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# $750,000 Donated by Tyson Foods for Renovations at The Jones Center
- URL: https://cibocom.ghost.io/750-000-donated-by-tyson-foods-for-renovations-at-the-jones-center/
- Published: 2016-11-03T01:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-08T15:01:07.000Z
- Author: Cibocom
- Tags: Tyson Foods, pork, beef, poultry

On October 29, 2016, in Springdale, Arkansas, Tyson Foods, Inc. declared a generous donation of $750,000 to The Jones Center. The funds are intended for the refurbishment and enlargement of the center's fitness and food court areas, which will be renamed the "Tyson Foods Fitness and Food Wing." The declaration was made during The Jones Center's signature event, Big Night. The donation will facilitate the addition of over 2,800 square feet to the fitness center, including a studio exercise classroom, a new café, outdoor and private dining spaces, and a revamped west entrance. This donation marks the commencement of the second phase of The Jones Center's interior renovation. Construction is set to start in early December and is projected to be completed in roughly six months. Ed Clifford, CEO/President of The Jones Trust, stated that the donation would enable the center to provide amenities and programs that cater to the growing and diverse needs of Northwest Arkansas, as well as the expanding downtown workforce in Springdale. He added that their collaboration with Tyson Foods would be transformative, especially as the company plans to relocate about 400 employees downtown. The aim is to create an environment that appeals to a young professional workforce. Both organizations are committed to enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas. As a key player in Springdale's Downtown Revitalization project, The Jones Center is grateful for the continuous support from Tyson Foods. Since the center's establishment, Tyson Foods has contributed significantly to its vision and mission, as set by founder Bernice Jones, through annual donations and a $2 million pledge to The Jones Center Endowment Fund in 2014\. These contributions have played a crucial role in securing a sustainable future for The Jones Center. Russell Tooley, executive vice president of continuous improvement for Tyson Foods and a member of The Jones Trust board of directors, expressed pride in their continued support of The Jones Center and its significant impact on the community. He noted that the new amenities would contribute to the center's legacy and future as a significant asset for Northwest Arkansas. The Jones Center began a multi-phased interior renovation in early fall. The first phase included a state-of-the-art conference center, the Harvey Jones Memorial Foyer, and two breakout classrooms, which are set to open in early 2017\. Future phases will feature a revamped lobby, improved directional signage, and an updated South Concourse with a historical founders' display. The Jones Center hopes that the renovations will attract more families and organizations by providing a welcoming community and recreational space for everyone in Northwest Arkansas. Tyson Foods, Inc., based in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest food companies, with leading brands such as Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee®, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells®, and State Fair®. The company supplies retail and foodservice customers throughout the United States and approximately 130 countries. Tyson Foods was founded in 1935 by John W. Tyson, whose family has continued to lead the business. The Jones Center, a unique 220,000-square-foot facility, offers social, educational, business, and recreational opportunities to an estimated one million visitors annually. The Jones Center opened in 1995 as a legacy gift from local philanthropist Bernice Jones. The Jones Trust, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, owns and manages four entities in the region – The Center for Nonprofits at St. Mary’s in Rogers, and three facilities in Springdale - The Center for Nonprofits at the JTL Shops, The Harvey Jones Education Building, and The Jones Center. The Jones Trust houses approximately 80 nonprofits in its facilities. The Jones Trust is governed by eleven trustees representing the entire Northwest Arkansas region.