Madison Academic Diversity Initiative (MADI)

The Madison Academic Diversity Initiative (MADI) provides James Madison College students with academic resources, community-building opportunities and mentorship from Madison faculty. Through monthly cohort meetings, one-on-one faculty mentoring, peer support and service, MADI helps students build meaningful connections within JMC.

Participants will attend monthly meetings during the fall and spring semesters, be paired with a JMC faculty mentor, hear from Madison faculty about their research and take part in a community service project. The program also offers opportunities to connect with fellow Madison students and JMC alumni.

Program Experience

MADI is designed to support students through sustained engagement with faculty, peers and the broader Madison community.

Participants will:

• Attend monthly cohort meetings during the fall and spring semesters
• Connect with a faculty mentor for one-on-one support
• Learn about faculty research through monthly presentations
• Connect with fellow JMC students through peer support and community-building activities
• Meet with Madison alumni
• Complete an annual community service project with their cohort. Past service projects have included a blanket, can and bottle drive in support of the MSU Student Food Bank.

Who Can Participate

MADI is open to all James Madison College students. Students from every JMC major and year are encouraged to participate.

Program Timeline

The program begins in September and runs through April. Participants meet once a month during the fall and spring semesters. Meetings are typically held on Friday afternoons.

Applications

Applications are now open to join the 2026-27 MADI program. Apply online via Google Forms. Applications are due on Monday, Sept. 14 at 11:50 p.m.

Contact

Contact Dr. Brian Johnson (john3582@msu.edu) with questions about the Madison Academic Diversity Initiative.