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"Critical thinking," Approximately 80 percent of JMU undergraduates do research, a practicum, an internship or student teach. The result? A change in perspective. Critical thinking skills. For example …

"Striking gold," For some JMU students, a college experience includes research and a scientific breakthrough for a multitude of industries from biomedicine to computer chip manufacturers

"A rare occasion," Only five presidents have served James Madison University in its 103-year history. So it was particularly momentous when the Board of Visitors voted on November 28 to approve Jonathan R. Alger as the university's sixth president.

"Gaining geospatial competency," Imaginative JMU students. An innovative professor. A huge hands-on learning project. One semester. The result? Experience JMU, a JMU Admissions website

"War, everlasting," Landmine survivor Kenneth Rutherford, director of the Center for International Stabilization and Recovery at JMU, has dedicated his life to changing the reality of everlasting war

"Facing AIDS," On campus and in the community, JMU faculty and students are shedding light on HIV/AIDS

"Radical Roots," JMU alumni, Dave ('96) and Lee Sturgis O'Neill ('97), offer a new model for farmers

"Learn where you live," You can find a perfect fit in one of our eight learning communities

"When change happens," So much was lost on 9/11: yet, we can find our best selves in times of tragedy

"Energizing the future," JMU's Alternative Fuel Program takes a creative approach to sustainability

"Quest for hope," The study of genetics hits home for JMU student Carly Starke ('14)

"Purple and gold personified," The late Inez Graybeal Roop (’35), who treated JMU as a close friend throughout her adult life, was recognized as one of 100 notable Madison alumni in the "100 Years, 100 Days, 100 Dukes" campaign

"Changing the future," NASA scientist Elizabeth Gauldin (’50) was recognized as one of 100 notable Madison alumni in the "100 Years, 100 Days, 100 Dukes" campaign

"Mentored for success," Super Bowl champion Charles Haley (’87) was recognized as one of 100 notable Madison alumni in the "100 Years, 100 Days, 100 Dukes" campaign

"Imagination, creation, change," Screenwriter and executive producer Barbara Hall ('82) was recognized as one of 100 notable Madison alumni in the "100 Years, 100 Days, 100 Dukes" campaign

"Turning a dream into reality," Country music star Phil Vassar ('85) was recognized as one of 100 notable Madison alumni in the "100 Years, 100 Days, 100 Dukes" campaign

"Getting personal," The study of genetics hits home for Carly Starke ('14)

"Freewheeling," JMU engineering students wanted to help 16-year-old Ricky Forgey be more active and independent despite cerebral palsy.

"From dream to reality," Perhaps the secret to success is the path country music star Phil Vassar ('85) followed

"Labor dazed," Daniel Haney ('07) and Alexandra Robbins ('07) found a way to fight the damaging effects of child labor in Cambodia

"Something ventured," JMU prepares students for a knowledge-based economy where highly skilled workers implement and manage technology.

"Saving childhood," JMU's Children’s Playshop offers an antidote to the culture of too much, too soon

"An advocate for patients," Lt. Colonel Mary Klote’s (‘88) passion for expanding knowledge in the medical field comes from her commitment to help others.

"Removing roadblocks," homeless children often lack the voice and means to triumph over their situation. Not so, however, in JMU’s neighborhood.

"Transforming apathy into activism," JMU’s Class of 2011 welcomes Laren Poole, co-founder of Invisible Children, an organization dedicated to changing the world, as the Senior Convocation speaker

"Searching for a killer," Madison professors and students are working on finding an antidote to dengue virus, thanks to JMU's partnership with biotech giant SRI International

"For Ugandans, by Ugandans," while working in Uganda, JMU alum Daniel Morgan ('10) found that solutions that come from within a community are the key to sustainable change

"The power of soccer," soccer fan and political science major Wes Mitchell ('10) interned in Malawi with the nonprofit organization Grassroot Soccer building a culture free from the attitudes and behaviors that cause HIV infection

"The biggest assist," diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis, JMU women's basketball player Dawn Evans ('11) refused to give up her athletic career and battled to champion others with kidney disease

"AdVenture in the classroom," JMU's MGT 472 Venture Creation class has consistently produced start-up businesses since its inception.

"Green and practical?" JMU alum and ISAT major Zach Fettig ('06) decided to make green-housing commercially viable and arranged for JMU students to help in the effort

"Ready or not," JMU students are exploring the ethical implications of genetic advancements through art

"5Es of health," JMU alum and pediatric dietitian Dana Casendino ('06) offers guidelines for health

"Funding the future," News reports indicate that charitable giving has become the recession's most recent casualty.

"Dance, science, discovery," Choreographers from the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange worked with JMU students on a dance that interprets the complexities of science

"Building the dream," Check out Harrisonburg's Explore More Discovery Museum, and you'll find ample evidence that volunteers bring dreams to life

"Iraq and Back," Major Justin Constantine ('92) knows about catastrophic war injuries firsthand. Now he helps veterans reintegrate into society.

"Face Off," Virginia Republican Dave Rexrode ('01) and Democrat David Mills ('02), executive directors Virginia's two primary political parties, talk politics and consensus

"A win, win, win with Project Climb," JMU's Project Climb gives children with disabilities attention and assistance

"Back for the future," JMU works in sustained volunteer efforts

"Character counts," JMU's sport psychology center supports athletes in their quest for personal and performance excellence and teaches them to help others along the way

"Disaster and rebirth — a story of change," Gladys Lisanby ('49) rallies women artists in Hurricane Katrina's aftermath

"Putting the 'super' in mileage," responding to the threat of global oil depletion, JMU students work to create a supermileage vehicle

"My Semester in Florence," an educational experience can show a student how to be the change in life and in the world.

