First-rate, first-gen students impress donors

Turning down a full scholarship to Princeton, Deaquan Nichols (’23) chose JMU for the relationships with faculty mentors like Phil Frana and Oleksandr Kokhan. He also sought research opportunities and the chance to create an individualized academic path — which leads him next to VCU Medical School.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Marching Royal Dukes, Drum Major Katie Presutto (’23) and Assistant Band Director Nieves Villaseñor share highlights of JMU’s largest student organization and reflect on their New Year’s trip to the Vatican while the JMU Pep Band plays some favorites.

The first students from JMU’s groundbreaking Valley Scholars Program, including Ayam Ali (’23) and Kaitlyn Good (’23), will graduate with the Class of 2023 this May. They have built their success on a foundation of early opportunity, support from 1,435 donors and their own dreams, talents and resilience.

The joys and challenges of being first come to life through the experiences of donors Angela (’90) and Carl “Pete” (’88) Reddix and JMU students Syd Jones (’24) and Janaiya Hill (’24). They highlight JMU's emphasis on welcoming students from all walks of life through the Reddix Center for First Generation Students.