A Lasting Legacy: Increasing Gender Diversity in Utah's Political and Business Landscape
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“Serving as CEO of the Women’s Leadership Institute for more than a decade has been the highlight of my professional career. Utah’s businessmen and businesswomen are recognizing the value that women bring to leadership, and Utah is becoming a model for how to help create business culture change. I look forward to WLI’s continued progress under my successor, Melanie Jones, working side by side with the capable WLI team. Together, they will carry on the mission of WLI with strength, integrity, passion, and vision.”
Pat Jones, CEO and Founder
“Patricia Jones has brought wisdom, statewide relationships, and relentless commitment to the Women’s Leadership Institute,” shared Jonathan Hafen, a long-time member of the WLI Executive Board. “Pat and the WLI team have built a lasting legacy of advancing women in leadership and creating an indelible impact on Utah. We are profoundly grateful for her service.”
When founding WLI, Jones brought decades of experience from both the public and private sectors, serving 14 years in the Utah Legislature and co-founding the influential research firm Dan Jones & Associates. Her efforts have elevated Utah’s conversation and action around the importance of gender diversity, women in leadership, mentoring, and political engagement. During her tenure, Jones built a robust portfolio of leadership programs, forged critical statewide partnerships, and positioned WLI as a respected voice in Utah’s leadership landscape.
A Tribute to 10 Years of WLI
The Work Continues: WLI's Future is Bright
Melanie Paris Jones Named as WLI's New CEO
“Melanie brings a rare combination of strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and authentic passion for elevating women,” said Ally Isom, Chief Marketing and External Affairs Officer at Clyde Companies and co-chair of WLI’s succession committee. “Her experience and values align beautifully with our mission, and we’re confident she’s the right leader to take WLI forward.”
“The Women’s Leadership Institute has a bold and important mission—to ensure that women’s talents and voices are not only heard but valued at every level of leadership,” said Melanie Paris Jones. “I’m honored to lead WLI into its next chapter, expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and continuing to champion real progress for women in Utah’s business and civic communities.”
Melanie Paris Jones succeeds Patricia Jones (no relation), who announced her retirement in April 2024 after nearly a decade as WLI’s founding CEO. Under her leadership, the organization became a respected force for gender equity and leadership development in the state.