Bluefield University Spire Winter 2025-2026

WINTER 2025-2026

ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZ I NE

Letter

from the President

Dear friends of Bluefield, What a remarkable season it has been! Every day, I am reminded that God is doing something special at Bluefield University. As I walk across campus, I can sense the energy of our student body and the transformation that is occurring in the lives of our students. Our community is alive with purpose, hope, and a deep sense of connection. We are intentionally cultivating a student-centered culture where every decision, renovation, and conversation demonstrates our deep care for the people who make this place feel like home. Whether it’s providing a free study Bible to each student, upgrading residence halls and academic buildings, or creating spaces that promote belonging and worship, we are encouraging both minds and hearts. As I interact with our student body, I am struck by their sincerity and honesty. They notice when we care. They notice when we listen. And they notice the difference when Bluefield feels like family. That, more than any new building or enrollment milestone, is the true

measure of our progress. We are also witnessing incredible momentum, record enrollment, exciting athletic victories, and the introduction of new academic programs that prepare our graduates for meaningful service in a complex world. Yet, even amid growth, we remain anchored to our mission: to be a Christ-centered learning community that prepares transformational leaders. So, as you read this issue of Spire, may you catch a glimpse of the light that’s shining here. From student baptisms to renovated classrooms, from global partnerships to ministry breakthroughs, the Spirit of God is moving in this place, and we are honored to be part of His story together.

With gratitude,

Steve Peterson, Ed.D. President

Letter from the President

2 4

Student News

Coffee with the President Welcomes Student Feedback Study Bibles Gifted to Incoming Students University Hosts 50th Mud Pig Day Shroyer Art Gallery Showcases Student Creations Student Engagement on the Rise Athletics News Esports Program Celebrates First Tournament Win Women’s Golf Honors First Tournament Medalist Bluefield Launches Redesigned Athletics Website Campus News

WINTER 2025-2026

Board of Trustees Mr. Jackson E. Reasor, Jr., Chair Dr. David L. Bailey, Jr. Mrs. Becky Easley Beckett

8

Mrs. Cindy Carter Dr. Roger Collier Rev. Rodney “Rod” Hale Mrs. Heather Harris Mr. Robert “Bob” Houck Dr. Melissa Hypes Mrs. Julie H. Johnson Ms. Elizabeth Keene

10

Alumni Hall Reopens After Renovations Major Changes Come to Lansdell Hall Revitalization Efforts Continue in Cruise Students Enjoy Mac Lab Upgrades Ministry News

Dr. Chris Lawson Mr. Howard Mayo Dr. Donna Payne Mrs. Sarah Reid

12

34th Annual Duremdes Christian Emphasis Week Students Profess Faith During Bold Week Events Students Baptized at Bold Worship Night Students Engage in Ongoing Ministry Events Staff News

Dr. John Rocovich, Jr. Dr. Dixie Tooke-Rawlins Mr. Craig Stout Mr. Michael A. Wade Mr. Mori Williams Mr. Lamont Woods Mr. William “Bill” Winfrey Trustees Emeriti Mr. John P. Beckett, Jr. Dr. Janelle B. Duremdes Dr. Daniel E. Grabeel, Sr. Mr. David A. Skidmore

14

Peterson Reflects on First Year Academic News

16

Bluefield University Celebrates Enrollment Surge MBA Program Adds New Concentrations University to Launch MAML Program MHSA Program Achieves First Graduation and Expansion Aspiring Teachers Receive Online Tuition Discount Anesthesia Program Heads to Virginia Student Feature

20

Alumni Board of Directors Mr. J. Morgan Lloyd ‘13, President Mr. Scott Polhamus ‘11, Vice President Mrs. Sara (English) Rutherford ‘96, Past President Mrs. Sandra (Lima) Argo ‘15 Mrs. Olivia (Williams) Bales ‘16 Dr. Melissa (Wirt) Chase Mr. Drew Hinton ‘13 Mr. Bill Knox ‘11 Mrs. Courtney (Ellis) Lopez ‘97 Ms. Amber MacDonald ‘12 Mr. Matthew Moore ‘13 Mr. Cade Mullins ‘19 Mrs. Sarah (Pauley) Nipper ‘19 Mr. Tommy Owens ‘10 Mr. Steven Quackenbush ‘15 Mr. Zachary Smith ‘08 Mrs. Ryan (Talley) Wilburn ‘13

