Preparing for the Future, Empowering Young MindsVirginia Western is helping to ensure a bright future for the region’s youth by preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow.

Geology, Geography, and Generosity Former Professor Hugh Smith continues to make a difference in students’ lives outside the classroom.

All in the FamilyFor the Stinnett family, an education from Virginia Western became a family affair.

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14

FeatureS

ContentS

Above – Participants in the Tasty Technology Camp, sponsored by the Educational Foundation, put their hard work to the test. Cover – Current Virginia Western student Caitlin Hodges examines the state-of-the-art technology available to VWCC students. Below – VWCC Racing once again takes the top spot among community colleges at a recent competition.

Dear Friends:

The Virginia Western educational Foundation has a lot of great things going on, and the impact is beginning to be felt across the region. In my last letter, I introduced some details regarding the Salem Community College access Program (SCCaP as we like to abbreviate it). today, I’d like to give you an update on how the program is going, and where this success could possibly lead.The City of Salem and the Virginia Western Community College educational Foundation established a public/private partnership to provide opportunities for 2008 Salem High School graduates to continue their education at Virginia Western Community College in preparation for good, well-paying jobs within the region and/or transfer to a 4-year college. The goal of the project is to promote an educated and well-qualified workforce for the City of Salem and to provide an incentive for young people to remain in the area. This is a pilot program and is funded on a year-to-year basis. It was anticipated that 50 students would take advantage of the opportunity. of the 270 students who graduated with a Standard or advanced Studies Diploma from Salem High School, 24% chose to participate in the program. The Foundation has accepted 64 students into the program for fall 2008. This represents a 16% increase in total

enrollment of newly graduated Salem High School students to Virginia Western compared to fall 2007 (based on 2007 part-time and full-time enrollment).although this is still in the pilot project phase, these early results are so positive that we are looking at how this program can be adapted to other localities in the region. Meaningful discussions are being held with the City of roanoke at several levels, and the initial results are quite encouraging. Imagine the potential impact to City students if they could be told in 4th grade

– “You are going to college.” In a nutshell, that is the conversation that the Foundation wants every 4th grade student in the roanoke region to have. Get to know the Virginia Western educational Foundation and get involved. Help us make this positive impact felt across our entire region. Imagine the impact.

Sincerely,

russell H. ellis, PresidentVirginia Western Community College educational Foundation

FroM tHe PreSIDent’S DeSk

Impacting our Region

Impact is published by the Virginia Western educational Foundation, Inc. for donors, alumni, and friends of Virginia Western Community College. Comments and suggestions may be sent to VWCC educa-tional Foundation, P.o. Box 14007, roanoke, Va 24038-4007 or by calling (540) 857-8914.

President russell H. ellis

Vice President James W. arend

Secretary edwin C. Hall

Treasurer Charles a. Saldarini

Immediate Past President Donna L. Mitchell

Ex Officio MembersWilliam M. Hackworthrobert H. Sandel

Ad Hoc MemberG. Michael Pace, Jr.

At-Large Members J. andrew archerThomas r. BagbyBarry W. BairdMartha Bruce Boggsr. Daniel Carson, Jr.Dorothy S. CliftonClark M. ColeGlen C. Combskatherine elliottronald r. HareBarry L. HendersonStanard F. LanfordCynthia D. LawrenceWilliam L. Lee

Gerald Pace, Sr.James W. Thweatt, Jr.Michael e. WarnerW. Lee Wilhelm, IIIDiane D. WolffDouglas r. Wright

Directors Emeriti G. Len BooneG. Franklin FlippinWilliam H. Fralin, Jr.John r. Francis, Jr.Barbara B. Lemonelizabeth W. PayneDonald G. SmithJohn B. Williamson, III

eDuCatIonaL FounDatIon BoarD oF DIreCtorS

For more information on the Virginia Western Educational Foundation and its programs or activities, please contact:Katherine F. Strickland, Executive Director

Phone: (540) 857-6020 | kstrickland@virginiawestern.eduWanda L. DiMarco, Administrative & Office Specialist

Phone: (540) 857-6371 | wdimarco@virginiawestern.eduLinda J. Fayed, Fiscal Technician

Phone: (540) 857-7312 | lfayed@virginiawestern.eduErik W. Williams, Alumni Relations &

Annual Giving Coordinator Phone: (540) 857-8914 | ewilliams@virginiawestern.edu

From the President

Bits and Bites

DePartMentS24

Donors

alumni in the news

47

Cheryl Cunningham ‘86, ChairAnne Hogan ‘76, Vice ChairJimmy Holt ‘83Barbara Maberry ‘03Donna Mitchell ‘81

Deb Saunders ‘93Shirl Lamanca ‘75Sonya Ranson ‘85Roger Bellini ‘09, SGa President

aLuMnI CounCIL MeMBerS

� • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • �

EmployEE CampaIgnVirginia Western employees raised a record $30,848 during the fourth annual employee Giving Campaign that ran from august 18 to September 26 of this year. an initiative of the Foundation’s 2008 – 2009 “Imagine. Inspire. Impact.” annual Giving Campaign, employee contributions went to support the emergency Book Fund, the Student emergency Fund, the employee Giving Scholarship, the employee Family Scholarship or scholarships/funds of the employee’s choice. a special thank-you goes to Foundation Board members and local businesses who donated weekly prizes for participants in the campaign.

sCholaRshIp stats96 area students awarded scholarships for fall ‘08 and spring ‘09 semester

• total amount awarded is $121,622.00, an increase of

$33,554.68 over the previous year.• Since november 2007,

the following scholarships have been established: Dr. George

k. Bowers Youth Haven Sanctuary endowed Scholarship •

raymond and Melvin Hubbard endowed

Scholarship • Peter and roseta Skelly endowed Scholarship

• Dolores Martin Skelly endowed Scholarship • Judy

Hackworth Memorial annual Scholarship • Gertrude

Light Hubbard annual Scholarship • raymond

and Melvin Hubbard annual Scholarship • Donna

L. Mitchell Commonwealth Legacy Scholarship • John

Morris roslyn educational Scholarship • The impact that these

scholarships have on Virginia Western and its students is tremendous. We

thank all of our donors for helping our students to imagine the possibilities

for the future through an education here at Virginia Western.

