Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University marked a milestone moment for its College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS) on Tuesday with the official ribbon cuttings for the CEPS complex and the newly named Vivian Pollard Mason Kitchen Lab—two projects symbolizing growth, legacy, and commitment to future educators.
The dual celebrations drew students, faculty, alumni, and university leaders to the site of the former Kitty Stone Elementary School, now home to the CEPS complex. The location holds historical significance, situated just below the hill where JSU began in 1883.
“It is fitting that this is where the original institution started back in 1883—here on the hill,” said JSU President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “As we were thinking about ways to grow the College of Education and we started our new Doctor of Education program, we realized we were out of space in the former building. What better place to teach our future teachers than in a former school?”
Honoring a Trailblazing Alumna: The Vivian Pollard Mason Kitchen Lab
The afternoon began with the dedication of the Vivian Pollard Mason Kitchen Lab, a state-of-the-art space designed to prepare students in family and consumer sciences. The lab was made possible by a generous gift from Ms. Vivian Pollard Mason, a 1958 JSU graduate who dedicated her career to teaching in the Huntsville City Schools system.
Mason, who studied home economics at JSU, spoke about her lifelong passion for cooking and her hope that the lab would help students develop practical life skills.
“When you get out in the world, you find out that some people do not have those skills,” Mason said. “I hope the students who use this laboratory will learn them and carry them home and use them every day.”
Dr. Diane Best, department chair and associate professor, echoed that sentiment: “In here, people are joyful and grateful. It is a great feeling to be able to walk into a space and have space. It lets the students know that people care enough to create a space like this.”
CEPS Complex: A New Home for the Next Generation
Following the lab dedication, attendees moved outside for the ribbon cutting of the broader CEPS complex. The event featured remarks from President Killingsworth, CEPS Dean Dr. Kimberly White, Board of Trustees Chairman Randy Jones, Vice President for Philanthropy Dr. Alan Medders, and SGA President Kaitlyn Letson.
Jones praised CEPS as “the cornerstone of this university,” emphasizing that JSU produces more teachers than any other institution in Alabama.
Dean White shared her vision for the facility’s impact: “This is where our students will have their passions nurtured, their skills sharpened, and their dreams set in motion,” she said. “Whether a career in education, leadership, counseling, or professional studies, they are the future—and for us, we know Jax State students have bright futures.”
Letson highlighted the importance of the university’s investment in its students. “This is such a meaningful day, not just because we’ve opened a new building, but because we’re investing in the future of education itself,” she said.
With over 18,000 of JSU’s 80,000 living alumni coming from CEPS, the college’s legacy is one of long-standing influence and continued innovation. The April 15 ceremonies underscored the university’s dedication to shaping educators and professionals equipped to make lasting change.
“We appreciate all of you for being here today and supporting the College of Education and Professional Studies,” said Dean White. “With pride in our past and hope for our future, we are excited to build a legacy of excellence, transformation, and innovation—together.”
