jacksonville state university campus tours

• Future Student
• Current Student
• Parent/Family

Discover the Friendliest Campus in the South!

At Jacksonville State University, you can earn a degree in more than 101 academic programs and concentrations, within a community that supports you every step of the way. When you get here and experience all that life on our campus has to offer,  you’ll know you're in the right place to find your people, your place, and your passion.  We're waiting for you!  

Campus Tours

School Group Visits

Preview Days

Admitted Student Events

Dual Enrollment Events

Transfer Events

Take a Virtual 360º Tour

Plan Your Visit

Meet Your Hosts

Digital Library

Schedule a Cocky Chat

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Jacksonville State University

General Information

2023-2024 tuition, student housing, enrollment statistics, undergraduate student gender, undergraduate race / ethnicity, undergraduate admissions, admission considerations, admission test scores, sports and athletics, men's sports.

• Men's Baseball
• Men's Basketball
• Men's Cross Country
• Men's Football
• Men's Tennis

Women's Sports

• Women's Basketball
• Women's Cross Country
• Women's Golf
• Women's Soccer
• Women's Softball
• Women's Tennis
• Women's Track & Field
• Women's Volleyball

Majors/Degrees Conferred

-d denotes that program is also offered through distance education.

College Search

More than 30 million students have used campustours to find virtual campus tours and maps..

Search Colleges

• Choose a Degree Level Diploma Certificate Associate Bachelor's Continuing Education Graduate Certificate Master's Doctoral Post-doctoral Certificate
• Choose a Category Art and Design Business Criminal Justice and Legal Education General Studies Healthcare Information Technology Psychology Science and Engineering Trade Skills
• Choose a Subject Animation / Game Design Architecture / Urban Planning Art and Illustration Audio / Visual Production Digital Design Drafting Fashion Design / Merchandising Fine Arts Graphic / Visual Arts Interior Design Performing Arts Photography / Film Studies Radio and Television Theater Web Design / Multimedia Accounting / Finance Administrative Professional Business Administration / Management Business Information Systems Communications / Public Relations Economics Entrepreneurship Hospitality / Tourism Human Resources International Business Marketing MBA Office Management Organizational Management Project Management Retail and Sales Supply Chain Management Corrections Court Reporting Criminal Investigation Criminal Justice Administration Emergency and Fire Management Fire Protection Forensics Homeland Security / Public Safety Law Degree Law Enforcement / Security Paralegal / Legal Studies Public Administration Adult Education Continuing Education Curriculum and Instruction Early Childhood Education Educational Leadership Elementary Education English as a Second Language Higher Education Instructional Technology Secondary Education Special Education Teacher Education Technology in Education English Foreign Language Geography History Humanities Liberal Arts Philosophy and Religious Studies Political and Social Sciences Religious Studies Alternative Therapy Athletic Training Dental Diet / Nutrition Emergency Medicine Health Information Systems Health Science Health Services Healthcare Administration / Management Massage Therapy Medical Assisting Medical Coding & Billing Medical Technologist Medical Technology Medicine Nursing Nutrition and Wellness Pharmacy Physical Therapy / Respiratory Therapy Public Health Veterinary Studies Computer Science / Programming Data Management Database Administration Information Systems Library Science Networking / Security Technical Support Web Development / Internet Aeronautics Agriculture Biology Engineering Environment / Natural Resources Industrial Technology Mathematics Physical Sciences Addiction Studies Child and Family Studies Child Development Counseling Psychology Social Science Social Work Automotive Technology / Mechanic Aviation Technology / Pilot Career Training CDL / Heavy Equipment Operation / Repair Conservation Construction Management Construction Trades Cosmetology Craftsman Trades Culinary Arts Electronic / Computer Technology Esthetics High School Diploma Life Skills / Hobbies Marine Technology / Captain Mechanics Military / ROTC Other Trades Real Estate Secondary Diplomas & Certificates Welding / Fabrication
• Sponsored Schools

• Jacksonville State University /

Virtual Tour

• Student Life

Jacksonville State University Virtual Tour

Are you considering jacksonville state university take a virtual tour of the campus below..

A visit to Jacksonville State University is ideal, but virtual tours can act to refresh your memory or as a preview for your on-site tour.

Do I Really Need to Take a Tour?

