JACKSONVILLE — Jacksonville State University (JSU), in partnership with the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama (CFNEA) and the national nonprofit Nature Sacred, dedicated A Space for Grace Serenity Garden with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday afternoon behind Mason Hall.
The outdoor sanctuary is designed to provide students, faculty, staff, and visitors with a peaceful space for reflection, connection, and mental wellbeing. The project began as a vision in 2018 and was brought to life through a CFNEA grant, support from Nature Sacred, and contributions across the Jax State community.
Former Miss JSU Grace Ann Lundy raised more than $13,000 during her 2024 service initiative “Let’s Talk About It,” helping move the project forward. Lundy explained that the name was chosen to reflect a shared mission, inspired by the Marching Ballerinas’ saying: Give yourself grace.
“This garden is more than plants, wood, and stone. It’s an invitation to remember that our spirit, like the earth, needs tending,” said Julie Nix, Coordinator of Social Work Field Education.
JSU President Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. emphasized the garden’s role in supporting student wellness. “This space, surrounded by residence halls and academic buildings, will be a place of respite for students, faculty, and staff alike,” he said. “It reflects our commitment to providing not only the tools for academic success, but also spaces that support the mental and emotional wellbeing of our campus community.”
Fred Smith, Vice President of Community Partnerships at CFNEA, highlighted the broader impact. “This site joins our network of now 18 sites throughout Northeast Alabama, providing an opportunity for deep connection and community engagement,” he said.
The garden features circular pathways, pergola and archways, hammock poles, and Nature Sacred benches with waterproof journals placed beneath them for visitors to share reflections. A student-designed sculpture will be added in the future. JSU Counseling Services also plans to use the garden for “Mindfulness Mondays” and relaxation programming.
SGA President Ayanah Scott described the dedication as a meaningful investment in students. “To the outside, this may just be a garden, but in the eyes of our community, this was an active step to ensure that the minds of our students are well cared for,” she said.
With its addition, JSU joins a network of 137 Sacred Places nationwide, offering spaces designed to nurture resilience, healing, and community connection.
A Space for Grace Serenity Garden is now open to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
