In the News
Black Alumni Reunion Weekend, April 9-11
Greetings Alumni!!
It’s because of you that James Madison Black Alumni is FILLED with historical firsts who paved the way for ALL of us to have an opportunity to achieve our dreams. It’s because of you that many received an education, even if they did not complete their education at JMU. It’s because of you that many of us have found our spouses, best friend, bridesmaids, and best men at Madison. So, to say, “JMU has never done anything for me,” is an outright lie… Those of us who have achieved great success often accept accolades with the statement of, “I appreciate all of those who have helped me get here.” Yet, It’s because of you that the JMU BAC, has been left to do as many of us had to do in the beginning… struggle to survive and provide. Now is the time for us to put aside the small things that have separated us as an alumni chapter and re-ignite the bond that made us great together.
Together we are more. The Black Alumni Chapter of James Madison University is currently engaged in a massive campaign effort to increase our scholarship fund and alumni involvement by reconnecting black alumni from the 1970’s to the 2000’s. Last year, during Homecoming, we recorded a Legacy Video to highlight the contributions of African American students and the many opportunities JMU has given to our community as a reminder that our FUTURE relies on our past.
Our efforts will culminate on April 10th during our next Black Alumni Reunion weekend when we share the rich history of African American contributions to the University. This new brand of the M3 will encompass all that we are, have been, and will be. We all agree, it will take something that has been forgotten to create something that does not exist...Yet!"
The Black Alumni Chapter invites you to join us April 9-11, 2010 to:
- Rekindle old friendships and relive memories of our earlier years;
- Meet current students to share our experiences;
- Enjoy a variety of programs, activities, and special events for potential students and alumni;
- Most importantly, come back home to the university that will always hold a dear place in all our hearts.
Madison Mahogany Memoirs
When you register, your Reunion Package will include tickets for meals, events, workshops, receptions, campus tours, and our signature event, the Black Ball: Madison Mahogany Memoirs. Proceeds from reunion package sales will benefit the Black Alumni Chapter Scholarship Fund.
Reunion Packages
When you register, your Reunion Package will include tickets for meals, events, workshops, receptions, campus tours, and our signature event, the Black Ball: Madison Mahogany Memoirs. Proceeds from reunion package sales will benefit the Black Alumni Chapter Scholarship Fund.
Purchase your reunion packages now!
During this weekend, we will also have an opportunity to support the Admissions office and Students for Minority Outreach with their Prospective’s Weekend (formerly Black Freshman Weekend). GO DUKES!!!!
Bringing the kids to campus?
See the Schedule of Events for a list of Kid’s Activities. You must register in advance for UREC Kid’s Night Out event!!
Hotel Accomodations
Courtyard by Marriott is this year's Host Hotel! So make your reservations early for the special rate of $79+tax per night! Reference "BAC Reunion Weekend" or the code "BRWS".
Courtyard by Marriott Harrisonburg
1890 Evelyn Byrd Ave
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone: 540-432-3031
View the flyer for more details.
Alumni Spotlights
Ronda Brown Esaw '91, attorney with McGuireWoods LLP, featured on virginiabusiness.com.
Dr. Tia Brown McNair '94, Assistant Director of the National College Access Network
Giving Challenge
The 2008 Giving Challenge continues. We are truly thankful for last year's $1,000 donation from "Da Fella's, Class of 1993" - Leo Barbour, Corbitt Hairston, Marcus Wilson, Wilson Randolph, Vince Tardy, and Warren Stone.

Vanessa Evans appointed to the JMU Board of Visitors
Join us in congratulating BAC President, Vanessa Evans, who has been appointed to the JMU Board of Visitors by Governor Tim Kaine. This is the highest appointed position at JMU for alumni! The Board of Visitors is made up of 15 members who serve four-year terms and is the governing body of the university. Read more in The Daily News Record and learn more about the JMU Board of Visitors.
JMU Male Academy and Female Institute
View videos and learn more about the progams.
Get Involved with the BAC
Mentoring Program
Become a MENTOR to JMU students. The Black Alumni Chapter Mentoring Committee is still in need of alumni to serve as mentors. As a mentor, we are looking for interested person to reach out to our students and foster positive relationships that will ultimately assist with the retention and matriculation of African American students enrolled at JMU. Learn more...
Black Alumni Chapter Scholarship
Help an African-American student at JMU by giving to the BAC SCHOLARSHIP. The JMU Black Alumni Chapter Scholarship is awarded annually to deserving African-American freshmen at JMU. Learn more...