Inevitably, on-campus tours of classrooms, libraries, dorms, and dining halls will start to blend. Jog your memory using the virtual tour and even explore the area surrounding the campus using the interactive mapping tool. If you're just beginning your college search, a virtual tour can be a great way to get a feel for a campus before your visit. Remember, when you do go, be sure to ask current students about their college life. A student perspective can be the most helpful way to gauge your future experience at Jacksonville State University.

Use the resources below to start your virtual tour.

Using the Map

Click and drag the little orange person to a location on the map. Locations with panoramas appear as blue lines or blue dots when moving the orange person. The blue dots are panoramic views that you may swivel. The blue lines are paths that you can navigate along.

Panoramic View

You can "pan" or "swivel" the camera around by clicking on the image and dragging your mouse or finger. If you see a white arrow on the picture, you can click or tap on it to move in the direction of the arrow. This will also update the location of the little orange person on the map so you can get a better sense of where you are and what direction you are facing.

Continue Your Research on Jacksonville State University

College Factual provides higher-education, college and university, degree, program, career, salary, and other helpful information to students, faculty, institutions, and other internet audiences. Presented information and data are subject to change. Inclusion on this website does not imply or represent a direct relationship with the company, school, or brand. Information, though believed correct at time of publication, may not be correct, and no warranty is provided. Contact the schools to verify any information before relying on it. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. The displayed options may include sponsored or recommended results, not necessarily based on your preferences.

© 2022 College Factual – All Rights Reserved.

• Privacy Policy
• California Privacy
• Do Not Sell My Info
• Terms of Use

Popular Searches

• Majors & Programs
• Tuition & Costs
• Employment Opportunities
• Transcripts

About The Tour

Led by our student ambassadors, our campus tour gives you and your family a first-hand campus experience. Explore our beautiful river-front campus, while learning more about the academic and social opportunities you’ll have here at JU! Your visit will last 1.5-2 hours and will include an admissions presentation, an optional counselor conversation, and a tour of 4 campus facilities - the dining hall, Riverhouse, a *freshman residence hall, and one of our classrooms.  *Currently, we do not have a room to show during our tour. However, your tour guide will show you the main floor of the residence hall. We will provide pictures during our per-tour presentation.  T o register for an event, click a green date in the calendar below.  

Aviation Information Session

For those looking to learn more about our Aviation program, we have an info session available on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. (subject to change based on faculty availability). Select one of our sessions above for more information. Additional Tour Options For Schools, Organizations, or College Counselors, please follow the link provided to submit a  Specialty Tour Request. Are you interested in a virtual visit or event? Check out our   Virtual Calendar   for opportunities to see our campus or learn more about JU from home!  If you have any additional questions about our tour procedures, please contact Donna Cowley at [email protected]   or (904) 256-7198.

• Request Info

• Enrollment Management
• Undergraduate Admissions

Undergraduate Recruitment

• Financial Aid
• Scholarships
• Office of the Registrar
• Costs & Fees
• How To Apply
• Admitted Students
• Contact Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Graduate Funding
• School of Lifelong Learning
• International
• Undergraduate Majors & Minors
• Graduate Programs
• College of Business
• College of Education and Human Development
• College of Health Sciences
• College of Liberal Arts
• College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
• Academic Affairs
• Student Success
• Richard Wright Center
• Course Catalog
• Academic Advising
• Degree Maps
• Strategic Initiatives
• Spirit & Tradition
• Housing & Dining
• Student Government
• Student Organizations
• Intramural Sports
• Health, Wellness, & Safety
• Student Handbook
• The Latasha Norman Center for Counseling Services
• Policies and Procedures
• Sponsored Programs Unit
• Grants and Contracts Management
• Research Compliance
• Technology Transfer and Commercialization
• Forms and Applications
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Administrative Offices
• Student Outcomes
• HBCU Heritage
• Internal Resources
• Academic Calendar
• University Catalogs
• Thee Portal
• Reset NET ID Password

• Recruitment Home
• Tuition and Fees
• High School Day

Campus Tours

Campus tours will be offered Monday through Friday at 11:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m., and select Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. only. The campus visit will include an information session, led by a recruiter and/or student ambassador, about admissions requirements, financial aid/scholarships, and campus life. Walking tours are approximately 90 minutes long, including the information session.

