Shonny Kier Cooke

The event celebrated the graduation of 11 high school seniors who earned associate degrees through the Early College Program, a partnership between Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) and the Greene County School System. Speakers congratulated the students for earning at least 60 college credits while in high school and highlighted the successful collaborative efforts between PVCC and the school system regarding faculty, curriculum, and scheduling. The community's strong support for education, evidenced by fundraising for scholarships and the creation of the Eugene Jeppi Center, was also acknowledged. Student speakers shared their experiences, noting how the program provided academic challenges, exposure to college life, and exploration of future career paths such as engineering, English education, biology, architecture, and sociology. The superintendent noted the program's growth, with increased participation in dual enrollment courses across multiple grade levels.

The meeting included updates from various college departments, including Technology Services, Human Resources, and Institutional Research. Key discussion points included the implementation of the strategic plan, budget planning for FY25, and updates on building and grounds projects, such as the Bolick Center's construction and a vacated space study. The board also reviewed and discussed the college's strategic priorities and metrics related to communication, teaching, student support, and finance.

The meeting included discussion of the president's annual goals, a review of the status of annual goal completion, and the sharing of a form to be used for the president's evaluation. The board also discussed strategic planning and external scanning, including identifying community leaders for future involvement with the college. Updates were provided on various college activities, including the 50th Anniversary Celebration, new hires, and the Educational Foundation's financial status. Reports from different divisions such as Instruction and Student Affairs, Technology Services, and Institutional Research were presented.

This strategic plan, titled "Accelerate Opportunity," outlines the Virginia Community College System's direction through 2030. It is structured around five core pillars: developing Virginia's talent, reaching more Virginians, delivering education to today's learners, supporting today's learners, and investing in Virginia's workforce. The plan aims to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, credentials, and degrees for 21st-century careers, expand the talent pipeline for Virginia employers, ensure educational excellence and equity, provide comprehensive student support, and secure financial sustainability for the colleges.

The 2018 Strategic Plan for Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) serves as a roadmap, identifying institutional priorities and guiding annual planning and budgetary decisions. It focuses on four key institutional priorities: Student Success, Access to Education, Economic and Workforce Development, and Resources to Support the College's Mission, Vision, and Values. The plan aims to enhance PVCC's role as a leader and innovator in post-secondary education, fostering student success, community vitality, and lifelong learning by responding to state and national priorities, student needs, and community insights, with an emphasis on institutional effectiveness and desired outcomes.