News ~ Independent Scholars

Notice of loss within our campus community
It saddens us to share with you there has been a loss within our community.
Miriam Bradley named assistant vice president, Principal Relationship Development
University Advancement is pleased to announce that Miriam Bradley will serve as assistant vice president for Principal Relationship Development.
Board of Visitors summary of actions and discussions
The James Madison University Board of Visitors met Friday, April 22, 2022 in the Festival Conference and Student Center.
Professor, students to garden on Earth Day with local elementary school
Geography professor Amy Goodall and her students will celebrate 10 years of gardening at Keister Elementary School on Earth Day.
JMU Board of Visitors to meet this week
The JMU Board of Visitors will meet on Friday, April 22 at 8:30 a.m. in the Festival Conference and Student Center.
Four Valley public servants honored at JMU
As part of the national Public Service Recognition Week the JMU Master of Public Administration graduate program will honor exemplary public service work.
JMU Bluestone Seed Fund announces spring investments
The JMU Bluestone Seed Fund is wrapping up its inaugural year of investments with the addition of two alumni-led startups to the portfolio.
Dukes lift Giving Day past $1 million — again
On Giving Day 2022, Dukes around the world raised $1,035,165 for 152 campus causes.
Early geologic time period can be predictor of climate change
Geology professor Bill Lukens can make some assumptions about climate from his research of the Pliocene era.
A business education that compares with the very best
Dukes prevail over elite rivals.
Madison Vision Series to focus on ‘Fighting the Rise of Hate’
Author, foreign policy strategist and former diplomat Farah Pandith will discuss the growing threat of violent extremism April 18 at JMU.
JMU experts can discuss Earth Day, gardening, climate and related topics
Ahead of Earth Day, JMU experts offer insight into climate related topics
ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge Announces New Presidents Council Leadership
The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge names Jonathan Alger to leadership position.
JMU students to be among volunteers for Arbor Day event
Students from a JMU geography class will be among the volunteers planting about 50 native trees Saturday along the new Friendly City Shared-use Path in Harrisonbuirg.
JMU announces updates on mask requirements
In response to evolving pandemic trends and resulting CDC guidance, the university will make masks optional in most indoor areas Monday, April 11.
JMU highlights resources to address sexual assault
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and it is important to acknowledge this moment and the resources available to the JMU community.
SADAH MFA program honored with three VMFA fellowship awards
Graduate faculty, alumni and current student all receive awards to support their research
Entrepreneurs to watch
The JMU College of Business announces Illumi Lights as the overall winner of the COB300 Business Plan Competition, Platinum Edition, marking the 20th anniversary of the event.
2022 MFA Thesis Exhibition
Three graduating MFA students share their capstone work that confronts attitudes toward ecology, transformation and gender expectations
JMU rocketry team to conduct final test launch Saturday
James Madison University’s first rocketry team will be doing a final full-scale test launch Saturday south of Culpeper.
ArtWorks Gallery annual undergraduate juried show opens 3 /30
This year’s guest juror is Richmond-based fiber artist Marie Fornaro.
JMU emergency preparedness
Spring weather can be volatile. Increased chances of severe storms, flooding and high winds during this time of year make now an ideal time to remind our community that emergency preparedness is everyone’s responsibility
Notice of public comment, proposed tuition and fees
The JMU Board of Visitors will receive public comments on the proposed tuition and fee ranges for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Board of Visitors Governance Committee to meet Wednesday
The Governance Committee of the Board of Visitors will meet on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at 4:00 p.m.
JMU student honored as Newman Civic Fellow
The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes students who stand out for their commitment to creating positive change in communities locally and around the world.
JMU’s 2022 applicant pool the largest ever
JMU’s popularity among future Dukes is at an all-time high, thanks in part to the university’s decision to join the Common Application. This move promises to raise awareness of JMU on a national stage.
JMU honors the late Dr. George Sparks in student arts celebration benefiting scholarships
CVPA will host “IN/ovation: Student Arts Celebration” in honor of the late Dr. George Sparks on Saturday, March 26, 6:30–9:30 pm at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts.
James Madison University to conduct test of emergency systems
JMU will conduct a test of the emergency notification systems on Thursday, March 10 at 4:05 p.m.
Dynamic Insights on Adult Learning
Two of our own presented at this unique conference in Denver, CO. Insights EDU is specifically focused on adult learners and online education.
JMU announces updates to masking
James Madison University will begin a phased approach to relaxing mask requirements in designated campus spaces March 7.
JMU disability sport expert offers insights ahead of 2022 Paralympic Games
JMU expert Cathy McKay said the Paralympic movement has shifted the paradigm through which Americans view disability.
