About Dr. Shaniqua Jones
Dynamic and Devoted Post Secondary Instructor & Lecturer
Outstanding knowledge of curriculum design and deep understanding of Social Work, Restorative Justice, Leadership and Student Success. Proven success with all the students in classrooms and working tirelessly for student comprehension, discipline aand healing.
CEO/ Founder of Purple Path/ Jones Academy of Excellence
Dr. Shaniqua Jones
Dr. Shaniqua Jones is a Global Leader and Restorative Justice Practitioner, Expert, Affectionately known as Dr. J and her brilliant ability to connect deeply with those who have been harmed and have caused harm through Restorative Justice and Restorative Practices. Dr. J has been called upon to remove barriers alienating and dehumanizing people from all walks of life. Dr. Jones completed her doctoral degree in Interdisciplinary Leadership specializing in Higher Education in May of 2016. She has a diverse background in academics. What separates Dr. Jones from her peers is her uncanny ability to infuse her personal and professional experiences, which allows her to connect genuinely and have a great deal of empathy for the people she serves.
Serving Community
Dr. Shaniqua Jones has not only carved a dynamic path as a leader in restorative justice but has also profoundly impacted communities and institutions on a national level. As a Restorative Justice Trainer for the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement, Dr. J has proven herself to be a transformative force, bringing innovation and compassion to her role. Her influence was further acknowledged when, in May 2021, she was appointed by Governor Pritzker and the Illinois State Board of Education to serve a one-year term on the Whole Child Task Force, contributing to policy development focused on holistic well-being for Illinois students.
In December 2021, Dr. Jones’s depth of expertise earned her a prestigious one-year assignment as the Restorative Justice Facilitator for the MacArthur Foundation’s Just Imperative Working Group, where she guided critical conversations around healing, resilience, and community restoration. From 2018 to 2022, she also brought her visionary leadership as the Chief Educational Officer for Touch Gift Foundation, advocating for educational access and equity. Through each role, Dr. J has empowered individuals and inspired institutions, reinforcing her reputation as a powerful advocate for justice and community healing.
Education
EdD - Interdisciplinary Leadership (Specialization: Higher Education Administration)
Governors State University (2016)
Master of Art- Criminal Justice
Governors State University (2013)
Bachelor of Art - Interdisciplinary Studies
Minor: Social Work
Governors State University (2011)
Community Engagement
Recently Dr. Jones acted as Director of Community Engagement and Diversity Programs at Trinity Christian College. The educator provided opportunities to discuss matters of the heart related to diversity and social justice by utilizing Restorative Practices. Dr. Jones advised students to serve across the country and mentored scholars through academic preparation and spiritual formation.
Dr. J used her experiences as Restorative Justice Coordinator – Dean of Students at Chicago Collegiate Charter School. She also used her foundation for Restorative Justice training for churches, schools, community organizations, The Cook County Southland Juvenile Justice Council, and the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice. Dr. Jones has served as a consultant-to-District Coordinator of Restorative Justice and Restorative Practices with Thornton Township High Schools District 204 for four years, ending her residency in 2022. With a global platform, asa the founder of Purple Path and Jones Academy of Excellence, Dr. Jones has educated and served thousands of students, parents, guardians, educators, organizations, and more through her work rooted in Restorative Justice and Restorative Practices.