Happy New Year!
As we kick off a new semester, we want to take a moment to remind you that the Office of Family Engagement is here to support you throughout your student’s journey at James Madison University. Whether you’re navigating the excitement of their first year or preparing for graduation, we are committed to providing resources, communication, and opportunities to keep you informed and connected. This newsletter is just one example of that commitment, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of these incredible contributors.
We hope you enjoy this edition of the Madison Family Newsletter and look forward to a fantastic spring semester!
Warm regards,
Tracey Kite, Director, Office of Family Engagement
In This Issue:
- A Letter from Dr. Miller
- The FAFSA for the 2025-26 School Year is Open
- Madison Scholarships Hub Open for 2025-26
- Class of 2023 Career Outcomes
- Virtual Career Ready Week: January 13–16
- Continuing Veteran Education Benefits at JMU
- JMU Dining - Made Without Gluten
- Get Started at UREC with a Fitness Orientation
- 2025 Wilderness Therapy Program
- A New Year Means New Ways to Volunteer with CEVC!
- Out of State Student Travel Home: Spring Break Travel
- I Heart JMU: Countdown to Giving Day
- 10 Tips for Helping Students Find Affordable Textbooks
- JMU Duke Club - Renewal Period
- Learn How Your Student Can Get Involved with Alumni!
A Letter from Dr. Tim Miller
Hello JMU families,
Happy new year! We started the year with some snow blanketing campus which gave us beautiful photos, but I missed seeing our students out on the Quad enjoying the snow. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone back here and from the weather forecast, it sounds like the snow will still be on the ground for a while. It’s going to stay cold around here, so make sure your student brings warm clothing back with them when they return. If they live off campus, I also recommend bringing a snow shovel, so they don't have to use sheet pans, pots from the kitchen, and other strange items to dig their cars out this winter.
Finding their community
If your student is looking for new ways to get involved and meet people, Student Org Night is Jan. 28, 6 – 9 p.m. in the Festival Ballroom. It’s not as large as the Fall event, so it is a great way to make connections and learn about many of the organizations on campus in a less hectic environment. We are also hosting a student org mixer for all multicultural and interfaith organizations on Jan. 23, 6 – 8 p.m. in the Festival Ballroom so students can meet these students as well. Sometimes it can take time to find your place and your people in college so these events and so many of the amazing activities this Spring are great opportunities.
Human Trafficking Training
In the next days and weeks, your student is going to receive an invitation to complete a training focused on Human Trafficking. This is a new training that is required by VA State Law and each of them will need to complete it. Please ask them about this and remind them to take it so they can learn about this and how to keep themselves and their friends safe.
Getting the support they need
College years are a time for growth and learning, and experiencing setbacks is often part of that. If your student’s semester didn’t go as well as planned, please let them know that we are here to help them get back on track. Rebound can help students recover from challenging situations by providing a mentor and other resources available to them. The Learning Centers are also a great resource along with Learning Success Strategies for time management, study skills, and other support systems. Many students have benefitted from these programs and have gone on to academic success, graduation and successful lives and careers.
If you are concerned about the well-being of a student, you can submit a Madison Cares referral and someone from the Dean of Students Office will reach out to them, see how they’re doing and offer support. If you have an immediate concern, please contact the police department so they can respond quickly.
Reminders
Residence halls reopen on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 10 a.m.
Classes begin on Tuesday, Jan. 21.
You can find other important dates on the Academic calendar.
Events
Jan. 22 | MLK week Keynote speaker Chamique Holdsclaw, Powerful Mental Health Advocate, Olympic Gold Medalist & WNBA Hall of Famer | 6 p.m. | Wilson Hall
Jan. 24 | Building Connections | 11 a.m. - noon | SSC 4049
Jan. 29 | Networking for Introverts | 4 – 5 p.m. | EnGeo 1202
More events can be found on the Event Calendar.
Questions to ask your student
What are your goals for this semester?
Having goals and a plan to get there helps students focus on what’s important. This is also a good time to set up calls for checking in each month to look at their academic progress. Challenge them to have goals both in and out of the classroom to include some focus on their health and well-being and their future.
