Christi Lones, assistant professor of history, was one of five York County residents recognized with a 2019 Impact Award, presented at the York County Development Corporation 2019 annual meeting on March 14. This award recognized five individuals under the age of 45 who have made a significant impact on the county. The award was presented by Lisa Hurley, executive director of York County Development Corporation. 

“We really wanted to recognize people who are having an impact on York County,” said Hurley, “whether it’s through their profession, their volunteerism...they are having a rippling effect,” on the community.

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Lones is in her tenth year of teaching at York College. Prior to that, she worked as the director of admissions at YC. She was nominated for the award by a coworker as well as a former student, both of whom touted Lones’ commitment to building bridges between the college and the community. Each year Lones coordinates a cultural geography fair that serves more than 300 York area elementary and middle school students. Nominators said that Lones “embodies the spirit of servant-leadership in her professional and personal life and this event is one example of how she seeks unique ways to give back to the York community.”

Lones also serves as the chaplain of the volleyball program at York College. In that role she has facilitated student athlete visits to York Elementary School, as well as a YES night at YC, where elementary students could come watch a volleyball game and enjoy popcorn for free. The Lones family is known for their hospitality, as they frequently host students and others in their home for meals and fellowship. Hurley commented that they were the first people to invite her family over for a non-work function when she moved to town several years ago. 

Lones regularly volunteers with events through East Hill Church of Christ, including the biannual Clothing Exchange, which serves thousands each year. “She tirelessly works to intertwine the York College campus with the rest of the community and does so with projects that are mutually beneficial for both groups,” said Hurley, reading a statement from Lones’ nominators. “She inspires challenge in a very hands-on way. She is never above any task and is willing to tackle any project that would bring good to anyone.”

In addition to this honor, Lones was also recently appointed to fill a vacancy on the York City Council.