ORLANDO, Fla. — After years of reporting across Florida and beyond, The Villages Charter High School graduate David Jones is back in Central Florida, joining WESH 2 News as a reporter. For Jones, the homecoming is more than just a career move—it’s a return to the community that shaped him.

Jones’ journalism career began while he was still a student at The Villages Charter High School where he interned at WVLG in The Villages a local radio station. After graduating from The Villages Charter High School, Jones attended the University of Florida. He interned and later appeared on air at WCJB TV20 in Gainesville, gaining hands-on experience in broadcast news. His talent in the field of journalism were recognized early, earning him a prestigious national Hearst Journalism Competition award, as well as an honor from the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists.

(David Jones “far right” and myself “the tall guy” got started at a local radio station in The Villages called WVLG. He’s gone on to do some great things. This photo was taken outside the WVLG station at Lake-Sumter Landing in 2017.)

After graduating from UF, Jones joined First Coast News in Jacksonville, where he provided extensive coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and its widespread impact on Florida’s unemployment system. His in-depth reporting helped shed light on the struggles faced by many Floridians during one of the most challenging times in recent history.

Jones then took his skills to New Orleans, where he spent the past three years as the lead nightside reporter for Fox 8. His investigative work focused on criminal justice, political corruption, and environmental and infrastructure issues.

(Jones worked for a few years at FOX8 in New Orleans before coming back to the Orlando area to work with WESH2 News.)

Now, Jones is eager to tell the stories of the Central Florida community he calls home. His return to WESH 2 News marks a full-circle moment, allowing him to connect with the people and places that first inspired his passion for journalism.

Outside of the newsroom, Jones enjoys exploring Florida’s natural beauty, kayaking, and staying active with pickleball and tennis. He also cherishes time with his family and friends, especially his father, who still resides in Lake County.

(David Jones is currently a reporter for WESH 2 News in Orlando. Photo Credit – WESH.)

We have already had the opportunity to see multiple great stories from David Jones the past few weeks within the Lake & Sumter County community. For all those in the area seeking a journalism career, David Jones is a great role model. Great to see a former VHS Alumni representing! Way to go David keep up the great work!