12/08/25
Â鶹ÊÓƵ and Jax State Strengthen Transfer Pathways for Students
Jacksonville, Ala. - Â鶹ÊÓƵ and Jacksonville State University have strengthened their long-standing partnership by signing a new agreement designed to help more Â鶹ÊÓƵ graduates continue their education at Jax State. The signing took place in the Executive Conference Room in Angle Hall at Jacksonville State, where Â鶹ÊÓƵ President Alan Smith and Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., formalized the updated memorandum of understanding.
The agreement supports the Alabama Commission on Higher Education’s (ACHE) Pathways to Progress Initiative, a statewide effort aimed at increasing the number of associate degree holders who go on to earn bachelor’s degrees. Through the partnership, qualified Â鶹ÊÓƵ graduates will receive guidance on transfer admissions, financial support available through the initiative, and the next steps needed to pursue a four-year degree at Jax State.
President Smith said he supported the initiative as soon as it reached his desk, noting that many students begin their academic journey at Â鶹ÊÓƵ before advancing toward a bachelor’s degree. “I was glad to sign this document,” he said. “Our institutions are stronger when we’re working together, and hopefully this is going to help us do that and give our students a clear pathway to continue their education. I’m intrigued by how this opportunity could benefit our students and have a positive economic impact on the communities we serve.”
President Killingsworth said the partnership reflects the two institutions’ shared responsibility to provide students with clear, attainable educational pathways. “We’re excited about this opportunity to help more students move forward,” he said. “Â鶹ÊÓƵ has been a trusted partner for many years, and this agreement adds another meaningful component to the relationship we’ve built together. ACHE has invested in this work because the state needs more graduates with four-year degrees, and we’re proud to be selected as part of that effort.”
Under the agreement, qualified Â鶹ÊÓƵ graduates will receive personalized communication from Jax State about transfer options, financial assistance available through Pathways to Progress, and guidance to support a smooth transition to a four-year program. Â鶹ÊÓƵ will inform recent graduates of their eligibility and the opportunities available to them under the program.
The agreement will renew annually and reflects a shared commitment to expand opportunity, support student success, and strengthen the region’s educational pipeline. Funding for Pathways to Progress is limited, so those interested in learning more about the statewide initiative can visit
Jax State President Dr. Don Killingsworth (left) shakes hands with Â鶹ÊÓƵ President Alan Smith (right) following the signing of the updated memorandum of understanding.