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GEM The Magazine of Jacksonville State University | 2026

‘OUR STORY STARTED HERE’

Rick and Annya Yell’s experiences are chronicled in the bestseller Ghosts of Panama, but that’s only part of their story

C o u n t r y m u s i c roya l t y helps open the R a n d y O we n Ce n te r f o r t h e P e r fo r m i n g A r t s

PAGE 4

The Gamecock Who Changed Cheerleading 18

Remembering Bob Kennamer 30

GEM of the hills

|contributors| JAX STATE PRESIDENT Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., Ed.D. ’99/’01

VICE PRESIDENT FOR PHILANTHROPY Alan Medders, Ph.D. VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Josh Underwood CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Katie Edwards '04

FEATURES 4

COVER: 'OUR STORY STARTED HERE' RICK AND ANNYA YELL’S EXPERIENCES ARE CHRONICLED IN THE BESTSELLER GHOSTS OF PANAMA, BUT THAT’S ONLY PART OF THEIR STORY

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: COUNTRY MUSIC ROYALTY HELPS OPEN THE RANDY OWEN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

THE GAMECOCK WHO CHANGED CHEERLEADING: SCHOLARSHIP HONORS JERRY STARNES, WHO HELPED USHER IN THE MODERN ERA OF CHEERLEADING

3 10 13 14 22 24 32 34

A LIFE OF SERVICE TO JAX STATE: REMEMBERING TRUSTEE EMERITUS BOB KENNAMER

SECTIONS

PRESIDENT’S LETTER AROUND CAMPUS STUDENT SPOTLIGHT ATHLETICS MARCHING SOUTHERNERS

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Wendy L. Cash, Ph.D. ’00 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Emily Lankford ’16/’20 WRITERS Brett Buckner Josh Underwood Brittney Kimber DESIGNER Emily Lankford ’16/’20 PHOTOGRAPHERS Alyssa Cash ’23 Brandon Phillips ’17/’19

|alumni engagement board executive officers| PRESIDENT Joel Lamp '01/'22 PRESIDENT-ELECT Leigh Read '83 VICE PRESIDENT OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Eric McCulley ’95 VICE PRESIDENT OF SCHOLARSHIPS Tara Powell ’83 PAST-PRESIDENT Krystle Saulsberry ’07

WITH ALUMNI PHILANTHROPY ALUMNOTES

COLLEGIATE ADVERTISING AWARDS WINNER 2013 • 2018 • 2023 • 2024 • 2025

2 | GEM OF THE HILLS

COUNCIL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT AND SUPPORT OF EDUCATION (CASE) AWARDS WINNER 2019

phone: (256) 782-5404 email: alumni@jsu.edu | web: jsu.edu/alumni

THE PRESIDENT

GREETINGS, GAMECOCKS!

a message from

DEAR GAMECOCK FAMILY, Over the past year, Jax State reached several important milestones that will shape our university for generations to come. .WZ \PM ÅZ[\ \QUM QV W]Z PQ[\WZa MVZWTTUMV\ []ZXI[[ML [\]LMV\[ <PQ[ IKPQM^MUMV\ ZMÆMK\[ \PM KWVÅLMVKM [\]LMV\[ IVL NIUQTQM[ XTIKM QV 2I` ;\I\M IVL \PM LMLQKI\QWV WN W]Z NIK]T\a IVL [\I‫_ ٺ‬PW _WZS MIKP day to provide an exceptional educational experience. Growth on our campus has accompanied that success. This year, we celebrated the opening of the Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts, welcomed students into West Village, our newest residential community, and opened the Jacksonville State STEAM Institute: Home of Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama. Together, these investments enhance the student experience, support continued growth, and create new opportunities for learners across our region. These accomplishments are more than milestones. <PMa ZMÆMK\ W]Z KWUUQ\UMV\ \W XZW^QLQVO [\]LMV\[ with the opportunities, resources, and experiences they

a message from

need to succeed while ensuring Jax State remains a destination university for future generations. As you will see throughout this issue of GEM, our ]VQ^MZ[Q\a KWV\QV]M[ \W JM LMÅVML Ja \PM XMWXTM _PW make it special. From students pursuing their goals to IT]UVQ UISQVO I LQ‫ٺ‬MZMVKM QV \PMQZ XZWNM[[QWV[ IVL communities, the Gamecock spirit remains strong and continues to shape the future of Jax State. Thank you for your continued support of Jacksonville State University. Whether as alumni, donors, parents, or friends, your investment in our institution helps create opportunities for our students and strengthens our university for years to come. Sincerely, Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. ('99/01') President

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

DEAR FELLOW GAMECOCKS, Fantastic changes are happening around campus. The :7+ WXMVML W]Z VM_ ?M[\ >QTTIOM _MTKWUML Q\[ ÅZ[\ [\]LMV\[ IVL \PM IT]UVQ W‫ٻ‬KM PI[ I VM_ PWUM ?M have moved into what many of you remember as the “Development House” on Pelham Road. We’ve found treasures and memorabilia from the past that have been in storage for eight years, and of course, we have our JMTW^ML <MIKWTI[ IVL 5QUW[I[ \W ÆQX \PZW]OP QN aW] want to stroll down memory lane. Come visit, bring a friend or two, walk around campus, and take in the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Change may be

taking place, and we are moving forward, but Jax State is still home, and is still the same Friendliest Campus in the South that we all know and love. In Gamecock Spirit,

Wendy L. Cash, Ph.D. (‘00) Director of Alumni Engagement

2026 | 3

ON THE

COVER

‘OUR STORY STARTED HERE’

Rick and Annya Yell’s Experiences are Chronicled in the Bestseller Ghosts of Panama, but That’s Only Part of Their Story By Brett Buckner

n Dec. 12, 2025, Rick Yell’s life came full circle, returning to the place where his path began. But rather than sitting among the students, Rick was standing at the podium, delivering the commencement address to Jacksonville State =VQ^MZ[Q\a¼[ ÅVIT OZIL]I\QVO KTI[[ of the year. It’s been 45 years since Rick occupied one of the “coveted NWTLQVO KPIQZ[º WV \PM IZMVI ÆWWZ WN Pete Mathews Coliseum. In 1980, waiting to hear his name called to accept a degree in criminal justice, Rick had a revelation. “There was nothing I didn’t love about this place,” he told the gathered students. “I didn’t want to leave.” Rick stayed at Jax State to pursue a Master of Public Administration degree. That decision changed everything because at a fraternity party later that year, Rick noticed a “stunningly beautiful girl,” named )VVaI +WVVMTT 1\ _I[ TW^M I\ ÅZ[\

4 | GEM OF THE HILLS

sight, “not for her, just me,” Rick said before coaxing his wife of more than 40 years to stand, adding, “See, I told you she was pretty.” “Our lives started right here,” Rick said. “Together.” Rick’s 25-year career with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) would thrust him and Annya into unfathomable moments of violence, fear, anxiety, isolation, and uncertainty – and \PI\ _I[ R][\ QV \PM ÅZ[\ NW]Z aMIZ[ of marriage. “I had no idea where my life would take me when I sat right where you are right now,” he said. “I had no idea that within 10 years of leaving this building, I would be living in a foreign country run Ja I VIZKW \ZI‫ٻ‬KSQVO LQK\I\WZ and that I would be running the highest placed human intelligence asset against his regime. I’d become a spy.” By 1986, Rick was a newlywed NIS Special Agent assigned to the Republic of Panama. By 1990, he, Annya and their 2-year-old

daughter, Shelby, had witnessed the U.S. invasion to overthrow Panamanian dictator General Manuel Noriega. Their shared experiences are chronicled in the bestseller Ghosts of Panama by Mark Harmon and NCIS special agent (retired) Leon Carroll, Jr. That book is why Rick Yell was invited to be the commencement speaker, but it only tells part of the story. “[Panama] was only four years of our lives,” Rick said. “There’s so much more … before and after. But it all started at JSU.” ‘Where I felt safe’ Tragedy brought Annya Yell to Jax State. Annya’s father, Dillon Connell, a World War II and Korean War veteran, was killed in a car accident near Jax State on his way home to Calhoun, Georgia. A master sergeant in the United States Air Force, Connell had just completed his retirement physical at Fort McClellan. “I was a daddy's girl,” Annya said during an interview from the

FEATURE STORY Tennessee farm she and Rick now share. “I was the oldest, so when he died … I ended up having to raise myself.” By her senior year of high school, Annya wanted one thing: a chance to build a life beyond Calhoun. It was the spring of 1980, and Annya was working in her high [KPWWT KW]V[MTWZ [ W‫ٻ‬KM _PMZM she noticed a copy of Jax State’s aMIZJWWS WV \PM KW‫ٺ‬MM \IJTM “I didn’t even know how to get started with the application process,” she said. “I never thought I’d actually be able to go.”

Jax State career counselors provided guidance, helping her navigate the challenges of IXXTaQVO NWZ OZIV\[ [PM Y]ITQÅML NWZ as the dependent of a retired Air .WZKM W‫ٻ‬KMZ By August 1980, Annya was a Jax State freshman majoring in business, and just as she was settling into college life, her future husband _I[ ÅVQ[PQVO ]X Growing up, Rick Yell was surrounded by cops. Though his father was an electrician, Rick’s neighbor, whom he considered “a second father,” was the assistant police chief in Rick’s hometown of

Huntsville. Across the street lived an Alabama state trooper. “My life's ambition when I went to Jax State,” Rick said, “was to someday be an Alabama state trooper.” Annya was equally determined. “I struggled for every grade I got,” she said. “But if I failed, I'd lose the military grant, and I’d be on my own with nothing. It was all on me. But I loved the community. It was where I felt safe.” Despite having a test in shorthand at 7:30 the next morning, Annya’s roommates convinced her to go to a Delta Chi party.

2026 | 5

“As soon as I got there, I was looking for the exit,” Annya said. “I thought, ‘Oh, this isn't for me.’” Before Annya could leave, a young Rick came from the back of the room and introduced himself. “He was very nice,” Annya said, “and I did enjoy talking to him.” Rick was in love, but he played it cool. “I really thought she was one of the prettiest girls I'd ever seen,” he said. “She was in no way interested in a boyfriend,” Rick said. “My only path to spending time with her was to be friends. So that’s what we did.” After graduating in December 1981, Rick got a job with the Jax State police department, working third shift. After roughly eight months of low pay and “living like a vampire” on the night shift, Rick moved back to Huntsville. After working

6 | GEM OF THE HILLS

as an investigator at the Madison County Courthouse, he was hired as a special agent with the Naval Investigative Service (NIS). The new job required a move to Memphis, Tenn., forcing Annya IVL :QKS \W ÅVL I VM_ _Ia \W [\Ia in touch. “When I was at Jacksonville, I don't think she really took me seriously,” Rick said. “We were still getting to know each other, and she was learning to trust me. We didn’t really become a solid couple until we started to write letters.” At Jax State, Annya wasn’t wasting any time. “I decided I was going to take as many hours as I could to graduate,” she said. “I was going to summer school. I was taking a full load every fall and spring. I was completely burned out by the By Brett Buckner time I graduated. But I got it done.” Annya graduated from Jax State in August of 1984, packing everything she owned into her Honda Civic and driving to Memphis. “After unloading the car, we were sitting on the couch. I looked at her and said, ‘Well, I O]M[[ _M L JM\\MZ OW ÅVL I ZQVO¼ º Rick said. “That was probably the worst proposal in history.” Rick and Annya were married in October.

