Young Alum of the Year

Slava Katliarou (‘12 & ‘16)

Originally from Mogilev, Belarus, Viachaslau "Slava" Katliarou began his journey at Jax State in 2008, when he joined the International House program. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in math and chemistry, a Master of Science in Biology, and completed a Master's in Geographic Information Systems from Jax State. He taught as a Jax State adjunct instructor before becoming a Senior GIS Analyst and Cartographer at Transglobal Services in Fort Worth, Texas. That work prepared him to found his own company, Coosa Consulting, a full-service land survey firm for which he continues to serve as managing partner. In 2023, he relocated to Gadsden, Alabama, where he and his wife also opened Petite Play, an indoor playground that provides a safe and creative environment for children 10 and under.  

Katliarou continues to give back to his community by supporting cultural exchanges, youth sports, and medical and homeless organizations. In addition to supporting community organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, Sky High for Kids, and Ronald McDonald House, he continues to support Jax State by serving on the International House Foundation Board, recently starting a new scholarship for International House students.

He actively promotes Jax State and fosters engagement among alumni and the broader campus community, encouraging young alumni to support Jax State through the International Endowment Foundation.

In addition, Katliarou is an active and engaged member of the Gadsden community. He is a member of the local Chamber of Commerce and consistently supports youth sports and clubs to enrich opportunities for children in the community.  

For his unwavering commitment to Jax State and the International House, his professional achievements, and community involvement, Slava Katliarou is recognized as the 2026 Jax State Young Alum of the Year.