Madison Family Newsletter: September 2026
Brought to you by the JMU Office of Family Engagement
News
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Madison Family Newsletter: September 2026
James Madison University
The Madison Family Newsletter is created each month by the Office of Family Engagement in partnership with many members of the JMU community. For more family resources, visit our website.
In This Issue:
- A Letter from Dr. Miller
- Tickets for Family Weekend Train Concert
- Family Weekend Fun on Hanson Field
- More Than a Pretty Campus: Parent Conversation Checklist
- Concerned for a Student? Madison Cares Wants to Help!
- Self-care Resources from the University Health Center
- Flu Shots Available
- Financial Aid Disbursements and Starting Classes
- Welcome Back to JMU Dining
- JMU Dining: Family Weekend
- The One Career Event Every JMU Student Should Attend
- Study Abroad Programs
- Transportation for Your Duke
- Parking Information for Visitors
- Live on Again: On-Campus Housing
- Take Your Time Before You Sign: Planning for Next Year’s Housing
- Help Your Duke Find Their Community
- Parents Council Chairs Offer JMU Families Advice
- JMU Traditions Magnet
- Bring JMU Home
- Career Closet: Autumn Attire Harvest
- Duke Club: Friday Night Flights 2026
- Student Travel Home Update: NY, NJ, CT & PA
- The Makery in Carrier Library Reopens with Even More Opportunities to Create
A Letter from Dr. Tim Miller
Hi JMU families,
It’s been a great start to the school year! I hope your Dukes are finding their way around, transitioning to campus life and enjoying all that JMU has to offer. There are still so many opportunities for students to meet each other and make connections so encourage them to keep talking to people, getting out of their rooms and making the effort. It’s been great seeing so many new and returning students at too many events to list here. I told a friend the other day that the month of August is the only time of year I can feel both exhausted and energized at the same time!
Updates
This first month is the time to lay the groundwork for the rest of the semester. Right now, it’s important to find a balance between academics and social life. For most of our students the academic rigor builds slowly and then it can sneak up on them when they suddenly have lots of assignments due, quizzes and tests all at the same time. Planning ahead is the key to success. Learning Success Strategies is a great place to start, beginning with creating a personalized planner.
Students are often trying to figure things out and find resources right about now so I want you to encourage them to check out the Student Gateway. It has links to many campus resources and what is on there and how it is organized was guided completely by student feedback from a class project several years ago. Everything they need at JMU can be found here including pages they use frequently: apps to download, academic resources and much more.
Tell us about your experience with move-in
We are always trying to improve your experience and would love to hear from you about move-in. Please take a few minutes and complete this survey and we will use your feedback to make next year even better for the Class of 2031!
Reminders
If your student hasn’t made strong connections yet, please let them know they are not alone. It takes a few months for most students to begin finding their people and some level of comfort on campus, and for others it can take longer. It is important that they continue to try new things and reach out to others who are probably feeling the same way. The best things they can do are go to class, talk to other students at the dining hall and in class, and spend time outside their room. The rest will come with time and effort.
Take your time before you sign
Pretty soon, the off-campus housing complexes will start contacting students and advertising the need to sign leases for 2027-2028. You might be thinking, wait, didn’t we just move them in?!?!?! Exactly, slow down this process and make sure your student knows that you expect them to wait a while before they sign a lease for next year. They will feel the pressure to sign and be told that they won’t have anywhere to live next year, but I assure you there are plenty of places available even now for this year.
This is especially true for our newest Dukes who haven’t been here long enough to know who they want to live with next year. They’ll meet many more people over the next several months and be much more prepared to make a decision later this semester or in early 2027.
Events
Each month we will highlight a few events that we don’t want your students to miss. Here are a few for September:
9/11 Remembrance | Sept. 11 | 8:30-9:30 a.m. | in front of Wilson Hall – A time for us to come together to honor and remember the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, as we mark the 25th anniversary of this national tragedy.
Constitution Day | Sept. 15 | 5 p.m. | The Forum, Hartman Hall – Conversation with Jonathan Turley (George Washington Law) and Jonathan Adler (William & Mary Law) who are two leading legal scholars and public intellectuals on the Constitution.
Carnival at E-Hall | Sept. 17 | 4:30-8 p.m. | E-Hall – A specialty menu, carnival games and prizes, and magic by magician Tyler Reed.
