Sarah Ciccone serves as the Director of University Events at James Madison University, where she leads the planning and execution of presidential, university-wide, and ceremonial events that advance the institution’s mission and elevate the JMU experience. She joined the University Events team as an Event Manager in December 2016 and has been with JMU since 2012. 

Sarah began her career at JMU in the Center for Global Engagement (formerly the Office of International Programs) as an Administrative Assistant before being promoted to Coordinator for Study Abroad. In this role, she organized the annual Summit Series conference, managed the Cross-Cultural Program for international students, and supported international visiting scholars.

In June 2019, Sarah was promoted to Associate Director of University Events and advanced to Director in June 2023. In her current role, she oversees departmental operations, leads commencement exercises, supports Board of Visitors, and manages high-profile presidential engagements, including inaugurations, grand openings, dedication ceremonies, and other institutional milestones. She also co-manages the Presidential Suite experience during home football games.

Prior to joining JMU, Sarah spent more than five years as the Life Enrichment Coordinator at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community, where she developed and facilitated programs and events for supportive living residents, including individuals living with dementia. Her experience included coordinating outings, performances, and social activities designed to foster connection and engagement.

While working full-time, Sarah completed her bachelor’s degree through JMU’s Adult Degree Program, graduating in May 2020 with a degree in individualized studies focused on business management and human resource management.

Sarah is actively engaged in professional and campus leadership and serves as a campus-wide liaison for hospitality efforts that support the university community. From July 2023 through July 2026, she served as the Regional Director for the Southeast region of the North American Association for Commencement Officers (NAACO). At JMU, she has served on numerous university committees, including the President’s Purple Star Awards Committee, co-led the Inauguration Executive Planning Committee, and participated in institutional search committees. In the 2026–27 academic year, she will participate in IMPACT3, a leadership development program designed to support emerging and established campus leaders. 

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Sarah enjoys spending time outdoors through kayaking and camping, as well as cooking, baking, and crafting. She especially enjoys creating memories with her family and embracing her favorite season, fall, through local activities and traditions.

Jeff Campbell joined the University Events team as Associate Director in September 2024. He has been with James Madison University since 2008, holding various positions. His career at JMU began in Athletics, where he coordinated Game Operations events and game day logistics. He later transitioned to JMU Libraries, serving as Head of Library and Information Services, overseeing front-line services and operations for the campus’s library facilities and events.

Beyond JMU, Jeff has worked with several Parks and Recreation departments in Virginia, as well as with Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union. His roles included coordinating youth sports activities, community outreach, and organizing events like the annual Cocktails & Cleats fundraiser, supporting community growth and programming.

In his current role with University Events, Jeff manages key areas such as commencement, departmental operations, our internship program, and high-profile presidential functions. He also provides support for the Presidential Suite during home football games, Board of Visitors meetings, Faculty and Staff Service Recognitions, Dukes Remembrance Day, Commencement Expo, student events, and other presidential engagements.

A proud triple Duke, Jeff holds a bachelor’s degree in Sport and Recreation Management and a master’s in Sport Leadership from JMU’s Hart School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation Management. His service to the university includes membership on several cross-disciplinary leadership groups, advising UREC Sports Clubs, volunteering with JMU’s Admitted Student Open House days, and participating in numerous university search committees.

In his free time, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife, twin sons, and friends. He is an avid sports fan and player, often found on JMU’s intramural fields.

Amethyst Carter Singh joined the University Events team as the Event and Office Manager in August 2024. She assists with planning and implementing events at the University, including the Winter and Spring commencement ceremonies, university-wide celebrations, Board of Visitors meetings, and presidential events. 

Amethyst has served as a member of the Employee Advisory Committee, helping to promote employee retention by providing communication between employees and administration, and the Purple Star Committee, recognizing and awarding exemplary faculty and staff members.   

Amethyst has worn many professional hats throughout her career including assistant teaching at a private school, starting an event planning business, nannying, and working as a ticketing and gate agent at the Charlottesville Airport. In 2013, she received her associate degree from Blue Ridge Community College. She has joined JMU’s Adult Degree program in pursuit of her bachelor’s degree.

Off campus, Amethyst enjoys trying new recipes and crafts, spending time outdoors, traveling, and renewing her title as the best auntie ever. 

Kate Buswell (’28)

Kate joined the University Events team as an intern during her freshman year. She is from Woodbridge, Virginia, and is a Psychology major with a minor in Criminal Justice. She plans to graduate in Spring 2028 and hopes to become a Forensic Psychologist. During her time at JMU, she has been involved in JMU Fitness Club, JMU Psychology Club, and works on the Atlantic Union Bank Center Events team. She was also a research assistant working on advancements and research regarding motivational psychology of college students. Kate enjoys event planning and working with JMU’s University Events Team! 

Eleanor Nichols (’28)

Eleanor joined the University Events team during her freshman year. She is from Northern Virginia and is a Hospitality Management major with a minor in General Business. She is in a social sorority, Phi Mu, where she serves on the Recruitment/Membership Committee. Her goal is to eventually move into a position on Phi Mu’s Executive Board. She plans to graduate in the spring of 2028 with a Bachelor's of Science in Hospitality Management and pursue a job in the Hospitality industry but is excited to explore her possibilities.   

Sydney Roscoe (’27)

Sydney joined the University Events Team during her freshman year as an intern. She is from King William, Virginia, and is a Hospitality Management major with minors in General Business and Honors Interdisciplinary Studies. She plans to graduate in the fall of 2027 and hopes to pursue a career in event or resort management. On campus, she is a part of JMU Young Life and Hart School Ambassadors. Sydney has a passion for event planning and is excited to be a part of the University Events Team. 

We welcome your phone calls and emails regarding event planning or past and present events.

To submit an RSVP or for general questions, please call 540-568-RSVP (7787)
or email University Events.