Jax State News

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Jax State Names Department of Teacher Education, Establishes Endowed Scholarship Through Gift From Dr. Beverly Ann Lorren 

Jacksonville State University (Jax State) will honor the legacy of educator Dr. Beverly Ann Lorren through two transformational gifts supporting the College of Education and Professional Studies—one that will shape the future of teacher preparation and another that will open doors for graduate students pursuing leadership roles in education. 

 
Jax State Awards Honorary Doctorate to Country Music Star Riley Green at Spring Commencement 

Jax State Awards Honorary Doctorate to Country Music Star Riley Green at Spring Commencement 
 
Meet Daphne: The K-9 Officer Working Behind the Scenes to Keep Jax State Safe 

The Jacksonville State University Police Department has added a new member to its ranks, and Officer Cody Quinn has added a new member to his family. Daphne, a 2-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, joined the department in July and is trained to detect firearms and explosives, particularly in large crowds. 
 
Jax State Launches Bachelor of Science in Aviation, Beginning Fall 2026

Jacksonville State University is excited to announce the launch of its newest academic program — a Bachelor of Science in Aviation, set to begin in Fall 2026. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education approved the aviation program on Friday, March 13, 2026, during its meeting in Montgomery.
 
Tickets Still Available for ROC Grand Opening Concert

Tickets remain available for the grand opening Celebration of the Randy Owen Center, set for Wednesday, May 27, at 7:00 PM. Special guests will join us to surprise and celebrate this new, state of the art facility, honoring country music superstar Randy Owen, our alum and board member.
 
Jamey Johnson & Friends Jam to Air on Alabama Public Television April 25

Audiences across the state will soon have the opportunity to experience one of Jax State’s most memorable nights of music. The Jamey Johnson & Friends Jam, recorded live at the Ernest Stone Performing Arts Center, will premiere on Alabama Public Television on Saturday, April 25, at 8 p.m.
 
Jax State earns national recognition in 2025 Collegiate Advertising Awards

Jacksonville State University has been recognized among the nation’s top institutions for marketing and communications excellence, earning multiple honors in the 2025 Collegiate Advertising Awards (CAA).
 
Jax State Board of Trustees Honors Scott Williams with Dining Room Naming

The Jax State Board of Trustees has approved the naming of the Scott Williams Dining Room in recognition of his 47-year career in campus dining, including 37 years at Jax State. The honor, made possible through a gift from Sodexo, reflects a career defined by leadership, consistency, and a deep commitment to the campus community.
 
Jax State Partners with Sanders Flight Training Center to Support Aviation Program

Jacksonville State University has approved a partnership with Sanders Flight Training Center (SFTC), an FAA Part 141 flight school based in Jasper, to provide flight instruction for students pursuing the Commercial Aviation concentration in Jax State’s new Bachelor of Science in Aviation program. 
 
Jax State honors faculty excellence at annual Faculty Awards Program

Jacksonville State University recognized the outstanding achievements of its faculty during the annual Faculty Awards Program held April 9, celebrating excellence in teaching, research, service and campus leadership. 
 
Jax State students lead production of new documentary premiering on Alabama Public Television

Longleaf Studios project highlights hands-on learning and regional impact
 
Jax State’s Dr. Rashad Ahmed earns Conference USA Faculty Achievement Award

Jacksonville State University’s Dr. Rashad Ahmed has been named a 2026 Conference USA Faculty Achievement Award recipient, an honor recognizing outstanding faculty members for excellence in teaching, research and service.
 
Jax State earns Gold Military Friendly® designation for 2026–27

Jax State has been named a Gold Military Friendly® School for 2026–27 in the small public institution category, recognizing the university’s ongoing efforts to create strong academic pathways and support systems for those connected to military service. The university was also designated a Military Spouse Friendly School, further highlighting its commitment to serving the broader military community.
 
CBI Dean Search Moves to Final Stage with Campus Visits

The Jax State community will have an opportunity to engage directly with finalists for the next Dean of the College of Business and Industry during campus visits this April. Your participation in these sessions is an important part of the process and will help inform the university’s next leadership decision.
 
Jax State AMA students earn international recognition at Chicago conference

Students in the Jacksonville State University American Marketing Association (AMA) chapter are gaining real-world experience, building professional connections, and proving they can compete on an international stage.