International Week | Sept. 21-25 – Opportunities for students to explore global cultures, perspectives, and connections through storytelling, food, art, and shared experiences.
JMU Career and Internship Fair | Sept. 29 & 30 | noon to 4 p.m. | AUBC – Open to all JMU students across all majors and class years. Over 100 employers from multiple industries are coming to campus to recruit JMU talent from all academic programs for different jobs, internships and career opportunities.
Housing and Community Fair | Sept. 30 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Festival – The first step to making an informed decision about living off campus. Students can talk to housing providers and community organizations to ask questions and begin weighing their options.
Enjoy every moment
As students start to settle in, they often get into routines that don’t allow them to find new places and experiences. I want to ask you to encourage your student to find one new place, experience, dining hall, sporting event, or relaxation opportunity every week. Here is a list of some places they may not know about that can add some fun and relaxation to their day.
I hope all of you are well and figuring out your transition too.
Be Well, Take Care, and Go Dukes,
Dr. Tim Miller
Vice President for Student Affairs
See Train Live During Family Weekend!
Tickets for the Train and Moon Taxi concert on Oct. 2 at the Atlantic Union Bank Center are on sale now!
Train has sold more than 10 million albums and 30 million tracks worldwide since forming in 1994. The band has earned three Grammys and is known for hits including "Drops of Jupiter," "Hey, Soul Sister" and "Drive By."
Parking is available in the Ballard Parking Deck (1700 Jeff Bourne Way) for $20, so be sure to get your parking pass today! Additional surface lots around the Atlantic Union Bank Center will be free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-noon, on Photobooth & Fun on Hanson Field: Visit the JMU Family Photobooth to take a fun photo with your JMU Family and pick up some free purple and gold beads and pom-poms! You can also get a one-of-a-kind Duke Dog Color-me pennant to show your Duke Pride! Enjoy Yard Games on Hanson Field: Bocce Ball, Kan Jam, Ladder Golf, Lawn Yahtzee, Life-Size Jenga & Cornhole! Glitter Bee will be providing face painting too!
More Than a Pretty Campus: Parent Conversation Checklist
Submitted by: Paige Allen Hawkins, Associate Director, Well Dukes
At JMU, we want students to receive a consistent message: your well-being matters here. This message must be communicated by more than our words, programs and services. We want well-being to be reflected, even felt in the spaces students step into every day.
From the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Newman Lake to Festival Lawn, the Quad and UPARK, JMU offers students opportunities to study, connect, take a break, play or simply spend a few moments outdoors. These outdoor spaces are more than beautiful features of campus. They are resources that can support learning, restore energy, reduce stress, improve focus and boost your student’s overall well-being.
As your student settles into the semester, ask them where they feel most energized, focused, connected or at ease on campus. Encourage them to notice, explore and use the people, places and spaces here at JMU.
September Conversation Checklist — a few questions that we hope will invite your student to share or plant a seed for them to consider. These are great when you’re on the phone or for a Tuesday text.
- What’s your favorite outdoor space on campus? What do you like about it?
- Where do you go when you need a quiet or calm space?
- Where do or might you go to feel more connected to campus?
- What's one place on campus you'd like to spend more time exploring this semester?
Just like last month’s checklist, the goal isn't to find the "right" answer but to simply encourage students to reflect on the people, places and spaces that can help them thrive.
Submitted by: Dom Rodriguez, Assistant Dean of Students
The Dean of Students office invites family members to submit a Madison Cares Referral for any students they might be concerned about. Whether they are having trouble with the transition to college, are experiencing difficulties with their health, or navigating a family emergency, we are here to help. Our team will respond and address any concerns by providing outreach, university resources, and direct support to the student.
Contact us at madisoncares@jmu.edu or 540-568-6468 if you have any questions.
Self-care Resources from the University Health Center
Submitted by: Chris Ouren, Associate Director of Business Operations, University Health Center
Tips from the University Health Center
Coming to live in a new place can mean new germs, so it is very common to get sick in the first few weeks of school. The good news is that most illnesses and injuries are self-limiting and can be treated with self-care measures. If this happens, check out the University Health Center's self-care information for ways your student can take care of themselves.
