In May 2024, students at Fort Payne High School received an unexpected and memorable visit from hometown hero Randy Owen, lead singer of the legendary country band Alabama and a trustee of Jacksonville State University (JSU). Owen’s surprise appearance occurred during the school’s annual scholarship awards ceremony, where he joined JSU officials in presenting over $767,000 in scholarships to 24 deserving students. The scholarships awarded encompassed merit-based awards, leadership scholarships, and Army ROTC scholarships, reflecting JSU’s commitment to supporting academic excellence and leadership among its incoming students.Owen, a 1973 graduate of JSU and a native of Fort Payne, has long been an advocate for education and community development. His involvement in the ceremony underscored his dedication to giving back to his roots and supporting the next generation of students from his hometown. Beyond his musical achievements, Owen’s contributions to education and community initiatives highlight his multifaceted commitment to service.The event was part of JSU’s broader outreach efforts, with university representatives attending over 80 high school awards programs in the region during the spring. These initiatives aim to recognize and reward outstanding students while strengthening the university’s connections with local communities.For those interested in witnessing the heartfelt moments from the ceremony, a video capturing Randy Owen’s surprise visit and the scholarship presentations is available below:
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