Moriah Mingo Alumni News

21

Bluefield Honors 2025 Alumni Award Recipients Alumni Feature

22

Bob Houck Upcoming Events

23

Bluefield University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees. Bluefield University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Bluefield University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033 4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

4

Bluefield University hosted its second Coffee with the President on Tuesday, October 7. Dr. Steve Peterson met with students to encourage feedback, identify the university’s strengths, and determine areas for improvement. The campus community discussed facility improvements and the success of the Bold Week chapel services, as well as the goals of the general education curriculum and the Vocatio program. These conversations have fueled several changes across campus, including adjustments to the academic calendar. Beginning next year, traditional programs at BU will transition to a 15 week semester, meaning students will not have to return for exams between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The faculty is also exploring the viability of extending Monday and Wednesday classes to eliminate Friday classes and allow students more flexibility with their jobs, sports, and clubs.

Coffee with the President Welcomes Student Feedback

STUDENT NEWS

5

Study Bibles

Gifted to Incoming Students

Incoming traditional students at Bluefield University, including freshmen and transfers, received free study Bibles donated by the Southern Baptist Convention of Virginia (SBCV). Each new student was given a CSB Everyday Study Bible during orientation. The Bibles were distributed during Welcome Home Night on Monday, August 18, where students connected with student development staff, learned about residence life, and engaged in worship led by the campus ministries team.

University Hosts

Mud Pig Day is a long-standing tradition for the Bluefield University Rams, encouraging students to connect and unwind between the end of classes and the start of exams. The Rams community celebrated Mud Pig Day on Thursday, May 1, complete with a mud pit, barbecue lunch, waterslide, t-shirt tie-dye station, and inflatables. The tradition dates back to 1974, but since the event was not held in 2020, this year marked the 50th Mud Pig Day celebration. 50th Mud Pig Day

The Walter T. Shroyer Art Gallery on the first floor of Lansdell Hall is currently showcasing pictures and designs from BU’s communication arts students. The exhibit features submissions from the Introduction to Graphic Design, Publishing with InDesign, Typography, and Photography courses during the 2024-2025 academic year. These photos were taken by Meriam Worrell (left), Sydney Horton (top), and Elle Gunter (bottom). Shroyer Art Gallery Showcases Student Creations

6

Campus has been livelier than ever since the Fall 2025 semester began! The increase in enrollment was met with an even larger increase in event participation as students seized opportunities for fellowship and fun. The pictures below are from Welcome Week, held August 18-22, 2025, featuring Welcome Home Night, Welcome Back Bingo, a pool party at Harmony Acres, and a food truck and lawn games night.

Student Engagement on the Rise

STUDENT NEWS

7

The above pictures showcase a spontaneous prayer circle at Welcome Home Night, bingo, the Community Fair for students to connect with campus clubs and local ministries, and Roots Night for students to fellowship before the launch of the semester’s discipleship initiatives. The picture in the university’s quad, taken by student Erin Bowers, captures Home, a student-led worship service on Monday nights, during Bold Week.

8

Athletics News

Esports Program Celebrates First Tournament Win

Bluefield University’s new Esports program achieved its first victory in official competition on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, during a match against Paul Smith’s College. Skyler Koen, Raymond Parrish, and Gage Thompson secured a 4-2 Fortnite series win, accomplishing hat tricks, assists, and over a dozen saves. The Esports team competes in the Eastern College Athletic Conference using a dedicated computer lab in the university’s Science Center.