Reminder:
(First Year Students) Required Pre-Entry Health Requirements were due July 6. If your student has not submitted this information, or has a message that their information is incomplete, please encourage your student to complete it right away. They can check for confirmation through MyJMUChart. Fines and holds will be administered soon so please be sure this step is completed.
Submitted by: Anne Brenneman, Director, University Health Center
Flu (influenza) season is approaching quickly. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot. There will be a flu shot clinic on campus at UREC on Tuesday Oct. 6 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Be sure and have your student bring their health insurance card.
The University Health Center also gives flu shots for $21. Students can walk into the pharmacy during regular business hours or make an appointment for an Immunization/Vaccine by scheduling through MyJMUChart or calling 540-568-6178.
Financial Aid Disbursements and Starting Classes
Submitted by: Brad Barnett, AVP/Financial Aid Director, Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships
Fall Financial Aid Disbursements:
Financial aid disbursements generally occur during the first week of each semester if all paperwork has been submitted in a timely fashion and the student is registered for the amount of hours used to determine financial aid eligibility. If you want to learn more about the disbursement process, timeframe, and financial aid refunds, you can read Section 13: Financial Aid, Disbursements, Your Bill, and Refunds of the Financial Aid: Terms and Conditions – Consumer Information document on our website.
Beginning Enrollment:
It’s important to note that students must begin attendance in the classes for which they receive financial aid. Reading the “Beginning Enrollment” portion of Section 1: How Financial Aid is Awarded at JMU and General Eligibility Requirements of the Financial Aid: Terms and Conditions – Consumer Information document at jmu.edu/financialaid will explain what constitutes “attendance” for the purposes of meeting this eligibility criterion. Students who do not begin attendance in classes for which financial aid is awarded may be subject to a reduction or cancellation to their financial aid package.
Welcome Back to JMU Dining
Submitted by: Heather Holsinger, Marketing Manager, JMU Dining
September 11 at 5 p.m. is the last opportunity to change a meal plan selection for the semester. Students can fill out the form on our website or visit Dining HQ on the first floor of D-Hall to change their selection.
Reminder: Meal plans can no longer be converted to Flex. However, meal plans can be converted to Dining Dollars Gold. Dining Dollars Gold offers a 5% discount at on-campus retail dining locations, plus there is no sales tax charged on Dining Dollars Gold purchases (12.3%). Flex is still available from the University Business Office.
Grubhub and AVRides launched September 3 with six locations, and all locations should be live by the second week of September. Check out our website to learn more and download the app.
The first Bistro on the Breezeway will be on September 16 from 1-4 p.m. (or while supplies last). Students can get a delicious homemade crab cake sandwich, side and a drink for just one meal punch! The chef is only making 100 servings, so plan ahead!
More fun events this month include Carnival at E-Hall, Happy Camper at D-Hall, Supper Club, Cooking Classes, D-Hall Sandwich Showdown, and more! Follow us on Instagram @JMUDining to stay up to date on all our fun activities!
Submitted by: Heather Holsinger, Marketing Manager, JMU Dining
JMU Dining is looking forward to welcoming everyone for Family Weekend fun!
Join us on Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for Game Day at D-Hall! Reservations are not required. $16.75 +tax at the door for all-you-care-to-eat. Students with meal plans enter with a punch. Guest meals are not available for use on Family Weekend. Picnic vibes meet Duke pride at Game Day in D-Hall! Dig into culinary favorites in a space filled with Duke spirit, and head to the Garage Room for games and interactive activities.
*JMU Dining is cashless. Accepted payment includes credit/debit, Flex, and Dining Dollars
Saturday night is our special Fantastic Feast at E-Hall! (no walk-ins allowed). Please print tickets for entry. Cost: $29.75 (+ticketing fee, tax included), children (6-12 years) $19 (+ticketing fee, tax included), 5 and under free, JMU students free with meal plan and must have their JACard at the event to deduct 1 punch. Two seatings are available: Early seating 4:30-6:00 p.m. or Late seating from 6:30-8:00 p.m. *To ensure a great experience for all guests, please honor the assigned seating times and enter and exit the event at the designated time.