Imagine. Inspire. Impact.

BItS & BIteS2008 - 2009 annUal ContRIBUtoRsas of 10/16/2008

LEADERSHIP SOCIETY $5,000 - $9,999Mrs. Grace B. taylor

COMMUNITY PARTNERS $1,000 - $4,999anonymous

Barry and alison Baird

Mrs. Dorothy S. Clifton

Dennis r. Cronk

Faith Janney -e

Ms. Cheryl C. Miller -e

Dr. albert S. roslyn

Mr. & Mrs. Donald G. Smith

Dr. & Mrs. Chuck terrell -e

in memory of Pat Morgan

Mr. & Mrs. James W. Thweatt, Jr.

DEAN’S SOCIETY $500 - $999Dr. J. andrew archer in honor of Carol Clower

Dr. John S. Capps -e

Mr. & Mrs. r. Daniel Carson, Jr.

Clark & karen Cole

Mr. & Mrs. russell H. ellis

Dr. Virginia Garden -e in memory of Dr. Donna Harpold

Bill, andrew & elizabeth Hackworth in memory of Judy Hackworth

Dr. David C. Hanson -e

ronald Hare

ellen P. Holtman -e in memory of Louis Bass

anne B. kornegay -e in memory of Shannon Crouse

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Lawrence

Sandra rakes McMinnis -e in memory of Mr. & Mrs. Glenn W. Rakes

Ms. Donna L. Mitchell

G. Michael Pace, Jr.

Lynn Painter -e

Jim Poythress -e

Mr. & Mrs. Charles a. Saldarini

Sandy Shelton

kay and Wayne Strickland -e

allen and Pamela trigger -e

Brenda Lee Xeroteres -e in honor of Christopher Abblett

Danielle and ed Yarber

Mr. & Mrs. Gary C. Young -e

SCHOLAR SOCIETY $250 - $499 anonymous

tommy amos -e

Grady and Lori Baker -e in honor of Student Services Division

Brucie Boggs and Chip Dondrea

Glen and Marsha Combs

nancy B. Cook -e in memory of Beth Ramos

nancy e. Francisco -e in memory of Yolanda Salyers

Mr. & Mrs. Barry L. Henderson

Dan Horine -e

Lynn Hancock Hurt -e in memory of Wanda L. Basham

Shirl Duke Lamanca -e in memory of Hilton Holdren, III

Carlton and Melody Mabe -e

David and Mary Jo Mitchell

tara L. nepper -e

Susan Quesenberry -e

Martha roberson -e

richard and Deanna Shoemaker in honor of our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren

Brian Sieveking -e

Patsy and John Starnes

Mr. albert W. Stewart in memory of Prof. James E. Nelson

Mr. Jeff Strom -e

Ms. natasha taylor -e

Marla S. Whiteside -e

erik W. Williams -e

Mr. & Mrs. Douglas r. Wright

Deborah a. Yancey -e

Ms. kelsey Yardley -e

FRIENDS $100 - $249 anonymous (11)

Gary M. adkins -e

William alexander -e

amy anguiano -e

Continued on page 6

BItS & BIteS

laRgEst plannEd gIft In CollEgE’s hIstoRy RECEIvEdThe Virginia Western Community College educational Foundation recently announced the receipt of the largest planned gift in the

College’s history. The life insurance policy purchased by Hall & associates, Inc. as a part of ed and Glenna Hall’s estate will create an endowed fund that will support the Hall associates Career and employment assistance Center in perpetuity. For more information on how you can support Virginia Western through a planned gift, please contact the Foundation at 857.6020.

� • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • �

William a. Salyers, Jr. -e in memory of William & Yolanda Salyers

Dr. & Mrs. robert H. Sandel -e

James Sargent -e

Dan Semones -e

Gene and Linda Stuckey -e

Debra Thomas -e

Dr. radford Thomas and Sue Steele Thomas -e in memory of Fred & Bessie Steele

Lora S. Vasiliauskas -e

W. Lee Wilhelm, III

Ms. Yolanda Williams -e

Dr. elizabeth Wilmer -e

Sharlona Wimmer -e

Bill Work -e

CONTRIBUTORS $1 - $99 anonymous (9)

Fredona aaron -e

Lee allen -e

Julia andrews -e

Brenda C. ashcraft -e

amy Balzer -e

Carolyn L. Baratta -e

Ms. Betsy Boardwine -e

Jennifer Bobbitt -e

Dr. Carrie Cao -e

Dr. annemarie Carroll -e

Ms. Dori V. Cawley -e

Becky Chauncey -e

Ms. Heidi Christopher -e

kristel L. Clark -e

Carolyn Cleiland -e

Lorraine Conklin -e

Pam Conner -e in honor of Callie Conner, my granddaughter

Lynn Crane -e

Leo & Sharon Cullen -e

Cheryl V. Cunningham, rtr -e

Linda S. Davis -e in honor of Donna Abbatello

Mr. Corvin Davis -e

andrew J. DeLeo -e

Ms. Shelia B. Delp

Gary L. Dent -e

terry Drumheller -e

BItS & BIteS

Continued on page 18

Gilbert and Sharon armour -e in memory of Nicholas E. Janney

Ms. Cristin Barrett -e

nicole Bell -e

Mr. John Berardi -e

kathryn Boylan -e

ruby Brogan -e

Brad and Yvonne Burkholder -e in memory of Clyde Jones

Carroll Family -e

Dr. & Mrs. richard L. Clark, Jr. -e

Mr. William W. Clingempeel

Leah k. Coffman -e

Bob and Sally Crawford -e

Wanda and Paul DiMarco -e

Linda e. Durham, Ph.D. -e

kim ellis -e

Linda and Jerry Fayed -e in honor of Colin, Sophia, Lana & Ellis

richard Gaynor -e

Mike Greer -e

ronald Hare

David W. Harrison -e in honor of B Bagby (in keeping the arts alive!)

