, community, and capital. Whether producing motivational media through her company SUPERCHARGED by Kwanza Jones, or sharing an action-inspiring message from the stage or in the boardroom, Jones uses her art and access to amplify voices and issues that may otherwise not be heard.

Jones has many titles, including: recording artist, leader, motivational speaker, consequential conversationalist, impact investor, and philanthropist. Ask her about them and she’ll tell you, she may have many titles but she only has one job—to boost humans and humanity.

As a music artist, Jones’ performances and songs leave audiences uplifted and energized. Her music celebrates the power and strength of the human spirit, while also acknowledging challenges and obstacles. Whether she’s writing and recording songs that address women’s rights, democracy or gun violence, her message-driven music addresses social issues and makes a positive impact.

Jones, along with her life and business partner, founded the Kwanza Jones & José E. Feliciano Initiative (Jones+Feliciano), a philanthropic grant-making and investment organization that strategically partners with non-profits and for-profits to ensure maximum impact. Jones+Feliciano focuses on four pillars—education, entrepreneurship, equity, and empowerment—as providing access to capital in these areas leads to greater and more equitable advances and societal progress. Jones+Feliciano has committed more than $200 million to these efforts.

Jones earned her Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University, Master of Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine University School of Law, and Juris Doctor from Cardozo School of Law. She has taught cross-cultural negotiation as an adjunct professor at New York University, served as a court appointed mediator for New York City Civil Court, and has held leadership roles as a board member and advisor to numerous companies and nonprofits, including Apollo Theater, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center, and Bennett College. An accomplished recording artist, Jones has had multiple chart-topping hits, including reaching top 10 on the Billboard music charts.

Overall, Kwanza Jones is a powerhouse of positive energy and a true force for good in the world. Connect with Kwanza on her website kwanzajones.com or via social media @kwanzajones.

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For information about the event or corporate sponsorships, contact Nicholas Gulde at nicholas.gulde@yu.edu or 646.592.6882