Alabama Governor Kay Ivy and Randy Owen / Photo Credit: ABC 33/40

Jacksonville State University broke ground on the Randy Owen Center for Performing Arts on Tuesday. The $41.3 million development is partially funded by a $15-million state grant. Campus leaders say dedicating the building to Jax State alumni Randy Owen feels like the perfect fit.

“He believes in what we are doing here at the university, he is proud of what we are doing here at the university, and he is a proud alumni of our university,” said Don Killingsworth, president of JSU.

Owen attended Jacksonville State University, earning a degree in English while pursuing his music career on weekends and between classes. He went on to be a founder, lead singer and songwriter for the band Alabama.

Owen is humbled by the dedication of the performing arts center at his alma mater.

“It all comes down to a wonderful building that will be here for many generations long after I’m gone and I am thrilled about the future,” said Owen.

Killingsworth believes this will bring more students to Jax State who are pursuing the performing arts.

“We have strong ties to country music in Nashville, so this will allow us to recruit a broader market for those who are one, wanting to get into country music, or the music business in general,” said Killingsworth.

The Randy Owen Center for Performing Arts is expected to open in 2026.

ABC 33/40