University Publishes Book

Commemorating 125th Anniversary

 

 

In celebration of Jacksonville State University's 125th Anniversary this year, JSU in conjunction with The Booksmith Group has published a 160-page coffee table book, Tradition of Excellence: Jacksonville State University.

An heirloom volume that celebrates the pride, the beauty, the grace and the history of the achievement that make JSU an educational pillar in the South, Tradition of Excellence is rich with vibrant photos, vivid stories, first-person quotes and firsthand memories. It features interviews with current students, alumni, faculty and friends of JSU, and serves as a fitting, full-color tribute to an institution whose prestige continues to build, not just in the Southeast but also throughout the world.

As nothing else can, Tradition of Excellence commemorates the spirit of Jacksonville State, from its antebellum academy origins to the enduring university that it is today. But within that broad story is a celebration of many individual ones: the visionary leadership of men like Dr. Clarence William Daugette and Dr. Houston Cole; the artistry of "The Mother of JSU," Annie Rowan Forney Daugette; the political and economic triumphs that have kept the school on a path to success; the inspiring transition from a state college to a university; the close relationship forged with the city of Jacksonville; the many wartime struggles and modern renovations; the rise of the Gamecock Battalion, the Gamecock Club and Hardcorps; the memories of national sports championships and athletic trail-blazers such as female placekicker Ashley Martin and the Bright twins; the marching band innovations of Dr. John T. Finley; the legendary victories of Alabama's winningest college coach, Rudy Abbott; the establishment of the International House and The Chanticleer; reminiscences of Rat Week and Miss Alabama crowns; the culinary skills of James Haywood; and the details of how "the two Opals" made their mark on Jackson-ville and Jacksonville State.

From then until now, Tradition of Excellence is the cherished account of a rock-solid institution that amid many name changes and the passing of time, has remained firmly committed to academic and athletic excellence and has promoted in its students a balance between facts and thoughts, work and play, knowledge and character.

The book measures 9 1/2 by 13 inches and a premium edition is available in genuine bonded leather with matching slipcase, vellum insert, gilded edges and deluxe ribbon marker. To reserve a copy of Tradition of Excellence, visit www.jsubook.com or call (800) 358-0560.

 

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