‘It came at a cost’ In 1986, Rick's career took the couple to Panama, where what they expected to be an adventure together became one of the most challenging periods of their lives. “I’m thinking it’s going to be a second honeymoon,” Annya added. “It's just a tropical paradise, and you know he'll be working cases just right there … home for dinner. Wrong.” Instead, Rick found himself gathering intelligence on General Manuel Noriega and meeting with undercover assets as political tensions escalated throughout the country. “Panama wasn’t just an assignment,” Rick said. “It was our family home.” <PMQZ ÅZ[\ KPQTL ;PMTJa _I[ born there in 1987, and by 1989, Annya was pregnant with their second child, Laura. When Rick was gone, he worried about his family, while Annya worried about him. “I've always been very independent, so that helped,” Annya said. “But I didn't have friends down there that I could talk to, except at work.” ¹1\ I‫ٺ‬MK\ML ][ IVL Q\ I‫ٺ‬MK\ML our marriage,” Rick said. “There were times I didn't know if we were going to make it. Panama and the job forced us to grow apart. We _MZM IJTM \W ÅVL W]Z _Ia JIKS J]\ it came at a cost.” Following the U.S. invasion of Panama, and fearing a guerrilla war, the family was separated once again. A nearly too pregnant to Æa )VVaI :QKS IVL \_W aMIZ WTL Shelby travelled to Huntsville, Ala.,

in Bahrain as part of the Threat Mitigation Unit. After spending a year in the Middle East, his father was diagnosed with cancer and Alzheimer’s, his children were growing up and his marriage was in trouble. Rick Yell retired in February of 2008 at the age of 50, having dedicated 25 years of his life to the NCIS. “I would be repairing a fence in the pouring rain and slipping on a steep Tennessee hillside in the mud,” Rick said. “I would get frustrated and just sit down, and I'd have to remind myself it's better than the Middle East … better than Panama.” The couple who met at a fraternity party at Jax State had spent years balancing family, career

Nathan moved out, got married and had a child of his own. “We all get together,” Rick said. “We have a house full of kids and grandkids, and everybody wants to be up here, and they bring their friends, and we just have a really good time.” Retirement gave Rick the opportunity to reconnect with his children and invest in his marriage in ways his career often UILM LQ‫ٻ‬K]T\ Slowly, he and Annya found their way back to each other. More than four decades after meeting at a fraternity party on KIUX][ \PMa [\QTT ÅVL \PMU[MT^M[ returning to the place where it all began. “Everybody was kind of the same,” Rick said. “Everybody was

“Our lives started right here,” Rick said. “Together.” _IV\ML \W XTIa [WKKMZ IVL [\]‫ ٺ‬TQSM that. They were making friends, and I was making friends like I’d never had before.” When Rick wasn't working, he was at his parents’ cattle farm in Petersburg. “One of the things that I thought was our strength was Annya's independence,” Rick said. “But I started relying on her independence too much. I thought she functioned better when I’m not there.” Even after Panama, Rick's work continued to keep him away from home. By 2006, he was working with the FBI on the Joint Terrorism Task Force before spending a year

and distance, and the strain had ÅVITTa KI]OP\ ]X _Q\P \PMU “Our marriage was at an alltime low,” he said. “I had been gone so much, and we had grown apart. When people read Ghosts of Panama, they look at Rick and Annya as this happy couple, just so strong. They made it and everything. I'm like, ‘Man, it was hard.’” “Panama was 36 years ago,” Annya said. “That’s a whole lot of life, a whole lot of water under the bridge.” By 2010, Shelby was attending Middle Tennessee State, and Laura was in dental school. Annya joined Rick and Nathan at the family farm after Rick’s father passed away.

friendly. They were helpful. They were courteous, whether they knew who we were or not. The place has changed, but the people haven't changed. That’s why we love it.” Their journey carried them from Jacksonville to Panama and around the world. But after 40 years of marriage, raising a family and navigating challenges they never imagined as college students, the story they cherish most remains the one that started at Jax State.

2026 | 7

FEATURE STORY

where Annya and Shelby would live with Rick's parents while Rick returned to Panama and spent six months establishing a new regime. Rick was there for Laura’s birth in April and spent two days with his family, but his time at home was measured in days before duty called him back overseas for good. “I’d really had enough of the [Xa [\]‫ ٺ‬º PM [IQL The family settled in Bartlett, Tenn., but adjusting to life away from the chaos of Panama took time. Rick's career continued to keep him away from home while Annya raised Shelby, Laura and later their son, Nathan. “The kids wanted to go to church,” Annya said. “They wanted to get involved with camp, and they

|featurestory|

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

CO U N T RY M U S I C R OYA LT Y H E L P S O P E N T H E R A N DY OW E N C E N T E R FO R T H E P E R FO R M I N G A R TS By Josh Underwood

Guest performers sing the grand finale with Randy Owen—"My Home's in Alabama"

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

or one unforgettable night in May, the spotlight belonged to Randy Owen. As the lights came up inside the new Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts, a sold-out crowd gathered to celebrate the opening WN WVM WN \PM UW[\ [QOVQÅKIV\ facilities in Jacksonville State University history. What followed was more than a concert—it was a tribute to a man whose music, generosity, and connection to Jax State have left an indelible mark on generations. Live in Concert: Randy Owen IVL .ZQMVL[ W‫ٻ‬KQITTa WXMVML \PM Randy Owen Center on May 27, bringing together an extraordinary lineup of artists who performed many of Alabama’s greatest hits while honoring Owen’s remarkable career. Throughout the evening, country music stars including Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Riley Green,

8 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Jamey Johnson, Drake White, Mark Wills, Pam Tillis, The Oak Ridge Boys, The Isaacs, Gordon Mote, Tommy Harden, Teddy Gentry, and others took the stage to celebrate the Jax State alumnus and country music legend. Many of the evening’s appearances were kept secret from Owen in advance, creating a night ÅTTML _Q\P MUW\QWVIT []ZXZQ[M[ and heartfelt moments as friends and fellow artists paid tribute to his QVÆ]MVKM WV KW]V\Za U][QK and beyond. The grand opening celebration came one day after university TMILMZ[ MTMK\ML W‫ٻ‬KQIT[ [\]LMV\[ alumni, and supporters gathered NWZ \PM W‫ٻ‬KQIT ZQJJWV K]\\QVO WN \PM state-of-the-art facility. Named in Owen’s honor, the center represents a transformational investment in arts education and cultural enrichment for Northeast Alabama.

“

My wishes, and my hopes, and my dreams are that someday some kid will come through here, like me, and when they leave here, they have a dream....

”

-Randy Owen

FEATURE STORY

The Isaacs

Jason Aldean Randy Owen and Family Gordon Mote

Luke Bryan

Jamey Johnson

The Oak Ridge Boys

Senator Keith Kelley and Randy Owen

Jax State President Dr. Don + 3QTTQVO[_WZ\P 2Z ZMÆMK\ML WV \PM [QOVQÅKIVKM WN \PM UWUMV\ and what it represented for the university. “What took place that night says everything about what Randy Owen means to Jacksonville State University and to the country music industry,” Killingsworth said. “When artists and friends of that caliber come together to honor one person, it speaks to the respect Randy has earned through his career, his character, and the way he has invested in others throughout his life.” While the evening celebrated Owen’s accomplishments, it also marked the beginning of a new

Riley Green

Drake White

chapter for Jax State. The Randy Owen Center will serve as a home for concerts, student performances, educational programming, touring productions, and community events for years to come. During the ribbon cutting KMZMUWVa 7_MV ZMÆMK\ML WV _PI\ he hopes the facility will mean to future generations. “My wishes, and my hopes, and my dreams are that someday some kid will come through here, like me, and when they leave here, they have a dream,” Owen said. “Because if I can make it, anybody can.” That vision lies at the heart of the center’s purpose. More than a venue, the Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts is a place

where students will learn, perform, and discover opportunities they may never have imagined. For those fortunate enough to be there, the grand opening was a celebration of music, friendship, and legacy. For Jax State, it was the beginning of a future that promises to inspire audiences and students alike for generations to come.

Scan to see THE ROC'S UPCOMING LINEUP

and how to PURCHASE TICKETS!

SPRING 2026 2024 | 9

Bachelor of Science in Aviation Takes Flight 2I` ;\I\M [ IKILMUQK W‫ٺ‬MZQVO[ ZMIKPML VM_ PMQOP\[ in 2026 with the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Aviation, a program designed to prepare students for careers in one of the nation's fastest-growing industries. <PM XZWOZIU W‫ٺ‬MZ[ KWVKMV\ZI\QWV[ QV +WUUMZKQIT Aviation, Aviation Management, and Public Safety Aviation, combining classroom instruction with hands-on experiences designed to prepare graduates for leadership and operational roles throughout the aviation sector. The Public Safety Aviation concentration builds on Jax State's strengths in emergency management and criminal justice, while Aviation Management prepares students for careers in airport and aviation operations. A key component of the program is a partnership with Sanders Flight Training Center, an FAA Part ÆQOP\ [KPWWT JI[ML QV 2I[XMZ <PZW]OP \PM agreement, students pursuing the Commercial Aviation

KWVKMV\ZI\QWV ZMKMQ^M [\Z]K\]ZML .)) KMZ\QÅML ÆQOP\ training while working toward private pilot, instrument, U]T\Q MVOQVM IVL KWUUMZKQIT XQTW\ KMZ\QÅKI\QWV[ Strategically located near major aviation hubs in Atlanta, Birmingham, Huntsville, and Chattanooga, Jax State is well positioned to help meet growing workforce demands across the Southeast. The program ZMÆMK\[ \PM ]VQ^MZ[Q\a [ continued commitment to developing innovative academic W‫ٺ‬MZQVO[ \PI\ ITQOV _Q\P emerging industries and create meaningful career opportunities for future Gamecocks.

Jacksonville State University STEAM Institute – Home of Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama Jax State's impact reaches far beyond its campus, and few projects demonstrate that better than the Jacksonville State University STEAM Institute – Home of Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama. Opened in Rainbow City in 2026, the facility is the ÅZ[\ IVL WVTa +PITTMVOMZ 4MIZVQVO +MV\MZ QV )TIJIUI and serves as a hub for immersive, hands-on learning experiences designed to inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders.

10 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Through simulated space missions, engineering challenges, and collaborative learning activities, students in grades 5-8 from across a 12-county region apply classroom concepts in real-world settings while developing critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills. The center is part of the global Challenger Center network, created to honor the legacy of the Space Shuttle Challenger crew through education and discovery. For Jax State, the partnership represents an investment in educational opportunity and workforce development across Northeast Alabama. Through faculty expertise, student engagement, and educational partnerships, the university is helping create pathways that encourage young learners to see themselves as future college students, scientists, engineers, educators, and innovators.

