The University of New Mexico announces the appointment of Daniel A. Jones as its new general counsel, effective Feb. 24, 2025. Jones brings a wealth of experience in higher education law and leadership to this crucial role at UNM.
"We are thrilled to welcome Daniel Jones to The University of New Mexico,” said UNM President Garnett S. Stokes. “His extensive background in higher education law and his proven track record of leadership makes him an ideal fit for our institution. I am confident that his unique combination of talent and experience will serve UNM well. I look forward to the valuable insights and expertise he will bring to our legal affairs and overall university governance."
Jones' appointment comes after an extensive national search. His diverse experience in higher education law, including work with student affairs, athletics, and university police, positions him well to address the multifaceted legal needs of a large public research university like UNM.
"Daniel Jones' experience aligns perfectly with the needs of the university,” said UNM Regent William Payne, who co-chaired the search committee. “His background in managing complex legal issues in a university setting, combined with his understanding of the unique challenges facing higher education today, made him stand out among a strong pool of candidates."
Jones comes to UNM from Florida Atlantic University, which serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses. As vice president for Legal Affairs and General Counsel, Jones provides legal and policy advice to Florida Atlantic’s board of trustees, university president, and senior administrators, manages university-wide litigation, and assists in overseeing university compliance operations.
"Daniel understands the academic mission of our institution and demonstrated a commitment to both the legal and educational aspects of university life,” said UNM School of Law Dean Camille Carey, who also co-chaired the search committee. “His interdisciplinary background will be valuable in navigating the complex landscape of higher education law and policy.”
Stokes also praised the search committee members for their work on fielding an exceptional pool of applicants. “I want to thank Regent Payne and Dean Carey for their leadership throughout the process,” she said, “and the entire search committee for their dedicated service.”
"I am honored to join the University of New Mexico as General Counsel,” said Jones. “UNM's commitment to academic excellence, research, and community engagement aligns with my belief in the transformational experience that higher education provides for our students and our communities. I look forward to working with President Stokes, the Board of Regents, and the entire UNM community to support the university's mission and help navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."
Jones arrived at Florida Atlantic in 2013, where he held the titles of assistant, associate, deputy general counsel, and, currently, vice president of legal affairs and general counsel. Previous to Florida Atlantic, Jones was an assistant attorney general for the state of Florida, worked in the private sector as a senior associate at Hightower & Partners in West Palm Beach, Fla., and served as a staff judge advocate attorney for the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps.
“Daniel is joining the UNM leadership team at an exciting time when many important and complex issues face higher education,” said Stokes. “This is a critical position for the University, and we will benefit greatly from having a chief legal counsel of his caliber and ability.”
Jones earned his juris doctorate at the University of Alabama School of Law (2003), his master’s degree in history at Florida Atlantic University (2015), and his Bachelor of Business Administration from Samford University (2000). He will receive his Ph.D. in Comparative Studies from Florida Atlantic University later this month