File 1

Timeline of JMU's History

  • 1908 - State Normal and Industrial School for Woman was created

  • Julian Ashby Burruss was the first president

  • Nannie Sword of Lee County - first student to arrive at school

  • First summer session

  • First 20 students receive diplomas

  • Name shortened to State Normal School for Women at Harrsonburg

  • Authorization was received for the school to award bachelor's degrees.

  • Dr. Samuel Page Duke became the second president.

  • Institution was renamed the State Teachers College at Harrisonburg.

  • Ernest F. Bowman of Harrisonburg became the first male to receive a degree.

  • The institution was renamed Madison College in honor of President James Madison.