For decades, Ramona Wood Hall served generations of future educators. Today, the building is helping prepare the next generation of law enforcement W‫ٻ‬KMZ[ QV^M[\QOI\WZ[ IVL NWZMV[QK professionals. After the Department of Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation moved into Ramona Wood in 2024, the building underwent extensive renovations and upgrades designed to support one of Jax State's fastest-growing academic programs. Since launching its Bachelor of Science in Forensic Investigation in 2017,

the department has nearly tripled in size, creating a need for expanded instructional and laboratory space. The renovated facility now features a mock courtroom, jail cell and booking area, interview and interrogation rooms, a seven-room crime scene house, blood spatter TIJ LQOQ\IT NWZMV[QK[ TIJ ÅVOMZXZQV\ and trace evidence lab, cadaver lab, and dedicated research and student collaboration spaces. These additions have transformed hands-on learning opportunities for students while helping position Jax State as a regional destination for criminal

AROUND CAMPUS

Ramona Wood Hall – New Home of Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation

justice and forensic science education. With new academic programs, specialized training opportunities, and cutting-edge facilities, Ramona Wood Hall ZMÆMK\[ \PM ]VQ^MZ[Q\a [ KWUUQ\UMV\ to preparing students for careers in I ZIXQLTa M^WT^QVO ÅMTL

West Village Residence Hall For generations of Gamecocks, campus housing looked very LQ‫ٺ‬MZMV\ <WLIa West Village stands as the largest residence hall project in university history, ZMÆMK\QVO JW\P PW_ U]KP 2I` ;\I\M has grown and its commitment to enhancing the student experience. Opened in Fall 2026, with more than 700 beds, the apartment-style community represents a major investment in

student life and responds directly to student demand for additional upper-class housing options. The project is the largest construction undertaking in university history and serves as a prominent new gateway to campus along its western edge. ,M[QOVML [XMKQÅKITTa NWZ ]XXMZ class students, West Village features modern living spaces, study areas, student organization rooms, and gathering spaces that encourage both independence and connection. Overlooking Jax State's baseball and soccer facilities, West Village

ZMÆMK\[ \PM ]VQ^MZ[Q\a [ KWUUQ\UMV\ to providing more opportunities for students to remain engaged on campus throughout their college experience. Coming just two years after the opening of North Village, Jax ;\I\M [ VM_M[\ ÅZ[\ aMIZ ZM[QLMVKM hall, West Village is part of a broader vision of growth and transformation across campus— one that will shape the Gamecock experience for generations to come.

2026 | 11

Mike Suco Confirmed to Board of Trustees A proud Gamecock and one of the nation's top business leaders is helping shape the future of Jacksonville State University. In 2026, alumnus Mike Suco _I[ KWVÅZUML \W \PM 2I` ;\I\M Board of Trustees, representing District 6. Suco succeeds longtime Trustee Rusty Fuller and brings LMKILM[ WN M`MK]\Q^M TMILMZ[PQX M`XMZQMVKM \W \PM JWIZL ) !! OZIL]I\M IVL 2I` ;\I\M [ 2023 Alumnus of the Year, Suco serves as President and CEO of Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, the second-largest privately held Coca-Cola bottler in North America. The Birminghambased company operates more

\PIV NIKQTQ\QM[ IKZW[[ [Q` Southeastern states and employs more than 10,000 associates. Suco’s career with Coca-Cola began in 1996, and he joined CocaCola UNITED in 1999. He has [QVKM PMTL [M^MZIT M`MK]\Q^M ZWTM[ including Senior Vice President IVL +PQMN +WUUMZKQIT 7‫ٻ‬KMZ IVL East Region Vice President. During his tenure, he led the company’s largest territory acquisition to date, integrating the Atlanta Market Unit with more than 2,000 new associates and 13,000 customers. Raised in Jacksonville, Suco has deep ties to the university. His mother taught Spanish at 2I` ;\I\M IVL PQ[ _QNM ;PMTTMa

is also a graduate. Throughout his career, he has remained actively engaged in business, civic, and philanthropic leadership at both the regional and national levels. His appointment adds another accomplished alumnus to a Board of Trustees committed \W []XXWZ\QVO 2I` ;\I\M [ continued growth, innovation, and momentum.

Ken and Jenny Howell Football Indoor Practice Facility 7VM WN \PM UW[\ [QOVQÅKIV\ athletics projects in university history is taking shape thanks to the largest philanthropic gift ever made to Jacksonville State University. 1V \PM 2I` ;\I\M *WIZL WN Trustees approved the naming of the future Ken and Jenny Howell Football Indoor Practice Facility in recognition of the couple's transformational $10 million

12 | GEM OF THE HILLS

commitment to the university. 4WVO\QUM []XXWZ\MZ[ WN 2I` ;\I\M the Howells have spent decades investing in student success, academics, athletics, and campus life. The privately funded project will feature an 84,282-square-foot indoor practice facility and an adjoining football performance center, providing a year-round training environment for Gamecock Football regardless of weather conditions. The facility will include a full-length 120-yard synthetic turf

XZIK\QKM ÅMTL _MQOP\ ZWWU KIZLQW training space, and other modern amenities designed to support student-athlete development. For many alumni, the project symbolizes more than a new J]QTLQVO 1\ ZMÆMK\[ \PM KWV\QV]ML UWUMV\]U WN 2I` ;\I\M )\PTM\QK[ and the lasting impact that dedicated supporters can have on future generations of Gamecocks. Through their generosity, Ken and Jenny Howell are helping strengthen the university's future JW\P WV IVL W‫\ ٺ‬PM ÅMTL

JAMAL HENDERSON Junior, Social Work Beyond Borders

KAITLYN LETSON Graduate Student, Public Administration

After earning a Gilman

A Calling to Serve

Scholarship to study in

From first-generation

Spain, Jamal Henderson

student to SGA President

is headed to Germany as

and now Jax State

Jax State’s first American

police officer, Kaitlyn

CBYX fellow. Driven by

Letson embraced

curiosity, service, and a passion for connecting

every opportunity campus life offered.

across cultures, he is turning international

Through leadership, service, and a passion for

experiences into preparation for a meaningful

helping others, she discovered a career—and a

global career.

community—where she feels right at home.

FRANS RASMUSSON Junior, History From Sweden to the South Swedish student-athlete Frans Rasmusson came to Jax State for rifle but found much more than a team. From recordsetting performances to lifelong friendships and Olympic aspirations, his journey from Sweden to Alabama is a story of growth, opportunity, and finding a second home.

SIDNEY REED Senior, Forensic Investigation From Intern to Deputy Coroner What began as a forensic science internship became an unexpected career opportunity for Sidney Reed. Inspired by family, shaped by hands-on learning, and driven by a desire to serve, the Jax State senior turned a classroom experience into an appointment as a Cherokee County deputy coroner.

Scan to read the full student spotlight stories! By Brett Buckner

2026 | 13

STUDENT WITH ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT PREVIEW

KINGS & QUEENS of

Baseball and Softball Swept Conference USA Championships and Returned Jax State to the National Stage By Josh Underwood

WZ \PM ÅZ[\ \QUM QV XZWOZIU history, Jacksonville State baseball and softball accomplished something extraordinary together. Both programs won Conference USA regular-season championships. Both programs won Conference USA Tournament championships. And both programs earned spots in the NCAA Tournament. The result was one of the most successful spring seasons in Jax State athletics history and a reminder that the Gamecocks have become a force across the conference landscape. Softball set the tone. Under second-year head coach Julie Boland, the Gamecocks KIX\]ZML \PM ÅZ[\ +WVNMZMVKM USA regular-season championship in program history, ÅVQ[PQVO in league play and claiming the title by Å^M OIUM[ Jax State

14 | GEM OF THE HILLS

KWUJQVML M`XTW[Q^M W‫ٺ‬MV[M _Q\P dominant pitching, leading the conference in batting average, on-base percentage and earned run average. <PM XW[\[MI[WV PWVWZ[ ZMÆMK\ML that dominance. Boland was named Conference USA Coach of the Year, while Emma Elrod earned Player of the Year honors and freshman standout Makenna Moore was named both Pitcher of the Year and Freshman of the Year. Six Gamecocks earned All-Conference recognition. The momentum carried into the conference tournament. Facing Liberty in the championship game, Jax State MZI[ML I NW]Z Z]V LMÅKQ\ IVL rallied for a 7-4 victory to secure \PM XZWOZIU [ ÅZ[\ +WVNMZMVKM =;) <W]ZVIUMV\ \Q\TM IVL Q\[ ÅZ[\ NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019. 5a PMIZ\ Q[ R][\ W^MZÆW_QVO with joy for them," Boland said after the victory. "I'm proud of the way they bought into the program, the way they bought into each other as a team, and the way they wanted to move as a team all season long." The Gamecocks advanced to the NCAA Tallahassee Regional, capping a season that reestablished Jax State among the conference's elite.

Baseball followed a similar path. Head coach Steve Bieser's club LMTQ^MZML WVM WN \PM ÅVM[\ [MI[WV[ in program history, recording the ÅZ[\ _QV ZMO]TIZ [MI[WV QV 2I` State's Division I era and winning \PM XZWOZIU [ ÅZ[\ KWVNMZMVKM championship since 2019. The Gamecocks clinched the regular-season title after a dramatic _ITS W‫^ ٺ‬QK\WZa W^MZ 3MVVM[I_ ;\I\M IVL ÅVQ[PML I\WX \PM TMIO]M standings behind a balanced roster that excelled both on the mound and at the plate. Conference USA recognized that success with an impressive collection of postseason honors. Bieser was named Conference USA Coach of the Year, pitching coach Ryan Kramer earned Assistant Coach of the Year PWVWZ[ IVL TMILW‫ ٺ‬PQ\\MZ 2I`WV Pate was named Freshman of the Year. The Gamecocks added 10 All-Conference selections, highlighting the depth that fueled the championship run. Jax State carried that momentum into the Conference USA Tournament in Kennesaw, Georgia. The Gamecocks capped the week with a dominant 10-0 victory over Liberty in the championship game, claiming the ÅZ[\ +WVNMZMVKM =;) <W]ZVIUMV\

ATHLETICS

CONFERENCE USA title in program history and securing the league's automatic NCAA Tournament berth. "I can't tell you how proud I am of this group," Bieser said following the championship. "They fought extremely hard, they've had faith in each other, and the brotherhood they have has been outstanding." The postseason run continued in the NCAA Tournament, where Jax State advanced to the championship round of the Hattiesburg Regional before its season came to an end two wins shy of a Super Regional appearance. Together, the accomplishments of the baseball and softball programs represented more than championships and trophies. <PMa ZMÆMK\ML \PM KWV\QV]ML growth of Jax State athletics on one of college sports' biggest stages.

Two teams. Four conference championships. Tournament Two NCAA appearances. One unforgettable spring.

