Cory W. Jones is the co-founder of Heirs International Christian Academy (HICA), a PK-5 elementary school in Memphis that is scheduled to open in fall 2026. Cory’s vision is for HICA to be a character-driven institution where low-income students in the Memphis area can receive a high-quality Christian education rooted in discipleship, citizenship, fellowship and leadership. Cory is a teacher and education entrepreneur with over 12 years of experience in youth development and youth ministry. He has worked with notable organizations such as the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South, Youth Villages, Memphis-Shelby County Schools and Memphis Teacher Residency. Cory holds a BS in psychology from the University of Memphis. He also holds a master’s degree in urban education from Union University, where he is currently completing work toward a postgraduate education specialist certificate in leadership.