"A Virginia Woman in History," when fourth-graders honored child advocate Joann Grayson they received a unique lesson in the value of protective parenthood

"Quite a 'Story' of reinvention" Heidi Story ('91) shares the secret of keeping a small business afloat in economic hard times

Nurturing the belief that artistic expression is essential to human experience, JMU's visual and performing artists enrich life for countless others with works that awe, delight and inspire. Professors, students and alumni champion the arts in their communities and create on the world stage. They inspire imagination, illuminate the human condition, challenge the status quo and celebrate transformation. Ultimately, it's all about Be the Change.

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Disney Feature Animation film animator Ted Boyke ('99) took his JMU academic and extracurricular experiences to Hollywood.

In an industry that often rewards trivialization and exploitation, Barbara Hall (’82) hasn’t been afraid to to use her craft to have a serious conversation with the world.

“Follow your heart.” Winners say that; then again, so do a host of losers. Perhaps the secret to success is the path country music star Phil Vassar (’85) followed. …

"Saving childhood," JMU’s Children’s Playshop offers an antidote to the culture of too much, too soon

"Refrain of success," Composer Soon Hee Newbold ('96) and her husband, film sound engineer Erin Rettig ('96)

"Scientific Snapshots," JMU seniors explore the ethical implications of genetic advancements in an advanced photo class

Choreographers from the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange worked with JMU students on a dance that interprets a complex scientific process

“A TV doctor,” music performance major Reshma Shetty's (’99) cross-disciplinary experiences are coming in handy. She plays a doctor on TV

"A fervor for theater," JMU alum and Clemson theater professor Kendra Johnson ('91) researches African-American slave clothing on stage and screen and at historical sites

"The art of living," professor emerita Crystal Theodore made some hard choices, among them, joining the Marine Corps during World War II

"Art students design for the real (JMU) World," JMU students create beautiful, sustainable, practical designs for three small campus sites

"Back in the 'Burg," Columia Records exec Brian Nolan ('02) shares with students

"The best year of my life," Caroline Braun's ('09) study abroad experiences in England and Spain

"Communicating through music," JMU alumnus Brian Balmages ('98) composed "Portraits in Bluestone" for Madison's Centennial Celebration

"Disaster and rebirth--a story of change," Gladys Lisanby ('49) rallies women artists in Hurricane Katrina's aftermath

"A fervor for theater," Clemson theater professor Kendra Johnson ('91) researches African-American slave clothing on stage and screen and at historical sites

"Firing up the ratings," Nathan Lyon ('94) competes on Food Network

"Forbes Center will routinely host NY quality on campus," JMU's new facility will unite classroom, rehearsal and performance spaces for the university's award-winning theater, dance and music programs

"From Black Elk to Black Holes," professor Dave Pruett's course is a joint venture with JMU undergraduates

"Girl Power," Cassie Potler ('10), JMU HerCampus.com editor tells how to assert yourself

"Girls' Week Out," Madison roomies win Caribbean cruise

"The human factor," JMU's Kerry Cresawn ('98) remembers her graduate research in the lab featured in the film "Extraordinary Measures"

"Instant results drive TV journalist," Shelby Brown's ('93) journalistic power stems from a personal drive that appeared in childhood.

"JMU Alum Competes for His Own TV Show," Chef Teddy Folkman ('98) found the recipe for success and shares the secret with others

"JMU grads live better at The Martin Agency," three alumnae moms love agency's atmosphere

"JMU premieres opera," School of Music takes bite out of Big Apple with premiere at Center for Contemporary Opera

"Leave home, find yourself," 'Florentine Rock Star' Alessandro Gentili directs JMU's Semester in Florence program

"A love for the learning process," professor, conductor and violist Amadi Azikiwe helps students build skills, careers and a life

"Madison magic at Disney," Seven students gain real-world experience at Walt Disney World®

"Making Her Own Happiness," Jazminia Griffith ('06) published her poem, Ode to Happiness, in Essence magazine

"The Millionaires," Inman Majors draws on personal inspirations for his nuanced and complex characters

"Movement, dance, life," professor Kate Trammell on the transformative power of dance

"Music major plays Royal Pains doctor," Reshma Shetty's ('99) cross-disciplinary academic experiences at JMU prepared her for television role

"Picture perfect," Emily Street ('09) creates a prizewinning poster

"Planting roots," Dalya Luttwak visits JMU campus as artist-in-residence and explores visible aspects of the natural world

"Quite a 'Story' of reinvention,"Heidi Story ('91) sells designer fashions and teaches sewing techniques in her boutique in the trendy Carytown shopping district in Richmond.

"Rhythms of the universe," artist Bethany Tobin ('06) explores ways to express the interconnections of the universe

"The scene," JMU students wiped any trace of cynicism off New Yorkers' faces with their performance of mini-opera Review

"Searching Shakespeare," Eric Johnson's ('95) experiment in literary technology created a Shakespeare database

"Semester in London's 30 years of exploration," celebrating the study abroad experience in one of the world's great cities

"Studio Theatre is in the wings," alumni thespians salute the experimental theater experience — simple, adjustable space, performance innovation and camaraderie undiminished by the passing years

"Take Jemmy with You," physics professor Bill Ingham delivered the 2010 commencement address to graduating students in the College of Science and Mathematics

"Talk about performance!" Dance major Kelsey Hickson ('10) combines pre-med, biology, dance and community service in her routine

"A trip through the Madison Century" History Professor Sidney Bland's remarks to the 2007-08 joint meeting of the JMU faculty and staff

"Trivia master," Rebecca Dixon ('08), a Madison summa cum laude oboe performance major, took the podium to show off her mastery of knowledge far and wide on the TV show Jeopardy!