What are your plans for Spring Break?
Some students volunteer for an alternative spring break (which still has spots available and can be life-changing) - this program changed my life and created the foundation that led to me returning to JMU for this role, so I am a huge advocate for the program. Other students may travel with friends to any number of fun locations, some visit their friends at other universities, some stay here and work or do research, and some will come home to relax. It’s good to know their plans and then be prepared in case their plans change for any number of reasons.
Where are you thinking of living next year?
While some students have already figured this out, many are still not sure and this is okay. For students planning to live off campus, our Off Campus Life department has a housing guide, an off-campus guidebook, Utilities Deposit Assistance Program (UDAP) and other helpful events. On-campus housing contracts are full for next year, but there is still plenty of time to investigate off-campus options.
This can also lead to a discussion about budgeting, responsibilities and other expectations.
Looking forward to this semester
I enjoyed the winter break, and for the first time in my career, I took three weeks off. Jamie and I were able to travel to London with our friends Steve and Michelle, and I was really able to take a much-needed break. That said, I always love the beginning of a new semester and the new beginnings that it provides. I hope your Duke feels that way too when they return, and they feel the promise of this new year.
Campus is way too quiet right now and we’re looking forward to the energy they bring back with them. Welcome to all of you who are new to the JMU community, we are excited to have you and your student as part of the JMU family. I’m looking forward to connecting with you during your student’s time here.
Enjoy the rest of your time together, and we’ll see you soon!
Go Dukes!
Dr. Tim Miller
Vice President for Student Affairs
The FAFSA for the 2025-26 School Year is Open
Submitted by: Claire Bergan, Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available on StudentAid.gov.
Your student can join the JMU Financial Aid Office on campus for help completing the FAFSA from 12-3pm in the Burruss Hall 244 Computer lab either January 24th or February 21st.
JMU’s 2025-26 FAFSA Priority Filing Date is March 1, 2025. This is a priority date, not a deadline. If you cannot meet the priority date, we encourage you to complete the FAFSA as early as possible, even after March 1st.
Madison Scholarships Hub Open for 2025-26
Submitted by: Steven Cox, Associate Director of Scholarships, Financial Aid & Scholarships
The 2025-26 scholarship application cycle has arrived!
Madison Scholarships Hub is the application center for all JMU Foundation scholarships at James Madison University. To log in to Madison Scholarships Hub, students go to MyMadison and under the Student tab click on the logo for Madison Scholarships Hub.
Qualifications for the majority of our scholarships are based on the general application information as well as information pulled directly from your student academic record. Deadlines vary across departments so be sure to complete the general application as soon as possible to receive full consideration. Review the criteria carefully for any recommended scholarship opportunity you are presented with and if you meet the qualifications, click apply to submit additional required information. Scholarships primarily open in January for the upcoming award year. Many scholarships require financial need, so if you have not done so, make sure to file the 2025-26 FAFSA at this time as well. You may be prevented from qualifying/applying for recommended scholarships without the FAFSA on file.
Submitted by: Tiffany Corbin, Communications Coordinator, University Career Center
We’re thrilled to share some great news about the Class of 2023! An impressive 95.4% of JMU's Bachelor's and Advanced-Degree Recipients have a career outcome within 6 months of graduating!
Our detailed report highlights career success across JMU’s colleges, with stats on: employment, continuing education, average salaries, and top employers.
We’re already gathering data for the Class of 2024 and look forward to sharing those outcomes later this year!
Submitted by: Tiffany Corbin, Communications Coordinator, University Career Center
Help your student start the spring semester strong by encouraging them to join UCC’s Virtual Career Ready Week! This weeklong series of online programs is designed to build essential career skills and prepare them for future success.
Featured sessions include:
- 1/15: Internship 101
- 1/15: LinkedIn 101
- 1/16: Interviewing 101
Don’t let them miss this opportunity to get career-ready!
