Alumna of the Year

Ellen Tibbetts Hurst ('91)

Ellen Tibbetts Hurst, a 1991 graduate of Jacksonville State University, has spent her career uplifting others through advocacy, education, and community service. A graduate of Pleasant Valley High School, Ellen studied Corrections at Jax State, where she was involved in the Sociology and Criminal Justice clubs and was a Sigma Nu little sister.

Her professional path began at the Department of Youth Services, followed by roles as a court advocate for 2nd Chance and a court-ordered domestic violence instructor. Since 2001, Ellen has served as Program Director for Alabama CARES at the East Alabama Regional Planning & Development Commission, supporting family caregivers across ten counties. A certified Dementia Friendly educator and Community Resource Specialist in Aging and Disabilities, she provides training for first responders, educators, and community members. She is also certified through the Rosalynn Carter Institute and FEMA in disaster preparedness for seniors.

A proud Jax State alumna and current graduate student in Organizational Leadership and Emergency Management, Ellen stays closely connected to the university. She holds season football tickets, attends alumni events, and shares Jax State sports news through her segments on WEAC-TV24’s Rise and Shine, including her popular feature Tibbetts’ Tidbitts.

Ellen is a past president of the Exchange Club of Jacksonville, serves on the East Central Alabama Alzheimer’s Walk board, and is a dedicated volunteer. She and her husband, Ronald Wayne Hurst, live in Jacksonville and are proud grandparents to Josey and Ellie.

For her dedication to service, community involvement, and promotion of Jax State, Ellen Tibbetts Hurst is recognized as the 2025 Alumna of the Year.