JACKSONVILLE, AL — Jacksonville State University and the Cleburne County Chamber of Commerce formalized a new partnership Wednesday morning aimed at expanding access to higher education for employees of Chamber member businesses.
The partnership was finalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes a corporate tuition scholarship program for the Chamber and its members. Under the agreement, Jax State will provide a 20% tuition scholarship to qualified full- and part-time employees of the Chamber and its active, dues-paying member businesses.
The scholarship applies to both undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered by the university and also includes a waiver of the admission application fee, helping reduce the cost of entry for employees pursuing additional education.
University officials said the agreement continues Jax State’s ongoing effort to expand regional partnerships that support workforce development and economic growth across East Alabama.
“We are grateful that Ashley is here representing the county, and we’re excited to enter into this partnership for what we hope will be a real benefit to Chamber members,” said Don C. Killingsworth Jr., president of Jacksonville State University. “These are our neighbors to the east. We have a lot of alumni who live and work in Cleburne County, and we want everyone there to know that Jax State is here and ready to serve. Whether this helps drive additional Chamber membership or simply provides an added benefit to businesses already involved, we’re thankful for the opportunity to support their employees and their families.”
Ashley Butler, executive director of the Cleburne County Chamber of Commerce, said the partnership provides businesses with a practical tool to invest in employee development.
“I’m most excited about the fact that our longstanding Chamber members are going to be able to utilize this as a tool,” Butler said. “This partnership gives long-time Chamber members a valuable asset for workforce development and retention. We really love being able to offer something tangible that supports their employees and helps them continue growing professionally.”
As part of the agreement, Jacksonville State University will also designate a university liaison to work directly with the Chamber. The liaison will assist interested employees with admissions guidance, program information, and navigating the enrollment process.
The Chamber will help promote the opportunity among its membership and assist in verifying eligibility for participating businesses and employees.
The agreement will take effect in the Spring 2026 semester and will remain active for two years.
University officials say the partnership reflects Jax State’s broader strategy of working with chambers of commerce, industries, school systems, and community organizations to create accessible pathways to higher education for working professionals while supporting the workforce needs of communities across East Alabama.