2026 | 15

gamecock football 2026 SCHEDULE

A SEASON FOR THE AGES

Gamecock Bowling Captured NCAA and ITC National Championships while Continuing to Establish Itself as the Sport's Premier Program

By Josh Underwood

8.29 (SAT.) @4:30PM

9.5 (SAT.) @6PM BAND DAY

9.12 (SAT.) @5PM

9.19 (SAT.) @6PM FAMILY DAY

9.26 (SAT.) @6PM

10.7 (WED.) @6PM

10.13 (TUE.) @7PM PREVIEW DAY

10.28 (WED.) @7pM

11.7 (SAT.) @6PM HOMECOMING & PREVIEW DAY

11.14 (SAT.) @2:30PM

11.21 (SAT.) @1PM SOUTHERNERS REUNION

11.28 (SAT.) @2:30PM

To purchase tickets, visit

jaxstatesports.com 16 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Three years ago, Jacksonville State launched a women's bowling program. Today, the Gamecocks own four national championships. Jax State capped one of the most dominant seasons in collegiate bowling history this spring by winning both the NCAA National Championship and the Intercollegiate Team Championship (ITC), giving the program its fourth national title in just three seasons of competition. The accomplishment further cemented the Gamecocks as one of the sport's premier programs and added another remarkable chapter to a rise that has few parallels in college athletics. "This little group of superstars accomplished something truly special," Head Coach Shannon O'Keefe said. The Gamecocks entered the postseason ranked as the nation's top team and proved why. At the NCAA Championships in Cleveland, Jax State defeated Wichita State to claim its second NCAA national title in three seasons. The championship came two years after the Gamecocks captured the NCAA crown during the program's inaugural season in 2024. Erin Klemencic was named the championship's Most Outstanding Bowler after averaging 266 in Baker play during the opening rounds and delivering a clutch performance in the title match. Klemencic was joined on the All-Tournament Team by Kaitlyn Stull and Gianna Brandolino. The celebration in Cleveland was short-lived. Less than one week later, the Gamecocks traveled to Green Bay, Wisconsin, and completed the sweep.

2025-26 Jax State Bowling

BY THE NUMBERS

Jax State claimed its second consecutive ITC National Championship by defeating McKendree QV \PM \Q\TM UI\KP JMKWUQVO \PM ÅZ[\ XZWOZIU [QVKM 1988 to win back-to-back ITC championships. The ^QK\WZa IT[W UILM \PM /IUMKWKS[ \PM ÅZ[\ \MIU [QVKM 2017 to capture both the NCAA and ITC national championships in the same season. <PM /IUMKWKS[ LWUQVI\ML NZWU [\IZ\ \W ÅVQ[P Jax State led qualifying by 186 pins and lost just one game through three best-of-seven matches before advancing to the championship round. Against McKendree, the Gamecocks completed a three-game sweep to secure another national title. While the championships highlighted the season, \PMa ZMXZM[MV\ML WVTa XIZ\ WN I aMIZ LMÅVML Ja consistency and excellence. 2I` ;\I\M ÅVQ[PML W^MZITT IVL XW[\ML I remarkable 77-2 record after Nov. 8. The Gamecocks _WV WN \W]ZVIUMV\[ ÅVQ[PML Z]VVMZ ]X WVKM and placed third once. They earned the top qualifying XW[Q\QWV I\ M^MZa M^MV\ \PMa MV\MZML IVL ÅVQ[PML \PM [MI[WV ZIVSML ÅZ[\ VI\QWVITTa QV M^MZa UIRWZ statistical category. Freshman standout Gianna Brandolino emerged as one of the nation's top bowlers, earning Conference USA Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors while also being named National Tenpin Coaches Association Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. She was joined on the All-America First Team by classmate Kaitlyn Stull, sophomore Erin Klemencic, and junior Annalise OBryant. Four Gamecocks made ]X \PM MQOP\ XMZ[WV ÅZ[\ \MIU ;PIVVWV 7 3MMNM _I[ selected as the Bill Straub Coach of the Year.

ATHLETICS

• 108-10 overall record • 77-2 after Nov. 8 • NCAA National Champions • ITC National Champions • Conference USA Champions • NCAA Regional Champions • 11 tournament titles in 13 events • High qualifier at all 13 events • Four First-Team All-Americans

Gianna Brandolino: CUSA Player & Rookie of the Year; NTCA Player & Rookie of the Year

Shannon O’Keefe: Bill Straub National Coach of the Year; CUSA Coach of the Year

Emma Yoder: NCAA Elite Scholar-Athlete Award

Four national championships in three seasons (2024 NCAA, 2024 ITC, 2025 ITC, 2026 NCAA)

.WZ 7 3MMNM PW_M^MZ \PM [MI[WV [ [QOVQÅKIVKM extends beyond trophies and banners. The championships are the result of a culture J]QT\ WV \Z][\ [MTÆM[[VM[[ IVL I [PIZML KWUUQ\UMV\ \W one another. ?I\KPQVO \PMU OZW_ QV\W [\ZWVO KWVÅLMV\ young women who celebrate one another, embrace \PM [\Z]OOTM[ IVL [\QTT ÅVL _Ia[ \W XW]Z \PMU[MT^M[ into each other," O'Keefe said, "will always be my favorite moments." The trophies will forever mark what this team accomplished. The legacy may be that Jax State bowling is no longer the sport's newest success story. The Gamecocks have become its newest dynasty.

2026 | 17

THE GAMECOCK WHO CHANGED CHEERLEADING Scholarship Honors Jerry Starnes, Who Helped Usher in the Modern Era of Cheerleading By Brett Buckner

t’s one of the most recognizable songs in music history, providing the emotional punch to a movie about an underdog taking his one-in-a-million shot at greatness. “Gonna Fly Now – the Theme from Rocky” plays during the iconic training montage where Rocky Balboa bounds to the top of the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Fine Art.

, 1975

eer ate Ch t S x a J

18 | GEM OF THE HILLS

In 1976, the same song became the catalyst for a sports revolution that Jacksonville State University cheerleader and alumnus Jerry Starnes helped set in motion. The world knows Rocky Balboa. The world should know Jerry Starnes. Yet both are inextricably linked by “Gonna Fly Now,” a generational anthem about beating the odds. It’s also the song that Starnes KPW[M \PM ÅZ[\ \QUM \PI\ UWLMZV music was used to choreograph a cheerleading routine. What Starnes contributed to cheerleading can be seen on NWW\JITT ÅMTL[ NZWU UQLLTM [KPWWT to the Super Bowl, in packed amphitheaters, and on live broadcasts watched by millions. It’s in reality TV shows, movies, Broadway musicals, and sitcoms. Little girls with giant bows in their hair perform tumbles and stunts while young men built like

Jerry S

tarnes

TQVMJIKSMZ[ [INMTa KI\KP ¹ÆaMZ[º having soared to breathtaking heights performing routines – all set to music. “Jerry did that,” said fellow Jax State cheerleader Randy Harris. “Nobody really knows it, but Jerry changed everything.” Today, nearly every competitive cheerleading routine incorporates music, choreography, tumbling, and stunts — a format that traces its roots back to ideas Starnes helped pioneer. Jerry Starnes died in 1993. To honor his friend, Harris created the Jerry Starnes Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund designated to promote “the education of deserving students enrolled at Jacksonville State University.” ‘THIS GUY HAS IT’ Randy Harris was a reluctant cheerleader. The Huntsville native came to Jax State in 1972. As a member of the Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) fraternity, Harris was friends

regularly drew thousands of people, according to Ward Pell, wife of legendary Jax State football coach Charley Pell. “[Jerry] and Randy were two of the best we've ever had,” said Pell, who sponsored the ATO’s Little Sister program. “Charley was head coach at Clemson and head coach at Florida, but we never had two cheerleaders that productive, that innovative.” Starnes was also making a name for himself away from the ÅMTL 0M IVL :WJMZ\ ,W_VQVO were ATO pledge brothers in 1971, both enjoying the typical college experience. “We had good times together,” Downing said. “He was just a magnetic kind of guy.” Starnes had an innate ability that would one day solidify his place in cheerleading lore. “Jerry had an eye for design and music, and their interplay,” Downing said. “He could see future trends.” Bert Stewart pledged ATO as a sophomore, a year behind Starnes and Downing, though he and Starnes were the same age. To Stewart, Starnes was a cheerleader in every sense of the word. “Not just on the sidelines of athletic competitions, but in his encouragement of others,” Stewart said. “He was forever looking for a way to make things better – for

“

He was very creative, and he had a presence about him. The more involved he got, the more talent we saw. Early on … you could just tell, this guy has really got IT.

”

-Randy Harris

the fraternity, for JSU, or for a friend. That’s just who Jerry was.” During their senior year, Starnes and Stewart were both nominated to be ATO president. Starnes won, but Stewart wasn’t

2026 | 19

FEATURE STORY

with some of the fraternity’s little sisters who were also cheerleaders. “They just talked me into it,” Harris said, from his home QV 5MUXPQ[ <MVV ¹)\ ÅZ[\ ° 1 was like, ‘Cheerleading? Are you kidding me?’ But I really took to it.” Harris’ intention reached Starnes, who was also a member of ATO. Starnes, from Guntersville, Ala., was a year ahead of Harris at Jax State. “He approached me and said that he thought he’d be a good cheerleader,” Harris said. “But I knew he needed to be more athletic, so I had him doing pushups because he was going to be lifting girls. I helped coach him along.” Both Harris and Starnes were named to the Jax State cheerleading squad in 1974. Harris became known for his work on the megaphone, while Starnes proved to be a natural. “He was very smart,” Harris said. “He was very creative, and he had a presence about him. The more involved he got, the more talent we saw. Early on … you could just tell, this guy has really got IT.” With Harris and Starnes, the squad reached near-mythical status. During football season, Gamecock cheerleaders hosted pep rallies that

“We were glad to see each other,” Stewart said. “We hugged. I don't remember if he came to the show or not, but I can still picture him in the grandness of the hotel … Jerry had found a new life.”

es on Tony Jerry Starn oulders, Jaeger's sh ersville, 1975 Lake Gunt bitter. The loss was actually a blessing in disguise. “[Losing] propelled me to look for another way to step up,” Stewart said. “I ran for and was elected as SGA Vice President. My experience as an SGA Vice President was a rebound thing, but I’m really glad I lost.” As SGA Vice President, Stewart booked performers for the Jacksonville State University Concert Series, allowing him to make contacts in the music business. After graduating in 1975, Stewart was hired as the road manager for The Charlie Daniels Band. A couple of years later, Stewart was checking into a hotel in Salt Lake City and ran into Starnes, who was working the hotel’s front desk.

