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Jax State Awards Honorary Doctorate to Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter

by Josh Underwood

Jacksonville, AL (12/13/2024) — Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from Jacksonville State University during its fall commencement ceremony on December 13, 2024, at Pete Mathews Coliseum.

Speaker Ledbetter, who was in attendance as the keynote speaker for Jax State's 10 a.m. commencement, was recognized for his exceptional leadership, dedication to public service, and significant contributions to the state of Alabama. President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., and Board of Trustees Chairman Randy Jones presented the honorary degree to Speaker Ledbetter before a large audience of graduates, faculty, family members, and guests.

"Speaker Ledbetter's unwavering commitment to the citizens of Alabama has transformed lives and strengthened communities," said Dr. Killingsworth. "His leadership serves as an inspiration to us all, and we are proud to recognize his extraordinary impact on our state with this honorary doctorate."

The resolution conferring the honorary doctorate highlighted Speaker Ledbetter's remarkable career, which began in the electrical cooperative industry and expanded to include numerous leadership roles in public service. A native of Rainsville, Alabama, he built a successful career in his industry, contributing to the infrastructure and economic growth of the region. His dedication to local governance was demonstrated through various municipal government roles in his hometown.

Elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 2014, he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the first freshman member of the House Republican caucus to be elected majority leader in 2017. In 2022, he was unanimously elected as the 67th Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives. Under his leadership, Speaker Ledbetter has championed reforms in mental health care, securing historic investments to improve access to free and effective treatment for Alabamians in crisis. He has also been instrumental in enacting historic tax cuts, advancing economic development, and improving education in Alabama.

As noted in the resolution adopted by the Jax State Board of Trustees, the honorary doctorate was presented "in recognition of exceptional leadership that has improved the quality of life for the people of Alabama."

"Jacksonville State University's impact extends far beyond Northeast Alabama," said Speaker Ledbetter. "This institution is developing leaders who go on to solve problems for our state, nation, and global community. Thank you to President Killingsworth, the Board of Trustees, and the JSU Family for honoring me with an honorary doctorate. Congratulations to the graduates and Go Gamecocks."

Jacksonville State University congratulates the graduating Class of 2024 for their accomplishments and contributions to society. The university remains committed to recognizing and celebrating individuals who exemplify its values of leadership, service, and excellence.

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.

Media Attachments

Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (center) is awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by Jacksonville State University President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., as (from left) Trustee Randy Owen, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Christie Shelton, and Board of Trustees Chairman Randy Jones look on. The honor was bestowed during Jax State’s fall commencement ceremony on December 13, 2024, at Pete Mathews Coliseum. (JSU Photo by Alyssa Cash)

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