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Jacksonville State University Launches Historic $100 Million Capital Campaign: It's a Jax State of Mind

by Josh Underwood

Jacksonville, AL (02/10/2025) — Jacksonville State University has officially launched It's a Jax State of Mind, a comprehensive $100 million capital campaign that will shape the future of the institution by enhancing the student experience, strengthening academic reputation, and elevating Gamecock athletics.

The five-year campaign is the most ambitious fundraising effort in Jax State history. It was announced Friday evening at the 8th Annual Red Tie Dinner and Auction, marking the beginning of a transformational investment in students, faculty and facilities, impacting the university for generations to come.

Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. highlighted the significance of this milestone, announcing that nearly $20 million in gifts were secured during the campaign's one-year silent phase in 2024-making it the most successful fundraising year in the university's history. He underscored the campaign's importance in positioning Jax State for long-term success and called on alumni and friends to continue their support.

"This campaign is about more than just numbers-it's about people," Killingsworth said. "It's about ensuring that every student who walks onto this campus finds opportunity, support and a place to thrive. It's about strengthening our academic programs so that Jax State continues to lead. And it's about giving our student-athletes the resources to compete at the highest level. We need you now more than ever. We know this will be a successful campaign because of you."

The campaign is built around three key priorities.

  • Enhancing the student experience - providing increased scholarship opportunities, creating new student gathering spaces, and investing in programs that support engagement and success.
  • Strengthening academic reputation - expanding funding for colleges and programs while advancing new learning environments like the Randy Owen Center for Performing Arts Educational Wing.
  • Winning championships - ensuring Gamecock Athletics has the resources and facilities needed to compete at the highest level.

The launch of It's a Jax State of Mind is a commitment to ensuring that Jax State remains a place where students can grow, discover, and achieve their dreams. As Dr. Alan Medders, Vice President for Philanthropy and Executive Director of the JSU Foundation, stressed, "The investments made through this campaign will not only transform the Jax State campus but will also strengthen the region, fostering economic growth and expanding opportunities for students, faculty, and the greater Gamecock community."

As Jax State embarks on this historic endeavor, university leadership remains confident in the passion and generosity of those who believe in its mission. The campaign is now underway, and the future of Jacksonville State University is taking shape. To learn more about It's a Jax State of Mind Comprehensive Campaign, visit JaxStateofMind.com.

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 level. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1 or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.

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