JMU is one of the most friendly and welcoming campuses. The merit $ issue is due primarily to lack of available funds. Despite record setting graduate satisfaction with the school, the schools endowment is one of the lowest in the state. JMU is working hard to change that with significant emphasis on alumni outreach. Regarding the caliber of the business program, it is easily one of the best in the state with many seniors coming back from summer break with offers in hand from internships with significant firms (PwC; Booz; etc) Best of luck with your decision. It sounds like you have some very good options!