Kili Class
2024 Conquering Kili Class
Role
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
Location
Dallas, TX
Jonathan P. Lopez, Ed.D., is an accomplished professional with a diverse background in education, health insurance, and fitness industry leadership. Dr. Lopez is known for his passion for excellence, resourcefulness, and ability to inspire and lead teams. He currently is Vice President of Sales for Novo Connection. Jonathan’s career also includes military service with the United States Marine Corps from 2007 to 2009, where he refined his leadership, time management, and interpersonal skills. Jonathan’s military service was cut short due to a medical discharge caused by a shoulder injury.
Education has always been a cornerstone of Jonathan’s career. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Texas A&M in 2007, he went on to pursue his Master of Education and Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Arkansas, graduating in 2010 and 2019, respectively.
From 2009 to 2013, Jonathan worked at the University of Arkansas Veterans Upward Bound helping his fellow veterans transition out of the military and succeed in their higher education pursuits. As Director, he secured a Department of Education grant worth over $1.44 million.
Throughout his life, Jonathan has been a firm believer in giving back. Dr. Lopez serves on the Dallas Committee for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and is a Board member of the Dallas Warriors a veteran ice hockey organization. Dr. Lopez is also an active participant in the Dallas Chapter of Merging Vets and Players.
The most important role Jonathan has is his role of father. In 2022, Jonathan started the Rad Dad Podcast, a podcast centered around raising children and passing generational knowledge and values.
Overall, Dr. Jonathan P. Lopez’s career showcases his commitment to educational excellence, philanthropy, innovative business solutions, and passionate leadership. Jonathan believes that his experience in education, business, and philanthropy will be able to strongly support the Chris Long Foundation and the Waterboys team in bringing awareness to water equity needs domestically and globally through Conquering Kili.
Each new Conquering Kili class accepts the challenge to embark for the summit, a walk that represents the miles that many African women journey on a daily basis to fetch water for their families. While training for the climb, each team member works to raise funds and transform communities through the gift of clean water.