9

The Bluefield University women’s golf team turned in a strong performance at the UPike Fall Invite, finishing third as a team with rounds of 378 and 351 for a two-day total of 729. Savannah Riley led the way for the Rams in historic fashion, firing an impressive second-round 73 to capture individual medalist honors with a two day score of 161. Riley’s victory marks the first individual tournament title in the history of the Bluefield women’s golf program. Riley is a Business Administration major specializing in Sports Management. She is also the Operations Leader for BU Student Ministries. Women’s Golf Honors First Tournament Medalist Bluefield Launches Redesigned Athletics Website The Bluefield University Department of Athletics launched its redesigned athletics website on October 8, 2025, featuring a modern design, streamlined navigation, and an enhanced mobile experience. It is now easier to access Bluefield Athletics news, schedules, rosters, and live coverage at burams.com. The redesign continues Bluefield’s partnership with SIDEARM Sports, a national leader in collegiate athletic websites and digital fan engagement. The new site is optimized for all devices, giving fans the ability to follow the Rams anywhere, anytime.

Alumni Hall Reopens After Renovations

Bluefield University hosted an Open House for the newly restored Alumni Hall on Friday, August 8. Weather-related damage and a fire led university staff to close the building, severely limiting the campus’s ability to house its growing student population. The university launched a campaign at the beginning of 2025 to fund the infrastructure changes and modern improvements needed to reopen the facility. A $400,000 matching grant from the Hugh I. Shott, Jr. Foundation, along with many other generous gifts, allowed renovations to begin at the start of summer and finish before the fall 2025 semester.

CAMPUS NEWS

11

Revitalization Efforts Continue in Cruise Bluefield University’s original dormitory, Cruise Hall, still serves its male residential students today. Summer 2025 brought significant enhancements thanks to efforts by the university’s maintenance staff, facilities student-workers, and renewal task force comprised of staff volunteers. Cruise Hall was a top priority while deep cleaning, painting, addressing facility concerns, and performing preventative maintenance in preparation for the upcoming fall semester. The support and generosity of Bluefield’s alumni and friends have enabled major improvements across campus. Following the successful renovations of Alumni Hall and Lansdell Hall, the university is eager to modernize Cruise Hall to better serve its students and mission.

Students Enjoy Mac Lab Upgrades Bluefield University’s Mac Lab was outfitted with new computers and monitors in fall 2025, equipping graphic communication students to work in industry-leading content creation software.

Major Changes Come to Lansdell Hall Bluefield College broke ground for its first facility, its Administration Building, in December 1921, ahead of the college’s opening in September 1922. It was dedicated to the institution’s first President, Rinaldo Addison Lansdell, in May 1967. Today, Lansdell Hall continues to host Bluefield University’s administrative operations. It is home to several departments, faculty offices, and the Chandler Boardroom. Heating issues in Lansdell Hall forced several classes, faculty, and staff to relocate in the winter of 2024 2025. Renovations began in fall 2025 to install a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, as well as electrical upgrades to support the new HVAC system. Additionally, the building is receiving new windows.

Photo by Malique Gordon, photographer for The Rampage student paper Bluefield students use several resource-intensive programs like Adobe’s Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere Pro, but the new Apple Mac mini devices are well-suited to meet the complex demands of editing and design software for years to come. Soon, the Mac Lab will relocate to Lansdell Hall as BU’s Communication Arts department centralizes its classes and offices, creates a permanent home for its podcasting studio, and procures new technologies.

12

Ministry News

Bluefield University Hosts 34th Annual Duremdes Christian Emphasis Week Bluefield University hosted its 34th annual Duremdes Christian Emphasis Week, September 22-26, for students to engage with God’s Word and Christian community. This year’s Duremdes Christian Emphasis Week was also known as “Bold Week.” It emphasized BU’s “Bold” theme for the 2025-2026 academic year, based on 2 Corinthians 3:12: “Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold” (NIV). Thanks to the generosity of Drs. Gene and Jane Duremdes, who have sponsored the Christian Emphasis event since 1992, the university sets aside a week in the school year for students and members of the community to focus on their faith. Bold Week featured three chapel services with guest speaker Markus McFolling, founder of Reach1, as well as worship nights, fellowship events, a prayer walk, and a prayer drive-through.