“

‘GONNA FLY NOW’ Starnes graduated in 1975, followed by Harris the next year. Harris was hired as a cheer instructor for NCA, where he ÅZ[\ UM\ 6+) >QKM 8ZM[QLMV\ 2M‫ ٺ‬ Webb. In 1975, Webb left NCA to found the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA), inviting 20 instructors to join him, including Harris and Starnes. With a focus on partner stunting, pyramids, private coaching and team building, UCA led camps across the South and Midwest that summer for more than 5,000 cheerleaders. UCA would eventually become part of Varsity Spirit, the umbrella company for a variety of cheerbased ventures. It was into this cultural maelstrom that Harris and Starnes LW^M PMILÅZ[\ Becky Gennings was 18 years old and fresh out of high school in ! _PMV [PM RWQVML \PM [\I‫ ٺ‬WN 45 instructors. “I was a little intimidated by these older people I was working with who had taught me at camp,” said Gennings, who has spent 47 years with UCA and is now Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnership and Community

Relations. “Jerry was always incredibly kind and creative. He would come up with these ideas, things that had never been done before.” Tony Jaeger was another cheer instructor that was part of the original group of UCA instructors. A New Orleans native, Jaeger had

Jerry Starn es and Rand Harris with y cheer part ners, 1974 joined NCA in 1971. “We wanted to be more athletic,” he said, “to be more gymnastic- and dance-oriented.” 2IMOMZ ÅZ[\ UM\ 0IZZQ[ IVL Starnes in 1974. ¹:IVLa _I[ PQZML ÅZ[\ IVL he introduced us to Jerry,” he said. “They both had dynamic personalities and they both stood out in a crowd.” Groundbreaking ideas are often only viewed as groundbreaking in hindsight. Such was the case with adding music to cheer routines. But Starnes wasn’t alone with this epiphany. Fellow UCA cheer

And he loved Jacksonville State. To this day, I still have that fight song running in my head because he was always singing it. -Tony Jaeger

20 | GEM OF THE HILLS

”

That’s exactly what we did.” Shepherd admits that the ZW]\QVM _I[ I TQ\\TM ZW]OP \PM ÅZ[\ time, but no one noticed. “The reaction,” Shepherd said, “Oh man, they just went crazy. Everybody was into Rocky. So, when the music started, that

ht),

cled rig

ris (cir dy Har

nd Ran left) a d le c 1975 (cir Camp, tarnes A S C y U r r Je

like the cheerleading, but I think he found a lot in himself that made him happy and content and N]TÅTTML º 2IMOMZ [IQL ¹)VL PM loved Jacksonville State. To this day, 1 [\QTT PI^M \PI\ ÅOP\ [WVO Z]VVQVO in my head because he was always singing it.” More than 30 years after Starnes' death, Harris believes the Jerry Starnes Memorial Endowed ;KPWTIZ[PQX .]VL Q[ I Å\\QVO \ZQJ]\M to the friend who changed the sport he loved. For Harris, the scholarship Q[ IJW]\ UWZM \PIV ÅVIVKQIT assistance. It is a way to ensure future generations of Jax State students know the name of a man whose ideas helped transform cheerleading from the sidelines into a worldwide phenomenon.

Jerry Starnes, UCA Camp 1975

2026 | 21

FEATURE STORY

crowd – the place was packed with probably 400 people - just started roaring.” <PM KZW_L \PM [\I‫ ٺ‬ the performers knew they’d _Q\VM[[ML _PI\ _I[ M‫ٺ‬MK\Q^MTa \PM cheerleading world’s Big Bang. “From there, the whole idea of routines set to music just boomed,” Gennings said. “College squads started doing it and high school [Y]IL[ [\IZ\ML LWQVO Q\ 7]Z [\I‫ ٺ‬ expanded. We started doing it to SQKS W‫ ٺ‬W]Z KWTTMOM KIUX[ <MIU[ would come and couldn't wait to [MM \PM [\I‫ ٺ‬LW \PQ[ XMZNWZUIVKM 1\ was pretty amazing.” ;\IZVM[ ÅVQ[PML W]\ \PM summer with NCA/UCA before moving to Salt Lake City and later to New York City. He remained close friends with Harris and many WN \PM [\I‫ ٺ‬M[XMKQITTa <WVa 2IMOMZ who was also living in New York City and performing on Broadway. “I don't know if Jerry ever found another niche

QV[\Z]K\WZ IVL KWVÅLIV\ Kris Shepherd, helped bring it to fruition. It was the summer of 1976. UCA was sponsoring a camp at Memphis State University. Starnes and Shepherd were brainstorming ideas for opening demonstrations WZ [QUXTa ¹LMUW[ º _PMZM \PM [\I‫ ٺ‬ would perform chants and other cheer-based skills. “We were sitting in the hallway of a dorm,” Shepherd said. “Jerry goes, ‘I've got this idea about demos. I really think that we should use the song from Rocky. I thought it was a great idea, too.” Shepherd and Starnes started playing the song, dissecting the music, counting out the measures, and choreographing a routine. But before the performance, they had to KWV^QVKM \PMQZ JW[[ 2M‫? ٺ‬MJJ We assured him it would be good,” Shepherd said. “Just give us a couple more hours to get this ITT ÅVQ[PML IVL _M L JM ZMILa to teach the routine.

Passing the Baton: Dr. Jeremy Stovall Leads the Marching Southerners into a New Era By Josh Underwood

After a quarter century with the Marching Southerners and more than two decades serving alongside Dr. Ken Bodiford, Dr. Jeremy Stovall steps into the role of Director of Bands. For more than 25 years, Dr. Jeremy Stovall has been part of the Marching Southerners—as a student, educator, mentor, and assistant director. Now, the two-time Jax State graduate and longtime right hand to retired Director of Bands Dr. Ken Bodiford is leading the program he helped shape for a generation. ;\W^ITT W‫ٻ‬KQITTa JMKIUM Jacksonville State University’s Director of Bands on Jan. 1, 2026, following Bodiford’s retirement after 32 years as Director of Bands and more than four decades of service to the university. The announcement was made during the Annual Southerners Reunion Dinner, where a record crowd of alumni, students, and friends gathered to celebrate the program’s storied past and look ahead to its future. “Dr. Stovall is an exceptional educator and musician whose talent, professionalism, and leadership have already made a lasting impact on our band program,” said President Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “He has played a key role in the Southerners’ success for more than two decades, helping to shape the sound, spirit, and

MARCHING 22 | GEM OF THE HILLS SOUTHERNERS

ZMX]\I\QWV \PI\ LMÅVM \PM XZWOZIU today.” For Stovall, the appointment represents the continuation of a journey that began as a student marching under Bodiford’s leadership. A native of Anniston, Stovall earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education in 2003 and his Master of Arts in 2005 from Jax State before completing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Wind Conducting from the University of Alabama. But his connection to the Marching Southerners extends well beyond his degrees. As Assistant Director of Bands for the past 21 years, he has helped guide the program through some of its most memorable performances and periods of growth. “It’s an incredible honor to have the opportunity to step into this role and continue the legacy that has meant so much to me and to generations of Southerners,” Stovall said. “Dr. Bodiford’s mentorship over the past 21 years has shaped me as a musician and a leader, and I’m deeply grateful for the foundation he built. Jax State and the Southerners have shaped my life, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to give back to and lead the program that has given me so much.” During his tenure, the Southerners have represented Jax State on some of the world’s most

70th REUNION

prestigious stages, including the London New Year’s Day Parade, the Pearl Harbor 75th Anniversary Commemoration in Hawaii, the World Peace Parade in Rome, and the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis. Whether teaching in the classroom, rehearsing on the XZIK\QKM ÅMTL WZ \ZI^MTQVO ITWVO[QLM students across the globe, Stovall has become a familiar and ZM[XMK\ML ÅO]ZM \W OMVMZI\QWV[ WN Southerners. In 2020, he received the Jax State National Alumni Association’s Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year Award, recognizing his dedication to students and the university. For alumni, Stovall’s IXXWQV\UMV\ W‫ٺ‬MZ[ JW\P KWV\QV]Q\a IVL KWVÅLMVKM .M_ XMWXTM understand the culture, traditions, and expectations of the Marching Southerners more deeply than someone who has spent a quarter century living them. As the Marching Southerners enter a new era, they do so under the leadership of one of their own—a director whose journey with the band began as a student and whose commitment to its future remains as strong as ever.

NOV. 20-21

MARCHING SOUTHERNERS

Marching Southerners to March in 2027 Rose Parade By Josh Underwood

Scan to support the Marching Southerners trip to the Rose Parade!

2026

a message from

THE ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT BOARD PRESIDENT

MY FELLOW GAMECOCKS, It is a GREAT day to be a Gamecock! The momentum building at our alma mater is truly a sight to see. Whether it’s having more than 10,000 enrolled students, the building boom across the entire campus, or the success of students in the classroom and athletic endeavors, the pride that runs thru all Jax State alumni and what makes this campus special continues to thrive. As I start my term as President of the Alumni Engagement Board, I encourage all of you to make a visit to campus soon and get involved in your local alumni network. Thanks to the hard work of the

IT]UVQ W‫ٻ‬KM _M IZM KWVVMK\QVO _Q\P 2I` ;\I\M NIUQTa more often and bringing a slice of campus to your area. I look forward to seeing you at an event soon – GO GAMECOCKS!

Joel Lamp, ‘01/’22 President, Jax State Alumni Engagement Board

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT AND NETWORKS:

The 2026 Men's Basketball Reunion was a time to reconnect and reminisce with teammates, family, friends, and coaches.

ZKõ ZH YH EăQ XS WR

The Nashville Network had a magical time at The House of Cards, enjoyed hearing from Coach Kelly at Riley Green's Duck Blind, and topped off the weekend at Arrington Vineyards.

Alumni traveled to Nashville for a weekend of fellowship, entertainment, and Gamecock spirit!

The Etowah County Network enjoys cheering on the Gamecocks during a watch party.

Scan to stay up-to-date on

UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS!

24 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Jax State alumni and friends gathered for the Seattle Social to connect, reminisce, and enjoy skyline views.

Jax State alumni attend the 20th Annual Shrimp Boil.

Gamecocks cheering on our Jax State Baseball Team as we beat the Auburn Tigers!

go to

Alaska! <PM 2I` ;\I\M +WKSa <ZI^MTMZ[ ^MV\]ZML IJWIZL the Norwegian Bliss in late May and early June on a 7-day cruise to Alaska. Alumni, friends, and family set sail from Seattle and traveled to Sitka, Juneau, Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Hoonah Mountain, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan. Alaska’s cities, majestic mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife provided for fantastic scenic views, conversation, and enjoyment. The Alumni Association is planning more adventures and we hope you’ll join us in our future travels.

JAX ST. Vs SHSU

Nov 7

2 02 6

H O M E C O M I N G D E TA I L S W I L L B E U P D AT E D AT J S U . E D U / H O M E C O M I N G

WITH SPORTS ALUMNI WITH ALUMNI

Cocky Travelers

-DďVþYñH 6WõH 8QLYĆLó\

Alumni Association Announces

22 UNDER 40

Jasmine George Amiker (‘11) Communication Owner of The A-Team Event Rentals & Decor

Mackenzie Harris Corbin (‘17) FCS-Merchandising Owner of Mad Hatter Cupcakes

Torsten A. Dryden (‘14, ‘18, & ‘19) Psychology/Counselor Education Jax State Assistant Professor of Counselor Education; Founder & Clinical Director of Dryden Counseling, LLC

Briaunna Buckner Durhal (‘15 & ‘18) Criminal Justice/ Public Administration Associate at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP

Whitney Flynn (‘15 & ‘17) Geography/Emergency Management Hydrologist and FEMA Liaison Officer to the National Weather Service National Water Center

FranShay Kendal Garrett (‘18 & ‘20) English/English Language Arts (Secondary Education) Jax State Assistant Dean of Students for Fraternity & Sorority Life

Keaton Glass (‘17 & ‘21) Education (Math)/Business Administration Jax State Director of First & Second Year Experience

Katy Knauss (‘17 & ‘19) Sport Management/Business Marketing Brand Strategy Manager for the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex

Mark Knauss (‘16 & ‘18) Music Education Director of Bands at HewittTrussville High School

Alex Martin (‘15) Business Marketing Area Director of Sales with CenterWell Home Health for North Alabama

26 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Scan to learn more about our 22 Under 40 Program and inaugural recipients!