Continuing Veteran Education Benefits at JMU
Submitted by: Kelly Hollembeak, Veteran Affairs Program Coordinator, Office of the Registar
Planning on starting or continuing Veteran education benefits for your student, including Post 9/11, Chapter 35 and/or VMSDEP for the Spring 2025 semester? Please contact Kelly Hollembeak and Lauren Houff at veteran@jmu.edu or 540-568-4769/6569 for assistance.
Current users: there is a required form that is required to be submitted by the student each semester. The form was emailed to students back in November 2024. Please have the student contact us at veteran@jmu.edu if they need a new form or have questions.
New users: there are several steps that must be completed in order to receive them each semester. Visit jmu.edu/registrar/veterans or email veteran@jmu.edu for more information.
Submitted by: Hanna Serrano, Health & Wellness Manager, JMU Dining
Is your student looking for food options that are made without gluten? These options will now be easier to identify - look for the Made Without Gluten icon and signs! Made Without Gluten options, including Duke Deals, are available at locations all across campus.
Additional questions? Want assistance navigating on campus dining? Please contact JMU Dining's registered dietitian, Hanna Serrano, RDN (serranhb@jmu.edu).
Submitted by: Anaëlle Wagoner, Assistant Director for Communications & Engagement, University Recreation
Is your Duke looking to get started in the gym this year? UREC offers individual and group Fitness Orientations providing a tour of the fitness center and teaching students how to have a well-balanced workout. Gym-timidation is a real thing so let your Duke know that we are here to help!
Submitted by: Laurel Brubaker, Staff Clinician, Counseling Center
The 2025 Wilderness Therapy Program is a five-day, four night therapeutic adventure program in the George Washington National Forest during the week of Spring Break (March 17-21). Participants will include two to three Counseling Center clinicians, two certified guides from UREC, and up to 8 students.
Over the course of this trip, students will backpack through the wilderness and experience outdoor education sessions and therapy process groups. Activities include but are not limited to: learning proper shelter and camp building techniques, Leave No Trace education, and proper water filtration techniques, as well as process groups, intra- and inter-personal skill building, natural interventions, and self-reflection. The purpose of this program is to use adventure as a platform for students to improve relational skills, build self-confidence and self-efficacy, and increase healthy coping skills.
All interested students should email Melinda Fox at fox3mm@jmu.edu by 2/28/25 for information on how to register for the trip.
Submitted by: Lindsey Richards, Assistant Director, Engagement, Communication & Innovation, CEVC
January is here, and so is a fresh start! This semester, your student can sign up for opportunities to serve, connect, and make an impact, all while prioritizing their well-being and growth. Check out our events and experiences below to make their spring semester meaningful and memorable.
Secure a Spot on an Alternative Driving Spring Break!
Is your Duke passionate about creating change? They can travel with a student-led group of Dukes to work alongside community leaders to address pressing social issues. No worries if your student missed the deadline for flying breaks, there is still time to register for a driving break. Make sure they reserve their spot today, so they don’t miss out on this meaningful opportunity!
March 15-22, 2025, $350, Need financial assistance? Need-based scholarships are available!
Registration Deadline: 11:59pm on February 9
Click here for more information on registration and Alternative Breaks.
Upcoming Events
New Creation Pop-Up & Volunteer Fair
Invite your student to swing by our office on Friday, January 24th to explore Alternative Breaks and upcoming spring programs. Plus, they can check out fair-trade items from New Creation, a local organization that empowers survivors of human trafficking through dignified work.
Friday, January 24, 2025, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM, CEVC Office, SSC 2200
Love Yourself Market & Downtown Tour
The Love Yourself Market, hosted at Sage Bird Ciderworks, is an awesome start to the Valentine's season, but this time it's all about self-love. Your Duke can join us as we support The Arrow Project, a local health and wellness organization, and local vendors. The market will be selling self-care items and hosting some giveaways. This is a fundraiser for the Arrow Project, but it is free to attend. Once we finish at the market, we will be touring local shops while learning about the downtown area!
JMU CEVC will be providing transportation to the event as well, and registering will secure their spot in the van. We will meet at 2:45pm and drive together. More info on the meeting location will be provided closer to the event.