ann r. kakouras -e

George kegley

anne koon -e

rachelle koudelik-Jones -e

Dr. Gloria Lindsay -e

owen Lofthus, II -e in memory of Dr. Donna Harpold

Dr. Mary B. Loritsch -e

karen P. McCall -e

Heidi McClintic -e in memory of Dr. Gare LeCompte

Maggie McDaniel -e

Melanie Moore -e

Mona r. Moore -e

Dr. ann H. Moser -e

Joyce Music

Meg and rick Patterson -e

Mary Y. Perry -e

Pat Price -e

Dr. avis C. Quinn -e

Janet rathbun -e

karen rayl -e in memory of Curtis F. Orpin, Sr.

robyn reid -e in memory of Mark Harrell

BItS & BIteS

hall assoCIatEsCaREER CEntER CoRnERQuestion: What are some tips to writing a successful resume? Answer:

• use your resume as way to market yourself to a prospective employer.

• use a clear, concise format that is easy to read, with a professional feel and look.

• keep your resume as concise as possible and to as few pages as possible.

• use industry-specific terms or action verbs wherever possible.

• aLWaYS have someone else review your resume for typographical or other errors.

• remember, you don’t have to include everything on your resume; you will be able to expand upon your resume in the interview.

The Hall associates Career and employment assistance Center would be happy to help you create an effective resume. Contact them at (540) 857-7298 or careercenter@virginiawestern.edu. They look forward to hearing from you!

alumni in the newsThomas L. Foster ’85 & ‘88 of roanoke, Va., former Virginia State Police area commander in the Bureau of Field operations

at the Bedford (Va.) Field office, has been named deputy police chief at Virginia tech. a two-time graduate of Virginia Western, Foster went on to receive a bachelor’s degree from Mary Baldwin College and a master of public administration degree from Virginia tech. He also received two post-baccalaureate certificates - one from Virginia tech and one from Virginia Commonwealth university. In 2002, Foster received the Virginia State Police Superintendent’s award of Merit, the second-highest honor awarded by the Virginia Department of State Police.In his new position, Foster will assist the chief of the Virginia tech Police Department in providing leader-ship, strategic planning, and admin-istrative direction for the campus

police department. He will oversee the daily operations of the depart-ment, which provides vehicle patrol, bicycle patrol, foot patrol, traffic law enforcement, traffic crash investiga-tions, criminal investigation, digni-tary protection, and crowd control at campus events. The Virginia tech Police Department jurisdiction spans 2,600 acres, and the department serves more than 27,000 students, 5,000 faculty and staff, and thou-sands of visitors each year.

Jimmy Holt ’83 of rocky Mount, Va. was recently named the 2008 technologist of the Year by the graduating students in the radiography

program here at Virginia Western. This award is given out annually to one technologist from area clinical locations and is chosen by the stu-dent interns themselves to recognize outstanding clinical instruction and assistance.

Congratulations to the newly elected alumni Council Chair Cheryl Cun-ningham ’86 - radiography and Vice-Chair anne Hogan ’76 - nursing. If you are interested in serving on the alumni Council and helping to shape the future of the Virginia Western alumni association, please contact erik Williams, alumni relations Coordinator, at 857.8914 or ewilliams@virginiawestern.edu.

Please send contributions for Alumni In the News to alumni@virginiawestern.edu or call 8�7.891�.

vIsIon 2013Virginia Western’s 2008-2013 Strategic Plan, Vision 2013, was officially launched during the fall 2008 In-Service presentation. Dr. Sandel, Presi-dent of Virginia Western, has identified the strategic planning initiative as one of Virginia Western’s highest priorities. to view the plan, please visit virginiawestern.edu/strategicplanning/

6 • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • 7

Instead of “sitting through first-period english,” Franklin County High School graduate and current Virginia Western

student Caitlin Hodges spent every morning of her senior year exploring the experiential world of mechatronics – much to her delight.“Mecha” what?

no, it’s not the latest Wii or gaming device, but it is a cutting-edge approach to understanding how technological systems like this work. although the concept—which originated in the Japanese electronics

industry—has been around since the 60s, mechatronics applies modern technology to combine mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics, information technology and systems thinking. It is a new state-of-the-art program available to Virginia Western students, and – thanks to Western’s new regional academy for advanced technology – eleventh- and twelfth-grade students from 11 high schools across Western’s service area are participating as well.

Beginning this fall, the academy opens as a center for the

pREpaRIng foR thE fUtURE,

EmpowEring Young minds

Thanks to her participation in the pilot Regional Academy for Advanced Technology, Caitlin Hodges will graduate next spring with

her Certificate in Career Studies and will be able to continue on and receive her Associate’s in 2010. Through the Regional Academy,

Virginia Western is working to prepare the region’s youth for advanced technology positions throughout the Roanoke Valley and beyond.

8 • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1

study of engineering, advanced technology in mechatronics and culinary arts. “our goal is to be the governor’s school for technology,” says Jim Poythress, Dean of Business, engineering and technology Division.

Hodges was one of nine students nominated to participate in the pilot regional academy for advanced technology program at Franklin County last year, along with kristi Porter. “I’ve always been technical,” Porter says. “I like to know how things work.” and growing up in a family full of men, Porter has been drawn to the automotive field—not an easy industry for women to enter and succeed. When Porter saw the presentation video of what she would be doing through the academy, she says, “It blew my mind; I was amazed!”