"Under the wing," professor, conductor and violist Amadi Azikiwe talks about mentoring, the Harlem Symphony Orchestra and JMU

"Validating my potential," honors student Paul McDowell ('11) talks about his HIST 395 research project

"Words, pictures, teamwork," JMU students write and illustrate stories for the IVS Spring 2010 Studio Seminar

"Writing inspiration," an interview with novelist and JMU writing professor Inman Majors

Embracing the values of sportsmanship has benefits that extend far beyond the playing field. From student-athletes who balance academic scholarship with athletic demands, to faculty who embody the principles of honor and fair play, to alumni who exemplify the drive to excel, Madison's people and programs seek to personify sportsmanship. And with sportsmanship has come the desire to go beyond self, beyond team, to reach out to the world to make a difference. Balancing competition with respect, victory with honor and contest with scholarship, the character-building power of athletic performance has been channeled into a force for positive change.

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"Sports management major holds court" Elle Bunn ('11) capitalizes on classroom skills

"Bridgeforth Stadium expansion," Now there's more room for alumni, friends and fans to gather and make lasting memories

"America's strongest man," Mike Jenkins ('04, '05M) is ranked as the No. 1 U.S. amateur in the competition

"Character counts," sport psychology center's holistic approach mirrors coach's philosophy

"Building a top Division III program," Betsy Witman ('87) builds a top hoops program and raises money for cancer research

"Dukes' scorecard," current and former JMU football players are chiming in about the Bridgeforth Stadium expansion

"From Oregon to Virginia in 41 days," Michael Dubovsky ('07) celebrates graduation with cross country bike ride

"Happy Trails," Anitra "Nitro" Kass ('00,'02M) turns hobby into volunteer opportunity

"JMU Nation gets a facelift," Dukes' fans can bring the Purple Pride to three updated athletics facilities

"Olympic Purple and Gold," Jim Pivarnik, a 1977 Duke, carries the 2010 Olympic torch

President James Madison believed that education is essential to a civil society. For a century, Madison, the university bearing his name, has produced teachers with the knowledge, skill, creativity and commitment to prove his axiom. Today all academic and scholarly endeavors at Madison contribute to the public good — through faculty and undergraduate research, hands-on learning opportunities, community outreach, service-learning and knowledge gained. The commitment extends beyond campus, to the alumni and donors who make education accessible and affordable. The people of Madison understand that education is the key to a better future for the world.

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The late Inez Graybeal Roop (’35) treated JMU as a close friend throughout her adult life, sharing her time, talents and trust with the place she loved. …

Finding intellectual challenges and good friends, equally important to a rewarding college experience, nonetheless seem to be at opposite ends of the choice spectrum. Not at JMU. You can find a perfect fit in one of our eight learning communities.

Schools with a substantial percentage of students from low socio-economic backgrounds often find themselves in an uphill battle to meet educational objectives. How then, are a JMU graduate student, her professor and a Virginia school system winning the fight?

It’s an irony of modern life: One of the most worrisome issues for parents is their kids’ entertainment.

"A 'typical Duke'," Student Ambassador Rachel Rosenberg ('10) talks to prospective students about all JMU has to offer

"Play, learn, succeed," Volunteers have made Harrisonburg’s Explore More Discovery Museum a place for fun, and more importantly, education for children

"DEA and JMU partner," the U.S. intelligence community has joined JMU in a partnership with the information analysis major in the College of Integrated Science and Technology

"Fifteen and counting," December commencement was a very special event for Brownie Comer Cave (’39) as she watched her granddaughter Juliana Comer (’09) receive her bachelor's degree

"A Teacher of the Year," Jessica Cantor Garner ('98) says the only dream she ever had was to be a teacher.

"PBK inaugual class," JMU Phi Beta Kappa Chapter President Charles Blake welcomes student inductees.

"Back for the future," sustained volunteerism in Welch, W.Va.

"Bridging diverse interests," Jessica Lewis ('08) balances graduate studies and helping Centennial Scholars

"Building global officers," JMU's Army ROTC Project GO-Nenda Alliance promotes global awareness

"Changing the world--one scholarship at a time," Rusty Carlock ('01) believes communities can rise above adversity through education

"Character counts," sport psychology center's holistic approach mirrors coach's philosophy

"Classroom in the frozen north," Julie Schneider ('99) inspires students from Arctic's edge

"COB 300," the 12-credit class prepares future entrepreneurs and business leaders

"Communicating through music," JMU alumnus Brian Balmages ('98) composed "Portraits in Bluestone" for Madison's Centennial Celebration

"Creating a dynamic educational experience," chemistry professor Dan Downey ('75) promotes undergraduate research

"Creating a dyslexia friendly classroom," alumnus Jared Setnar ('04) overcomes for self and students

"Educated for citizenship in the real world," JMU alumnus Levar Stoney ('04) talks to JMU Dingledine Scholar Josh Kelaher ('10) about what makes the Madison Experience unique

"Educators as advocates," College of Education professor Teresa Harris will use Fulbright award to build partnerships with South African schools

"Engaging in community classrooms," JMU's public policy and administration professors and students mix hands-on learning and service

"An enhanced classroom experience," Hilary Jacobson ('09) talks about her Madison Experience

"Flowing by design," JMU-RMH Collaborative creates wetlands at new hospital

"Forbes Center will routinely host NY quality on campus," JMU's new facility will unite classroom, rehearsal and performance spaces for the university's award-winning theater, dance and music programs