Additional Tour Guidelines 

• All guests are required to pre-register for campus tours in advance.
• Tour requests must be made a minimum of two weeks before your requested tour date. We will be unable to accommodate tours at short notice. This will allow us the opportunity to properly prepare for your arrival.
• Your tour is NOT confirmed until you have received a tour confirmation letter. Please allow 48 – 72 hours business days, after the request has been submitted, for tour confirmation.
• All individuals under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a Parent/Guardian.
• Chaperones MUST accompany all individual and group tours.
• There will be limited access to the inside of buildings.
• Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate walk-in tours.
• Not adhering to the above guidelines and time designations, without proper notification, within THIRTY (30) minutes of your scheduled tour, results in automatic cancellation.
• We are unable to schedule meetings for Athletics and Band . You must contact Athletics at (601) 979-2291 and Band at (601) 979-2141 before registering, to ensure someone can speak with you during your visit.
• If the date of interest is not listed, it could mean, the date is booked or the campus is closed.

If your group would like to eat on campus, you MUST make your arrangements for meals. Ms. Tonia Carson can be reached at 769.610.8570. Meals ARE NOT a part of the campus tour . Please schedule your dining experience before or after your scheduled tour time.

Dining will be closed for summer break: May 5th – 20th

• Heritage Dining: Cafeteria
• Legacy Dining: Mr. Beast Burgers, Bistro 1877, Chick-fil-a, Fiesta Grill, Pizza Hut Express, and Tiger Mart.

We suggest preparing accordingly with proper clothing and footwear. Umbrellas are permitted on the campus tour if it is needed.  

Inclement Weather

Walking tours WILL NOT be conducted in case of inclement weather. We practice this policy to protect the safety and welfare of all campus visitors. The tour’s status will be updated before the campus tour or at the scheduled time of the campus tour. To stay up-to-date with our local weather, please click here: https://www.wapt.com/weather .

 Black-out Dates

May 16th: New Student Orientation (Transfer)

May 31st – June 1st : New Student Orientation (Freshman)

June 13th: New Student Orientation (Transfer)

June 21st – June 22nd : New Student Orientation (Freshman)

June 25th – 29th : Professional Development

July 1st – 5th : No campus tours/holiday break

July 11th – July 12th : New Student Orientation

July 30th : New Student Orientation (Transfer and Freshman)

Fall Campus Tours

The Office of Undergraduate Recruitment is currently not hosting fall campus tours. Save the date for our Annual High School Day , scheduled for Saturday, November 9, 2024 !

Click below to submit your tour request.

Individual/Family Tour Request           Group Tour Request

Jackson State University 1400 John R. Lynch Street P.O. Box 18389 Jackson, MS 39217

Email: [email protected]

The College Tour at

Jackson state university.

Discover what makes Jackson State University a ‘home away from home’ for thousands of students.

The College Tour tells the story of Jackson State University, one of the first HBCUs to be featured in the series,  through the lens of those who know it best. This episode features nine JSU students and one alumnus. Watch the full episode below to get an in-depth look at life at Tiger World.

Visit jsu ↗.

There’s no better way to learn about Jackson State University, and what it has to offer than to visit our beautiful campus. Come join us for a walk, and explore life on our 150-acres of beauty. 

Apply Now ↗

Jackson State University® is an environment that inspires you to grow, learn, and reach beyond the ordinary. This is a “home away from home” where every student can find their place.

Useful Info ↗

Tell us what type of student you are and we’ll guide you through fulfilling admissions requirements, submitting transcripts, securing financial aid and applying.

Meet the Stars of the Show.

Jamee McAdoo – “The City With Soul”

Marvin Garcia Meda – “First-Generation Student Makes History Now”

Kourtney Smith – “STEM and Honors College Program”

Kiara Davison – “All About JSU”

Cameron Adams – “Transfer Student Rewrites His Story”

Elizabeth Stamps – “Live and Learn Local”

Donovan Morton – “Campus Spirit”

Audrika Nahian – “The Graduate School Experience”

Laila Woodfork – “Get Involved”

Justin Turner, M.D. – “JSU Prepares You for the World”

Alert text would go here.

Dolphin Dash February 5-9, 2024

Thank you Dolphin family for an incredible week of giving! Together, you raised $4,255,829 for Jacksonville University's students and programs! Phins up!

IMPACT ENGAGE INSPIRE

Thank you to the 8,004 Dolphins worldwide who Dashed for JU. Together, you GAVE FORWARD and raised more than $4.2 million for the future of Jacksonville University. Thank you, and Phins Up!

