The spirit at James Madison University is special. Ask any student or alum and they'll tell you so. In years past it's been called "The Spirit of Blue Stone Hill," "The Madison Way" and "The JMU Way." In his inaugural speech on September 17, 1999, President Linwood Rose described it as "All Together One."

By whatever name, this special spirit is the unique closeness that binds Madison community members with one another. It is a feeling of caring, a commitment to working together, a dedication to learning. There is a camaraderie on the campus that is rarely — perhaps nowhere else — found at a university the size of Madison.  Since President Rose introduced it, "All Together One" has become an unofficial university theme.

Each spring semester, Student Life accepts nominations from students, faculty, and staff for individuals of the JMU community who embody the spirit of All Together One.  Of these nominees, five will be chosen to receive an All Together One Award.  These individuals’ names will be engraved on a paving stone which is then laid in the All Together One Circle, located on the Warner Commons, becoming a permanent part of the university grounds. During the ceremony, readings are shared for each winner, recognizing and honoring their contributions to the community.  The entire JMU Community is invited to attend. Former winners of the award in attendance are recognized.

This year’s community gathering will take place on Tuesday April 1, 2025 from noon to 1:00pm in the All Together One Circle on Warner Commons.

Learn more about submitting a nomination.

For any questions regarding All Together One, please reach out to leader@jmu.edu

Instagram: @jmuleadershipandinvolvement