"Hudson Family Weekend," JMU Family Weekend was a long-running tradition for this family

"Innovative mentoring makes a difference," Kimberly Taylor ('79) works to ensure student success

"JMU debate team tops in nation," students win host of individual awards in anticipation of ninth annual intercollegiate Madison Cup

"JMU premieres opera," School of Music takes bite out of Big Apple with premiere at Center for Contemporary Opera

"JMU's Award-Winning ROTC Program," has repeatedly been ranked in the top five percent of more than 270 universities in the nation

"JMU's landmark decision," Phi Beta Kappa taps Madison for chapter

"Julian A. Burruss," A vision for education

"Jumping off a cliff," Bill Wales, assistant professor of entrepreneurship at JMU, believes in a hands-on approach to learning

"Known or not," Whether it's a chance for further community service opportunities or to embark on a totally new experience, service is a gateway for JMU students to find themselves and their future

"Letting go by hanging on tight!" A new JMU parent writes about the day his first daughter left for college

"A love for the learning process," professor, conductor and violist Amadi Azikiwe helps students build skills, careers and a life

"A Madison Bright Light: Francis "Buck" Payne ('00)," recognized as Fairfax County 2009 Teacher of the Year, Payne helps his students achieve their dreams

"Making historians," JMU HIST 395: Gateway or gauntlet?

"My Semester in Florence," JMU senior Angel Elza's Semester in Florence shares her study abroad experience and photo journal

"One out of 5,000," when The Teaching Company recruited the nation's best collegiate professors, they snagged JMU's Scott Stevens

"A passion for politics," the Washington Semester experience balances learning and friendship

"Peace Corps work yields benefits," Lisa Dowling Heffern ('03) recently completed a 22-month tenure with the Peace Corps in The Gambia, West Africa

Phi Beta Kappa professors at JMU

"Recognizing future special education teachers," the D. Perry and Sharon C. Brown scholarship helps JMU students to help others

"Ronald E. Carrier," "Uncle Ron" takes Madison to a university and beyond

"Samuel Page Duke," Madison's "builder" president

"Saving lives in South Africa," professor Debra Sutton and Amy Porter Zacaroli ('88) work to fight AIDS

"The smartest person I ever met," that's what Kristin McNamara ('09) says about mathematics professor Laura Taalman, the 2009 JMU College of Science and Mathematics Distinguished Teacher

"Spraggs receives BEYA award," Paul Spraggs ('78) named one of the 2009 Black Engineers of the Year

"Storming to the rescue," JMU's response to Hurricane Katrina

"Student journalist selected by national online magazine," after working for the national edition of "Her Campus," Cassie Potler ('10) launched a JMU edition

"Take Jemmy with You," physics professor Bill Ingham delivered the 2010 commencement address to graduating students in the College of Science and Mathematics

"A trip through the Madison Century" History Professor Sidney Bland's remarks to the 2007-08 joint meeting of the JMU faculty and staff

"Trivia master," Rebecca Dixon ('08), a Madison summa cum laude oboe performance major, took the podium to show off her mastery of knowledge far and wide on the TV show Jeopardy!

"Under the wing," professor, conductor and violist Amadi Azikiwe talks about mentoring, the Harlem Symphony Orchestra and JMU

"Validating my potential," honors student Paul McDowell ('11) talks about his HIST 395 research project

"A Virginia woman in history," fourth graders honor psychology professor Joann Grayson

"A win, win, win with Project Climb," Tom Moran, assistant professor of kinesiology, is striving to increase JMU's interaction with the community by meeting the needs of children and adults with disabilities in sports and recreation.

"Words, pictures, teamwork," JMU students write and illustrate stories for the IVS Spring 2010 Studio Seminar

"Writing inspiration," an interview with novelist and JMU writing professor Inman Majors

Finding reliable and affordable energy, improving environmental quality and bolstering economic development, JMU students, professors and alumni work across traditional boundaries to power the future. University programs merge applied research with education and outreach, going beyond the challenges of fuel economy to creatively address the economic factors that influence research, development and the implementation of new ideas. Madison's people and programs go beyond technology to the heart of building a better future. These champions of sustainability educate the public and inform decision-makers, demonstrating the need for energy efficient practices and the methods to transition to alternative energy sources.

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A collaborative approach to pinpointing potential wind farm sites

"Environmental and Energy Sustainability in Germany, " this study abroad program puts students at the center of activity in alternative energy and sustainable industrial systems.

"Designing Sustainable Solutions," JMU engineering focuses on sustainability

"Energizing the future," JMU's Alternative Fuel Program takes a creative approach to sustainability

"JMU shines at White House energy forum," Paul Holland ('82) and Dennis Tracz ('78) participate in alternative energy event

"Madison's first eco-community," JMU freshmen make lifestyle changes

"Putting the 'super' in mileage," Responding to the threat of global oil depletion, JMU students work to create a supermileage vehicle

JMU believes in sustainability, but it's not just a slogan. The university is leading a fundamental shift in thinking about our planet through the efforts of students, faculty members and alumni engaged in efforts to secure our environmental future. Spurred by a charge from JMU President Linwood H. Rose to pursue environmental stewardship, their collective efforts reflect Madison's heritage of educating students to become enlightened and engaged citizens, problem solvers, community leaders — to improve the future of our natural world.