Menu includes:
• Steamed Crab Legs
• Gourmet Shrimp Cocktail
• Grilled Pear and Quinoa Salad
• Vegan Butternut Squash Bisque
• Smoked Beef Brisket
• Roasted Salmon
• Artisan Charcuterie
• Specialty Char-Grilled Burger
• Chimichurri Chicken
• Tofu Tikka Masala (vegan)
• Seasonal Fruit and Dessert
Early Seating 4:30-6:00 p.m. Tickets
Late Seating 6:30-8:00 p.m. Tickets
You will need to create an IRIS account. Click on "Don't have an account? Sign Up"
The One Career Event Every JMU Student Should Attend
Submitted by: Carlos Yanez, Communications Coordinator, University Career Center
The JMU Career & Internship Fair is open to all students, regardless of their major or class year. More than 130 employers from a wide range of industries will be on campus recruiting JMU talent for internships and full-time opportunities. Even first-year students are encouraged to attend to explore career paths, practice networking, and begin building connections for future opportunities.
We encourage students to spend at least 30 minutes at the fair and speak with at least five organizations to build confidence interacting with employers and strengthen their professional networking skills.
JMU Career and Internship Fair
Tuesday, Sept. 29 & Wednesday, Sept. 30 | 12-4 p.m. | Atlantic Union Bank Center (AUBC)
Students can prepare by:
Scheduling an appointment on Handshake with the University Career Center (UCC) to review their resume and develop talking points for conversations with recruiters.
New! Iris Headshot Booth: Students can book a free professional headshot appointment with the UCC before the fair. Headshots will also be available on both days of the Career & Internship Fair.
Practice Interview Events (PIE): Students participate in a 30-minute mock interview with an employer and receive valuable feedback on their interview skills.
Attending UCC prep events, like:
Outfits for Opportunities Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 5-8 p.m. | UCC Lobby
Shop the Career Closet after hours and find free professional attire for career fairs, interviews, internships, and more. Get styling tips from Career Center staff and special guests.
Rosé & Resumes Friday, Sept. 18 | 4-6 p.m. | D-Hall, Hall of Presidents
Free event for juniors, seniors, and graduate students featuring networking, resume reviews, and free headshots!
Clothes, Cookies, & Resumes
Thursday, Sept. 24 | 1-4 p.m. | SSC 3250
Friday, Sept. 25 | 1-4 p.m. | SSC 3250
Get a free headshot; have their resume reviewed; browse our Career Closet of FREE professional clothing, shoes, and accessories; and enjoy light snacks.
No matter their major or class year, your student can benefit from career support. The UCC is here to help students explore opportunities, build confidence, and prepare for their future.
Submitted by: Matthew Zittritsh, Assistant Director of Engagement & Outreach, Study Abroad
As students settle into the fall semester, now is an excellent time to explore study abroad opportunities at JMU. Whether students are interested in a Winter Session, Spring Break, Summer, or semester-long experience, studying abroad can support academic, personal, and professional growth while helping students develop valuable global and career-ready skills.
Students interested in learning more can connect with the Study Abroad office in several ways:
- Schedule an appointment with a Study Abroad Advisor
- Meet with a Global Ambassador to hear firsthand experiences from fellow students
- Contact the office at studyabroad@jmu.edu or 540-568-5209
Applications Now Open for 2027 Study Abroad Programs
Applications are now being accepted for faculty-led Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer 2027 study abroad programs. Many programs fill quickly, and students are encouraged to explore their options and apply early. Semester-long study abroad opportunities are also available, with applications accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. Students can browse programs and begin their application on the Study Abroad Programs website.
International Week: Sept. 21-25
International Week (I-Week) 2026 celebrates global learning, cultures, and perspectives from around the world. Throughout the week, students will have opportunities to engage with JMU's international community, attend events, and learn more about global opportunities available on campus and abroad. We encourage students and families to explore the week's events and join in the celebration of JMU's global engagement.
Family Weekend Study Abroad Reception
The Study Abroad Reception on Oct. 4 offers students and families an opportunity to connect with Study Abroad staff, Global Ambassadors and Global Dukes (study abroad alumni), and semester program directors while learning about JMU's wide range of study abroad opportunities. This drop-in event is a great way to ask questions, hear firsthand experiences, and begin planning for a future international experience. Breakfast refreshments and study abroad giveaways will be available. Learn more on the Family Weekend Events website.
