Kili Class
2026 Conquering Kili Class
Role
US Military Veteran
Location
Carrollton, 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 serves as Senior Vice President of Growth for Avant Health. 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.
Throughout his life, Jonathan has been a firm believer in giving back to his community and fellow veterans. Dr. Lopez serves on the Dallas Committee for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and is a dedicated Board member of the Dallas Stars Warriors, a veteran ice hockey organization that provides support and camaraderie to military veterans through the sport of hockey. Dr. Lopez is also an active participant in the Dallas Chapter of Merging Vets and Players, an organization that connects military veterans and former professional athletes to help both groups successfully transition to life after service.
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 down 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.