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As a GIS analyst with Living Oceans Foundation, Amanda Williams ('04) is working to assist in the understanding and management of the world's coral reefs. She works with data that she and three other foundation members gather on various expeditions

"Is green living practical?" Zach Fettig ('06) proves that eco-friendly living can be comfortable

"Sustainable solutions," JMU's engineering program focuses on sustainability to address the wide range of engineering challenges of the 21st century

"Madison's first eco-community," the newly created Madison Eco-Community at Hoffman Hall is a unique experience for JMU freshmen with an emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainability

"Flowing by design," ISAT majors Nicolas Jaramillo and Bonnie Tang designed a five-acre wooded wetland to filter water

JMU's Institute for Stewardship of the Natural World works for a secure future through environmental stewardship

"Art students design for the real (JMU) World," JMU students create beautiful, sustainable, practical designs for three small campus sites

"Biology research at JMU lending insight into amphibian extinction crisis," Professor Reid Harris talks about ongoing research to save species

"A Childhood Lesson," ...that I didn't comprehend until I was an adult

"Creating a dynamic educational experience," chemistry professor Dan Downey ('75) promotes undergraduate research

"Designing Sustainable Solutions," JMU engineering focuses on sustainability

"Flowing by design," JMU-RMH Collaborative creates wetlands at new hospital

"JMU shines at White House energy forum," Paul Holland ('82) and Dennis Tracz ('78) participate in alternative energy event

"Madison's first eco-community," JMU freshmen make lifestyle changes

"Recycle, reuse and change the world," JMU housekeeper Shirley 'Lea' Foley has found her way to make a difference

"Strictly for the birds," Blake Jones ('04) makes a better future for endangered Hawaiian birds

Madison's people — professors, students, alumni — address crucial global issues every day. Through innovative and cutting-edge research seasoned with a global-centric understanding, they invest in the future of people around the world on both national and individual levels. With a substantial investment in people worldwide, they are building a framework for mutual global understanding.

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So much was lost on 9/11: family members, friends, a sense of security. Yet, we can find our best selves in times of tragedy. One example: a few days after the attack, 800 JMU students …

"While working in Uganda, JMU alum Daniel Morgan ('10) found that solutions that come from within a community are the key to sustainable change

"Game changer,"Soccer fan and political science major Wes Mitchell ('10) interned in Lilongwe, Malawi, with the nonprofit organization Grassroot Soccer building a culture that is free from the attitudes and behaviors that cause HIV infection

"Kenya connections,"Jennifer Coffman founded and directs JMU's successful Field School in Kenya. Students live with and learn from local families, while also exploring sustainable projects with their community hosts

"Two tumultuous years,"Based on his expertise in Pakistan and Afghanistan, award-winning alumnus author Nicholas Schmidle ('01) explains the realities of fighting the Taliban

"Why Africa Matters," Professor of justice studies, J. Peter Pham shares his expertise on Africa's strategic importance

"Peace in the Holy Land," former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, visited the JMU campus to accept the 2009 Mahatma Gandhi Global Nonviolence Award

"Leave home, find yourself," Director of JMU's Semester in Florence program Alessandro Gentili believes that knowledge and appreciation of other cultures leads to a full appreciation of one's own self.

"Afghanistan: A national identity in constant flux," JMU history professor and Afghan scholar Shah Mahmoud Hanifi discusses his scholarship, teaching and their impact

"Africa 101," JMU's annual International Week celebration highlights the sights and sounds of Africa

"Aiding in landmine recovery," JMU center works to increase services for landmine victims

"Alumna earns Fulbright to teach in Slovakia," Traci Cox ('08) earned a highly competitive Fulbright teaching assistantship

"Baghdad, family crisis and intercultural cooperation," Task Force Tarawa Marine Eric Johnson ('95) reports on Operation Iraqi Freedom

"The best year of my life," Caroline Braun's ('09) study abroad experiences in England and Spain

"A Blackhawk pilot's view of Operation Iraqi Freedom," Lt. Col. Don Nitti ('88) shares his experiences

"A brief hello to fellow Dukes," Don Mosman ('85), senior military adviser to an Iraqi infantry brigade, reports from Iraq

"Bringing democracy to the Afghani people and airwaves," Maj. Patrick Kerr ('90) with Task Force Lightning

"Building global officers," JMU's Army ROTC Project GO-Nenda Alliance promotes global awareness

"Calling in sick," Traci Cox ('08) writes about her healthcare experience in Slovakia

"Coming home," Iraqi war veteran Capt. Lesley Kipling ('99) returned to JMU ROTC

"Different perspectives," Will Schiek ('87) leads more than 500 U.S. soldiers providing logistics, security and communications for their Iraqi counterparts

"Downloading Democracy," Jonathan Koves ('05) creates Iraqinews.com

"East meets West," Anu Kaur ('99M) blends Eastern and Western philosophies to improve clients' health and wellness.

"Educators as advocates," College of Education professor Teresa Harris will use Fulbright award to build partnerships with South African schools

"First Lieutenant Emily honors other WWII veterans," experiences at World War II-era Madison College and with Tri-Sigma shaped Emily Lewis Lee's ('43) life

"Focus on Africa:" The 2009 Byrd Symposium

"Goodness is powerful," Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu delivers inspiration in visit to JMU

"Influencing global political discourse and bringing it to class," History professor Shah Mahmoud Hanifi teaches students to think critically

"Madison's WWII Victory Garden," honoring JMU alumni and friends who served their country

"Madison World Changer Sarita Hartz and the Zion Project," In this interview, Hartz ('02) reveals her dedication to transforming hearts and empowering the lives of girl child soldiers in Northern Uganda

"MREs for 200,000?" Army food service director Lt. Col. Don Vtipil ('84) serves three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan

"My Semester in Florence," JMU senior Angel Elza's Semester in Florence shares her study abroad experience and photo journal

"A NASA Researcher Builds Playgrounds," Dan Irwin ('90) has a strong committent to both his work and hobby

