ASU alumnus builds a successful career, gives back to community

As a global business leader in the technology industry, Arizona State University alumnus Jon Hunter has been building organizational dynasties with his unique ability of identifying and attracting the most remarkable talent.

“My preparation and my DNA was well suited for that industry,” said Hunter, a class of ’94 graduate with a bachelor of science in criminal justice/police science.

Hunter’s original plan was to pursue a career in juvenile justice because he always had an affinity for law enforcement and family in the FBI, DEA and Chicago Police Department, he said. However, his academic training and early work experience guided him toward another career path.

“I was passionate about juvenile justice but I also got a political science minor which is the emphasis of influencing people, brokering deals and coming to consensus,” said Hunter. “And that was a big part of the technology industry.”

From taking an entry-level job at Mastering Computers right out of college to managing teams of 1,500 people in multi-billion-dollar corporations, Hunter built a successful 20-year career running various software companies.

“You know technology in particular is where innovation is key,” said Hunter, the former executive vice president of worldwide field operations at OpenText – an enterprise information management company. “It’s an industry filled with high energy, lots of change and lots of opportunity for people who can manage well.”

Thanks to the knowledgeable professors at ASU, Hunter said he learned the skills necessary to excel as a leader in the business world, including how to think, handle emotional topics and have an opinion on broad issues.  

“I was challenged and trained the right way,” said Hunter. “And I think developing the next generation of leaders has been one of my proudest accomplishments.”

As a well-educated citizen, Hunter believes it’s his duty to help build a great society and contribute to it.

"I’ve often use the words learn, earn and return,” said Hunter. “And it really does shift to giving back.”

Hunter currently serves as a board member for Celebrity Fight Night, a local charity initiative focused on raising money and awareness for Parkinson’s disease and other neurological diseases.

“We’ve seen a remarkable flood of more knowledge, wisdom and people who have been affected by the money raised to fight Parkinson’s and help Muhammad Ali,” said Hunter.

Hunter has also contributed significantly to St. Vincent de Paul, the Never Give Up Foundation and a shelter for the homeless in central Phoenix.

“Do your part,” said Hunter. “And leave a legacy of helping others.”