Washington, DC: The House of Representatives passed H.Res.1051, which was introduced by Congressman Bob Goodlatte.  This resolution, which passed the House by a vote of 354-0, honors James Madison University (JMU) on the 100th anniversary of its founding.

“James Madison University, set in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, has proved to be a catalyst for growth in western Virginia, building on the agricultural base of the region to create a center for higher education and advanced research,” said Goodlatte.

On March 14, 1908 Virginia Governor Claude Swanson signed legislation which established the State Normal and Industrial School for Women at Harrisonburg to train public school teachers.  The school began with 209 students and a faculty of 15.  In 1938, the school became known as Madison College, in honor of America’s fourth President James Madison. In 1977, the institution became known as James Madison University (JMU).

Today JMU is made up of seven colleges and 78 academic programs, offering more than 100 degree programs on the bachelors, masters, educational specialist and doctoral levels, with total enrollment quickly approaching 17,500.  

Goodlatte commented further, “From its inception, James Madison University has been at the forefront of education. I, along with the entire Virginia Congressional Delegation, was proud to introduce this resolution honoring James Madison University for 100 years of leadership and service to the Shenandoah Valley, the Commonwealth of Virginia and the entire nation and I am pleased that the House overwhelmingly approved the measure.”

“We've taken great pride over this past year in celebrating James Madison University's Centennial anniversary,” said Dr. Linwood H. Rose, JMU President.  “This recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives is a fitting conclusion to a momentous celebration and we appreciate Representative Bob Goodlatte's efforts in bringing this resolution to the floor of the House.”

Representatives Rob Wittman (VA-R), Thelma Drake (VA-R), Bobby Scott (VA-D), Randy Forbes (VA-R), Virgil Goode (VA-R), Eric Cantor (VA-R), Jim Moran (VA-D), Rick Boucher (VA-D), Frank Wolf (VA-R), and Tom Davis (VA-R) are original cosponsors of the resolution honoring JMU.