About NSPRA
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Author: NSPRA Staff/Thursday, January 9, 2025/Categories: News
When Tommy Jones joined the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) in 1985, it wasn’t with a polished resume or a formal job interview. Instead, it was an enthusiastic recommendation from his brother—an employee at AASA, The School Superintendents Association, then located in the same building as NSPRA—that opened the door. What started as an entry-level role with the association soon blossomed into an extraordinary 40-year career that would take him from sorting mail to shaping the organization’s financial strategies as its trusted senior business services leader, a role he’s preparing to retire from next month.
“From early on, I’m grateful to have had managers and bosses who recognized my potential,” Tommy said. From the mailroom, he quickly moved into membership and publication sales, and when an opportunity arose in business services, he expressed his interest in the position. “NSPRA paid for me to go to school and train for the role, and if I did well, I was promised the position,” Tommy said. “That’s how I ended up here.” For Tommy, these opportunities to grow and develop within the organization were key to his decision to stay for four decades.
Longtime NSPRA members know Tommy as a fixture at the NSPRA National Seminar registration desk each year, assisting attendees with check-ins, answering questions and more. While a forward-facing role didn’t come naturally to him, he drew on his experience as a door-to-door life insurance agent, a job that many are surprised to learn was part of his early career. “People are always surprised to hear I once had a job that required so much face-to-face interaction with customers because I’m a naturally shy person,” he said. “But I took that job to prove to myself that I could do it.”
That determination would become a hallmark of his career at NSPRA, where Tommy enjoys being a behind-the-scenes contributor to the organization’s success. Despite his pivotal role, he’s never sought the spotlight. “I enjoy working quietly in the background, making sure everything runs smoothly,” he said.
Over his 40-year career with NSPRA, Tommy has witnessed remarkable changes both in the organization and the school communications field. “It’s amazing to see how much has transformed,” he said. Indeed, Tommy experienced the organization’s transition from written and mailed communication to email in 1996, as well as NSPRA’s venture to an online presence with its first website in 1998. Since then, he says, NSPRA has continued to lead the way with its innovative spirit. “Watching NSPRA be at the forefront of changes in technology and leading efforts like diversity and inclusion has been incredible, and something I’ve been proud to be a part of.”
Tommy’s tenure is also a testament to NSPRA’s history. During his 40 years, he worked with every executive director of the association except its first, offering him a unique perspective on how NSPRA’s leadership has shaped its mission and growth over time.
One of Tommy’s proudest accomplishments came during a time of uncertainty. As the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe in 2020, the NSPRA National Seminar—a major source of revenue for the association—was canceled. Thanks to Tommy’s foresight in adding a communicable disease rider to the organization’s liability insurance policy years earlier, NSPRA was largely reimbursed for the loss. “I’m so thankful that I trusted my experience and knowledge,” Tommy said. “Even the insurance agency told me how fortunate we were to have done that. It’s a moment I’m very proud of.”
But for Tommy, the most rewarding part of his job has always been the people. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with such a great team,” he said. “Over the years as staff members have come and gone, I’ve been able to look back with fondness on all the coworkers I’ve had at NSPRA.”
The feeling is most certainly mutual.
“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Tommy for over 30 years, first as a coworker at NSPRA for 11 years and later as a member,” said Andy Grunig, APR, who worked as the communications manager for NSPRA before transitioning into school PR himself. “I am honored to call him my friend and think of him as a brother from another mother. He is one of the nicest and hardest working people I know, and we shared many adventures working together, especially at Seminars. To me, he is NSPRA. It will not be the same without him.”
“Tommy has never hesitated to pitch in or do a favor for someone in need,” said Executive Director Barbara Hunter, APR. “He is truly one of the most selfless humans I’ve ever known. We will miss him very much here at NSPRA and wish him all the fun that his next adventure will bring.”
As Tommy looks ahead to retirement next month, he’s excited to spend more time with family and friends, travel, and volunteer. “I’d like to help out at a hospital or nursing home—something where I can continue helping people,” he shared. He also plans to indulge in his hobbies, including cooking and his little-known talent for home interior design.
Describing his career as "awesome," Tommy reflects back on his years at NSPRA with gratitude and pride. “It’s been a great ride,” he said. “I have so many memories, and for the rest of my life, I’ll cherish my time at NSPRA. The camaraderie, the teamwork, the way we kept the Seminar fresh and vibrant—it’s all been so impressive to be a part of. NSPRA is a great organization, and I know it will only get better in the years to come.”
As Tommy prepares to close this chapter of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, foresight and kindness. His journey from shy beginnings to a leader within NSPRA is a testament to hard work, continuous learning and a genuine care for others. He may be retiring, but his impact on NSPRA and its people will be felt for years to come.
Click on the gallery below to see photos of Tommy over the years at NSPRA. All photos from NSPRA archives and files.
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