Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (Jax State) marked a significant milestone on Friday, November 15, with the grand opening of its Victory Center. This state-of-the-art facility, located at Jax State’s McClellan Center, is dedicated to serving veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, reinforcing the university’s commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served.
Dr. Marie Valentin, Assistant Vice Provost of Institutional Research & Effectiveness and lead principal investigator of the Victory Center project, delivered an inspiring welcome address. She expressed gratitude to the partners who brought the project to fruition, stating, “This facility reflects our dedication to the ‘Total Military Community.’ It’s a place of hope, healing, and empowerment,” emphasizing its role for veterans, active-duty members transitioning to civilian life, and their families.
A highlight of the event was the announcement of the “Veteran and Spouse Transition Assistance Grant,” totaling $561,604, awarded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Brent Cunningham, Dean of the College of Business and Industry, and Dr. Celestino Valentin, Department Head of Management and Marketing, shared the news. “Of 65 applications nationwide, Jax State was one of only 13 recipients and the only higher education institution in Alabama selected for this prestigious award,” Cunningham noted.
This grant will support the Victory Workforce Development Services program, which provides career training, leadership development, and entrepreneurship workshops tailored for veterans and their spouses. Services range from resume assistance to project management training, equipping participants with tools to transition successfully into civilian careers.
Earlier this year, the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs awarded a $250,000 grant to further the Victory Center’s mission. Together, these grants enable the center to serve over 53,000 veterans across a 15-county region. The center’s offerings include mental health counseling, case management, and social services, embodying a holistic approach to supporting veterans and their families.
Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. underscored the university’s dedication to the military community, stating, “Our veterans are the backbone of our freedom, the guardians of our democracy. Yet their challenges often persist long after their service ends. The Victory Center exists to ensure they and their families receive the care, resources, and recognition they deserve.”
Following a ceremonial ribbon cutting, attendees toured the facility under the guidance of Lead Counselor Dr. Janekia Mitchell. She highlighted the center’s comprehensive approach, which integrates mental health services, family support, and crisis intervention training. “This is more than a building,” Mitchell said. “It’s a lifeline for veterans and their families to flourish.”
The Victory Center stands as a beacon of Jax State’s unwavering commitment to the military community, offering a robust network of support for those who have served and their loved ones.