"No clowning around for this Navy 'bozo'," naval aviator David Hunter "Bozo" Bankart ('99) takes pride in giving back

"Nursing soldiers and cheerleading, Rachel Engler ('05) took on the challenges of the U.S. Navy, nursing and the Washington Redskins

"Olympic Purple and Gold," Jim Pivarnik, a 1977 Duke, carries the 2010 Olympic torch

"Peace Corps work yields benefits," Lisa Dowling Heffern ('03) recently completed a 22-month tenure with the Peace Corps in The Gambia, West Africa

"Planning Priscilla's Homecoming," An interview with JMU alum, Joshua Klemm ('04)

"A 'Priscilla's Homecoming' Journal," A week with 'Priscilla's Posse'

"Purple, gold and green for this Marine," 1st Lt. James Sheasley ('02) cheers on the Dukes

"Rebuilding Iraq," Civil Affairs officer Maj. Patrick Creed ('93) works with Iraqis to rebuild a nation

"Rescuing injured marines," Maj. Mitchell Bell ('88), Al Taqaddum Air Boss, coordinates medevac launches to rescue injured Marines, soldiers and Iraqi

"Saving lives in South Africa," professor Debra Sutton and Amy Porter Zacaroli ('88) work to fight AIDS

"Second tour in Iraq feels right," U.S. Army officer Jeffrey Farmer ('88) takes major changes in stride

"Securing Baghdad's west side," Capt. Shawn Harper ('97) on maintaining the security of Baghdad's western zones around the international airport

"Semester in London's 30 years of exploration," celebrating the study abroad experience in one of the world's great cities

"A service-oriented life," Joe Clem ('89), assigned to the 883rd Medical Company in Baghdad says his service began at Madison

"Serving with JAG Corps in Iraq," Lt. Col. Michael McWright ('85) with the Army's Judge Advocate General's Corps

"Shaping foreign policy—through service," Mary Beth Goodman ('95) serves in U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan

"Studying global issues at the U.N.," JMU social work majors visit the Big Apple

"Supporting the global war on terrorism," Charles T. May Jr. ('83) is serving in Naval Criminal Investigative Service

"Supporting U.S. troops from the air," Jeffrey Cretz ('03) serves second deployment in Middle East

"Uganda Child Soldier Awareness Week," Madison World Changer Sarita Hartz of the Zion Project and former girl child soldier Grace Akallo visit campus

"Warhorn History: An Operation Iraqi Freedom diary," Lt. Col. Laurie Moe Buckhout ('84), officer, wife and mom shares her diary

"Women supporting women," Professor Debra Sutton, former JMU Board of Visitors member Renny Humphrey ('84), and a host of American women reach out to women in South Africa

There's something deliberate and compelling about a JMU education that attracts extraordinary people and fosters in them a commitment to serve the common good through participatory democracy. 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 into the public square and to help change the world.

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"Educated for citizenship," the Madison Experience focus on students, citizenship, and real-world experience, including the awareness of social opportunities and responsibilities

"Downloading Democracy," Jonathan Koves ('05) creates Iraqinews.com

"Engaging in community classrooms," JMU's public policy and administration professors and students mix hands-on learning and service

"Goodness is powerful," Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu delivers inspiration in visit to JMU

"JMU Richmond politicos," Alumni take leadership and responsibility positions in Virginia's capital

"JMU shines at White House energy forum," Paul Holland ('82) and Dennis Tracz ('78) participate in alternative energy event

"Keeping Northern Virginia safe," 1980 classmates Brett Bowman, Tim Butters and John Caussin are assistant fire chiefs in the Northern Virginia area.

"Planning Priscilla's Homecoming," An interview with JMU alum, Joshua Klemm ('04)

"President James Madison, By the Numbers," A sampling of intriguing facts and figures about the life and times of the nation's fourth president from the Madison magazine feature "By the Numbers"

"Rebuilding Iraq," Civil Affairs officer Maj. Patrick Creed ('93) works with Iraqis to rebuild a nation

"Red, blue and JMU," Virginia Republican Dave Rexrode ('01) and Democrat David Mills ('02) hold mirror positions as executive directors of the two primary Virginia political parties.

"Serving with JAG Corps in Iraq," Lt. Col. Michael McWright ('85) with the Army's Judge Advocate General's Corps

"Shaping foreign policy—through service," Mary Beth Goodman ('95) serves in U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan

"Supporting the global war on terrorism," Charles T. May Jr. ('83) is serving in Naval Criminal Investigative Service

"Supporting U.S. troops from the air," Jeffrey Cretz ('03) serves second deployment in Middle East

"Uncle Sam still wants you," federal workforce career opportunities for recent college graduates

When JMU students, faculty members and alumni look at the world, they see people. Some work to improve health care delivery through strenuous scholarship and clinical experiences. Others work to strengthen community life. They break down barriers to healthcare for many who fall through the cracks through innovative community-based programs. They volunteer to raise monies to fight disease and fund research. Madison's compassion, coupled with innovative and collaborative approaches through education, research and service is truly changing the world.

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Homeless children lack the voice and means to triumph over their situation; and unfortunately, their plight often goes unnoticed by the community around them.