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 3:00–5:00 PM, Downtown Harrisonburg (transportation provided)
Cheers to a January filled with joy and endless possibilities! Explore more by visiting jmu.edu/cevc, drop us a line at cevc@jmu.edu, or give us a call at 540-568-6366.
Out of State Student Travel Home: Spring Break Travel
Submitted by: Amy Sfaelos '98, CollegeTransit LTD
Happy New Year JMU families! First we want to thank everyone for using our service this past year. By using CollegeTransit during 2024 you helped remove approximately 1.3 million vehicle miles from the roadways. That has a significant and positive impact not just to the environment, but to highway congestion, safety and parental sanity!
Spring Break Trips have now been posted to our website.
- The Northeast route to Allentown, Morris Plains, Tarrytown and Melville is available for immediate registration.
- The Mid-Atlantic Route (King of Prussia / Howell) begins as a Pre-Order to determine if JMU has enough interest in this trip. See our FAQs to understand how our risk-free Pre-Order waiting list works.
As a reminder since we do get the question often - CollegeTransit does NOT overbook our seats.
Submitted by: Todd Martin, Assistant Director, Affinity Giving, Office of Annual Giving
Join us for I Heart JMU this February as we celebrate the spirit of giving and philanthropy! Your Dukes will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful activities like "Thank a Thousand Dukes" letter writing and participating in the Student Philanthropy Carnival, all leading up to Giving Day 2025 on February 27th. Your support has a lasting impact on our campus, and we’re excited to share this celebration of generosity with you and the entire JMU community. Thank you for being part of our journey!
Submitted by: Emily Blake, Assistant Director of Communications & Marketing, Libraries
If your student is feeling worried about how to pay for their textbooks this semester, they're not alone! JMU Libraries offers several options to help students find affordable textbooks.
Here are 10 ways we can help and additional ideas for your student to try if we don’t have what they need!
Check JMU Libraries
1. Use Library Search to look for the book.
2. Find out if the professor set aside a copy in Course Reserves.
3. Stop by a Libraries service desk or visit the Ask the Library page for help finding the textbook.
Ask the Professor...
4. ...if an older, less expensive edition is similar enough.
5. ...to check with us about putting a copy on Course Reserves or buying a copy for Course Reserves.
6. ...to check with JMU’s Open Education Librarian about free or affordable course material alternatives.
Get Creative
7. Check the JMU Bookstore for used books and rental editions.
8. Submit an Interlibrary Loan request, and we will attempt to get a copy from another library for shorter-term use.
9. Borrow from or share with a friend.
10. During enrollment, use the No/Low Cost filter in MyMadison to search for courses with required texts under $40.
Advocate
Encourage your student to tell their professor, advisor, SGA, department head, and JMU administrators if the cost of textbooks is getting in the way of their education.
Contact
We'd love to hear from you! Feel free to contact our Open Education Librarian, Liz Thompson, if you have questions or ideas to share.
Submitted by: Alex Marinelli, Director of Major Gifts, Athletics - Duke Club
Happy New Year, from the Duke Club!
A New Year means a fresh start for Duke Club members, and their benefits. As you begin to consider your plans for JMU Athletics events in 2025, please visit our website, and contact our Duke Club staff with questions surrounding your philanthropy and associated benefits.
Together, we are shaping the future of JMU Athletics. We look forward to working with you, and providing memories to last a lifetime. Thank you for your incredible support, and Go Dukes!
Submitted by: Rose Tribby, Coordinator, Student and Young Alumni Programming, Office of Alumni Relations
Is your student still looking for ways to get involved? Encourage them to join the JMU Student Alumni Committee. Free to join and first-year students are eligible. Legacy status is not a requirement either. JMUAASC students get personal opportunities to network and learn career development skills from JMU Alumni, receive exclusive JMU swag, and have chances to attend VIP JMU dinners and events. Email tribbyrl@jmu.edu for more information on joining.
Join 12,000+ fellow JMU parents and guardians in the official Facebook group! This group was created by the Office of Family Engagement in an effort to provide a safe online environment for parents & family members to engage with one another. Request to join the group here »
Connect with the JMU Family!