1 Week 3 Chapels

27 Baptisms 55 Salvations

MINISTRY NEWS

13

Guest speaker Markus McFolling ended each Bold Week chapel service with an altar call, encouraging students to come in front of the stage to pray and make new or deeper faith commitments. Dozens responded as students received prayer from faculty, staff, and campus ministry leaders for broken relationships, mental struggles, and a variety of other situations. Fifty-five students reported that they made a profession of faith in Jesus, being saved from sin’s oppression for eternal life with Him. Bold Week Events Students Baptized at Bold Worship Night Bluefield’s student ministry team hosted a Bold Worship Night on Thursday, September 25. Twenty seven people were baptized, including twelve pre planned and fifteen spontaneous baptisms. Each person shared their reason for being baptized with the crowd, telling stories of how God worked through friends, family, or student ministries to spark responses of faith. The following weeks brought more baptisms as the campus continued to feel the impact of Bold Week. Students Profess Faith During

Students Engage in Ongoing

Ministry Events

Students have several on-campus opportunities to explore the Christian faith, such as the student led Home worship service on Monday night, Chapel services on Wednesday mornings, and Abide prayer services on Friday mornings. The university has Roots discipleship initiatives and on-campus Bible studies, including a weekly Faith Foundations group. In fall 2025, students also led studies on navigating trials and discipleship fundamentals.

14

Peterson Reflects on First Year

When I accepted the call to serve as the tenth president of Bluefield University, I knew that this role would be both a privilege and a responsibility. Over this past year, that truth has been affirmed time and again. It has been a year of listening but also a year of action. I am surrounded by dedicated people and focused on building a strong future for this institution.

Listening and Learning From my first day on campus, I committed to spending my time listening. It was my job to visit and learn from our students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, and community partners. I wanted to understand Bluefield University’s heart. What I discovered is what so many already know: Bluefield is a place where faith and learning meet in powerful ways. Our people love this university and believe in its mission.

Through many conversations, coffee meetings, and visits, I’ve discovered that Bluefield’s strength lies in its people. Our students are motivated, and our faculty and staff are committed to helping students succeed. Additionally, our alumni and friends continue to dedicate their time, prayers, and resources to ensure the next generation experiences the same opportunities they enjoyed.

STAFF NEWS

15

Building Momentum This first year has also been one of progress and momentum. We have launched new academic initiatives, expanded our graduate and online offerings, and deepened strategic partnerships that advance our mission, most notably through our collaboration with our sister school, the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM). Together, we are expanding pathways for students in the health sciences and preparing them to serve communities across the region. We’ve also seen encouraging gains in enrollment, financial stewardship, and donor engagement, which are all vital to Bluefield University’s long-term strength and sustainability. We’ve also made physical improvements, including residence hall upgrades and new classroom enhancements, as well as early plans for future

campus renewal projects. Each improvement is more than a facility change; it’s a statement that we are investing in our students and their future. Perhaps most rewarding has been witnessing the faith and resilience of our campus community. This year brought moments of both celebration and sorrow, yet through it all, I have seen our people rally around one another with compassion and strength. That is the true spirit of Bluefield University.

reminded that our strength does not come solely from strategy, but from faith. God has been faithful to Bluefield University for over a century, and I believe that same faithfulness will carry us into the future.

Looking Ahead As I reflect on my first year, I am filled with gratitude for the people who make this university so special and for the opportunity to serve at this pivotal moment in its history. Our mission remains clear: to be a Christ centered learning community preparing compassionate, transformative leaders. There is still much work to do. But I believe with all my heart that Bluefield’s best days are ahead. Together, we are building on a firm foundation and trusting God to guide our steps. It is an honor to serve as your president, and I look forward to all that lies ahead for Bluefield University.

Faith as Our Foundation Everything we do at Bluefield should flow from our commitment to Christ. Our mission is not just to educate students for careers but to prepare them for callings and to equip them to live out their faith with purpose and excellence in every area of life. That calling provides meaning to our work and makes our university unique. When challenges arise, I am

16

Academic News

Bluefield University Celebrates Enrollment Surge Bluefield University reported its largest fall enrollment increase in years, led by record online growth and a surge in on-campus students. Online enrollment in the first fall term grew 38 percent year over year, while on-campus undergraduate enrollment rose 24 percent. Both gains mark Bluefield’s strongest fall increase since at least 2018. Several initiatives are in place to build on this momentum as the university continues to expand its partnerships, streamline transfers from two-year colleges, and host events that enrich on-campus life.