She liked the versatility mechatronics offered by blending electronics, computer technology and mechanics, and the fact that she wasn’t restricted to learning just one skill. In the first two weeks of class, Caitlin and her classmates assembled a CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing) cell, which taught them about product lines and quality. From there, the possibilities of exploration were endless. The class was required to do a reverse engineering project, which called for students to take an actual product and draw all of its components using computer software. For instance, Hodges chose a hair dryer and Porter selected a chess set—that encompassed over 100 parts, including resistors and wires—for the assignment. once all the components were drawn in the program, they put the parts together in an assembly file and made the product work on the computer. Then a rapid prototype machine using chemicals shaped all the components into parts, creating a working model.

Being the community’s college, Virginia Western developed the regional academy for advanced technology in response

to area business partners’ and employers’ tremendous need for skilled employees in engineering, technology and manufacturing. and it’s not just a local concern, according to Poythress. The united States is not educating enough people in engineering Sciences to replace those who are retiring. He says, “We will have more jobs available than people to fill those jobs over the next 30 years.”

Virginia Western is doing its part locally to fill the gap, while improving economic development. The academy, which offers dual enrollment credits, gets kids involved sooner, reaching eleventh- and twelfth-grade students with creative, capable minds and a strong interest in academics and technology. “We want these students to know this is an exciting, available career,” says Dr. rick Clark, assistant professor of engineering. “Without these types of potential

employees, technical-minded CFos, and chief engineers, we won’t keep our status locally or globally.”

Middle school children are also getting more exposure to technology through projects like the national Formula 1 race car competition and the Summer Science and technology Camps. Supported largely by the Virginia Western educational Foundation’s Innovation Grants, the Summer Science and technology Camps are week-long camps focusing on robotics and mechatronics. Students program, design and build their own autonomous robot, using sensors and current technology like Bluetooth. By the end of camp, students have their own robot to take home. “They are essentially turning their ideas into reality, which is what engineering is all about,” says Clark.

today’s employees in advanced manufacturing and engineering need to be diversified, multi-skilled individuals who know how to troubleshoot and problem-solve, since mechatronics are everywhere. “Most everything is a mechatronic system,” says Porter. That’s because electronics

control mechanical systems in everything from washing machines to coffee makers to automobiles. “It’s important for students to know how things work together,” says Dan Horine of the Business, engineering, and technology advanced Manufacturing Division. “We want them to think about the system ahead of time.”

What’s more, students are working with cutting-edge technology. all the lab components are identical to those used at companies like Maple Leaf, novozymes, Plastics 1, etc. “our kids don’t leave the classroom trying to make a connection with what they see in the real world,” says Horine. “They see it.”

Alexander Gardner (front left), Joshua Schellenberger (front center), and Kansley Vinent (front right) all prepare to see which cars they built would come out on top in the race to the finish line as fellow camp participants root them on.

‘most EvERythIng Is a mEChatRonIC systEm.’ that’s

BECaUsE ElECtRonICs ContRol mEChanICal systEms In

EvERythIng fRom washIng maChInEs to CoffEE makERs

to aUtomoBIlEs.

10 • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • 11

most people probably aren’t aware that the united States is divided into 23 geographic/geologic settings and that roanoke is easily

accessible to 5 of those. But those privy to any of Dr. Hugh Smith’s geology or geography courses at Virginia Western were sure to know. Chances are they visited those settings, too, on their class field trips.

The geography that surrounds Western is one of the key reasons Smith came to roanoke, and it’s one of the reasons he has stayed—all the while generously sharing his time and talents with his students.

although he has been retired since 1986, Dr. Smith is still giving to Virginia Western students. He has made a significant gift to the Virginia Western educational Foundation’s annual Fund to support scholarships for future students. a product of a two-year college education himself—he received his associate degree in geology from San Francisco Junior College—Dr. Smith wants to help others get the same jump-start on education that his college gave him. Dr. Smith says, “I was not a great student in the earlier days, but junior college gave me the leverage I needed to get going with my education.”

In fact, Dr. Smith didn’t stop his educational pursuit until he received his doctorate from the university of utah at age 48. after earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the university of California-Berkeley, Dr. Smith went to work for Shell oil Company as a

micropaleontologist. In other words, he worked with small, single-cell organisms to date various geological materials used to identify oil-containing formations. But the oil industry wasn’t for Dr. Smith, and after 10 years in the business he decided teaching was a profession better suited for him.

The head of the Department of natural Science at Virginia Western responded to an ad Dr. Smith posted in a professional publication and invited him to roanoke for an interview. “I was very impressed with the department and was treated so well here during my visit,” says Smith. “I knew the geographic setting here made this an ideal place to teach geology and geography.”

Dr. Smith relocated his family to roanoke to accept the teaching position at Western. “The longer I was here, the more I decided I had made a very fine move,” says Dr. Smith, who loved the area almost as much as teaching. “The most rewarding part of teaching was the contact with the students—dealing with them in life situations and seeing some of them go on to earn Ph.D.s, as well as other degrees.” Dr. Smith adds, “Having a part in helping students pursue advanced education was a major consideration for me to take the job at Western.”

today, Dr. Smith continues to play a role in helping students pursue their education through his generous gift. When asked what he misses most about teaching, he doesn’t hesitate. “oh, I miss the students – but definitely not all the grading that had to be done!”

gEology, gEogRaphy & Generosity

Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • 1�

Legacy Society Members

Martha and William Adams (dec.)

Ruby M. Brogan Lawrence H. Hamlar (dec.)

Stanard F. LanfordGertrude Light Hubbard

(dec.)Donna L. Mitchell

Mary B. Moses (dec.)Mr. and Mrs. Bernard F.

OdaszJ. William Wilcher

It’s common to run into siblings who have graduated from Virginia Western, but it’s not every day you run into an entire family of Virginia Western graduates! Such is the

case with Deb Saunders, a 1994 and 2000 Virginia Western graduate, and her four other brothers and sisters – Bill Stinnett 1992, Virginia Stinnett-Williams 1991, Joseph Stinnett 2000 and Cynthia Stinnett 2002.

