Founded in 1908, James Madison University is a public university located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. JMU is fast becoming one of the nation’s leading lights in higher education because students enjoy unusually engaged relationships with world-class faculty who are here because they want to pursue knowledge and make teaching their No. 1 priority.

Farmland, mountains, and the wide sky full of stars are what make the Shenandoah Valley, and JMU's home in it, so unique and so beautiful. There are ski slopes, trails for biking, rivers for fishing, forests for camping - on any given evening you can choose between home cooked southern fried chicken, an edgy coffee shop, live music in a bar, or ethnic cuisine. Throw out the stereotypes and choose between country roads or downtown nightlife, farmer's markets or vintage thrift shops, live Shakespeare or live jazz.  James Madison University is approximately one hour from historic Charlottesville, two and a half hours from both Washington DC and Richmond. The great outdoors, a piece of history, art, and plenty of fun destinations downtown and around Harrisonburg - it's all here!

Being the Change

We know that success requires equal parts intellect and action. At JMU, that’s what Being the Change is all about.
JMU graduates are far more than merely educated. Members of a fellowship of doers, they know how to make things happen. They’ve honed their ability to think critically. They’ve learned the importance of a strong work ethic and have become committed to and skilled at collaborating with others. Diplomas in hand, they leave campus determined to live lives of meaning and pursue careers of purpose. Equal parts intellect and action help mold JMU graduates.

Crafting the knowledge. Walking the walk. Seizing the day. Being the Change.

Values

• Integrity - We are deeply committed to integrity and strive to do things right. We will act in an honest, truthful and ethical manner.
• Relationships - We are committed to building and maintaining positive relationships based on trust, respect and encouragement.
• Leadership - We are committed to lead. As leaders, we will influence others through our character, humility and example. We will make decisions, take a stand (or a step) in order to encourage, inspire or motivate others to ensure positive change.
• Service - We are committed to serving others with excellence. Going beyond solving problems by demonstrating understanding and respect for customer feelings and needs.
• Collaboration - We are committed to reaching out to others and seeking opportunities to create, facilitate and manage strategic partnerships.
• Learning - We are committed to the belief that learning is a life-long process. The knowledge gained and shared through personal interactions and professional development is critical to achieving and maintaining excellence.
• Compassion – We are committed to treating others with compassion. In all our dealings, we will strive to be aware of the suffering of others, and we will attempt to relieve individual and organizational suffering whenever possible.