Homecoming & Family Weekend

Welcome to the most PHINtastic weekend on campus! Alumni, families, friends, and fans are invited to Jacksonville University’s 70 th annual Homecoming & Family Weekend, October 7-10, 2021.

SUPPORT JU FROM HEAD TO TOE

It’s officially the start of the holiday shopping season, and Jacksonville University is getting in on the fun! Make a gift of $30 or more to the Nellie Student Support Fund and three things will happen……

• You’ll ensure that Jacksonville University students will continue to receive emergency funding when they need it the most,
• We’ll send you your choice of limited-edition JU socks or a JAX beanie as our way of saying thanks, and
• Get your new gear in the mail in time to wear for the holidays!

Maintenance

The Controller's Office is conducting annual work that requires a few hours of down time for tools like My JU, Web Advisor, and Self Service. During this time, other key services are still available. Some quick shortcuts:

A Bold New Brand

Our student athletes are making history, and it's time for the world to recognize them. We've launched a bold new brand for Jacksonville Athletics that both celebrates our history and marks our trajectory. We are the Jacksonville University Dolphins, and we Dare To Be Bold.

See the BOLD New Brand

We have a lot to celebrate this year: the completion of the ASPIRE Campaign, a bold new Athletics brand, the start of several new construction projects, and, most importantly, our growing class of Phins. We can’t wait to celebrate with our Forever Phins this weekend, October 12-14.

View the Schedule

Thank You for BELIEVING

Together, we BELIEVED in what a Jacksonville University education can do and its impact on the next generation of Dolphin students and leaders. It's not too late to pitch in for a future Dolphin.

Alumni, Family, and Friends: Watch Live!

The College Tour, an Emmy-nominated show on Amazon Prime with millions of viewers worldwide, chose to feature Jacksonville University as their Season 5 finale episode, and you're invited to the exclusive early access premiere !

Join us LIVE on YouTube as we watch together virtually starting at 7 p.m. EDT.

The FUTURE. MADE. campaign is the most ambitious fundraising initiative to date at Jacksonville University. FUTURE. MADE. represents our core identity and mission: building a better future. It’s who we are and it’s what we do. Learn more about how together we will transform students' lives for a better tomorrow.

Popular Searches

• Majors & Programs
• Tuition & Costs
• Employment Opportunities
• Order Transcripts (Through Parchment)
• Maps & Directions to Our Locations

• Aviation Campus Visit

Please be our guest! Jacksonville University and The School of Aviation invites you to take our personalized campus visit. Is there something special you want to do while you’re here? Let us know! We can tailor your tour day to make the most of your time.

Your campus visit can include a meeting with an Admissions Counselor, a JU campus tour, and a meeting with an Aviation Representative. Additionally, you may take advantage of other opportunities such as an airport tour by a student Aviation Ambassador of the L3 Airline Academy located at Craig Airfield, sit in on an actual aviation class, and so much more.

Register to visit

**If you are interested in an Aviation info session within 24 hours, please contact the School of Aviation directly at 904-256-7434 or by email at [email protected] **

• Director's Message
• Vision, Mission, and Goals
• Why School of Aviation
• Pilot Hiring Agreements
• Our Partners
• AABI Accreditation

Undergraduate Programs

• Airline Management Track
• Airport Management Track
• Air Traffic Control Track
• Management and Flight Operations
• Commercial Pilot Track
• Military Navy Track
• Military Marine Track
• Flight Costs

Graduate Programs

• Master of Science in Aviation Leadership
• Advisory Board
• Current Students
• Student Organizations
• Internships
• Ready for the Real World
• Faculty Directory
• Staff Directory
• Request More Information
• Apply Online
• Student Success AVM
• Student Success AV0
• Aviation Retention and Grad Rates
• Aviation Program Assessment Plan

Related Links

Jacksonville University

2800 University Blvd N Jacksonville, FL 32211

(904) 256-8000

Alert text would go here.

Dolphin Dash February 5-9, 2024

Thank you Dolphin family for an incredible week of giving! Together, you raised $4,255,829 for Jacksonville University's students and programs! Phins up!

IMPACT ENGAGE INSPIRE

Thank you to the 8,004 Dolphins worldwide who Dashed for JU. Together, you GAVE FORWARD and raised more than $4.2 milion for the future of Jacksonville University. Thank you, and Phins Up!