The family’s story begins in Chesterton, Indiana, where her mother and father, Gretchen and Harold Stinnett, raised their family of 5 children. after Harold’s retirement from Bethlehem Steel, Deb’s father moved the family to roanoke, where he took a position working as a sales rep for Mohawk Chemical. The family took off for the old Dominion with Deb, a junior in high school; Virginia, fresh out of high school; Bill attending Purdue university; and the younger Joseph and Cynthia in tow. Bill began to research his options to continue his education in Virginia. His search took him, and eventually all his siblings, to Virginia Western. “While Mom and Dad were not college graduates themselves, they always encouraged us to go to college. My oldest brother, Bill, set the pace for all the rest of us to follow,” comments Deb. With her brother and sister leading the way, Deb soon followed in their footsteps and enrolled at Western. “From my brother and sisters’ experience, I knew VWCC was affordable and close to home,” says Deb. “Juggling a full load of classes and working 30+ hours a week was very challenging – but if Bill and Jen could do it, so could I,” Deb explained. Deb worked her way through college waiting tables at various restaurants in the Valley

and graduated with degrees in Management and accounting.

“I loved my experience at Western! There were so many good professors who put me on the right path in life.” states Deb. “I especially remember Sally Branscome, my accounting teacher. She was a hardcore, tough teacher, but what I needed to excel and stay on the right track.” not only did Deb excel in life, she successfully transferred and graduated from the radford university 2+2 program on Virginia Western’s campus. She is currently acting General Manager for Grant Broadcasting Systems II, LLC, which runs two television networks, FoX 21/27 & CW5. While Virginia Western helped Deb excel, it also helped her entire family. Her oldest brother, Bill, transferred to Virginia tech after attending Western and obtained his Master’s Degree in Mechanical engineering. He is currently a manager for suspension engineering for FISkar automotive, Inc. out of California. Virginia is the owner and operator of Diverse title & Settlement agency, Inc. in roanoke. Joseph also transferred to Virginia tech and obtained his Bachelor’s in electrical engineering. He is a Lead technical engineer for Wireless Safety research for Ford Motor Company and also runs an It services business in Detroit, Michigan. Cynthia is a stay-at-home mom of 3 boys.

not only did the Stinnett children all graduate from Virginia Western, but so did Joe’s wife natalie and Deb’s husband Mike. For Deb, Bill, Virginia, Joseph, and Cynthia, attending Virginia Western was not just an educational experience, but a family one as well.

all In the FaMily

1� • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1

rhonda n. Perdue -e

rose Peters -e

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffery L. Poff -e

John D. Price -e

Joyce and randy rakes

Jeff rakes -e

Jim ramsdel -e

Pat rhodes -e

Martha richardson -e in memory of Shannon Crouse

Jerry J. Schaefer in memory of my son, Jerry John Schaefer

Chasity Schaffer -e

Bryan Schaubach -e

Ms. Denise Schuh -e

Bonny Simpson -e in memory of Mason Metz

richard S. Skelley -e

Christine Stanley -e

Cathy Swain -e

taaza

rebecca talbot -e

natalie Mace talbott -e

Susan C. taylor -e

rick and Sue terrell

Claire Thomas, CPS -e

Ms. Belinda Thomas

Brenda tilley -e

tong’s Thai too

Ms. tina trudeau -e

Mrs. tara Vance -e

Debora Q. Weeks -e in memory of Margaret Hollandsworth Quesenberry

Felicia White -e in honor of Mr. Cecil White

Joanie White -e

Mrs. Bonnie V. Whitley -e

edna Whittier

Melissa Williams -e

Dianne L. Williams -e

Gracie M. Wilson -e

kevin G. Witter -e

Holly a. Woodson -e

Pamela D. Woody -e in memory of Leon Hooper

Mr. Lionel t. Woody -e

Barbara Wright -e

-e denotes VWCC employee

BItS & BIteSBill east -e

Dr. Mark Q. emick, Sr. -e

Cathy Falligant -e

amy S. Fenster -e

Brooke n. Ferguson -e

Mia Webb Fittz -e

kimberly French -e

Ms. Judy e. Garst

Jeffrey S. Gillette -e

Mr. ricky Gossage

Marion Grammer -e

Mr. Michael e. Green

elizabeth Griffin -e

Dr. & Mrs. Harold B. Haley

tracy Harmon -e

Craig S. Harris -e

kent and Heather Harris -e

eddie and Susan Haynes -e in memory of John S. Carson

Ms. Sheila D. Haynes -e

Heavenly Ham

Dr. ruth Z. Hendrick -e in memory of Nadine Ingram

Sarah Higgins -e

Mr. Grady Hill -e

J. Lee Hipp -e

kathy P. Holland -e

Mr. & Mrs. Gary Houff -e in honor of Gary Houff, Sarah Houff & Callie Houff

Steve Huff -e

Ms. Mildred Huffman -e

Lyn Hursey -e

Mr. David Hutchins

Carly Johnson -e in honor of Paul and Connie Johnson

Johnny Johnson -e

Jenifer kurtz -e

ann F. Layne -e

Judy Lienhardt -e

Shirley S. Long -e

Mike Lucas -e

amy Chambers Maiolo -e

tony Maiolo -e

Mr. Charles o. Markham, Jr.

Constance W. McClain, M.ed., rtr -e

Laura Milliman -e

Judy nunn -e

BItS & BIteS

City of salem Community College access program pilot a successThe City of Salem and the Virginia Western Community College educational Founda-tion established a public/private partnership to provide opportuni-ties for 2008 Salem High School graduates to continue their educa-tion at Virginia Western Com-munity College in preparation for good, well-paying jobs within the region and/or transfer to a 4-year college. The goal of the project is to promote an educated and well-qualified workforce for the City of Salem and to provide an incen-tive for young people to remain in the area. of the 270 students who graduated with a Standard or advanced Studies Diploma from

Salem High School, 24% chose to participate in the program. The Foundation has accepted 64 students into the program for fall 2008. This represents a 16% increase in total enrollment of newly graduated Salem High School students to Virginia West-ern compared to fall 2007 (based on 2007 part-time and full-time enrollment).