James Madison University is a top producer of Fulbright students
James Madison University is proud to be named one of the U.S. colleges and universities that produced the most 2021-2022 Fulbright U.S. Students.
JMU offers support through global conflict
As we all have been watching and reading about the tragic situation unfolding in Ukraine, we have also been thinking about our students, faculty, alumni and greater local communities impacted by the conflict.
Valley Scholars to build own computers Friday
Up to 40 ninth-grade students from central Shenandoah Valley high schools will get to build and program their own computers Friday, February 25 at James Madison University.
Updates to masking at JMU
Based upon the current situation, with fewer new daily cases and JMU’s high vaccination rate, we are optimistic that we will soon be able to start lifting the mask requirement in many areas of campus.
Bluestone Seed Fund announces new investments
The JMU Bluestone Seed Fund, managed by the Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship, announces $15,000 in new investments, adding two companies to the portfolio.
Board of Visitors Summary of Actions and Discussions
The James Madison University Board of Visitors met Friday, Feb. 18, 2022 in the Festival Conference and Student Center.
James Madison University awarded new Carnegie Classification aligning university with national prominence
JMU’s world class academic excellence and national prominence has been validated with a new Carnegie Classification of R2 Doctoral University
Healthy lifestyle is key for heart health, JMU expert says
JMU health sciences professor Santo Coleman provides answers to important heart health questions for American Heart Month.
JMU Board of Visitors to meet this week
The James Madison University Board of Visitors will meet on Friday, Feb. 18 at 8:30 a.m. in the Festival Conference and Student Center.
Ringing in the ears can be avoided or treated, not cured
As Tinnitus Awareness Week 2022 wraps up, Yingjiu Nie, a professor of communication sciences and disorders, answers some common questions.
James Madison University to host "Gathering of Hope"
Members of the campus community, local alumni and community members are invited to a "Gathering of Hope."
Madison Vision Series event to feature Black female mayors
Madison Vision Series will feature a virtual panel of Black female current and former mayors who will address the challenges of 21st century leadership.
Sharing condolences and support
In order to give our community the time and space we need, the university will cancel Assessment Day and no classes will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 8.
James Madison University launches esports program
The JMU X-Labs esports program is now a formal member of the Eastern College Athletic Conference.
Supporting our community
In these moments of grief and uncertainty, we, as senior leaders at JMU, are here to support each of you in whatever ways we can.
Update: Emergency notification systems test postponed
The emergency notification systems test originally scheduled for later this week has been postponed until future notice.
JMU president sends message of support
We are shocked and saddened by the tragedy that took place on the campus of Bridgewater College.
Campus Safety Update
There are no known active or immediate threats to JMU’s campus. We encourage students to always be vigilant.
February 1 COVID update
While the Omicron variant continues to impact the local and statewide regions, we want to provide brief updates and resources to keep you safe and informed.
New exhibition explores the legacy of colonialism in Puerto Rico through visual culture
The Museum of the Old Colony: an art installation by Pablo Delano will run Feb. 1-March 26, 2022.
JMU to offer free tax preparation service
This tax season, James Madison University will be offering free tax return preparation service to local community members.
Current COVID-related protocols (Jan. 17, 2022)
In response to updated guidance from the Office of the Governor of Virginia’s January 15, 2022 Executive Orders and Executive Directives, there are several changes to current COVID-related protocols at JMU.
JMU will be closed on Tues., Jan. 18.
JMU will be closed on Tues., Jan. 18. Residence halls will be open.
JMU's early-applicant pool the largest ever
JMU’s popularity among future Dukes is at an all-time high, thanks in part to the university’s decision to join the Common Application. This move promises to raise awareness of JMU on a national stage.
In new financial landscape consider saving more
The new year can be a good time to take a fresh look at personal finances, money goals and spending habits.
JMU closed today due to inclement weather
Due to the inclement weather, James Madison University will be closed on Friday, January 7.
A digital future for Black poetry at JMU, thanks to new $2 million grant
The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation has awarded JMU $2 million to secure the digital future of the Furious Flower Poetry Center, the nation’s first academic center devoted to Black poetry.
JMU will open at 9 a.m. Tuesday
As a result of weather conditions, James Madison University will open at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, January 4.
10 a.m. Update: JMU closed today due to inclement weather
Update: Due to the inclement weather, James Madison University will be closed today, Monday, Jan. 3.
The start of winter ushers in prime time for star gazers
With the winter solstice arriving Tuesday, it’s the perfect time to grab a pair of binoculars and check out the stars.
Season's greetings as a wonderful semester ends
As we near the end of 2021 please enjoy this fun holiday video. I hope watching it will lift your spirits and remind you that we all belong to a very special JMU community.