Homecoming & Family Weekend

Welcome to the most PHINtastic weekend on campus! Alumni, families, friends, and fans are invited to Jacksonville University’s 70 th annual Homecoming & Family Weekend, October 7-10, 2021.

SUPPORT JU FROM HEAD TO TOE

It’s officially the start of the holiday shopping season, and Jacksonville University is getting in on the fun! Make a gift of $30 or more to the Nellie Student Support Fund and three things will happen……

• You’ll ensure that Jacksonville University students will continue to receive emergency funding when they need it the most,
• We’ll send you your choice of limited-edition JU socks or a JAX beanie as our way of saying thanks, and
• Get your new gear in the mail in time to wear for the holidays!

Maintenance

The Controller's Office is conducting annual work that requires a few hours of down time for tools like My JU, Web Advisor, and Self Service. During this time, other key services are still available. Some quick shortcuts:

Alumni, Family, and Friends: Watch Live!

The College Tour, an Emmy-nominated show on Amazon Prime with millions of viewers worldwide, chose to feature Jacksonville University as their Season 5 finale episode, and you're invited to the exclusive early access premiere !

Join us LIVE on YouTube as we watch together virtually starting at 7 p.m. EDT.

The FUTURE. MADE. campaign is the most ambitious fundraising initiative to date at Jacksonville University. FUTURE. MADE. represents our core identity and mission: building a better future. It’s who we are and it’s what we do. Learn more about how together we will transform students' lives for a better tomorrow.

Popular Searches

• Majors & Programs
• Tuition & Costs
• Employment Opportunities
• Order Transcripts (Through Parchment)
• Maps & Directions to Our Locations

Graduate & Professional Studies Tours Visit Jacksonville University

GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDIES On-Campus Tours

Schedule to take a tour of our beautiful, riverfront campus. Hop on one of our golf carts to tour our classrooms, laboratories, and state-of-the-art facilities. You will also learn about our campus community and have your questions answered by your admissions counselor. 

SCHEDULE A TOUR

Graduate & Professional Studies On-Campus Events

Graduate & professional studies open house.

At Our open House, you'll have the opportunity to mingle with faculty, network with fellow future graduate students, and explore our campus on a golf cart tour.

Check back for our Fall 2024 date  

Admitted students reception .

At our Admitted Students Reception, you'll have the opportunity to hear from University leadership, visit your program departments and speak with the faculty. This is a great opportunity to explore our beautiful riverfront campus and network with future classmates. 

Check back for our Spring 2024 Admitted Student Reception date  

Virtual Events Virtual Experiences

See all Jacksonville University has to offer right from the comfort of your own home. Sign up for a virtual event, request a recording of a past virtual information session , or view one of our past graduate student Instagram takeovers.

VIRTUAL EVENTS

STUDENT INSTAGRAM TAKEOVERS

REQUEST A VIS RECORDING

Get Your Questions Answered

Fill out the form below to receive more information from our admissions counselors, in addition, check out our FAQ page for a list of frequently asked questions.

Contact Information Office of Graduate Admissions

Phone: (904) 256-7000 Email: [email protected]

Quick Links

• Graduate Admissions
• Graduate Programs
• Financial Aid

• Video Viewbook
• Interactive Campus Maps
• Accepted Student Experience
• Virtual Events
• Case studies
• Enrollment Strategy Toolkit
• Leadership Team
• We're hiring
• Book a demo

Book Your Demo Now

Studentbridge helps enrollment teams achieve more.

StudentBridge helps colleges and universities stand out, boost enrollment, and achieve more — all while saving them time and money.

Competition is up, but enrollment doesn’t have to be down.

Create meaningful engagement through the entire enrollment funnel

Attract MORE

Win students and families over with memorable and impactful experiences every step of the way.

Achieve MORE

Fusing authentic storytelling with industry-leading technology and personalized digital experiences.

Authentic stories

Our digital storytelling experts help bring your institution’s authentic voice to life so you can stand out from the competition, keep students engaged longer, and get them to take action.

Impactful campus visits

Ensure relevant campus visits for everyone, everywhere, every time with virtual and self-guided experiences that bring your institution to life, highlight the best of your campus and facilities, and drive more right-fit students to convert.

