Jax State Hosts ALEAF During National Police Week

05/14/2025

Jacksonville State University was honored to serve as the host site for the Alabama Law Enforcement Appreciation Foundation (ALEAF) during National Police Week, May 12–16. The university welcomed law enforcement personnel from across Calhoun and Cleburne Counties to campus for a week filled with gratitude, fellowship, and celebration of their dedicated service. 

Each day from Monday through Thursday, appreciation luncheons were held on the fifth floor of Meehan Hall, offering meals, door prizes, and a space for law enforcement personnel to connect with colleagues and community members. The week culminated on Friday with the Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony at Centennial Memorial Park in Anniston, where officers who lost their lives in the line of duty were honored and remembered. Flags were flown at half-staff on Thursday in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day. 

“ALEAF’s mission is to make sure our law enforcement community knows they are valued, and it was a privilege to host this important week of appreciation at Jax State,” said Michael Barton, Associate Vice President of Health and Public Safety and Chief of Police at Jacksonville State. “We are thankful for all those who serve and protect our communities, and we were proud to stand alongside ALEAF in showing our support.” 

President Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. also expressed his appreciation: “To all who wear the badge — we see you, we appreciate you, and we support you. It was a true honor for our campus to serve as a gathering place for those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others.” 

Founded by local citizens, ALEAF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing the contributions of law enforcement officers across Alabama’s 7th Judicial Circuit. National Police Week provides an opportunity each year to honor the courage and sacrifice of officers and their families. 

Jacksonville State is proud to support the law enforcement community and thanks ALEAF for allowing the university to play a role in this meaningful tradition.