Donna Mitchell (center right), immediate past president of the VirginiaWestern Community College educational Foundation, recently received the 2008 Chancellor’s award for Leadership in Philanthropy for her tremendous support of Virginia Western. Also pictured: Russ Ellis (left), President – Virginia Western Educational Foundation, Dr. Glenn Dubois (center left), Chancellor – Virginia Community College System, and Dr. Robert Sandel (right), President – Virginia Western Community College.

Sponsored by the Virginia Western educational Foundation, eight engineer-ing and technology students from Virginia Western traveled to Montreal, Canada to compete in the Society of automotive engineers (Sae) 2008 Mini-Baja competition. The team competed against 122 other colleges from around the world and placed 52nd overall and 1st among community colleges. L-R: Patrick Hall, Thanh Nguyen, Dr. Rick Clark, Ryan Browning, Chris Rybitski (behind vehicle), Everett Braden (inside vehicle), Will Symionow (seated on vehicle), Robert Swaine, and Robbie Mercogliano.

Jonathan e. Barton, 1978 Daphne Boyd, 2003eva Maye Burritt, 1990 ronald k. Callahan, 1971 & 1987arlene Guilliams Carter, 1979 John David Cooley, 1982albert Crowder, 1975 John r. Cutler, 1985Shelia Burnett Delp, 1995 richard t. Driscoll, 1975 & 1976ronald e. england, 1973 Brenda S. Farrell, 1987Barbara Phillips Gaddy, 1978 Suzanne GaffValerie Dudley Garner, 1985 Judy elizabeth Garst, 1973ricky Gossage, 1991 Michael eric Green, 1985ronald (‘76) & tamara Guilliams Sharma HaaseGordon Hancock, 1990 kenneth & Janet Lowe HodnettDavid Hutchins, 1988 Donna Pinkard karr, 1977Charles owen Markham, Jr., 1974 Michael e. Meador, 1978Craig S. Moore Michael D. Morris, 1973 & 1983kim Lorraine novak, 2003 Larry reynolds, 1970alice r. richardson, 1991 kelly Marie Sharp, 1987Joel Dulay Singson, 1995 Joanne G. Smith, 1988Betsey e. Soulsby, 1999 nancy M. Staub, 1985Christy Lynn Stevens, 1986 alise Jean Stewart, 1995Belinda Thomas, 2006 richard W. tomlinson, 1983Vicki L. Waldron, 1981 Gary Michael Webb, 1984 & 1989Sae-Jin Yu, 1981

neW aLuMnI

(between 10/�7/�007 and �/�/�008)

Welcome to the newest members of the Virginia Western Alumni Association! Join your fellow classmates in making a lasting impact on your alma mater by joining the Alumni Association today. Visit www.virginiawestern.edu/alumni for more information.

16 • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • 17

as of 6/30/2008 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE$10,000 +Mr. & Mrs. Bernard odaszal Pollard Memorial FoundationDr. Hugh P. Smith

LEADERSHIP SOCIETY $5,000 - $9,999kathleen H. StuartGrace B. taylor Fred Whitaker Company

COMMUNITY PARTNERS$1,000 - $4,999anonymous (1)access, Inc.avis Construction Company, Inc.Bank of BotetourtBelmont Presbyterian ChurchCabell and Shirley Brand Charitable Lead trustBreakell, Inc. General ContractorsCarilion ClinicCarter Machinery Company, Inc.Mrs. Dorothy S. Clifton through Foundation for Roanoke ValleyThe Commonwealth CouncilDennis r. Cronk through Foundation for Roanoke ValleyDixon, Hubard, Feinour & Brown, Inc.Walter DixonMs. katherine elliottD.D. FisherFoundation for roanoke ValleyMr. Gregory Freeman & Dr. Gudrun FreemanGary J. Harpold, M.D.Leon and Beverly HarrisIntelliworks, Inc.Lamar advertisingMr. & Mrs. John C. Lanford

Stan and elise Lanford through Foundation for Roanoke ValleyMcLeod Family FoundationMs. Cheryl C. Miller -e Ms. Donna L. MitchellPrestige Motorcycle ClubDr. James C. Sears in honor of Dr. Robert H. SandelSource4Dr. Chuck terrell -e in honor of Pat MorganMr. & Mrs. James W. Thweatt, Jr.Mike and Carolyn WarnerPaul and Diane Wolff -e

DEAN’S SOCIETY $500 - $999anonymous (1)anthony F. anderson, esq.The Cartledge Foundation, Inc.Clark & karen ColeMr. & Mrs. Preston M. CollinsWarner DalhouseW. Heywood and Cynthia k. Fralinr. Wayne and Marianne e. GandeeDr. Virginia Garden -e in memory of Dr. Donna HarpoldBill & ann HackworthDr. David C. Hanson -eron Hareellen P. Holtman -e in memory of Dr. Donna HarpoldHometown BankWalter a. HuntBrenda and Steve Jamison in memory of Robert M. Heilanne B. kornegay -e in honor of Allie Virginia HutchersonWilliam and Dana LeeSandra B. McMinnis -e in memory of Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Wood Rakes, my parentselizabeth H. MuseJess newbern, IIInteLoS FoundationG. Michael Pace, Jr.

