Leading the Path to Citizenship from the Front

Clay Jones

Clay Jones – veteran fighter pilot, retired CEO and Fortune 500 Corporate board member has taught citizenship preparation classes at Grace Place for the past six years. His story inspires us and his students.

In 1967, facing uncertainty as a high school senior, Clay heeded his father’s advice to study engineering and join the ROTC program at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. Although he excelled academically, he shifted his major to political  science and later became an officer in the Air Force.

Post-military service, Clay enjoyed a lengthy career at Rockwell Collins, contributing to groundbreaking projects that shaped defense systems and airline travel. Upon retiring, Clay and his wife, Debbie, sought meaningful engagement and found it at Grace Place. Impressed by the mission and the expansive campus, Clay discovered his calling when he learned about adult education classes.

Blending his education in political science with a passion for civics, history, and politics, Clay became a volunteer citizenship teacher. For six years, Clay has maintained a remarkable 100% success rate among over 80 students who have gone on to complete the citizenship process. While not all students pursue U.S. citizenship due to its challenges (including a 25-page application and $750 fee), Clay emphasizes the importance of their journey. On the first day of class each semester, he has his students share their name, country of origin, and motivation for becoming a U.S. citizen, with a common response being a deep love for the United States and a desire to officially be a part of it.

Clay’s commitment extends beyond teaching. He instills in his students the power to shape the country’s future. His dedication to empowering individuals on their citizenship journey exemplifies the spirit of community and service at Grace Place.