The resolution commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University, which was established in 1974 with initial funding from the Houston Endowment. Named after Jesse H. Jones, a notable entrepreneur and philanthropist, the school began with a small cohort of students and a limited faculty. Over the years, it has gained significant recognition, achieving accreditation in 1998 and consistently ranking among the top business schools in the nation. Under the leadership of Dean Peter Rodriguez since 2016, the school has introduced innovative programs, including Rice University's first online degree and a hybrid MBA program, while its undergraduate business major has quickly become popular.
The Texas House of Representatives expresses its congratulations to the Jones Graduate School of Business for reaching this significant milestone and acknowledges the impact it has had on nearly 10,000 students who have built successful careers through its programs. The resolution extends best wishes for the continued success of the school and calls for an official copy of the resolution to be prepared as a token of esteem from the Texas House.