Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (Jax State) has been awarded a significant grant of $250,000 from the Alabama Board of Veterans Affairs. This grant will be dedicated to funding the Victory Center, an initiative aimed at providing comprehensive support to the military community. Dr. Marie Valentin, the lead author of the grant proposal, describes the Victory Center as a “two-fold initiative that will serve the total military community.”
The primary focus of the Victory Center is to enhance the overall mental health of military personnel, support a smooth transition into civilian life, and facilitate the flourishing of military families. Dr. Valentin emphasized the importance of such support initiatives in ensuring the well-being and success of those who have served in the military.
In addition to catering to military members and their families, the Victory Center will offer internship opportunities for students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees in social work or clinical mental health counseling. This integration of academic and practical experiences aligns with Jax State’s commitment to providing holistic support to its students while also contributing to the broader community.
The establishment of the Military Friendly Campus Committee at Jax State played a pivotal role in securing grants like the one funding the Victory Center. Dr. Justin Parker, Director of Jax State’s Military and Post Traditional Student Services and committee member, highlighted the committee’s focus on enhancing the university’s military-friendly environment through initiatives such as grant pursuits.
Earlier initiatives, including a $10,500 grant from the Alabama Military Stability Foundation, enabled committee members to attend the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) Annual Conference. This participation allowed for the exploration of topics such as expanding prior learning assessments and credentials for military-connected students, further enhancing Jax State’s support infrastructure.
The efforts of the Military Friendly Campus Committee have already garnered recognition, with Jax State being named a Military Friendly School by Militaryfriendly.com. Dr. Parker emphasized the importance of such accolades in attracting prospective students with military ties, signaling the university’s commitment to supporting their academic and personal success.
With over 53,000 veterans within the 15-county service population covered by Jax State, the Victory Center aims to positively impact the lives of thousands of military personnel and their families. Dr. Valentin expressed the university’s vision for the Victory Center to become a lasting legacy, providing vital support to the military community for years to come.
While the final location of the Victory Center is yet to be determined, it is expected to commence operations in early June. Dr. Valentin hopes to house the center in the McClellan Center, further solidifying its connection to the university and the broader community it serves.
The Victory Center represents a significant step forward in Jax State’s commitment to supporting the military community, underscoring the university’s dedication to fostering holistic well-being and academic success.
