Arrowhead Center welcomes NMSU alumnus as entrepreneur-in-residence

Original Article | Carlos Murguia | cmurguia@nmsu.edu | January 9, 2024

The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship, housed at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center, has announced the appointment of NMSU alumnus Daniel J. Jones as entrepreneur-in-residence.

A distinguished NMSU graduate and native of Las Cruces, Jones brings a wealth of experience as a multi-time founder, chief executive and entrepreneur specializing in building and scaling companies in complex, highly regulated industries with a focus on mission-driven companies seeking to make positive change in the world.

Jones’ professional career has spanned nearly two decades in early-stage technology startups and venture capital. Jones studied academic and corporate innovation at Stanford Graduate School of Business and is a two-time LEAD program Intellectual Contributor Award winner for his work in design thinking and finance. Jones has worked closely with several academic institutions and corporations building programmatic approaches to entrepreneurship, innovation, and company-building, with multiple successful spinouts.

Jones graduated from NMSU in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in finance.

As an entrepreneur-in-residence, Jones will play a pivotal role in advancing the Hunt Center’s mission to grow entrepreneurial strength and diversity in the Borderplex region and throughout New Mexico. With a proven track record as a leader, executor, and value creator, Daniel is uniquely positioned to inspire and guide emerging entrepreneurs on their journey toward success.

“We are thrilled to welcome Daniel J. Jones back to his alma mater and our community. His experience and accomplishments as an entrepreneur make him an invaluable resource for the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Borderplex region and New Mexico. Daniel’s commitment to positive social change aligns seamlessly with the Hunt center’s vision,” said Carlos Murguia, director of the Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship.

Jones’ passion for projects that drive positive social change is particularly resonant with the Hunt Center’s goals. His experience in navigating the complexities of successfully building a company will provide invaluable insights for entrepreneurs looking to overcome challenges and make a significant impact in their respective fields.

As entrepreneur-in-residence, Jones will engage with students, faculty, startup founders and the local business community through mentorship programs, workshops and events. His role will also involve fostering connections between emerging entrepreneurs and early-stage investors, contributing to the center’s objective of increasing access to crucial funding opportunities.

“I am honored and excited to be back at NMSU and to have the opportunity to contribute to the growth of entrepreneurship. The Hunt Center’s commitment to empowering diverse groups of people aligns with my own values, and I look forward to working closely with the vibrant community here to drive positive change through innovation and entrepreneurship,” Jones said.

To learn more about Jones, visit the Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship at https://arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu/program/the-hunt-center/.