17

MBA Program

Adds New Concentrations

Bluefield University’s Master of Business Administration program now has 7 specializations and a personalized MBA Your Way option following the launch of the Sports Management and Human Resources concentrations. The MBA in Sports Management prepares graduates for athletic administration, sports marketing, event management, and related roles. The MBA in Human Resources equips students with expertise in employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, and organizational leadership. MAML Program Bluefield University is preparing for the launch of a Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership (MAML) program. Students can complete the program fully online, with optional short gatherings each semester to build connection and collaboration with peers. The program blends biblical interpretation, theological reflection, leadership skills, and practical ministry experience to help students grow spiritually and professionally while serving their faith community. It is expected to launch in 2026 after receiving final SACSCOC approval. University to Launch

18

VCOM-Carolinas

VCOM-Auburn

MHSA Program

Achieves First Graduation and Expansion

Photos courtesy of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. In June 2023, Bluefield University successfully launched its Master of Science in Anesthesia (MHSA) program in collaboration with the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) on VCOM’s campus in Auburn, Alabama. The 28-month joint program addresses the growing need for anesthesia providers in surgical centers and hospitals, particularly within rural communities. Students work toward certification as certified anesthesiologist assistants who can serve under the direction of physician anesthesiologists. The program’s first cohort of 37 students graduated in September 2025, each having secured employment before commencement. This 100% job placement demonstrates both the strong demand for anesthesiologist assistants and the success of BU and VCOM’s anesthesia program. That same month, the program expanded to VCOM’s campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina. VCOM-Carolinas has partnered with hospitals across South Carolina and the entire Southeast United States to create clinical rotation opportunities for MHSA students, providing hands-on patient care experience in a variety of surgical settings. These clinical rotations, combined with intensive coursework and simulation training, equip students to provide healthcare in rural and medically underserved communities.

Aspiring Teachers

Receive Online Tuition Discount

Bluefield University launched the Appalachian Educator Scholarship in September 2025. This award provides K-12 school employees in Virginia and West Virginia with a 15% tuition discount on online degree programs. The scholarship applies to public and private school staff, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel. For new undergraduates, the award could mean up to $7,380 in savings over the course of a degree. Graduate students are also eligible for discounted tuition. More information is available at bluefield.edu/AES. Anesthesia Program Heads to Virginia Bluefield University and VCOM announced plans to launch our MHSA program in 2027 on the VCOM-Virginia campus, making it the first such program in Virginia. The program will further address workforce shortages and healthcare accessibility within the state. The announcement follows March 2025 legislation that allows certified anesthesiologist assistants (CAAs) to practice in Virginia. For more than 50 years, CAAs have been an integral part of healthcare teams. Their rigorous education and training equip them to deliver exceptional care across diverse clinical settings.

STUDENT FEATURE

20

Moriah Mingo is an interdisciplinary studies major in her sophomore year at BU. She is a valued player on the women’s soccer team and an active part of student ministries. She leads a weekly small group, exploring what it means to be a disciple of Christ and go deeper in one’s faith. “The church as a whole, we really need discipleship,” Moriah shared. “We have a lot of people getting baptized—praise God—but after that, what does it look like to live out our faith with Jesus? My hope is that I would help people see what that looks like, so they can seek it out for themselves.” As the daughter of Pastor Gino Mingo, Moriah has been taught the meaning and importance of discipleship from a young age. Now, she’s helping others unpack the Great Commission and Jesus’ model of discipleship in her small group, known as the Dojo. In her Dojo groups, Moriah leads discussions about walking with Jesus and maturing in the faith, guided by her father’s book, Black Belt Discipleship: Imparting the Nature of a Disciple-Maker . Moriah Mingo A Discipleship Legacy