Families play an important role in helping students explore and prepare for study abroad. Encouraging your student to begin researching programs and discussing their goals early can help them take advantage of the many global opportunities available during their time at JMU.
Submitted by: Valerie Kramer, Alternative Transportation Manager, Parking and Transit Services
We hope your Duke is off to a great start and settling into the school year!
One of the many benefits available to JMU students is fare-free public transportation throughout Harrisonburg. Through JMU's partnership with the City of Harrisonburg, all local transit buses are completely free. Whether traveling across campus, heading to an off-campus apartment, running errands, or exploring the city, students can ride any Harrisonburg Department of Public Transportation (HDPT) bus at no cost.
To make using transit even easier, encourage your student to download the MyStop app, which provides real-time bus locations, arrival predictions, and route information. Students living off campus can also visit the Dukes Ride website for detailed information about which bus routes serve their apartment complexes and how to get to and from campus.
This year, students who choose to ride transit can make an even greater impact. The City of Harrisonburg currently has several major construction projects underway on roads adjacent to campus. Every student who rides the bus instead of driving a personal vehicle helps reduce traffic congestion, making travel safer and more efficient for everyone in the community.
Free bus services extend to families attending football games and Family Weekend, too! Buses will stop at local hotels to bring you to campus-no need to drive.
Looking forward to having your Duke back home? Fall Break and Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and several convenient coach bus options are available for students traveling home.
College Transit provides service to destinations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Adventures-N-Travel offers service to airports. The Virginia Breeze has two routes serving Southwest Virginia and Northern Virginia, including stops at Dulles International Airport and the Amtrak station in DC. New this year, the Virginia Breeze Tidewater Current route offers daily service to Virginia Beach, with many stops along the way.
Students should book tickets directly through each transportation provider's website, as seats can fill quickly during peak travel periods. Book tickets early, and if you are waitlisted, stay on the waitlist. Vendors will add more buses as needed.
All services pick up and drop off at the Godwin Transit Center, conveniently located in the center of campus.
Whether your student is traveling across campus, around Harrisonburg, or heading home for a break, taking the bus makes it easier to stay connected.
Parking Information for Visitors
Submitted by: Ben Lundy, Field Operations Manager, Parking and Transit Services
General Parking Information for Visitors
Free Visitor Parking
For weekday visitor parking, come to the Parking and Transit Services office during business hours (7 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) to register for a visitor permit at no cost. Be sure to bring your driver’s license and vehicle registration. Beginning at 3 p.m. Friday through 7 a.m. Monday, visitors are not required to have permits to park in general, non-reserved spaces.
Parking Tickets
If you receive a parking ticket while on the JMU campus, contact Parking and Transit Services during business hours at 540-568-3300 or parkingservices@jmu.edu.
Special Events and Athletic Events
Some campus special events will have an impact on parking availability and regulations. For large events, such as Family Weekend and Commencement, check the event web page for details about parking. For parking information about athletic events, visit the Athletics Parking page.
Game Day Parking Information for Visitors
Football Parking
Access to preferred tailgating lots is available through the JMU Duke Club. Reserved lots open at 8:00 AM on most game days and close two hours following the conclusion of the game. Parking in non-reserved lots is free on game day Saturdays. Tailgating is permitted beginning 4 hours prior to kickoff until the game begins. Popular tailgating lots include East Campus lots C12, D3 and R4, with shuttle service available to Bridgeforth Stadium. Learn more about tailgating policies.
On football game days, shuttles are available to Bridgeforth Stadium from locations in Harrisonburg and on campus. Visit the Football Game Day Shuttles page for more information about routes and times. Accessible shuttle service is also available.
Basketball Parking
Reserved parking in the Ballard Parking Deck is available for home men’s and women’s basketball games through the JMU Duke Club. Free general parking is available on game days in non-reserved sections of the Ballard Parking Deck and in surface parking lots C12, D3 and R4.
Parking for Other Athletic Events
There is no charge for parking at other JMU athletic events. Parking locations vary by event, and can be viewed at the Game Day Central page.
Contact Parking and Transit Services at 540-568-3300 or parkingservices@jmu.edu if you have questions about parking locations.
Submitted by: Sydney Wood, Social Media & Marketing Manager, Residence Life
The Live on Again! contract for 2027-28 goes live on Oct. 1!