JMU professors receive Outstanding Faculty Awards
Lauren K. Alleyne, Erica Lewis win Outstanding Faculty Award
JMU researchers discuss value of work with citizen scientists
The need for massive amounts of data is one reason professional scientists are becoming more open to collaborating with curious citizens.
JMU recognizes December 2021 graduates
JMU December commencement ceremony will be held on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. in the Atlantic Union Bank Center.
Investments announced for student-led startups
The Bluestone Seed Fund announces its first investments deals. Three JMU startup companies will receive $5,000 each in seed capital.
Virginia elects a Duke as top cop
Jason Miyares ('98) makes history as the commonwealth’s first Latino attorney general.
The holidays and hard conversations, JMU expert offers advice for keeping everyone at the table
Professor Rob Alexander, co-director of the Institute for Constructive Advocacy and Dialogue at JMU offers advice for how to navigate difficult situations as people gather this holiday season.
Board of Visitors summary of actions and discussions
The James Madison University Board of Visitors met Friday, November 19, 2021 in the Festival Conference and Student Center.
With supply chain in flux, JMU expert urges patience while shopping, booking travel
JMU business professor and supply chain expert William Ritchie provides answers to some common questions to help consumers navigate holiday shopping this year.
JMU Board of Visitors to meet this week
The JMU Board of Visitors will meet Friday, Nov. 19 at 8:30 a.m. in the Festival Conference and Student Center.
Niche gives JMU an 'A' in its 2022 assessment
James Madison University has racked up an overall grade of 'A' from Niche's 2022 Best Colleges ranking.
JMU experts offer tips for navigating the holidays
As the holiday season approaches, JMU experts offer research-backed strategies for navigating stressful situations, finding enjoyment.
JMU astrophysicist anticipates launch of James Webb Telescope
A JMU astrophysicist who researches black holes is looking forward to the Dec. 18 launch of the James Webb Space Telescope.
University class that provides respite care going strong after 20 years
A JMU class where students provide companionship for adults 60-years-old and older is marking its 20th year.
James Madison joins Sun Belt Conference
The Sun Belt Conference announces the addition of James Madison University into the league after a unanimous vote of the Sun Belt CEOs.
JMU class assists federal, state labs with Salmonella research
Scientists with the FDA and Virginia labs say a JMU biology class is providing them with critical data to improve food safety.
JMU Mineral Museum re-opens
The JMU Mineral Museum is re-opening its doors, offering a first look at the extraordinary collection of mineral specimens in the Peter L. Via Collection.
JMU Board of Visitors Executive Committee to meet Friday
The Executive Committee of the Board of Visitors will meet on Friday, October 29 at 10 a.m. in the Board Room of the Festival.
Student Exhibition Offers Insight into Industrial Design Process
ArtWorks Gallery presents ID@ArtWorks, its first exhibition focused on industrial design work, allowing students to showcase their entire creative process from sketches and prints to models and large installation pieces.
Industrial Design Conference Comes to James Madison University
Local community welcome to join professionals and students from South and mid-Atlantic region
Once again, JMU is the Best College in Virginia for Getting a Job
The Zippia ranking is one in a long line of recent mentions that makes a compelling case for the high quality of a JMU degree.
A Lifelong Anniversary 25-Years in the Making
Their commitment to deepening our understanding of existing knowledge is inspiring. That tells us that they find fulfillment here and enjoy the opportunities we provide...
JMU-BRCC-Merck workforce partnership nets economic development award
A workforce development partnership between JMU, BRCC and Merck received the Judge’s Choice Award recently from the UEDA.
Audiology instructor answers common hearing loss questions
For National Audiology Awareness Month, JMU's Melissa Garber answers some common questions about hearing loss.
Preventative medicine expert speaks on handwashing
The future is in our hands, literally. Global Handwashing Day is designed to raise awareness of the importance of washing one’s hands.
Tree planting at JMU Edible Forest Garden
On Friday, Oct. 15, students and volunteers from James Madison University will dig in to plant fruit trees and shrubs as part of the JMU Edible Forest Garden.
JMU expert offers advice on cybersecurity
The biggest threat is imposed by the human factor where people may fall victim to phishing scams and e-mail spoofing to trick them.
Dream Big As JMU Writes Its Next Chapter!
When I became president of James Madison University in 2012, I encouraged the university community to “dream big together.”
JMU to “Light the Night” for fallen firefighters
Wilson Hall will be illuminated with red lights Saturday night as part of a “Light the Night” tribute for fallen firefighters.
Donors break annual fundraising record despite pandemic
JMU finished the fiscal year that ended on June 30 at $23.2 million in private gifts, returning to the year-over-year increases seen since Unleashed began seven years ago.
