Celebrating Employee Giving

JMU employees gathered in the Festival Ballroom for the Employee Giving Breakfast to celebrate the generosity of over 1,450 faculty and staff members who gave $891,3400 for scholarships, student support, academic programs and campus initiatives.

“This breakfast is just a small way to show our appreciation to the employees who give so much to JMU,” said Employee Giving Co-chair Michael Prior (’13, ’17M, ’21M), director of marketing for the MBA Program. “Over the last 16 years, the one thing that has remained steadfast for me is that JMU is a special place, filled with special people, and I'm glad to work alongside each and every one of you,” the triple Duke said. 

President Jim Schmidt reported that more than 25% of our employees are giving back. “That’s the good housekeeping seal of approval,” he said, “because it communicates something about the faculty and staff who are here — they’re here for more than just a paycheck.” While still in his first year of leading the institution, he said it was his appreciation of the JMU culture that drew him to the university. 

Last fall, President Schmidt’s Presidential Tour focused on listening to alumni to shape JMU’s new strategic plan. Throughout conversations with alumni CEOs, there was a consistent theme: While many recall the beauty of JMU’s campus, what resonates the most are the people, from a favorite professor to the housekeeper in a residence hall.

“Each and every one of you probably doesn't realize when that little voice of encouragement—that little extra note to follow through on something—has changed the course for their lives,” Schmidt told employee donors. “This culture isn't just important; it is truly one of our greatest strengths.”

Schmidt also noted that by giving philanthropically, employees send a compelling signal to external donors and state legislators that the university’s faculty and staff are deeply invested in its mission. He credited employees with shaping the university’s strategic plan, elevating the student experience and strengthening JMU’s national reputation.

Sgt. Chad Skelton of the JMU Police Department shared his experience as a JMU employee, donor and parent of two Dukes. Both his children are recipients of the Charlie King Scholarship, which is funded by employee giving. Skelton said he began contributing to the employee giving campaign as a way to give back to the university.

“JMU gave me so much. I never imagined I would have children here who would receive a scholarship. That’s the power of this community — of peers, coworkers and leadership.”
— Sgt. Chad Skelton

Leigh Ayers (’11), digital experience engineer and co-chair of the Employee Giving Committee, added her perspective about giving. “JMU is more than my employer; it’s my community. And the strength of our community lies in expanding access to a JMU education. As a proud alum, I am committed to supporting scholarships for prospective students so that they too can have a fulfilling Madison Experience.” 

It is anticipated that the breakfast will become a recurring event.

Learn more about the impact of JMU Employee Giving and how you can participate.