Take Your Time Before You Sign: Planning for Next Year’s Housing
Submitted by: Jeremy Hawkins, Assistant Director, Off-Campus Life
It may feel early to start thinking about where your student will live next year, but the off-campus housing search begins quickly in Harrisonburg. Many apartment communities and rental companies begin marketing and leasing for the following academic year in early fall, which can create a sense of urgency among students to make decisions quickly.
Our most important advice is simple: take your time before you sign.
JMU Off-Campus Life encourages students to explore all of their options, including giving serious consideration to continuing to live on campus. Students considering off-campus housing should research different communities, understand the costs involved, and avoid signing a lease simply because they feel like everyone else is doing so.
Taking time is especially important when choosing roommates. The first few weeks of college bring new friendships, and it can be tempting to quickly make plans to live together the following year. However, a great new friend does not always make a great roommate. We encourage students to give themselves time to really get to know potential roommates, talk about expectations and living habits, and think carefully before entering into a legally binding lease together.
A great way to begin exploring options without making a commitment is the Fall Housing & Community Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Festival Conference & Student Center Grand Ballroom.
Students can meet representatives from a variety of off-campus communities, compare housing options, ask questions, and learn more about the Harrisonburg area. Community organizations will also be available to share resources, services, and opportunities that can help students become more connected to the community.
As you talk with your student about housing for next year, encourage them to explore their options, consider the full cost of living off campus, think carefully about potential roommates, and understand their lease before they sign it. A lease is a legally binding agreement, and students should feel confident about both where and with whom they will be living before making that commitment. Off-Campus Life has additional resources such as the Off-Campus Guidebook.
JMU Off-Campus Life is here to help students throughout the process. We hope you will encourage your student to take their time, ask questions, and visit us at the Fall Housing & Community Fair on Sept. 30.
Help Your Duke Find Their Community
Submitted by: Lindsey Richards Barnes, Assistant Director of Engagement, Communication, and Innovation, CEVC
Some of the most valuable learning at JMU happens both inside and outside the classroom. It’s also about students finding a community, discovering what matters to them, and figuring out where they want to make their mark.
The Community Engagement & Volunteer Center (CEVC) helps JMU students do just that. Through one-time opportunities, ongoing programs, and community-based experiences, students can connect with local organizations, meet fellow Dukes, explore social issues they care about, and put their values into action.
As your Duke finds their rhythm at JMU, encourage them to try something new, show up for their community, and see where it takes them. They may just find a new passion, or a new group of people who feel like home.
Learn more at jmu.edu/cevc or contact us at cevc@jmu.edu or 540-568-6366.
Food Systems & Sustainability Community Excursion | Sept. 11 | 1-3 p.m.
Dukes Volunteer
Is your student looking for a consistent way to get involved? Dukes Volunteer offers weekly opportunities to make a difference with local non-profits. Transportation is provided by CEVC.
Jubilee Climate Farm | Mondays | 1-3 p.m.
Food Recovery Network | Mondays 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Thursdays 4-6 p.m.
Our Community Place | Tuesdays | 9-10:30 a.m.
Generations Crossing | Tuesdays | 9-10:30 a.m.
The ARC of Harrisonburg | Thursdays | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community | Fridays | 2-3 p.m.
Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA | Sundays | 8–10 a.m.
Alternative Break Program
Students travel with a student-led group of Dukes to work alongside community leaders to address pressing social issues.
Alternative Fall Break | Oct. 7-9 | $100 | Sign up by Sept. 20 at 11:59 p.m.
Alternative Spring Break Leader | March 13-20 | Apply by Nov. 1 at 11:59 p.m.
Submitted by: Office of Family Engagement
While unfamiliar surroundings and new routines can bring uncertainty, those feelings should not overshadow the significance of this moment. For students and parents alike, the transition to college marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunity and discovery.
Few people understand that journey better than Dave (’91) and Marcy (’91) Kozlowski, co-chairs of the JMU Parents Council. The couple met as students during their first year on campus at JMU and later raised a family deeply connected to the university. Their youngest daughter is entering her senior year at JMU, and their other two daughters graduated in 2018 and 2021.
The Kozlowskis' connection to the university spans generations. Both sets of parents served on the Parents Council, and Dave and Marcy later followed in their footsteps. To say this family, “Bleeds Purple,” would be an understatement! Today, they help lead a council of approximately 200 parents who support the university by providing insight from a family perspective and helping strengthen connections between JMU and families.
