Tom Carr ('84)

If Tom Carr wasn't already making a difference during his undergrad career as a wrestler, assistant Greek coordinator and vice president of the Southeastern Innerfraternity Council, there's no doubt he is now. Six years ago, Tom, along with Kent Boerner, founded the Technology Alumni Group, which strives to promote communication among students, alumni and employers about opportunities in the technology sector. TAG has contributed over $250,000 in financial and equipment donations to the university and in 2004, "unplugged" JMU by introducing wireless access to campus. Tom not only gives back personally to JMU as an annual donor, he also works on the College of Business Executive Advisory Council, allowing him to invest in JMU's future in a special way. "Being a council member has allowed me to present in the classroom. For me, nothing is better at rekindling the JMU experience than participating on campus with students." He received the Inez Graybeal Roop Distinguished Alumni Service Award at the 2003 Homecoming Gala. "It was a great feeling to be recognized; I felt as though my personal goal of improving JMU endowment was beginning to happen. In some ways, the event validated that it's fun to give back to JMU."

"It was our belief that students' access anywhere/anytime was important to enhance the student experience. I think we were right because shortly after the installation, JMU was named "Most Wireless" among national universities. It was great to be a part of this transformation."