Jacksonville State to Receive
$532,500 in Federal Funds

The federal omnibus spending bill President Obama approved Wednesday includes over $500,000 to improve student achievement and campus safety at Jacksonville State University.

JSU's "Beyond Boundaries Initiative" will receive $200,000 in federal support to provide a comprehensive set of resources and services available through interactive web-based technology. This initiative is aimed at increasing the success of those students -- including at-risk and non-traditional students -- who are uncertain about their major or career goals, have families, and/or are taking distance education courses.

"All of our students are important to JSU and I'm so glad we can increase the resources available to distance education and non-traditional students," said Dr. William Meehan, President of JSU. "This project is just one example of how JSU is constantly trying to meet the needs of our diverse student population."

The safety of the over 5,000 students moving from class to class during peak times will be greatly enhanced with $237,500 awarded for the design and construction of a pedestrian overpass system across State Highway 21. The overpass will improve and ensure student safety and is an integral part of Jacksonville State University's Master Campus Plan.

"Pedestrian safety is paramount on a university campus," said Meehan. "The pedestrian overpass system will both protect students and improve traffic flow through the city of Jacksonville."

JSU's Little River Canyon Center Science Education Initiative (SEI) will receive $95,000 for development of K-12 science curriculum. The Canyon Center SEI integrates hands-on, participatory experiences with the Alabama state science curriculum. As students see practical applications of science and science education, they become more committed to the academic pursuit of science-related course work and degrees from higher education.

The steadfast commitment of Congressman Mike Rogers, JSU alumnus, was critical to the securing of these funds. "JSU is most fortunate to have such a supreme advocate in Washington, DC," said Meehan. "We are also indebted to Congressman Robert Aderholt for his unwavering support of the JSU Little River Canyon Center and his many efforts on JSU's behalf these past few years during the building of the Center."

JSU is very proud of these three projects and is committed to ensuring that the Federal investment of $532,500 is well spent at Jacksonville State University.

 

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