Taylor McAllister (‘19) Communication Realtor at Keller Williams Realty Group

Cami McKenzie (‘17 & ‘22) Accounting/Business Administration Accounting Instructor & Program Director at Gadsden State Community College

Geraldi Mejia (‘12) Business Management Engineering Manager at M&J Steel, LLC.

Destin Mince (‘14) Business Management Frios Gadsden Franchisee

Darby Angle-Nealy (‘20 & ‘22) Sports Management Realtor at Ebby Halliday Realtors

Landon Rice (‘19) Integrated Studies Account Executive at NewView Outdoor; Co-Founder and Director of Operations at Men Build Men Cartersville

Josh Robinson (‘14 & ‘17) Management/Business Administration Jax State Associate Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students

Frank James Roscoe, Jr. (‘09 & ‘12) Communication/ Public Administration Realtor at Norluxe Realty Birmingham

Matt Shaffer (‘10) Computer Science Software Engineer at Microsoft

Stuart Whitaker (‘07) Business Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking at ServisFirst Bank

Clay Whittemore (‘08) Finance Americas Region Operations Controller/Manufacturing Finance Director at Reliance Worldwide Corporation (Sharkbite, Plumbing Solutions)

Jesslan Wilson (‘17) Political Science Deputy County Manager for Shelby County Commission

2026 | 27

WITH ALUMNI

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2026 Jacksonville State University young alumni who have achieved significant professional achievements under the age of 40. This program recognizes and honors our young alumni who have excelled professionally and have demonstrated a commitment to leadership, service, and community and university engagement.

2026 ALUMNI Anthony Kingston ('93/'98) serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Technology with Alabaster City Schools, and has made a profound impact on education, technology, and student success. He led the Alabaster City Schools Warrior Device Initiative, deploying over 8,000 Chromebooks, and directed the One to World Initiative at Jacksonville City Schools, earning the Apple Distinguished Program distinction.

ANTHONY

KINGSTON Alumnus of the Year

He continues to support Jax State as a Lifetime Member of the Jax State National Alumni Association, volunteers as president of the Men's Basketball Alumni Network, and serves as a committee member for the Jax State Athletic Foundation.

Claudette Smith ('72) has devoted her life to education, leadership, and service. Her career spans 41 years with Arab City Schools, where she served in instructional and leadership roles across grades 6-12. Smith has held significant professional leadership roles beyond the classroom, including school chairman for two accreditation cycles and school representative for the Arab Education Association. As a Lifetime Member of the Jax State National Alumni Association, she remains actively engaged with Jax State alumni and student recruitment efforts.

CLAUDETTE

SMITH

Alumna of the Year

2025

ALUMNI of the Year

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28 | GEM OF THE HILLS 28 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Pictured Left to Right: Former Alumni Engagement Board President, Krystle Bell Saulsberry ('07) with Ellen Tibbetts Hurst ('91), Dr. Thomas Kevin Lackey ('91), Matthew Alan Shaffer ('10), and Maj. Gen. Larry R. Broadwell ('94)

Viachaslau "Slava" Katliarou ('12/'16) began his journey at Jax State when he joined the International House program, earning degrees in biology and geographic information systems. Katliarou taught as a Jax State adjunct instructor before becoming a Senior GIS Analyst and Cartographer. He founded Coosa Consulting, a full-service land survey firm where he serves as

SLAVA

KATLIAROU Young Alum of the Year

managing partner. In 2023, Katliarou and his wife opened Petite Play in Gadsden, Alabama. He continues to support Jax State by serving on the International House Foundation Board.

Col. Scott Brannon ('92/'93) serves as the Commander of the Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate. He holds degrees in criminal justice and political science from Jax State. He enlisted in the Army in 1996 and was commissioned in 1999 through the Officer Candidate School. Col. Brannon has six deployments in support of the Global War on Terror. He has received numerous awards and decorations, including 1 Legion of Merit, 1 Bronze Star with Valor device, and 3 Bronze Stars.

COLONEL SCOTT

BRANNON

Military Alumnus of the Year

Dr. Thomas Kevin Lackey (‘91) Alumnus of the Year A dedicated physician, veteran, and Gamecock for life, Dr. Lackey has given back to his community and his alma mater in countless ways. Ellen Tibbetts Hurst (‘91) Alumna of the Year From championing caregivers and dementia education to delivering Gamecock news on WEAC-TV24, Ellen is a powerful voice in the community and a passionate Jax State alumna.

Matthew Alan Shaffer (‘10) Young Alum of the Year From the Alabama National Guard to Microsoft’s AI innovation teams, Matthew is leading with purpose and pride. He’s also a Gamecock through and through, giving back to Jax State and his local community. Maj. Gen. Larry R. Broadwell (‘94) Military Alumnus of the Year A decorated command pilot and leader in global Air Force cyber and intelligence operations, Gen. Broadwell reflects the strength, excellence, and integrity of a Jax State education.

2026 | 29

PHILANTHROPY WITH ALUMNI

OF THE YEAR

|featurestory|

A LIFE OF SERVICE TO JAX STATE

5ęęEĆLQJ 7UĝWă (PĆøĝ %RE .HQQDPĆ By Josh Underwood

30 | GEM OF THE HILLS

WN [MZ^QKM L]ZQVO I XMZQWL WN [QOVQÅKIV\ OZW_\P IVL transformation. His leadership helped guide the university through decades of progress, earning him the title of Trustee Emeritus. He also served as a founding member of the JSU Foundation Board and remained an active advisor and supporter long after his formal service concluded. Together with his wife, Lou, Mr. Kennamer strengthened countless areas of university life. Their dedication was recognized through the naming of Bob and Lou Kennamer Hall, and in 2006, Jacksonville State awarded him an honorary doctorate in recognition of his service and leadership. While his impact reached every corner of campus, athletics always held a special place in his heart. “Mr. Kennamer wasn’t simply a supporter of Gamecock Athletics—he was part of our family,” said Vice President for Athletics Greg Seitz. “He cared deeply about our student-athletes and took genuine pride in their success. No matter the sport, you could count on seeing him cheering for Jax State. His impact on our athletics program is immeasurable, but what we’ll miss most is his friendship.” In 2009, Jax State Athletics honored Bob and Lou Kennamer with the Jimmy Bryan Award, recognizing their decades of dedication to Gamecock studentathletes. He was also a member of the university’s Lifetime Leaders Society. For all the buildings, boards, awards, and honors associated with his name, perhaps Mr. Kennamer’s greatest legacy is found in the generations of students whose lives were enriched because he chose to serve. Few people have given more of themselves to Jacksonville State University. Fewer still have done so NWZ I[ TWVO 0Q[ QVÆ]MVKM KIV JM [MMV IKZW[[ KIUX][ and his example will continue to inspire the Gamecock family for generations to come.

2026 | 31

FEATURE STORY

or nearly 70 years, Bob Kennamer answered every call Jacksonville State University made. Whether as a student leader, trustee, volunteer, mentor, supporter, or friend, Mr. Kennamer devoted much of his life to helping Jax State grow and succeed. When he passed away at age 90, the university TW[\ WVM WN \PM UW[\ QVÆ]MV\QIT IVL JMTW^ML ÅO]ZM[ QV Q\[ history. “There are very few people whose impact on Jacksonville State spans as many years and as many areas of our university as Bob Kennamer’s,” said Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “He believed in Jax State, he believed in our students, and he believed in our future. For nearly 70 years, he answered every call to serve. His legacy is woven into the fabric of this institution, and I will always be grateful to have called him a friend.” Mr. Kennamer’s relationship with Jax State began in 1955 when he enrolled at what was then Jacksonville State Teachers College following two years of service QV \PM =VQ\ML ;\I\M[ )ZUa L]ZQVO \PM 3WZMIV +WVÆQK\ He quickly immersed himself in campus life, serving as Vice President and President of the Student Government Association and becoming a leader among his fellow students. One of his earliest contributions foreshadowed a lifetime of service. As SGA President, he led the [\]LMV\ N]VLZIQ[QVO M‫ٺ‬WZ\ \PI\ PMTXML ZM M[\IJTQ[P 2I` State’s baseball program, securing the equipment needed for Coach Frank Lovrich and his players to ZM\]ZV \W \PM ÅMTL After graduating in 1958 with a degree in business administration, Mr. Kennamer built a successful career in insurance and real estate development. Yet his connection to Jax State never wavered. In 1980, he joined the Jacksonville State University Board of Trustees, beginning more than 26 years

Leaving a Legacy Through the Jax State Heritage Society Every Gamecock has a story, and for members of the Jax State Heritage Society, that story extends far beyond their years on campus. Through thoughtful planned gifts, these dedicated alumni and friends are helping preserve Jacksonville State University’s cherished traditions while creating opportunities for future generations of students. The Heritage Society recognizes individuals who have included the JSU Foundation in their long-term ÅVIVKQIT WZ M[\I\M XTIV[ ?PM\PMZ \PZW]OP I JMY]M[\ KPIZQ\IJTM OQN\ IVV]Q\a \Z][\ JMVMÅKQIZa LM[QOVI\QWV or other planned giving arrangement, these visionary supporters have chosen to make a lasting investment in the future of Jax State. For many members, planned giving is about more \PIV ÅVIVKQIT JMVMÅ\[ 1\ Q[ I _Ia \W PWVWZ \PM XMWXTM experiences, and values that shaped their lives. Their generosity ensures that future students will have access to the same transformative educational experiences that LMÅVML \PMQZ W_V RW]ZVMa[

Lifetime Leaders Society

*Donated silent auction items will still benefit the fund of choice, selected by the donor.

32 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Just as importantly, Heritage Society members inspire others to consider the impact they can make. By leading through example, they demonstrate that anyone can leave a meaningful legacy and help strengthen the university they love. The Jax State Heritage Society is a community of forward-thinking individuals whose generosity bridges the past, present, and future. If Jacksonville State University has made a LQ‫ٺ‬MZMVKM QV aW]Z TQNM KWV[QLMZ UISQVO I XTIVVML gift and joining the Heritage Society. Your legacy can help preserve the traditions you cherish while creating opportunities for generations of Gamecocks yet to come. To learn more about planned giving options, contact Kim Dalesandro, Director of Planned Giving, at kdalesandro@jsu.edu or 256.782.5606 and begin building your lasting impact today.