As another academic year begins, they shared advice for current and prospective JMU parents.
Submitted by: Elijah Keyes, Assistant Director Campaigns, OAG Office of Annual Giving
Celebrate your place in the JMU family with a free, exclusive magnet highlighting our beloved campus traditions.
Submitted by: Elijah Keyes, Assistant Director Campaigns, OAG Office of Annual Giving
Bring a little Madison into every month with the 2027 JMU Campus Calendar, featuring favorite photographs from across campus.
Make a gift of $27 or more to support today’s Dukes and receive your limited-edition calendar.
Career Closet: Autumn Attire Harvest
Submitted by: Alyssa Hawley, Career Advisor, University Career Center
Will you be at JMU for Family Weekend or Homecoming Weekend? Help your fellow Dukes by cleaning out your closet and donating your unwanted business or business casual attire to the Career Closet. Students can shop the closet for free to gear up for interviews, internships, jobs, presentations, events, etc. Your donations keep the closet running! Drop-off locations include Hotel Madison (front desk), Harrison Hall, Hartman Hall, and Leeolou Alumni Center (Friday). Just look for a brown wardrobe box with the Autumn Attire Harvest sign on it!
Duke Club: Friday Night Flights 2026
Submitted by: Madi Alley, Assistant Director of Internal Operations & Events, JMU Duke Club
Friday Night Flights is the Duke Club’s premier fall season event, bringing JMU Nation together under the lights at Bridgeforth Stadium. The 11th annual event will take place Friday, October 16, from 7–10 p.m. as part of Homecoming Weekend.
The evening features beer and wine tastings from local breweries and wineries across the Valley, along with non-alcoholic beverages and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Guests can choose from several ticket packages, including General Admission, Premium, Young Alumni, and Designated Driver options, providing different ways to experience the event.
For families and guests looking to enjoy the event together, the Designated Driver package offers all of the non-alcoholic event perks, including an event-exclusive tasting cup, non-alcoholic beverages, and heavy hors d’oeuvres. The event also offers a Young Alumni ticket for graduates from the past four years.
Most importantly, Friday Night Flights directly supports JMU student-athletes. All event proceeds benefit the Proud & True Fund, supporting student-athlete scholarships and the JMU Athletics general operating budget. This support has an impact across all 18 varsity sports and more than 500 JMU student-athletes.
Friday Night Flights provides an opportunity for JMU Nation to gather at Bridgeforth Stadium, enjoy an evening together, and support the student-athletes who represent James Madison University. With multiple ticket options and a welcoming atmosphere, the event has become a favorite Homecoming Weekend tradition for Dukes and their families.
Student Travel Home Update: NY, NJ, CT & PA
Submitted by: Amy Sfaelos, CollegeTransit LTD
Quick updates for out-of-state families from the Northeast:
Fall Break:
Only 30 seats left on the second bus. We do not expect to add a third bus, so if you are interested, please do not wait long.
Thanksgiving (Allentown, Morris Plains, Tarrytown & Melville):
Friday departure: First bus sold out; 30 seats remaining on the second bus.
Saturday departure: First bus sold out; 28 seats remaining on the second bus.
Thanksgiving (King of Prussia & Howell Township):
Only 7 seats remain on the first bus. Once sold out, a waitlist will open for a second bus.
Winter Break:
The first bus is now open for reservations on the Northeast route.
CollegeTransit has been providing JMU students holiday transportation for over 30 years during Fall, Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring breaks. View full trip details and specific stop addresses at CollegeTransit.com. Should you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Submitted by: Emily Blake, Assistant Director of Communications & Marketing, Libraries
Now that Carrier Library has reopened after its renovation and expansion, the JMU community can once again find well-equipped, fully staffed creative learning spaces in both Rose Library and Carrier Library. Both locations will offer The Makery’s most popular resources, including (but not limited to):
- 3D printing and 3D scanning
- Laser cutting
- Sewing machines and a serger
- Button makers
- Cricut cutters
- An electronics workbench
- Support from library staff
The Makery is here to foster students' creativity. All services and supplies are available free-of-charge to the entire JMU community, whether for academic, professional, or personal projects.
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