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Citizenship

Photo: Katrina relief group There's something deliberate and compelling about a JMU education that attracts extraordinary people and fosters in them a commitment to something even bigger. Madison students, professors and alumni commit themselves to the ultimate societal benefit of education — an enlightened citizenry ready to build a better future. They lead, innovate and collaborate in the spirit set forth by President James Madison's vision that liberty and learning are inextricably entwined. They reach beyond themselves and help change the world.

The Stories ...

Back for the future

Back for the future JMU's sustained volunteer effort in Welch, W.Va., one of the poorest communities in the nation, promises long-lasting results for the town and for the students who engage in this special form of civic responsibility. Read More

Conquering adversity with education

Rusty Carlock works to improve education in El Salvador Alumnus Rusty Carlock ('01) believes communities are capable of rising above adversity through education, and he's working with the people of El Salvador to prove it. Read More

The People ...

James Madison

Fourth U.S. President

James Madison, soft-spoken and unimposing in appearance, employed his considerable learned intellect and civility to convince a fledgling nation to accept a document — the Constitution of the United States and its Bill of Rights … Read More

Levar Stoney

Levar Stoney ('04)

Executive director, Democratic Party of Virginia

Levar Stoney's life symbolizes one of the most important changes in American history. He is the descendant of slaves from the Rice Coast, an area on Africa's west coast; he also has served as the executive director of Virginia's Democratic Party … Read More

Operation Purple Pride

Citizenship, service, honor

Building educated and enlightened citizens is JMU's mission. Members of the Madison community involved in the armed forces exemplify enlightened citizenship in a very special way. Operation Purple Pride is their forum. … Learn More