Jacksonville State University proudly recognizes its most dedicated philanthropists through the Lifetime Leaders Society, an exclusive group honoring alumni and friends whose lifetime giving has reached or exceeded $100,000. Established in 2024, the society celebrates individuals whose extraordinary generosity has helped shape the future of Jax State through scholarships, academic programs, campus improvements, and student success initiatives. Today, our Lifetime Leaders Society includes 76 members whose visionary support continues to strengthen the university’s mission and impact. Through annual gatherings and special recognition opportunities, Jax State expresses its gratitude to these transformational donors whose commitment and generosity help ensure that future generations of Gamecocks have the opportunity to learn, lead, and thrive.

RED TIE

PHILANTHROPY

DINNER + AUCTION

Jacksonville State University’s reimagined 1883 Red Tie Dinner and Auction set a new benchmark on Friday, February 5, raising a record-breaking ! \W JMVMÅ\ \PM /ZMI\M[\ 6MML .]VL The event introduced a new ticketed format that more directly connected the evening’s celebration with its philanthropic purpose. The updated approach was well received, drawing 370 guests, the largest attendance in the event’s nine-year history, with 375 tickets sold. Guests enjoyed an evening of entertainment featuring performances by the Jax State Jazz Band and 2 Da Maxx, along with an expanded live and silent auction. The auction featured 100 items, including 81 silent auction packages and 19 live auction experiences. The live auction raised $64,400, while the silent auction contributed $14,473, helping drive the event’s recordbreaking success.

Record-Breaking

$177,395.50 Raised!

The evening also generated $75,000 in sponsorship support, underscoring the generosity of alumni, friends, and community partners. Proceeds from the event support the 1883 Greatest Need Fund, which provides ÆM`QJTM ZM[W]ZKM[ \W ILLZM[[ [\]LMV\ VMML[ IVL QV^M[\ QV opportunities across campus as they arise. With record attendance, record fundraising, and enthusiastic support for the new format, the 2026 1883 Red Tie Dinner and Auction marked the most successful version of the event in its history. Mark your calendar now for next year's 1883 Red Tie Dinner and Auction on Friday, February 5, 2027.

CAMPAIGN UPDATE In January 2024, Jax State launched the public XPI[M WN I Å^M aMIZ UQTTQWV LWTTIZ ¹1\¼[ I 2I` ;\I\M of Mind” – Comprehensive Campaign. The three pillars of the campaign are to: Enhance the Student Experience, Strengthen the Academic Reputation and Winning Championships. As of June 30, 2026, $55.7 million has been secured toward the goal. To learn more about how you can support and follow the progress of the “It’s a Jax State of Mind” comprehensive campaign, scan the QR Code or go to jsu.edu/jaxstateofmind.

GOAL

GIFTS & PLEDGE AS OF 6/30/26

Enhancing the Student Experience

$18 Million

$9,846,604

Strengthening/Academic/Institutional Reputation

$49 Million

$20,187,036

Winning Championships

$33 Million

$25,708,435

TOTAL $100M

$55,742,075

2026 | 33

ALUMnotes ALUM NOTES 1 Alan Armstrong ('87) retired in June 2025 after serving 37 years as a band director in Alabama and Georgia. For the last 29 years of those 37, he served as the Director of Bands at Northgate High School in Newnan, GA, after the school opened in 1996. In August 2025, he accepted a job as a National Market Specialist with Danley Soundlabs. Alongside his wife Ginger and family, they celebrated the 1st Birthday of their first grandchild, Joshua Thomas, last September. 2 Dadeville High

School has renamed their gymnasium the “Weldon-Mitchell Caldwell Gymnasium,” in honor of Mitchell Caldwell (‘64, ‘75) and his basketball prowess as a student and for his years of support as a coach, principal, and superintendent at his alma

mater. While at JSU, he was an All-Conference basketball player from 1961-64 (holding the MVP and Leading Scorer awards as a senior). He is married to the former Lynne Pearson (’73). Talladega County Schools named Kelvin Cunningham (’87), a longtime educator and administrator, as Deputy Superintendent. A Talladega County native, Cunningham earned his master’s degree in education from Jax State. 3 Cherith Glover Fluker ('05) has published a new book, "Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure." The book uncovers hidden gems, quirky landmarks, and untold stories of Birmingham, AL. It’s part of Reedy Press’ "Secret" series and represents her passion for celebrating

local culture through storytelling. Jonathan Gamble (‘18) won his first Dove Award from the Gospel Music Association in 2024 and was nominated for 5 more in 2025. Gamble wrote the viral hit “Counting My Blessings” by Seph Schlueter and has earned two additional number one hits with Jamie McDonald’s “Desperate” and Leanna Crawford’s “Still Waters (Psalm 23)”. Anita Roden Gilbert (‘01, ‘03, ‘19) recently began work as an Educational Specialist with the Alabama State Department of Early Childhood Education. Gilbert holds a BS in Elementary Education, an MS in Educational Administration, and an EdS in Instructional Leadership from Jax State and has a National Board Certification as

an Early Childhood Generalist. She taught for 24 years in DeKalb County, AL. Rachel Ingle, CEM (‘13), Emergency Manager for the city of Sarasota, FL, was recently recognized as an Influential Woman for her exceptional contributions in emergency management and for her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her field and to her community. Rachel holds a degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security from Jax State. MAJ (Ret.) Michael Miller (‘07) was promoted to Management and Program Analyst within the Audit and Compliance division of Defense Logistics Agency- Distribution Headquarters in New Cumberland, PA. Previously, he held the position of Distribution

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Inquisitive Nature and Computers led Jennifer Christopher to Support Artemis II Mission Scan to read the alumni spotlight story! 34 | GEM OF THE HILLS

By Brittney Kimber

2 3

ALUMNOTES

OBITUARIES FACULTY/STAFF/ TRUSTEES

1. Alan Armstrong ('87) 2. Mitchell Caldwell (‘64, ‘75) 3. Cherith Glover Fluker ('05) 4. Krystle Bell Saulsberry (‘07) 5. Errol K. Seaver (‘10) Center Representative for DLA Anniston at DLA Distribution Headquarters in New Cumberland, PA. While at Jax State, MAJ Miller was involved in ROTC and is a brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon. 4 Krystle Bell Saulsberry (‘07) was recognized as a 2025 40 under 40 honoree for the South Eastern Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. While at Jax State, Saulsberry was involved with Freshman Forum, SGA, Ambassadors, Gospel

Choir, Peer Counselors, GO! Leaders, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She is the Past President of Jax State’s Alumni Engagement Board. 5 Errol K. Seaver (‘10), Director of Football Video, Scouting and Analytics for NC State, was voted the 2025 Bob Matey National Video Coordinator of the Year. Seaver has won the award twice and is the first to ever win at two different institutions (BYU 2017). Seaver was on the football team at Jax State.

Ralph A. Burke (’83, ’88, ’98) – 7/3/2025, Director, of Corporate, Foundation, and Community Relations Dr. Michael Burns – 5/16/2026, Biology Regina Williams Cary (’82) – 5/9/2025, Retired Faculty/Staff Mary Helen Cheatwood – 6/29/2025, Student Affairs Mary Sue Clement – 4/28/26, Retired Staff James L. Coxwell, Sr. – 5/6/2025, Football, Former Trustee Sandy Duval – 4/17/2026, Retired Staff, Jax State University Bands Anthony Todd Garrison (‘13, ‘15) - 11/29/2025, Student Success

Jewel Harrington Gibbs – 10/3/2025, Retired Faculty/Staff Tony Ray Gravette (‘97, ’04) – 2/27/2026, Retired Staff, Special Event Technology L. Oval Jaynes, Jr., – 5/24/2026, Retired, Athletic Director Bobby N. Kennamer (’58) – 11/30/2025, Trustee Emeritus, Pi Kappa Phi, SGA Kathy Ann Matthews – 9/23/2025, College of Education and Professional Studies Linda Robinson McCrelles – 4/30/2026, Retired Staff, Library Jerry Ray Mize (’99) – 5/26/2025, ROTC, Military Science James “Jim” Ralph Partain (’64, ’66) – 3/23/26, Track Coach (first track team)

2026 | 35

Lt. Col. (Ret.) James "Jim" Ernest Roberts, Jr., – 10/31/2025, Retired Senior VP Dr. Mary Kay Vonderschmidt (‘08, ’17) – 5/14/2025, Emergency Management Dr. Laura Walker (’06, ’07) – 4/20/2026, Nursing Adam T. Willis – 5/18/2026, Information Technology

ALUMNI: 1940 – 1949 Mary Gilliland Sharp (’47) – 5/4/2025

Carolyn Baker Martin (’57) – 4/11/2025, Cheerleader, BCM Colonel James Thomas “Tommy” McManus (’57) – 11/1/2025, ROTC, SGA Kenneth G. Roberts (’57) – 2/18/2026, ROTC Rosemary McCollum Armstrong (’58) – 6/17/2025 Lt. Col. (Ret.) Henry J. Cavender (’58) – 6/19/2025 Marion Edwin “Buddy” Smith (‘58, ’62) – 4/24/2025

1950 – 1959

William Lawrence Duffie (’59) – 5/7/2025

Betty Williams Ward (’51) – 5/15/2025

Dale Thomas Garner (’59) – 5/15/2026

Vito F. Marsicano (’53) – 1/15/2026, Southerners, Baseball

1960 – 1969

Edith Marie Berry Roughton ('54) – 7/17/2025 Jimmy W. Carroll (’55) – 12/22/2025, Baseball James Frank Solley (’55) – 1/22/2026, ROTC Vera Maude Durham Campbell (’57) – 5/16/2026, Southerners James Arthur Elwell (’57) – 1/5/2026 Joseph Anthony Livolsi (’57) – 10/14/2025 Sandra Swinney Livolsi (’57) – 10/18/2025

36 | GEM OF THE HILLS

Donald Ray “Big Don” Blevins (’60) – 7/7/2025 Evelyn Estelle Greggs Carberry (‘60, ’68) – 10/13/2025 Lamar N. Denkins (’60) – 1/11/2026 James C. “Jim” Douthit (’60) – 12/26/2025, BCM Janice Fay Williams McCracken (’60) – 7/5/2025, Cheerleader Tressie Beatrice Paschal (’60) – 4/26/2026 Harvey Lee Shelton (’60) – 8/1/2025, ROTC Dr. Faye M. Brown (’61) – 6/18/2025

Mary Ernestine King Cothran (’61) – 10/7/2025

Willie Leon Holt (’65) – 9/24/2025

Robert Charles “Chuck” Smith (’61) – 7/28/2025

Kenneth Hamilton Pollard (’65) – 1/23/2025, ROTC

Bobby Rae Kelley (’62) – 6/18/2025 Dale Boyd Whitley (’62) – 6/18/2025 LTC Phillip G. Dean (USAF, Ret.) (‘63, ’96) – 8/21/2025

Barbara Faye Smith (‘65, ‘78, ’83) – 12/25/2025, BCM Miles Landon Thomas (’65) – 8/22/2025, Southerners