Lynn Painter -e in memory of Elizabeth Wright PainterMr. & Mrs. Brownie e. Polly, IIIrGC resources, Inc.Charles a. richardsonMr. & Mrs. Charles a. SaldariniMr. & Mrs. Barry L. ShelorSandy Shelton -e Mr. & Mrs. edwin a. SievekingMr. & Mrs. Donald G. SmithMs. Betsey e. SoulsbyMr. albert W. Stewart in memory of Hugh B. Phelps and Prof. James E. NelsonMr. & Mrs. Joseph C. Thomas, Sr.allen and Pamela trigger -eDr. & Mrs. George H. Wall through Foundation for Roanoke Valleyemily and Chip WoodrumBrenda Lee Xeroteres -e

SCHOLAR SOCIETY $250 - $499 anonymous (2)tommy amos -eDr. & Mrs. J. andrew archer in honor of Dr. Roy MilesJim arendGrady and Lori Baker -eMartha S. Barnas -e in memory of Tom BarnasDr. John S. Capps -eMs. karen t. Carpenter -eGlen and Marsha CombsCheryl V. Cunningham, rtr -eBettye V. Davisnancy e. Francisco -e in memory of Nicholas E. Janneyedwin C. and Glenna H. Hallterry and Zana HallMr. & Mrs. Barry L. HendersonDaniel Horine -ekathlyn killianBill and Lorraine LangeCarlton and Melody Mabe -eMelanie Moore -eMr. & Mrs. Johnny e.

Murray, Jr.tara L. nepper -eThomas C. olsen -e in memory of Nicholas E. JanneyGerald PaceJim Poythress -eSusan Quesenberry -eMartha H. roberson -eMr. Carl B. Sherertzrichard and Deanna Shoemaker in honor of our grandchildrenBrian Sieveking -eSouthwest Collision Center, Inc.Patsy and John Starnes in honor of J. Andrew ArcherMr. albert W. Stewart in memory of VWCC Prof. James E. Nelsonkay and Wayne Strickland -e in honor of the Institutional Advancement TeamMr. Jeff Strom -eMarla S. Whiteside -eW. Lee Wilhelm, IIIMr. & Mrs. Joseph B. WrightGary and rhonda Young -e

FRIENDS $100 - $249 anonymous (9)Donna abbatello -eGary M. adkins -eWilliam alexander -eamerican Door & Glass S.W. Virginia, Inc.Mr. & Mrs. Brady andersonMargaret andrews -eandyboo LLCProf. & Mrs. James S. angle -e in memory of Ralph & Ruth Angleamy anguiano -eMr. & Mrs. Barry W. Bairdralph and Lee Bakernicole Bell -eMs. Laura e. BenjaminMichael & teresa Birmingham -ePat BoltFrank and ethel Bonds -eMr. & Mrs. John W. Boyle, Jr.ruby Brogan -e in memory of T.C. and Lonnie Brogan, my parentsMr. & Mrs. C. Whitney

Brown, Jr.Brad and Yvonne Burkholder -e in memory of Clyde JonesSarah k. Burns -eCarroll Family -eDr. annemarie Carroll -eDr. & Mrs. richard L. Clark, Jr. -eMs. Leah Coffman -eJoseph D. Collins -e in memory of Nicholas E. Janneynancy B. Cook -e in memory of Beth Ramosramona Coveny -eMr. Sigmund e. DavidsonWanda and Paul DiMarco -eLinda e. Durham, Ph.D. -eFrank and Lucy ellettMr. & Mrs. russell H. ellisLinda and Jerry Fayed -e in honor of Colin M. Fayed, Sophia A. Fayed and Lana C. FayedFields Construction, Inc.Mr. George k. Fischer, Jr.Broaddus and Luann FitzpatrickMr. & Mrs. James a. Fordrichard Gaynor -eBob and Maryellen GoodlatteMike Greer -ekim Gregory -eColleen Hailey -e in memory of Mary Rockwood McGowanrichard H. Harris, Jr.David W. Harrison -eMichael Henderson -eDavid Hillman -eLynn H. Hurt -e in memory of Wanda Bashamann r. kakouras -eanne koon -eShirl Duke Lamanca -e in honor of Rita H. DavidCheri Lankford -eanna L. Lawsonowen Lofthus, II -eDr. Mary B. Loritsch -eMartin travelMrs. Heidi J. McClintic -e in honor of my children, Emorie Addison & Elliott AlexanderDr. & Mrs. roy G. MilesMona r. Moore -eDr. ann H. Moser -e

William L. and Lucy S. nealnovatechJudith C. nunn -e in honor of Sandra MyersMary Y. Perry -ePat Price -eDr. avis C. Quinn -ekaren rayl -erobyn reid -eMs. Carol S. regerJ. David and Frankie robbins in honor of Donna L. MitchellGerald and eleanor rollerWilliam a. Salyers, Jr. -e in memory of Yolanda Giardino SalyersDr. & Mrs. robert H. Sandel -eJames Sargent -eBryan Schaubach -eCharles and Carol Sliver -eLinda and Gene Stuckey -eStudent Government associationnatalie Mace talbott -eSue Steele Thomas and Dr. radford Thomas -e in memory of Rachel Meier ThomasMr. & Mrs. Paul r. Thomson, Jr. in memory of Paul R. Thomson, Sr., former Chairman of VWCC BoardLora S. Vasiliauskas -eMrs. ralph S. ViaVirginia Western Community College Human resources Dept. in memory of Nicholas E. JanneyDr. & Mrs. Peter a. Wallenborn, Jr.Waterproofing SpecialtiesMr. & Mrs. Cary WebsterDebora Q. Weeks -e in memory of Margaret H. Quesenberrynorman t. Wilhelmerik W. Williams -eMarilee H. Williamson -eelizabeth Wilmer -eMr. Woody WindleyMike and Danielle WiseBarry and Libba WolfeDeborah a. Yancey -eMs. kelsey Yardley -eJames Zeisler, Sr. -e in memory of Mary Burke

