Omega Psi Phi Brother Phillip Jones Is Making History as Mayor of Newport News

Phillip Jones is representing Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. at the highest levels of municipal leadership as the youngest directly elected mayor in the history of Newport News, Virginia.

Initiated in Spring 2010 through the Iota Mu Mu Chapter, Mayor Jones is part of a long tradition of Omega men who have answered the call to leadership, service, and uplift far beyond the campus. On January 10, 2023, he took the oath of office, officially becoming the city’s youngest-elected mayor and stepping into a role that reflects the fraternity’s values of leadership.

As mayor, Jones has prioritized improving education, investing in public safety, and modernizing City Hall operations to better serve the people of Newport News. His vision is to transform the city into an All-American City by strengthening public-private partnerships, modernizing government processes, and elevating Newport News’ story on a national stage.

Long before taking office, Mayor Jones’ commitment to service was evident. He attended the United States Naval Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science degree before continuing his education at Harvard University. He later completed graduate studies at both Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School, earning an MBA and a Master of Public Policy. While there, he served as a Tillman Scholar and Co-President of the Veterans Club.

Mayor Jones also served as a Marine Corps infantry officer, leading Marines on peacekeeping and security cooperation missions across four continents, experience that continues to shape his leadership approach today. He later transitioned into the private sector as a management consultant, advising Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations on strategy, operations, and organizational effectiveness.

Under his leadership, Newport News has achieved notable progress in public safety. According to 13 News Now, city officials reported 18 homicides, with 12 resulting in arrests, marking a more than 60 percent reduction over a three-year period and the city’s lowest homicide total since 1985, a significant milestone for the city.

As mayor of Newport News, Phillip Jones continues to serve at the intersection of public service, leadership, and community engagement. His work as the city’s youngest-elected mayor, combined with his background in military service, public policy, and organizational leadership, places him among a growing group of Black NPHC leaders shaping local government and civic life across the country.