JSU breaks ground on new performing arts center

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. (WBRC) - Jacksonville State University honored one of their own Tuesday with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Randy Owen Performing Arts Center. The lead singer for the group Alabama was on hand along with Gov. Kay Ivey to thank everyone for their love and support.

JSU President Don Killingsworth says this new building will present a great opportunity to recruit new students who love and want to study performing arts.

The Randy Owen Center for Performing Arts will be used for music education. Offering state of the art facilities and technology such as a 400-seat recital hall, backstage suites, recording studio, educational classrooms, and many more. JSU President Don Killingsworth says this new facility is a way to transform music education while continuing to rebuild and move the campus forward.

“This is another step in that process, but it allows us to move forward as an institution and be better and bigger. You will see this with our music program and move forward to not only enhance the offerings for our students but to overall enhance the infrastructure of our campus,” says Killingsworth.

“Very emotional, I had to work in the summer time to be able to pay my tuition for my books. I’m proud I did because it makes me thankful that I do have that degree. Very humble to have a degree from JSU,” says Randy Owen.

Gov. Ivey appropriated $15 million toward this project with a price tag over $40 million. The projected completion date for is scheduled in the fall of 2025

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