USF 2025 Keynote Speaker

John York, Class of 2016, is a development officer with the Thomas Jefferson Foundation in Charlottesville, Virginia. In that capacity, he stewards relationships with Monticello’s major donors and supporting programs, such as the Monticello Teacher Institute and Promise Grants for members of the Monticello descendant community. He represents Monticello nationally through events, tours, and stakeholder outreach

Previously, Mr. York taught AP and Introductory Psychology at Grain Valley High School in Grain Valley, Missouri, where he also coached the school’s Scholar Bowl team.

A 2016 graduate of Westminster College, Mr. York double-majored in history and secondary education. He was also a Seminar mentor, an employee of America’s National Churchill Museum, and a member of multiple honor societies. As president of the Missouri Beta chapter of Phi Delta Theta, he helped lead the chapter in winning the prestigious Kansas City Trophy.

Mr. York graduated summa cum laude and as a Senior of the Year from Westminster. He remains grateful for the mentorship of numerous faculty members and the lifelong friendships formed during his time at the College.