Momentum with a purpose

As James Madison University prepares for a new academic year, President Jim Schmidt said the university is well-positioned to build on its momentum through investments in students, employees and innovation. 

During Tuesday’s University Welcome at the Atlantic Union Bank Center, Schmidt reflected on the past year’s accomplishments and outlined how 

“The world is changing rapidly,” Schmidt said. “But change creates opportunity, and JMU could not be in a stronger position to capitalize on this moment.” 

Much of Schmidt’s address focused on The Madison Promise, JMU’s strategic plan developed through collaboration with faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners.  
  
“The Madison Promise provides a clear path forward,” Schmidt said. “It is a powerful example of shared governance in action.”  

Schmidt highlighted initiatives aimed at student success, including the Employment Guarantee and Employer Guarantee for the Class of 2030. 

“We walk beside our students while they are here and stand behind them after they graduate,” he said. 

Schmidt cited JMU’s appearance in the 2026 College Football Playoff as another example of the university’s growing national visibility. 

“It showcased the strength of the JMU brand and united Dukes everywhere around a moment of tremendous pride,” Schmidt said. 

Reflecting on a visit with former Ghanaian President John Kufuor this summer, Schmidt emphasized that while artificial intelligence and technology are reshaping society, human connection remains central to education. 

“What spoke to my heart most was not a discussion of politics or current events, but a conversation about people, purpose and the importance of understanding the human condition,” Schmidt said. 

Schmidt also emphasized the university’s commitment to ensuring that a JMU degree remains a transformative investment for students. Through expanded employer partnerships, scholarship opportunities, and stronger connections between academic experiences and career preparation, JMU will continue helping students achieve their goals, he said. 

The university’s second strategic pillar centers on investing in employees by supporting compensation, well-being, professional development, and workplace success. 

“At the heart of The Madison Promise and the core of our second pillar is a simple belief: People come first,” Schmidt said. 

Research and innovation also play a vital role in JMU’s future. 

“Today, we are building on the momentum of our Carnegie R2 designation and setting our sights on the next horizon: R1 status,” he said. 

Community engagement remains a priority, with JMU continuing to expand workforce partnerships and support economic development across Virginia and beyond. 

The address also highlighted efforts to create an innovative campus environment where students experience both academic excellence and a strong sense of belonging. Schmidt cited the Madison District project as a transformational investment that will expand residential opportunities while fostering connection and community on campus. 

Reflecting on his first year as president, Schmidt said JMU is building on decades of achievement while creating new opportunities for students, employees and communities. “The Madison Promise is no longer just a plan,” he said. “It is becoming part of who we are.”  

As the academic year begins, Schmidt encouraged the university community to embrace the opportunities ahead and continue advancing a shared vision for JMU’s future. 

“This is a pivotal moment in the history of James Madison University,” he said. “We stand on a foundation built through decades of achievement, and we are intentionally building on that momentum to create new opportunities for our students, our university and the communities we serve.”