“It’s an outline for what it looks like as you progress in your relationship with God. He uses the martial arts belts as a large analogy and representation of the different stages that we grow in,” Moriah explained. “When you look at why the belt turns that color, originally it was because of the time spent training and growing and maturing in martial arts. It would get dirty, and it starts to change color because there’s sweat and there’s dirt. It shows you’ve grown. You’ve been at this for a long time, and as you progress, the belt is black because it’s seen so much work.” Moriah led Bluefield’s first Dojo in spring 2025. She noticed God using the group to encourage her and her peers, sharing how one student demonstrated a new “confidence with the Lord and an eagerness to be about ministry and spending time with Him” by the time the group ended. This fall, Moriah welcomed seven students into the Dojo. “If I can just help plant a seed and the Lord can water it, then I’m content,” she said, echoing the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 3. “My hope is that it would be an avenue for people who are new and fresh with Christ to say, ‘What’s next? How do I build?’” Outside of the Dojo, Moriah said she enjoys the broadness of her degree, the freedom to grow her knowledge, and playing the game she loves. “But when it comes to student ministries,” she added, “building spiritual family has brought me joy.”

ALUMNI NEWS

21

Bluefield Honors 2025 Alumni Award Recipients

DaMarcus Wimbush ‘20 Athletics Hall of Fame Inductee For five seasons, DaMarcus anchored the Rams football team’s defense as a fierce inside linebacker, proudly wearing the number 54. He left Bluefield University as the All-Time Career Leader in Tackles and the All-Time Career Leader in Tackles for Loss, cementing his place among the greatest to ever wear the Rams uniform. Under Mike’s leadership, Bluefield Baseball has surpassed 500 career victories in 2024, captured the 2009 NCCAA World Series Championship, earned a runner-up finish in 2010, and consistently ranked among the top programs in the NCCAA and NAIA. His career accolades include national, regional, and conference coaching and character awards. Tim led the 1986 baseball team with a .400 batting average and 16 RBIs. His performance, resilience, and positive spirit stood out as bright points in a rebuilding year. He played a pivotal role in shaping Bluefield Baseball, reaching out to Coach Richard Blevins to keep the team alive when baseball was dropped from the university. Kathryn has served as an assistant principal, classroom teacher, reading specialist, and instructional coach. According to her coworkers, she has “a peppy and contagiously fun attitude,” “a giant heap of kindness,” and a “love of education.” “She is loved and respected by students and faculty alike” and was a “no-brainer” for the assistant principal position. Coach Mike White Athletics Hall of Fame Inductee Tim Mann ‘88 Athletics Hall of Fame Inductee Kathryn Long ‘08 Goodness and Light Award

Michael Smith Volunteer of the Year

Kathy Berry ‘75 Primitivo Delgado Christian Service Award Kathy serves residents living with dementia and their caregivers at a 1,200-resident continuing care retirement community. She has also been a chaplain in long-term care settings. She has written numerous works on spirituality and dementia, and she speaks on that subject at conferences nationwide. Beth was nominated for nurturing resilience, fostering equity, and illuminating the path for every student in her business classes. She provides homebound instruction and dedicates extra time and patience to underprivileged students to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, feels seen, valued, and capable of success. During the spring 2025 season, Michael was instrumental in streaming Rams softball games. His volunteerism enabled parents and friends unable to attend games in person to watch them live on YouTube. Bluefield University and Rams softball fans greatly appreciate his dedication of his time, expertise, and equipment. Baraka learned English after arriving in the United States as a refugee. He founded and still serves as the CEO of Volatia, a network of more than 18,000 interpreters and translators who bridge language barriers in more than 300 languages 24/7/365. Today, Volatia serves clients in all 50 states and in key markets around the world. Baraka Kasongo ‘16 Young Alumnus of the Year Beth Swinney ‘18 Goodness and Light Award

