

![]()


Dear Friends of Jax State,
I am pleased to introduce you to one of Jacksonville State University’s most remarkable landmarks, the newly rebuilt Hugh D. Merrill Hall. This state-of-the-art facility stands on the same ground as its predecessor, honoring the legacy of Rep. Hugh D. Merrill, a visionary leader instrumental in transforming Jax State from a teachers’ college to a respected university. Merrill’s influence extended far beyond legislation. He fostered a legacy of academic excellence, service, and opportunity that remains at the core of Jax State’s values today.
The original Merrill Hall was tragically destroyed by an EF-3 tornado on March 19, 2018. Determined to rebuild stronger than before, we dedicated ourselves to creating a facility that reflects both the historic significance of the original building and the forward-thinking spirit that defines our campus. Dedicated in 2022, the new Merrill Hall encompasses 105,000 square feet and includes a 300-seat auditorium, a grand three-story atrium, 12 academic classrooms, a Finance Lab, an in-house Career Development Center, job interview rooms, group project spaces, and faculty and staff offices – all designed to serve current and future generations of students.
Today, Merrill Hall is home to the College of Business and Industry, housing the Departments of Applied Engineering, Communication, the Lyons & Company, Inc. Department of Management and Marketing, and Finance, Economics, and Accounting. The building supports our faculty and students in their pursuit of knowledge and industry-ready skills.
As we look toward the future, we invite you to join us in furthering the legacy of excellence that Hugh D. Merrill inspired. Naming opportunities within Merrill Hall allow you to make a lasting impact on our campus and in the lives of our students. Your support will help us continue to provide state-of-the-art resources, attract top-tier faculty, and offer transformative experiences for the Gamecock family.
Thank you for considering this unique opportunity to shape Jax State’s path forward. Together, we can honor the past and forge an even brighter future.
Sincerely,

Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. President Jacksonville State University



COLLEGE (Naming) | $10M
DEPARTMENTS (Naming) | $2M ea.
• Department of Applied Engineering
• Department of Communication
• Center for Economic Development & Business Research
• Lyons & Company, Inc. Department of Management and Marketing (Taken)
• Gregory D. Brown Department of Finance, Economics & Accounting (Taken)















Louise J. Clark Student











Hunter Turner Philanthropy Officer
Office for Philanthropy
256.782.8101
Self Hall 58 Nash Circle Jacksonville, AL 36265