Powerful personalization

From personalized mobile communications to customized tours based on visitors’ unique interests, our solutions make it easy for you to take a personal, impactful approach to engaging students and families — without ever bogging down your team.

Compelling communications

Engage everyone — including prospective students, accepted students, and their parents and supporters (even without contact information) — with a proven mobile-first engagement strategy that builds excitement, keeps your school top of mind, highlights the next steps, and inspires action.

Astonishing results

Enhance name recognition, increase engagement, exceed application targets, and surpass enrollment and yield goals with robust data collection and measurable results that help you understand your impact, identify opportunities for improvement, and better focus your efforts.

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to see how we can help your institution achieve more.

See why 500+ colleges and universities trust studentbridge to help them achieve more..

See what our partner institutions have achieved

Self-guided tours at Vanderbilt University

Watch this short video to see how Vanderbilt University uses the Campus Visit Experience to ensure memorable self-guided tours for everyone, every time.

Kennesaw State University

Learn how Kennesaw State University maximizes the moment of acceptance with a mobile-first approach that engages students, saves money, and drives matriculation.

McMurry University

Learn how McMurry University overhauled its once manual move-in process, streamlining registrations, increasing organization, and more.

University of Alabama Birmingham

Learn how Full Measure helps the University of Alabama - Birmingham create flexible and memorable graduation celebrations.

Arizona State University

Learn how Arizona State University improved its virtual and self-guided tours using Full Measure’s Campus Visit Experience — highlighting what makes each of its campuses unique with accessible, engaging, and personalized tours.

Colorado State University

Campus tours play an important role when it comes to matriculation. Learn how Colorado State University improved its tour experience using Full Measure’s Campus Visit Experience — increasing access to tours, enabling personalized visits, and better engaging prospective students.

Florida State College at Jacksonville

How FSCJ collected more applications and boosted registration rates after deploying SMS campaigns.

University of Wisconsin Parkside

Looking to build on their successful enrollment growth from the previous year, the University of Wisconsin Parkside admissions leadership knew they had to leverage new tactics in order to reach their aggressive goals.

Ready to achieve more?

Pick a time to meet with our team..

ASU-Beebe Spring 2024 Chancellor’s and Dean’s Lists Announced Posted Date: 6/5/24

Beetles, tech, following mom's footsteps: University of Delaware grads mark 2024 commencement

Delaware's largest university marked its 174th commencement Saturday.

The University of Delaware's class of 2024 filled Delaware Stadium with friends and families from across the country and farther making their way to Newark to celebrate. Joe Flacco, NFL quarterback and Super Bowl MVP, UD President Dennis Assanis and more joined in to bid graduates their send-off.

It capped a week of ceremonies across colleges and disciplines for UD. But, while more than 6,000 students coated the field to face the stage, the real stories came from looking back.

Following mom's footsteps in medical science, reaching for aerospace technology, discovering wildlife ecology — meet a handful of UD graduates, remembering their experiences as they turn the tassel.

In your footsteps

First, she'd watch her work.

Before 8 years old, Oluebube Akujieze and her family still lived in Nigeria. After school, she'd wander into her mom's hospital lab, finding comfort in watching her finish work before the pair would head home. Such a routine would only change in 2012, when the family moved to the United States.

Then, she'd watch her head back to school.

Akujieze's mother, Uche Agbasi, decided to pursue a medical laboratory science degree from UD to keep working in her new Delaware home. She was raising a family; she got pregnant again; she kept studying.

"Watching her, I remember some nights she might be cooking dinner and maybe had a paper to write or an assignment to do," Akujieze said, recalling how she would help type things as a youngster. By 2019, she celebrated her mother's earned bachelor's degree, kicking off work at a community hospital.

Then, she was done watching.

Akujieze crossed the stage Saturday in Newark to receive the same medical laboratory science degree as her mom. Agbasi inspired her daughter's chosen field — but she almost made it look too easy.

"I don't think I was prepared enough for how difficult it was going to be, actually, until I was truly in the major," Akujieze said with a laugh. "And I was like, 'Wow, how did you do this with developing kids and a husband?' It is not easy. And I'm here, a single person, but I'm struggling every day really."

But the graduate with medical school in her sights made it happen. She made it through COVID-19 shutdown and a virtual first year, while her mother survived frontline pandemic work. And both UD alumni can't wait to celebrate all of it.