Madison professors and students are working on finding an antidote to dengue virus, a global health threat, thanks to JMU's partnership with biotech giant SRI International research

"Game changer," Soccer fan and political science major Wes Mitchell ('10) interned in Lilongwe, Malawi, with the nonprofit organization Grassroot Soccer building a culture that is free from the attitudes and behaviors that cause HIV infection

"The biggest assist," diagnosed with FSGS, JMU women’s basketball player Dawn Evans (’11) refused to give up her athletic career, and she embarked on a battle to fight the disease and champion others who also suffer from kidney disease

"Five E's of health," sticking to resolutions to lose weight and get fit is hard enough for adults, harder still for children

"East Meets West," Anu Kaur ('99M) blends Eastern and Western philosophies to improve clients' health and wellness

"Getting kids healthy," Shannon Dougherty works to get kids fit for life

"Project CLIMB," or Children Learning to Improve Movement Behaviors, gives children with disabilities one-on-one attention and assistance from JMU's Adapted Physical Education program students.

"Breakthrough for diabetes," Dr. David Jaynes and his students have been working on a procedure that involves observing proteins collected from such wounds to determine treatment effectiveness

"Abitbol shares her passion," Carolyn Abitbol (’67) presented the keynote address at JMU’s 31st Department of Chemistry Undergraduate Research Symposium.

"A Blackhawk pilot's view of Operation Iraqi Freedom," Lt. Col. Don Nitti ('88) shares his experiences

"The bridge that Community Service-Learning built," the experiences that link service to learning also link JMU to the community

"Building a top Division III program," Betsy Witman ('87) builds a top hoops program and raises money for cancer research

"Cali-blue and CARPOOL," JMU SafeRides celebrates three years of campus leadership

"Calling in sick," Traci Cox ('08) writes about her healthcare experience in Slovakia

"Character counts," sport psychology center's holistic approach mirrors coach's philosophy

"Creating a dyslexia friendly classroom," alumnus Jared Setnar ('04) overcomes for self and students

"Engaging in community classrooms," JMU's public policy and administration professors and students mix hands-on learning and service

"An enhanced classroom experience," Hilary Jacobson ('09) talks about her Madison Experience

"Fighting childhood obesity," Parents can protect the Sesame Street crowd

"Firing up the ratings," Nathan Lyon ('94) competes on Food Network

"Flowing by design," JMU-RMH Collaborative creates wetlands at new hospital

"The human factor," JMU's Kerry Cresawn ('98) remembers her graduate research in the lab featured in the film "Extraordinary Measures"

"Making Precious Time," an innovative JMU program pairs students with Harrisonburg-area families who need respite care services

"Nursing soldiers and cheerleading, Rachel Engler ('05) took on the challenges of the U.S. Navy, nursing and the Washington Redskins

"Olympic Purple and Gold," Jim Pivarnik, a 1977 Duke, carries the 2010 Olympic torch

"Pursuing a career in medicine," a conversation with JMU undergraduate Elisabeth Lehigh

"Rescuing injured marines," Maj. Mitchell Bell ('88), Al Taqaddum Air Boss, coordinates medevac launches to rescue injured Marines, soldiers and Iraqi

"Saving lives in South Africa," professor Debra Sutton and Amy Porter Zacaroli ('88) work to fight AIDS

"Talk about performance!" Dance major Kelsey Hickson ('10) combines pre-med, biology, dance and community service in her routine

"Videogame medicine," JMU alum Mike Miriello ('09) gives hospitalized kids some play time

"A Virginia woman in history," fourth graders honor psychology professor Joann Grayson

"Women supporting women," Professor Debra Sutton, former JMU Board of Visitors member Renny Humphrey ('84), and a host of American women reach out to women in South Africa

The world is not a just and civil place for all of its citizens. Seeing and understanding the struggles that others face, motivates JMU students, faculty and alumni to work hard to improve the lives of those caught in wars, poverty, illiteracy, bondage and in situations they cannot escape alone. Compassion drives them to find innovative ideas to free the human spirit and JMU's spirit of action sets them to work.

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"Landmine recovery," Clearing landmines and helping landmine victims recover is a long, hard process. Representatives from JMU are working with leaders of organizations from countries where landmine recovery services are needed

"JMU's child advocate," When an elementary school class embarked on an Internet search for the name of a Virginia woman who made a difference in the lives of children, one name came up over and over again, Joann H. Grayson, JMU professor of psychology

"Goodness is powerful," Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu spoke to a capacity crowd at JMU extolling the power of goodness in the face of oppression and injustice

"Attractive ideas of the Taliban vs. real men with guns," writer Nicholas Schmidle ('01) explains the realities of fighting the Taliban

"Back for the future," sustained volunteerism in Welch, W.Va.

"Bringing democracy to the Afghani people and airwaves," Maj. Patrick Kerr ('90) with Task Force Lightning

"Changing the world--one scholarship at a time," Rusty Carlock ('01) believes communities can rise above adversity through education

"Madison World Changer Sarita Hartz and the Zion Project," In this interview, Hartz ('02) reveals her dedication to transforming hearts and empowering the lives of girl child soldiers in Northern Uganda

"Peace Corps work yields benefits," Lisa Dowling Heffern ('03) recently completed a 22-month tenure with the Peace Corps in The Gambia, West Africa

"Studying global issues at the U.N.," JMU social work majors visit the Big Apple

"Uganda Child Soldier Awareness Week," Madison World Changer Sarita Hartz of the Zion Project and former girl child soldier Grace Akallo visit campus

Accepting challenge, solving problems, turning failure to success — in our complex world the need for well-rounded, independent thinkers who are up to the task of building a better future has never been more critical. JMU's people and programs have a well-earned reputation for innovative collaboration that achieves real results. It goes far beyond personal aggrandizement, reaching out into communities, across national boundaries and around the world to find the ways to foster prosperity in mind and spirit.

