JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jacksonville State University has named Anthony Kingston, Assistant Superintendent of Technology with Alabaster City Schools, as its 2026 Alumnus of the Year.
The award, presented by the university’s National Alumni Association, honors Kingston’s contributions to educational technology, his community involvement, and his continued support of his alma mater.
"I am humbled and honored to be selected as the Jacksonville State University 2026 Alumnus of the Year. JSU played an integral role in my personal growth and professional success. As a first-generation college student and former student-athlete, Jax State provided me with a quality education, invaluable experiences, and lifelong friendships. Thank you to JSU for this special honor and recognition. I am deeply grateful," Kingston said.
Kingston earned two degrees from Jacksonville State, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems in 1993 and a Master of Business Administration in 1998.
Throughout his career in public education, Kingston has specialized in integrating instructional technology into classroom environments to support student learning and educator training. In his current role with Alabaster City Schools, he led the Warrior Device Initiative, which deployed more than 8,000 Chromebooks to students across the district.
His previous work included directing Jacksonville City Schools' One to World Initiative, a 1-to-1 program that provided iPads to 1,500 students and was recognized as an Apple Distinguished Program.
In 2015, the Alabama Department of Education named Kingston the recipient of the Chiquita Marbury Technology Award. His professional designations include Certified Educational Technology Leader and Alabama Chief Technology Officer.
Kingston’s connection to Jacksonville State dates back to his undergraduate years, when he was a four-year letterman for the Gamecocks men’s basketball team. He remains active with the university as a Lifetime Member of the Jax State National Alumni Association, president of the Jax State Men's Basketball Alumni Network, and a committee member for the Jax State Athletic Foundation.
Beyond his work in education and alumni affairs, Kingston serves on the board of directors for the Birmingham Tip Off Club and is a graduate of both Leadership Calhoun County and Leadership Shelby County.