Motivational Speaker
Dr. Ruth Jones, a motivational speaker, brings a diverse background that includes leadership,
woman in a male dominated field, and community leadership. She has accolades for her work as
a Physicist, Woman in STEM, mentor to emerging professionals, and volunteer in
underprivileged communities. Dr. Jones, a trailblazer, is the second African American woman in
Alabama to earn a Ph. D. in Physics and the first woman to receive a BS in Physics from the
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
An experienced Physicist/Leader, she has received awards such as Inducted into the Hall of
Fame for achievements in Science/Technology, Government Leadership Award, Extraordinary
Achievements in Aerospace Engineering and recognized as one of the six Women Succeeding in
Male-Dominated Fields. She is the co-author/contributor to the Society of Women Engineers’
first eBook, “Be That Engineer: Inspiration and Insight from Accomplished Women Engineers.”
Dr. Ruth is lauded as one of NASA’s Modern Figures. She has 30 years of experience with
NASA and has held several leadership roles.
Dr. Ruth has created a LEGACY of giving back to her community, hometown and anyone who
crosses her path. She gives back by sharing her experiences, knowledge, advice, mentoring and
being a listener. She awards two scholarships to deserving students who are actively involved in
her home church, First Baptist Church in West Helena, Arkansas. Dr. Ruth is an advocate for
education, especially math and science, and she holds a “Science Day’ at her former schools in
West Helena to encourage students to be the BEST no matter where they come from because
their upbringings doesn’t determine their destiny!
Dr. Ruth is a native of West Helena, Arkansas, but resides in Huntsville, Alabama. Outside of
work and spending time with her family, she enjoys being involved in the community, playing
tennis, working out, and being instrumental in other’s lives.
Disclosure information not submitted.
Opening Keynote: Dr. Ruth Jones
Thursday, October 23, 2025
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM CT