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"JMU shines at White House," Paul Holland ('82) and Dennis Tracz ('78) participated in the “Investing in the Clean Energy Economy” event at the White House

“Viva L’Italia,” Katharine Corgan (’06) restaurant, L’Italia Pizza

"Uncle Sam still wants you," JMU alum Jeremy Ray encourages recent college graduates to seek federal workforce career opportunities

"Back in the 'Burg," Columia Records exec Brian Nolan ('02) shares with students

"Back for the future," sustained volunteerism in Welch, W.Va.

"COB 300," the 12-credit class prepares future entrepreneurs and business leaders

"Downloading Democracy," Jonathan Koves ('05) creates Iraqinews.com

"East meets West," Anu Kaur ('99M) blends Eastern and Western philosophies to improve clients' health and wellness.

"Girl Power," Cassie Potler ('10), JMU HerCampus.com editor tells how to assert yourself

"Instant results drive TV journalist," Shelby Brown's ('93) journalistic power stems from a personal drive that appeared in childhood.

"JMU Alum Competes for His Own TV Show," Chef Teddy Folkman ('98) found the recipe for success and shares the secret with others

"JMU grads live better at The Martin Agency," three alumnae moms love agency's atmosphere

"Jumping off a cliff," Bill Wales, assistant professor of entrepreneurship at JMU, believes in a hands-on approach to learning

"Living the dream," Julie Bragg Sheppard ('94) keeps Richmonders in the know

"Madison magic at Disney," Seven students gain real-world experience at Walt Disney World®

"Making Her Own Happiness," Jazminia Griffith ('06) published her poem, Ode to Happiness, in Essence magazine

"The Millionaires," Inman Majors draws on personal inspirations for his nuanced and complex characters

"One out of 5,000," when The Teaching Company recruited the nation's best collegiate professors, they snagged JMU's Scott Stevens

"A spud-tacular achievement," The Maine Potato Board names alumnus and his family the Farm Family of the Year

"Student journalist selected by national online magazine," after working for the national edition of "Her Campus," Cassie Potler ('10) launched a JMU edition

At JMU the complex problems of the world are addressed and studied in a collaborative educational system that takes puzzles and asks students and faculty, together, to unlock them. Through an emphasis on STEM education merged with strong traditional science programs on campus and the work legions of prepared alumni spread over the world, JMU promotes discovery through cutting-edge technologies and a forward thinking mentality toward problem solving and changing the world.

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JMU engineering students wanted to help 16-year-old Ricky Forgey be more active and independent despite cerebral palsy. How could they give him a measure of carefree movement? The answer — a bicycle made just for him.

"Art and science," Choreographers from the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange worked with JMU students on a dance that interprets the complex process of pulling energy out of food

"Galapagos Connection," Curator of fishes at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History Carole Baldwin ('81) mentored Zach Foltz ('08) and helped him reel in his dream job

"From Black Elk to Black Holes," Mathematics professor Dave Pruett teaches students to analyze both science and religion in this honors course

"Battling Extinction," JMU biology professor Reid Harris is fighting to stem the tide of an amphibian killer

"Science for kids," JMU alum Julie Schneider ('99) teaches from the Arctic

"Abitbol shares her passion," Carolyn Abitbol (’67) presented the keynote address at JMU’s 31st Department of Chemistry Undergraduate Research Symposium.

"Art students design for the real (JMU) World," JMU students create beautiful, sustainable, practical designs for three small campus sites

"Biology research at JMU lending insight into amphibian extinction crisis," Professor Reid Harris talks about ongoing research to save species

"Changing the chemical world," JMU chemistry and math double major Christian Schwantes ('10) sees improving communication as a way to make science more accessible

"Classroom in the frozen north," Julie Schneider ('99) inspires students from Arctic's edge

"Creating a dynamic educational experience," chemistry professor Dan Downey ('75) promotes undergraduate research

"Designing Sustainable Solutions," JMU engineering focuses on sustainability

"Downloading Democracy," Jonathan Koves ('05) creates Iraqinews.com

"Energizing the future," JMU's Alternative Fuel Program takes a creative approach to sustainability

"Fighting childhood obesity," Parents can protect the Sesame Street crowd

"From Black Elk to Black Holes," professor Dave Pruett's course is a joint venture with JMU undergraduates

"The human factor," JMU's Kerry Cresawn ('98) remembers her graduate research in the lab featured in the film "Extraordinary Measures"

"JMU Biology Research Lending Insight Into Amphibian Extinction Crisis," Frogs and salamanders are in trouble, and so are we

"JMU shines at White House energy forum," Paul Holland ('82) and Dennis Tracz ('78) participate in alternative energy event

"A NASA Researcher Builds Playgrounds," Dan Irwin ('90) has a strong committent to both his work and hobby

"Pursuing a career in medicine," a conversation with JMU undergraduate Elisabeth Lehigh

"Putting the 'super' in mileage," Responding to the threat of global oil depletion, JMU students work to create a supermileage vehicle

"Rhythms of the universe," artist Bethany Tobin ('06) explores ways to express the interconnections of the universe

"Searching Shakespeare," Eric Johnson's ('95) experiment in literary technology created a Shakespeare database

"The smartest person I ever met," that's what Kristin McNamara ('09) says about mathematics professor Laura Taalman, the 2009 JMU College of Science and Mathematics Distinguished Teacher

"Spraggs receives BEYA award," Paul Spraggs ('78) named one of the 2009 Black Engineers of the Year

"Strictly for the birds," Blake Jones ('04) makes a better future for endangered Hawaiian birds

"Take Jemmy with You," physics professor Bill Ingham delivered the 2010 commencement address to graduating students in the College of Science and Mathematics

"Talk about performance!" Dance major Kelsey Hickson ('10) combines pre-med, biology, dance and community service in her routine