Dear JMC students,
Welcome back to Case Hall! After the quieter summer season, the start of the academic year brings renewed energy to our college community. Whether you are beginning your first semester at JMC or returning for another year, each of you contributes experiences, questions and perspectives that make Madison the engaged community it is. We are glad you are here.
As you settle into the semester, I encourage you to take advantage of the many resources available to support you during your time on campus. The JMC student resources page is a helpful place to start. There you will find information on how to connect with an academic advisor, weekly CAPS Connect availability in Case, JMC Career Services and other campus resources.
The classroom is at the center of the Madison experience, and JMC’s events and programs offer opportunities to extend that learning. September alone offers events to learn about careers in law and international journalism from JMC alumni, prepare for internships and graduate school, and learn more about education abroad. Make a habit of checking the JMC events calendar and choose opportunities that expand your interests and help you see where your Madison education might lead.
I also strongly encourage students from every major and class year to consider participating in the Madison Academic Diversity Initiative (MADI). Through monthly cohort meetings, one-on-one faculty mentorship, alumni connections and peer support, MADI offers another way to build meaningful relationships and become more deeply involved in the college. The program is open to all JMC students, and applications for the 2026-27 academic year are due Sept. 14.
The strength of the Madison experience comes not only from what you study, but from the relationships you build and the ways you choose to participate. I hope you will take full advantage of all that JMC has to offer. I look forward to seeing how you’ll help shape our Madison community and the broader world in the year ahead.
Cameron G. Thies
Dean and MSU Foundation Professor
James Madison College