ALUMNI FEATURE

22

Bob Houck A True Servant Leader There are many ways to describe Robert “Bob” Houck ‘67. Some know him as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, or missionary. Others may remember his time as a branch manager for Warrenton Farm Credit or a construction coordinator for Impact Virginia projects. At Bluefield, he is known as a distinguished graduate and Trustee, but none of these descriptions is quite as fitting as “servant leader.”

and later branch manager for Warrenton Farm Credit in the 1980s. In 1987, Bob became Warrenton’s Senior Vice President of Finance and Administrative Service while also launching his own cow-calf operation. In 1998, he retired from Warrenton as it merged with another farm credit association and continued operating his farm until 2016. Bob’s remarkable career is only part of his story, however. He has made a global impact, having served on mission trips in Europe, Africa, Central America, and South America.

Bob arrived at Bluefield University, then Bluefield College, in the fall of 1965 to pursue his associate’s degree in business administration. While at Bluefield, he was a member of College Avenue Baptist Church and served as President of the college’s Business Club.

Back home, he has led classes and joined several committees at Stevensburg Baptist Church. He also served as Chairman of the Culpeper County School Board. His community involvement has been recognized at the regional, district, and national levels through his appointment to various leadership roles in the Ruritan National civic service organization. These honors include President of the National Board of Directors in 1987, Trustee of the National Foundation in 2003, and President of the National Foundation in 2007. Fifty-eight years and many accomplishments later, Bob is still a dedicated Ram and an active member of the Bluefield University community. “I’m also a graduate of Virginia Tech, and I attended Virginia State for some post-graduate work, but Bluefield is where my heart is,” he explained.

“I had a couple of cousins that had already been to Bluefield,” Bob said. “It was just a small school that I thought I would fit into. It was very supportive of me when I was there.”

“Will Gordon was a very strong influence. He kind of took me in, was very supportive, and was a wonderful professor,” Bob added. “He encouraged me to get into the Business Club.” After graduating from Bluefield, Bob completed a bachelor’s degree at Virginia Tech, married Shirley Houck, and became a math teacher in Greensville County. From there, he became a management trainee turned assistant manager with Culpeper Co-op, opening the door for him to be a loan officer

Bob is now approaching his fifth consecutive and eleventh overall year as a Trustee for Bluefield University. His love and support for the institution have been evident in his service on its Finance and Advancement committees. Additionally, he served on

UPCOMING EVENTS

23

the Centennial Campaign Committee as Bluefield approached its 100th anniversary, and his generosity has helped countless students. “The Lord has been very gracious to me and gave me lots of opportunities, and I wanted to use some of my money that the Lord had given me to give back to Bluefield,” he said.

“I would like to see more alumni support for the school, financial support as well as support of potential students,” he shared. “I would love, particularly retirees that are looking at their required minimum distribution from their IRAs and 401(k)s, to consider doing a qualified charitable distribution to Bluefield University.” Bluefield University’s mission is to develop servant leaders to transform the

world. The power of investing in students through Christ-centered educational and extracurricular programs is seen in the impact and success of alumni like Bob Houck. Join him in helping students go further in their academics, faith, and service by visiting bluefield.edu/giving.

Referencing R.L. Sharpe’s “A Bag of Tools,” Bob calls Bluefield University “a stepping-stone” he is helping make, and he encourages his fellow alumni to join him in partnering with the institution. He envisions the university’s continued growth and commitment to Christian education.

Upcoming Events

Monday January 12 On-Campus Spring Term and Online Spring Term 1 Begin Saturday February 7 Presidential Scholarship Competition Thursday-Sunday February 19-22 Romeo & Juliet Presented by Bluefield Youth and Community Theatre Friday-Saturday February 27-28 Deeper Young Adult Conference Hosted by BU Campus Ministries

Wednesday April 22 Honors Convocation

Thursday April 30 Giving Day & Mud Pig Day Friday May 1 Graduate Commencement

Saturday May 2 Undergraduate Commencements Wednesday May 13 Online Summer Term 1 Begins

Monday March 9 Online Spring Term 2 Begins

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year FROM YOUR RAMS FAMILY!

bluefield.edu | burams.com 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA 24605 800.872.0175 | admissions@bluefield.edu