The Wardens are so passionate about future JMU students they’re starting a scholarship movement
Kathy (’92) and Eric (’93) Warden said they will match new scholarship gifts up to $1.25 million pledged this calendar year to inspire donors to help JMU recruit and retain more than 100 aspiring Dukes.
Building Global Community Here and Abroad
JMU International Week is a celebration of countries and cultures the world over. Participants have the opportunity to focus on the commonalities that make all of us human.
September 2021 Board of Visitors summary of action and discussions
The following is a summary of actions taken by the board and key areas of discussion at the board meeting.
Board of Visitors at JMU extends Alger’s term as president
At its regularly scheduled board meeting today, the JMU Board of Visitors voted to extend President Jonathan Alger’s term as president for five years.
Senior vice president to retire after a 25-year career at James Madison University
Charlie King, who has served JMU as senior vice president of Administration and Finance for the past 25 years, has announced his December 2021 retirement.
New JMU pantry app will improve ordering, privacy
A recent computer science graduate has developed an app he hopes will revolutionize the way JMU students in need can order basic goods.
JMU Board of Visitors to meet this week
The James Madison University Board of Visitors will meet on Friday, September 24 at 8:30 am in the Festival and Student Conference Center.
Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship launches seed fund for student startups
The Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship at James Madison University is launching the Bluestone Seed Fund to support venture investing for student-led startups.
JMU expert: College athletes increasingly open about mental health
Discussing mental health and how to cope with various stressors is becoming more common among college athletes says JMU expert Bob Harmison.
JMU will help increase preschool access, equity with new $3.6 million grant
James Madison University today announced the receipt of a $3,654,000 grant to increase access to early education in several cities and counties across Virginia.
JMU recognizes 2020 graduates at in-person ceremony
Commencement ceremonies will be held on Friday, Sept. 3, 2021 at 5pm and 7:30pm in the Atlantic Union Bank Center.
JMU Board of Visitors Executive Committee to meet Tuesday
The Executive Committee of the Board of Visitors will meet on Tuesday, September 7 at 3:00 p.m.
JMU partnership with Shenandoah Valley Airport leads to new features in airline terminal
As passenger travel rebounds following pandemic lock-downs, Duke Dog is ready to welcome travelers to the Shenandoah Valley Airport.
JMU precautionary flood actions
Ahead of forecasted weather this week due to Tropical Depression Ida, JMU is sharing some important reminders on how to prepare for and protect against potential flooding on and off campus.
James Madison University welcomes new chief of police
James Madison University today announced Anthony Matos as the new chief of university police
1787 Weeks of Welcome
Filled with camaraderie and learning, 1787 Weeks of Welcome is an action-packed introduction to life on campus for JMU’s newest students. The event highlights the essence of what it truly means to be a JMU Duke.
James Madison University to host ACE Fellow, Dr. Mary K. Ramsey
James Madison University President Jonathan Alger announced today that Dr. Mary K. Ramsey, professor of English at Eastern Michigan University, a 2021-2022 American Council on Education (ACE) Fellow, will spend the full
Tiny shrews proving efficacy of JMU professors’ invention
Biology professor Katrina Gobetz hopes to revolutionize the research of small animals with an animal monitoring station she invented.
Message in response to training in question
As excited as I am to be welcoming students back to campus, I want take a moment to address recent concerns raised by some in our community about a training for some student staff.
Board of Visitors committee to meet Tuesday
The Ad Hoc Governance Committee of the Board of Visitors will meet on Tuesday, August 24 at 8:00 am at 2980 Fairview Park Drive in Falls Church, VA.
JMU residency will increase counseling in Page County
Page County doctors will get some much-needed help from JMU doctoral students.
New program will enhance student access, affordability
A joint program announced today by Blue Ridge Community College and James Madison University will open new doors for students.
Behavioral health provider shortage addressed by JMU program
Behavioral health providers in six counties in central Virginia will get a helping hand from 100 JMU graduate psychology students.
Summer Springboard puts ‘Welcome to the Family’ in action
Summer Springboard is a special one-day event that offers the newest JMU Dukes answers to their most pressing questions and a healthy dose of the JMU vibe.
Can songbirds rise above din of 17-year cicada?
JMU biologist Dana Moseley is doing research to find out if songbirds can change their tunes to compete with 17-year cicadas.
JMU announces new School of Professional and Continuing Education
The School of Professional and Continuing Education will build on JMU’s successful efforts to provide education, programming and experiences for all ages.
During “Shark Week,” don’t forget funky paddlefish
While sharks are taking the spotlight next week on Discovery Channel, the weird paddlefish deserves some attention too.
JMU Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship announces new director
The Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship is honored to welcome Suzanne Bergmeister as its next executive director.

James Madison University

Wilson Hall
951 Madison Drive
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807

Email Us
(540) 568-6211

News - Independent Scholars