"I'm really very happy and thrilled that she made it," her mom said. "I'm not scared about what she will do in the workforce, just happy that she's graduating. She's going to make it anywhere she goes."

Next year at UD: University of Delaware approves 4% tuition hike, braces for 'per-student tax' bill

It's not rocket science

At first, he stuck with what was comfortable.

Kenny Madden stayed near the Philadelphia home he grew up in, starting school at Drexel University in nutrition and sports exercise. He saw the same people, in the same city. He loved the subjects for himself, though the idea of tailoring to a patient seemed tedious. Something just wasn't right.

"So then, I talked to a bunch of career counselors," said the senior, taking the call between coursework. They pressed him for what he liked, what he was good at. It took him awhile to piece it together — math, design, problem-solving.

He transferred to UD. Suddenly Madden was setting out to study mechanical engineering, with a concentration in aerospace.

And he hasn't looked back. His college career has seen work within a NASA program, tasked alongside fellow seniors by the NASA Glenn Research Center and Delaware Space Grant Consortium to test a possible moon rover . And outside class, he kicked off the university's first chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

"What's going to be going through my mind on graduation is just how proud I am of myself for everything that I've done," said the Pennsylvania native. "But more importantly, how proud I am for the people that I've become close with, all of my friends here."

He's also hooked. This fall, Madden will head to Purdue University for his master's in aeronautical and astronautical engineering, eyeing possible research focusing on astrodynamics. That's basically plotting spacecraft courses, by understanding how outside forces will impact it.

The discovery and puzzle of it all fuels him, but really, he has simply found a subject that's fun.

"I just enjoyed doing the math," he said with a laugh, thinking as far back as advanced calculus in high school. "And knowing that it could have such a big impact for the future of humanity? That really excites me."

DuPont in the news: DuPont to split into 3 companies, replace CEO Ed Breen

Beetles, bugs, wildlife conservation

It was probably the 47 states' worth of National Parks that did it.

Peyton Easton grew up in Dover, but her family was constantly satisfying her need to explore. She was appreciating nature before she ever had to worry about school. Then, the curiosity would meet agriculture classes in high school.

Caesar Rodney High gave her the first taste of animal science, then UD sealed the deal.

"I remember doing a project on wildlife biology as a career path, and I was like, 'Oh, that's interesting,'" she said. "Then when I was looking into colleges, I saw UD offered basically that exact major."

Her honors degree in wildlife ecology and conservation, alongside insect ecology, would allow her to study policy, research, GIS mapping and more. She worked as an "Ag Ambassador" on campus; she studied abroad in Costa Rica; she stayed involved in orchestra with her alto saxophone in hand; joined The Crew Programming Board; kept up with the Entomology Club; went birding with fellow students — the list goes on.

"That kind of allows you to realize where your specific interests lie and where you want to go," she said with a smile. The Delaware native doesn't know where she's headed next, but it's graduate school and future research in her sights.

Easton has been studying the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle known for wreaking havoc on certain ash tree species. However, looking ahead, she's interested in both critters and people.

She may delve into disease ecology next, "which incorporates people, wildlife, insects and health," she said. "And I think seeing how people and wildlife interact in this really complex system is really interesting — because a lot of people separate those two things."

A legend in Heidi Sarver: After nearly 30 years (and thousands of students), UD's first female band director leaves

Tracing the 'Trail to Desegregation'

One 76-year-old University of Delaware student had an idea.

Karen Ingram had been cultivating interest in a particular chapter of Delaware history long before she enrolled. Now, earning her first master's degree this spring, almost all of her academic writings have surrounded this history. Her own experience led her to it. And last weekend, she got to share that passion on "The Trail to Desegregation."

Ingram, empowered by community partners for a final capstone project, marked the 70th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision with a bus tour.

ICYMI: How one Wilmington bus tour honored 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education

Her tour traced Delaware's own roots in this landmark desegregation ruling, as the sold-out Saturday tour made stops at Redding House Museum and Community Center, Howard High School, Claymont Community Center and Hockessin Colored School #107C.

"I wanted to tell the whole story," Ingram said, knowing people rarely get to put all these pieces together. "That is what got us here. I wanted to tell the whole story, on a half-day ride on a bus."

Master's soon in hand, she's already looking ahead to her doctorate.

