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Jacksonville State Announces New Board of Trustees Appointments and Expanded Membership

Jacksonville, AL (04/03/2025) — Jacksonville State University has announced changes to its Board of Trustees, including the creation of two new at-large positions and the confirmation of two new board members.

To strengthen statewide and national representation, the Board has added both an in-state at-large and an out-of-state at-large position. Senator Vivian Davis Figures, who has served as the representative for District 1 since 2012, has been appointed to the newly created in-state at-large seat and will continue to serve as Vice Chair of the Board. Two long-serving trustees-Clarence W. Daugette III (District 4) and Gale Saxon Main (District 2)-have also been reappointed to the positions they have held since 2012.

Two new appointees are joining the Board. Cheryl L. Orange was confirmed to serve in the new out-of-state at-large role, while Loring White was appointed to represent District 1, filling the seat previously held by Senator Figures.

"I'm incredibly proud of the leadership we have on our Board of Trustees," said Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., President of Jacksonville State University. "We're grateful to Governor Ivey and the Alabama Senate for their continued support of Jacksonville State and for their efforts in these appointments and confirmations. Cheryl Orange and Loring White bring not only impressive professional experience but also a deep personal connection to Jax State. Their insight will be a valuable asset as we continue to grow. I'm especially thankful for the reappointment of Senator Figures, Clarence Daugette and Gale Main-three leaders who have been instrumental in guiding the university forward over the past several years. Their continued service ensures a strong foundation as we look to the future."

Cheryl L. Bevelle-Orange is a nationally recognized technology executive, award-winning leader, and two-time graduate of Jax State. With more than 30 years of experience in corporate leadership, including senior roles at FedEx and Becton Dickinson, she brings a wealth of expertise in innovation, compliance, and vendor strategy. Originally from Bessemer, Alabama, Orange is also a dedicated alumna and former Vice President of Scholarships for the Jax State Black Alumni Chapter. Click here for her full bio.

Loring White, a 1978 Jax State graduate, is a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist with a long-standing commitment to higher education and workforce development. A former student-athlete and coach, White went on to acquire and grow Capitol Business Equipment into a national success, later integrating with Owl Services-now generating more than $1 billion in annual revenue. He also leads several successful ventures in agriculture and timber and remains active in state-level economic initiatives. Click here for his full bio.

These changes enhance the university's leadership representation and broaden perspectives from across the state and nation. The addition of in-state and out-of-state at-large positions reflects the university's growing impact beyond regional boundaries and its dedication to serving a broader community of stakeholders. These appointments position the Board to more effectively guide institutional growth and support student success in the years ahead.

About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers' college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1, or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.

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