Roy Wesley Miller (‘63) – 4/8/2026

Jacqueline Smelley Patterson (’66) – 7/9/2025

Judith Ann Hughes Puckett (’63) – 5/5/2025

Bobby Wayne Martin (’67) – 1/10/2025

Rolfe Bryant Reynolds (’63) – 2/9/2026

Jerry Mack Shoemaker (’67) – 5/22/2026

Betty Carolyn Stillwell Spradley (’63) – 11/14/2025, Marching Ballerina

Ernest Wayne Tompkins (’67) – 4/14/2026

Thomas Stewart (’63) – 5/1/2026 Linda Gail Thomas (’63) – 5/19/2025 Larry Gerald Crowder (’64) – 5/6/2026 Wayne Payton Pruett (’64) – 8/25/2025, ROTC, Rifle John Evan Thomas III (’64) – 7/12/2025 Joseph Mark Washington (’64) – 5/31/2026, Men’s Basketball Capt. James Donald “Bubber” Eldridge, Jr., (’65) – 9/25/2025, Southerners Jerry Ray Gilliand (’65) – 5/21/2026

Dr. H. Bruce Wright (’67) – 11/27/2025 Jack Orron Amberson (’68) – 11/4/2025, Southerners Vonda Louvin Collier (’68) – 8/19/2025 Mara Studdard Young (‘68, ’79) – 6/24/2025 J. Leonard Henry (’69) – 7/12/2025 Nona Ruth Proctor (‘69, ’76) – 7/29/2025

1970 – 1979 Gary Lee Brown (‘70, ’78) – 10/6/2025 Rhonda Vinson Geddie (’70) – 1/30/2026 Sarah Heard Twiggs (’70) – 4/7/26

Robert Frank Cobb (’71) – 6/18/2025 Larry Ray Cochran (’71) – 8/30/2025 Elaine Howard Gauldin (’71) – 8/16/2025, Marching Ballerina Carl McKinley Howard (’71) – 4/17/2025, Tennis Diana Drewes Martin (’71) – 5/23/2026 Joel Edward Warren (’71) – 4/21/2026, ROTC Larry Howard Archer (’72) – 3/5/2026 Jan Elizabeth Elsberry (’72) – 5/24/2026 Ann Carol Foshee (’72) – 9/9/2025 Henry A. Hobbs (’72) – 11/9/2025, Football John Andrew Osborn (’72) – 12/10/2025 James Peter Van Pelt (’72) – 6/2/2025 Larry Bon Dalton (’73) – 5/30/2026 Sharlene Sharpe Love (’73) – 6/29/2025 Ruth “Dolly” Forniss Peters (’73) – 5/26/2025 John Anderson Quinn (’73) – 7/28/2025 William Clinton Shipman, Jr. (‘73, ’76) – 3/3/2026, Delta Chi

SHARE YOUR NEWS!

Roy James Silence (’73) – 3/14/2025, ROTC, Kappa Sigma Donald Ray Slaten (’73) – 10/17/2025 Elijah Leon Slaughter, Jr. (’73) – 9/23/2025, Men’s Track and Field Myra Lee Smith (‘73, ’76) – 7/12/2025 Jennifer Robinson Wilson (’73) – 9/9/2025 Carl Glenn Hogan (’74) – 12/31/2025

Paul E. Carpenter, Jr. (’76) – 12/31/2025 Dorman Hershel Hughston (’76) – 2/2/2026

Clifford Wayne Kennamer (’80) – 5/20/2026

Earl Douglas Taylor (’76) – 11/21/2025 Denise Amerson Turner (’76) – 1/4/2026 Gladys Marie Varner Brewer (’77) – 7/17/2025 Phyllis Anne Hooks Gore (‘77, 80) – 9/3/2025

Gesna Hughes Littlefield (’74) – 4/3/2026

Charlie William Morrow, United States Army (Ret) (’77) – 4/3/2026

Nedra Lee Manners (’74) – 8/12/2025

Walter Garner Pride, II (’77) – 3/29/2025

Virginia Coxwell Sullivan (’74) – 12/29/2025

Phillip Howard Whitley (’77) – 10/21/2025, Southerners

Jerry Michael Bynum (’75) – 1/28/2026

Bobby Joseph Burns (‘78, ’79) – 12/10/2025

Sen. William “Bill” H. Drinkard, III (’75) – 7/10/2025

Carol Roberts Freeman (’78) – 9/24/2025

Larry Paul Sims (‘75, ’13) – 7/16/2025

Rosemary Conner Griffin (’78) – 7/17/2025

Melvin Douglas Slocum (’75) – 7/28/2025

Robert Samuel Mason, Jr. (’78) – 12/26/2025

Terry Bartlett Sudduth (‘75, ‘76, ’90) – 11/26/2025, Southerners, Kappa Sigma

Rev. Dr. James "Jim" Henry Savage (’78) – 1/24/2026

Rebecca Tolleson (’75) – 10/28/2025

Martha Ann Montgomery Daniel (’79) – 4/28/2026 Edward Hal Davidson, Jr., (’79) – 12/30/2025

Sara Elizabeth Gaines Ashby (’76) – 5/4/2026, BCM

1980 – 1989

Kevin Charles Brown (’76) – 2/24/2026

Billy Gene Bickerstaff (’80) – 11/30/2025

Submit information concerning a wedding, birth announcement, new job or promotion, an obituary notice, awards or other recognition.

Sharion Robinson Eaton (’80) – 1/17/2026, Alpha Xi Delta

Bryan Franklin McBrayer (’80) – 12/3/2025 Jeffrey Bryan McDonald (’80) – 7/28/2025 Jean Phillips Wells (’80) – 8/3/2025 Francine Susan Vancuron Brock (’81) – 4/24/2026 Paul Marion Gore (‘81, ’92) – 7/29/2025 Peter Kevin Ransom (’81) – 2/14/2026 Vivian Faye Martin Smith (’81) – 4/17/2026 Betty Jane Bradley Summers (’81) – 4/29/2026 James Gaston Lowery, II (‘82, ’84) – 1/9/2026 Steven Russell Ellis (’83) – 11/13/2025 Dorothy Lonnette Reaves Hamby (‘83, ’86) – 1/21/2026 Jimmy Padgett (’83) – 10/19/2025 Timothy Wayne Strickland (‘84) – 12/1/2025, ROTC Master Sergeant (Ret.) William Thomas "Tom" Weems (’84) – 11/28/2025

EMAIL: alumni@jsu.edu MAIL: Jax State Alumni Engagement 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville, AL 36265 SUMMER 2025 | 37

ALUMNOTES

John David Baggett, Jr., (’71) – 5/5/2026

If you have a Growing Gamecock in mind, scan the QR code to enroll today!

SPRING 2024 | 38 The Growing Gamecocks program is open to all alumni and friends of Jax State for the special children in their lives! Enrolled children will receive Jax State promotional items and/or a birthday card each year. Enrolled high school seniors will be able to apply for Growing Gamecocks Legacy Scholarships through Jax App upon being accepted to Jax State.

Major Ralph Kimberly "Kim" Ellison (’85) – 9/21/2025

Rhonda McCauley Roberts (’86) – 5/14/2025

Kathryn Delores Moore (’85) – 12/31/2025

Paul Thomas Ross (’86) – 12/25/2025

Thomas Anthony Musick (’85) – 11/29/2025 Steve Wendell Renfroe (’85) – 12/15/2025 William “Bill” Robert Ammons (’86) – 3/4/2026 Michael Wayne Noles (‘86, ‘89, ‘93, ’96) – 10/15/2025

Melinda Jewell Allen Cushing (‘88, ’94) – 12/12/2025

Jimmy Alan Raughton (’99) – 5/10/2025

Deborah Jean Homesley Logan (’92) – 1/28/2026

2000 – 2009

William Matthew Day (’93) – 5/24/2025, Kappa Sigma

Jeffrey Scott Dingler (’88) – 11/24/2025

Anthony Waymon Dial (’94) – 9/15/2025, ROTC, Kappa Alpha Psi

Rita Ann Fuller (’88) – 4/29/2026, BCM

Susan Rebecca Thomas (‘94, ’05) – 1/5/2025

Jeffrey Neal Painter (’88) – 5/13/2026, Delta Chi

Amy Lynn KennahRicketts (’95) – 5/11/2025

Peggy Barr Percival (’89) – 12/22/2025 Gery Michael Rust (’89) – 2/4/2026 Rochelle B. Ward (‘89, ’09) – 9/5/2025, Marching Ballerina

Scan to get started with the Jax State Alumni Connection and to receive the newsletter each month.

Tim David Knight (’92) – 6/29/2025

Dr. Harold Phillip Williams (’95) – 11/7/2025 Deborah Denise Gaskey (’96) – 10/9/2025

1990 – 1999

SFC E7 (Ret.) Eddie Wayne Nolen (’96) – 7/31/2025

Jeffrey Dwain Herring (’90) – 5/1/2026

William Rhee Elrick (’97) – 11/29/2025

Dr. William “Bill” DeJournett (’91) – 5/12/2026, Southerners

Ann Hare Cheatwood (’98) – 5/9/2025

Dr. Nathan “Chad” Horsley (’00) – 3/18/26, Southerners Jacob H. Boneysteele, Jr. (’01) – 1/6/2026, Southerners Rebecca Kelley Peppers (‘05, ‘08, ’10) – 7/17/2025 Laura Howard Tutor (’06) – 1/3/2206 James “Jimmy” Gregory Craven (’07) – 5/29/2026 John Christopher Winn (’07) – 5/22/2026 Amy Michelle Waits (’08) – 7/22/2025

2010-2019 Rebecca Dawne Williams (’14) – 9/17/2025

230-26 University Publications 8/26 An Equal Opportunity Employer Jacksonville State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees. Jacksonville State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Jacksonville State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

38 | GEM OF THE HILLS

JOIN THE

Association

Benefits

Membership Categories

Jax State’s National Alumni Association has several benefits to its membership program such as:

» Use of the Jax State Recreation and Fitness Center (membership fees required)

» Jax State decals, stickers, and other giveaways for Annual Memberships

» Jax State rain pullover and other giveaways for Lifetime Memberships

» Access to” MemberDeals” for savings on worldwide travel and entertainment

» Discounts at The Caf and other local restaurants and hotels

» Special invitations to Member Only engagement opportunities and events

DON’T MISS OUT ON THESE DISCOUNTS AND MORE!

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP:

Single: $35; Joint: $50 for you and your spouse

GRADUATES OF THE LAST DECADE (GOLD) ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP:

Annual Single: $10 for first 5 years following graduation, $20 for 6-10 years after graduation Annual Joint: $20 for you and your spouse for the first 5 years after graduation, $40 for the first 6-10 years after graduation

LIFETIME MEMBERSHIPS: Single: $500; Joint: $750

Join Today! Visit jsu.edu/alumni/get-involved/ become-a-member.html or scan QR code

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ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville, AL 36265-1602 P. 256.782.5404 F. 256.782.5502 www.jsu.edu CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

PARENTS: If this issue is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer lives at home, please send the correct address to alumni@jsu.edu. Thank you.

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new OFFICIAL JAX STATE car tag is now available!*

Call Alumni Engagement at 256-782-5404 with questions, or get your tag today at your county courthouse. *Also available for motorcycles and vessels!