CONTRIBUTORS $1 - $99 anonymous (18)Ms. Victoria ainsworthBetty aker -eLee allen -eTheodore D. allenkathryn S. alleyneMs. kristina anderson -eJulia andrews -eJames M. armstrongBrenda C. ashcraft -eB Bagby -eDr. anna Balog -eMr. & Mrs. Peter H. Balzer, Jr. -eMs. Lynn J. BanksMr. George J. BarnesMs. Cristin Barrett -eMs. Lois e. Beck -ePaul n. BelueDon Benson -eHolly M. BishopJim BlackwellJennifer Bobbitt -e in memory of Nicholas E. Janney and Mason MetzMr. & Mrs. alex Bowman, Jr.kathryn Boylan -e in honor of my developmental studentsMr. allen J. BradleyMs. Ginger L. BrownMs. Jacqueline BrubakerMr. Geno a. Buseccaarletha H. Butler -eM. Caldwell ButlerMs. Drema F. CallowayJames J. CampbellDr. Carrie Cao -eCatherine e. CarrollMs. nadine Ingram-Carson -eMs. tisa a. Carterrhonda Cassell -eDori V. Cawley -eBecky Chauncey -eMs. Becky Christley -eMs. Heidi Christopher -ekristel Clark -eCarolyn Cleiland -eLayne Compton -eMr. Michael a. ComptonLorraine Conklin -ePamela Conner -e in memory of Harold & Caroline YoungMary ann Steger ConradMary Beth Cornett -eramona Coveny -eMr. Justin Craig -e

Lynn L. Crane -eMr. Lewis a. CreasyMelanie Crouch -eLeo & Sharon Cullen -eMr. Shelbert G. DanielsLinda S. Davis -eSandra Dechard -e in memory of Carol Dechardandrew J. DeLeo -eGary L. Dent -eChristine Drake -eDr. & Mrs. F. Joseph Duckwall in honor of Stan LanfordMs. rose Marie DudleyMs. Sharene n. DuncombeBill east -eMr. & Mrs. Louis e. ellis in honor of Russ Elliskim ellis-Littlefield -eDr. Mark Q. emick, Sr. -eBrenda S. Farrellamy S. Fenster -eBrooke n. Ferguson -eMrs. Beverly t. Fitzpatrick, Jr.kimberly French -eValerie GarnerBenjamin I. GayleGary G. Gibson -eDr. Jeffrey S. Gillette -e in memory of Dr. Donna HarpoldMr. richard a. GlassMarion Grammer -eGrant Broadcasting Systems II, Inc.Brenda Greenway -eelizabeth Griffin -eSarah M. Grubb -eMs. Fedessa a. GuilliamsMr. & Mrs. F. Gordon HancockHammerhead Hardware, Inc.Mrs. tracy Harmon -ekent and Heather Harris -eGene Harrison -eSheila D. Haynes -eDr. ruth Z. Hendrick -eJudy Hensley -eSarah H. Higgins -eJ. Lee Hipp -eanne H. Hogankathy P. Holland -eMs. Latisha n. HollandMs. Margaret S. HollandJimmy HoltMr. & Mrs. Gary Houff -e in honor of Sarah HouffCathy a. HubbardMrs. Pamela M. Hubbard

Ms. allison L. HumbertLyn Hursey -eCarly H. Johnson -e in honor of Mr. & Mrs. Paul E. Johnsonernest and Becky Johnson -eJohnny Johnson -erebecca Jones -eCharles H. JudgeMs. Christina D. keller -e in memory of Nicholas E. JanneyBetty kellyDr. C. William kirbykristi kirby -erachelle koudelik-Jones -erebecca a. kraemer -eJenifer kurtz -eanne F. Layne -eJudy Lienhardt -eMs. elisabeth V. LileShirley S. Long -eamy Maiolo -etony Maiolo -eConstance W. McClain, M.ed., r.t.(r) -eMaggie McDaniel -eMichael e. MeadorLaney Mofield -e in honor of my grandchildrenCraig S. Moorekelleigh n. MoyerJoyce Music -eMr. & Mrs. William B. nicholsThomas C. olsen -erebecca S. olsonMr. Daniel owenMs. Dianna B. ParrishMeg C. Patterson -erhonda Perdue -erose Peters -eMr. James PotterJack a. PowellJohn D. Price -eMrs. Patricia H. Price -eMr. & Mrs. Carl W. Pugh, Jr.Carol W. PughJeff rakes -eJanet rathbun -eMarianne repko -eLarry reynoldsMartha richardson -eDeStacy roberson -eMrs. Deborah a. SaundersLinda F. Sawyer -eJerry J. Schaefer in memory of my son, Jerry John SchaeferMrs. elizabeth J. Scherrep

Denise Schuh -eJeff Scott -eMr. robert ShortBonny Simpson -e in memory of Mason MetzSarah L. Sink -e in memory of Nicholas E. Janneyrichard S. Skelley -eMrs. kathleen S. SouthersSpa Va - Premier Day SpaMrs. Madaline F. SpickardLaura Stevens -eLinda and Gene Stuckey -eCathy Swain -etaazarebecca talbot -eSusan C. taylor -erick and Sue terrellClare Thomas, CPS -eMs. Brenda D. tilley -etong’s Thai tootownside Gardens, Inc.tina trudeau -etara Vance -eelisabeth von Bulow-LileMr. Bobby Walker -eBetty Byrne WareMs. Barbara J. WarrenMs. Melissa G. Williams -eGracie M. Wilson -eWine GourmetFelicia White -eJoanie White -e in memory of Nicholas E. JanneyLinda a. WhitlockMr. & Mrs. Cranston Williams, Jr.Dianne Williams -eMichael H. WilliamsSuzanne L. WilliamsonMs. Mary t. WilloughbyMr. John D. WineMrs. nancy r. Wingfieldkevin G. Witter -eMr. William C. Woods, Jr.Holly a. Woodson -ePamela D. Woody -e in memory of Marie P. Dillon and Mary Rockwood McGowanWilliam Work -eBarbara Wright -eed and Betty WrightGarry L. WrightJulie YatesMs. Janice a. Young

-e denotes VWCC employee-

2007 - 2008 annUal vwCC EdUCatIonal foUndatIon ContRIBUtoRs

18 • Fall/Winter �008 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Virginia Western Educational Foundation Alumni & Friends News • Volume � • Issue 1 Fall/Winter �008 • 19

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