Jon has spent his career trying to pursue the truth in sports, while exploring how our tremendously entertaining, passionate and flawed games can play a role in creating a more equitable society. We’re not there yet. He’s still trying.
As Community Impact Director of the Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program, he leads Project Play’s community work portfolio, national and local youth sports research, and media relations. Jon has authored more than 20 youth sports reports, including the annual National State of Play, local State of Play reports in communities around the U.S., and Reimagining School Sports reports.
Prior to joining the Aspen Institute in 2017, Jon was an award-winning sports reporter covering college football, NCAA issues and investigative stories. He worked at CBSSports.com, The Birmingham News, The State, The Anderson Independent-Mail and The Washington Post.
Jon previously served as a youth soccer and basketball coach. His claim to fame was going winless in his final soccer season yet drawing a hug from the surliest kid whose leadership improved throughout the year. Jon lives in Urbana, Maryland, with his wife Mandy and sons Daniel and Josh.