Got a story? Kelly Powers covers race, culture and equity for Delaware Online/The News Journal and USA TODAY Network Northeast, with a focus on education. Contact her at [email protected] or (231) 622-2191, and follow her on X @kpowers01 .

Advertisement

Pga tour star grayson murray dead at 30, share this article.

FORT WORTH, Texas — Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA Tour winner who battled alcohol issues and depression, has died, according to PGA Tour officials. He was 30.

Murray played the first round and part of the second round in this week’s Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial Country Club, but withdrew from the event after 16 holes on Friday, citing an illness.

No cause of death has been listed, but PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan issued a statement to staff and players stating that grief counselors would be on hand. The tournament will continue as scheduled.

Murray attended Wake Forest University, East Carolina University, and Arizona State University, and later won the 2017 Barbasol Championship and the 2024 Sony Open in Hawaii.

“We were devastated to learn — and are heartbroken to share — that PGA Tour player Grayson Murray passed away this morning,” Monahan said in his note. “I am at a loss for words. The PGA Tour is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones. I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they asked that we continue with tournament play. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so.

“As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes. The PGA Tour has grief counselors available at both tournament sites, as well as virtually for those not in the field. I am en route to Ft. Worth and will share more information when we can.”

After capturing three straight IMG Junior World titles starting in 2006, he became the second youngest player to make the cut at a Korn Ferry Tour event when he did so at the age of 16. He also played in the 2013 U.S. Open at Merion as an amateur.

Murray showed great promise on the course, winning the 2017 Barbasol despite drinking during tournament week and admitting in January that he played three days hungover when he won.

“Best thing and worst thing that ever happened to me was winning my rookie year,” he said. “I think the alcohol brought a side out of me that wasn’t me. It was kind of the monster in me in a way.”

Photos: PGA Tour winner Grayson Murray through the years

But the early success proved to be short-lived. He struggled to make cuts and conceded he was jealous of the players he grew up competing against, who were having greater success. Along the way, he had a Twitter spat with a fellow player, suffered a scooter accident in 2022 in Bermuda , and threatened to quit on multiple occasions. Murray also dealt with anxiety and depression, and said there were days he didn’t want to get out of bed.

“I just thought I was a failure,” he said. “I thought I had a lot of talent that was just a waste of talent.”

It appeared his life turned around, however, as Murray had gotten sober in 2023.

“It was by choice,” he said after winning the Sony Open. “It was time.”

He regained exempt status on the PGA Tour after winning twice on the Korn Ferry Tour last year and set out to treat his return to the big leagues as a new beginning.

A native of Raleigh, North Carolina, Murray said he was treating the 2024 season as if it was his rookie year all over again.

“I was young and thought I was invincible. Wasn’t doing the correct stuff off the course to really give myself the best chance to succeed out here,” he said. “My scooter accident in Bermuda was really a low point in my life. You know, I’ve obviously been vocal about the alcohol use in the past. I’m over eight months sober now. I have a beautiful fiancée that I love so much and who is so supportive of me, and my parents are so supportive of me.”

Murray made waves via social media in 2021 when he revealed his struggles with Tour life that he said had led him to become an alcoholic. Murray claimed he was on probation with the PGA Tour after he got drunk in a Hawaii hotel bar despite causing “no scene whatsoever.” He also expressed disappointment that the Tour didn’t help him deal with his alcohol problem.

“We are saddened and heartbroken to learn about the sudden passing of Grayson Murray,” Kevin Canning, Murray’s agent, said in a statement. “Grayson has been a longtime member of the GSE family and hearing the news this morning shocked all of us. We will hold off on commenting until we learn further details but our heart aches for his family, his friends and all who loved him during this very difficult time.”

Check out the best equipment you can buy: Best drivers for 2024 | Best irons for 2024 | Best putters for 2024 | Best golf balls for 2024

Most Popular

Golfweek's best 2024: top private golf courses in every state, ranked, golfweek's best 2024: top public-access golf courses in every state, ranked, photos: rory mcilroy, peyton manning, chris pratt and augusta national chairman fred ridley headline 2024 memorial tournament pro-am, jim furyk announces u.s. president's cup captain's assistants, and one is a match-play bulldog, titleist gt2, gt3 and gt4 woods debut at 2024 memorial tournament, memorial tournament picks, predictions, odds & best bets - who to back over scheffler, the memorial tournament 2024 odds, course history and picks to win.