Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State University's (Jax State) Student Chapter of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) has been awarded the prestigious "Student Chapter of the Year" Award in the 2024 IAEM Awards Competition. This honor recognizes the chapter's commitment to advancing the field of emergency management through student-led activities and academic excellence. The award will be formally presented on November 20 at the President's Banquet and Awards Ceremony, part of the 72nd IAEM Annual Conference & EMEX in Colorado Springs, Colorado. With a membership of 89 students, the Jax State IAEM Student Chapter has demonstrated exceptional dedication to its members' development and the emergency management profession. The chapter's recent achievements include funding the conference fees, lodging, and meals for three student members to attend the 72nd Annual Conference, furthering their professional experience and knowledge. "We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition by IAEM-USA," said Dr. Tanveer Islam, Professor and Chair of Jax State's Department of Emergency Management and Public Administration. "The Executive Board of the JSU IAEM student chapter, under the guidance of Dr. Olson, has worked exceptionally hard over the past year conducting numerous activities that brought this prestigious award for the department and Jax State." Noah Maddox, President of the JSU-IAEM Student Chapter, shared his enthusiasm for the chapter's achievements: "The JSU-IAEM Chapter is working hard to prepare our student members for the field of emergency management. This recognition is a confirmation that we are moving in the right direction. The chapter is extremely thankful for the support we have and continue to receive from the Department of Emergency Management and Public Administration, the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and all the faculty and staff therein. Without their constant advocacy and guidance, we would not be where we are today." In the chapter's application for the award, Maddox emphasized the chapter's dedication to upholding the IAEM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, striving to embody respect, commitment, and professionalism in all endeavors. The chapter's active involvement in academic, professional, and community activities has significantly contributed to its success and recognition as a leader in the field of emergency management. The 2024 IAEM Awards will feature numerous honorees across various categories, including education, preparedness, technology and innovation, and individual achievement. Jacksonville State University's IAEM Student Chapter's selection as "Student Chapter of the Year" underscores the chapter's exceptional work in fostering the development of future emergency management professionals.