Lauren Innovations, which develops NaviGate Prepared, a proven school safety emergency response system designed to assist and prepare school officials and first responders for emergency situations, has promoted Thom Jones to general manager.
Jones assumes the leadership position as company president Jim Hummel takes on a new role as vice president of human resources at Lauren International.
Jones had been instrumental in the implementation of the NaviGate Prepared product since its launch in 2013. The secure cloud-based platform offers 911 dispatch centers and emergency personnel real-time Internet access of a school’s facility and safety information.
A former principal and teacher, Jones led the company’s sales and marketing efforts, which resulted in schools in several states adopting NaviGate Prepared, including 50 percent of Ohio schools.
“Thom’s many years of experience as a teacher and administrator have supported our vision to keep schools safe,” Hummel said. “His leadership and ability to connect with customers will serve the company well moving forward.”
Before joining Lauren International, Jones served as principal in the award-winning Garaway, Dover and Dublin school districts. In 2009, while he was principal of Dublin Willard Grizell, it was the only Ohio middle school designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School.
Jones grew up in Dover, where he currently resides. He earned his master’s degree in administration from Ashland University and bachelor’s degrees in political science and secondary education from Marietta College.
“It is truly rewarding to be in a position to help enhance safety in schools across the country,” Jones said. “We will continue to expand our efforts to give peace of mind to all who are responsible for keeping students and staff safe.”
