JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jacksonville State University has announced Mark Edwards and Jamie "Red" and Donna Etheredge as the 2024–25 recipients of the Jimmy Bryan Award, presented annually by the Jacksonville State Athletic Hall of Fame Committee. The award recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication have made significant and lasting contributions to the success of Gamecock Athletics.
 
Named for the late Jimmy Bryan, a longtime Birmingham News sportswriter and devoted friend of Jax State, the award honors those who exemplify his passion for storytelling, integrity, and steadfast commitment to Jacksonville State University.

Mark Edwards
 For nearly four decades, Mark Edwards has been one of Alabama's most respected sports journalists, covering countless moments that have defined athletics across the state — including many of Jacksonville State's greatest triumphs. A gifted storyteller and mentor, Edwards spent more than 35 years in newspaper sports departments, culminating in his role as Senior Editor for Sports and Online at The Anniston Star, where his thoughtful coverage and insight became a staple for Gamecock fans.
 
Edwards joined The Anniston Star in 2013 after more than two decades at The Decatur Daily. He served as Sports Editor until 2020, then transitioned to Senior Editor until his retirement in July 2025. Known for his integrity, mentorship, and deep respect for the subjects he covered, Edwards led talented reporting staffs, wrote award-winning stories and columns, and expanded the paper's digital presence across Alabama. A University of Alabama graduate, his career began at The Crimson White before moving to The Birmingham News.
 
Through his professionalism and passion, Mark Edwards elevated the profile of Jax State Athletics and helped tell its story with accuracy, fairness, and heart — earning a place among the most respected figures to chronicle the Gamecock legacy.
 
Jamie "Red" and Donna Etheredge
Few couples have demonstrated greater commitment to Jacksonville State University than Jamie "Red" and Donna Etheredge, whose decades of service, leadership, and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on both the University and the Jacksonville community.
 
A native of Thomaston, Alabama, Jamie "Red" Etheredge has devoted his life to public service. He served four terms as Mayor of Greenville, Alabama, and was appointed by Governor George C. Wallace in 1983 as Director of the Alabama Development Office. His extensive leadership record includes serving as President of the Alabama League of Municipalities, the Alabama Sunbelt Conference, the National Tennessee Walking Horse Association, and the Alabama Santa Gertrudis Association, as well as National Director and Chaplain of the Alabama Jaycees.
 
Etheredge joined the Jacksonville State University Board of Trustees in 2000 and served as Vice Chairman of the Athletic Committee, where he became a passionate advocate for Gamecock Athletics — helping strengthen programs, expand facilities, and deepen ties between the University and the community. He also represented Jax State on the Town & Gown Committee, fostering partnerships between the City of Jacksonville and the University.
 
Mrs. Donna Etheredge, a retired faculty member from the JSU College of Nursing, shares her husband's lifelong devotion to education and service. A graduate of Valley Head High School and John C. Calhoun Community College, she dedicated her career to preparing future generations of nurses with skill and compassion.
 
Their leadership, generosity, and unwavering support for the Gamecock family embody the true spirit of the Jimmy Bryan Award.
 
A Tradition of Excellence and Dedication
The 2024–25 recipients reflect the core values for which the Jimmy Bryan Award was established — integrity, service, and lasting commitment to Jacksonville State University. Both Mark Edwards and the Etheredges have enriched the lives of countless students, athletes, and community members through their words, work, and example.
 
The Jimmy Bryan Award honorees will be recognized during Jax State's Athletic Hall of Fame banquet next Friday evening, Nov. 28, on the Club Level of AmFirst Stadium.
 
For more information on the Hall of Fame banquet click HERE.