FY 23 SWVHEC Annual Report

LETTER FROM

LEADERSHIP

To our partners, funders, and friends:

The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center (SWVHEC), located in Abingdon, Virginia, is the first multi-college and university institution of higher education in the Commonwealth. Established as a State Agency in 1991, the Higher Education Center partners with public and private colleges and universities to provide degree programs, certificates, and professional development courses. A variety of learning options and class times are available, ranging from face-to-face instruction in the daytime and evening to online study any time. With approximately 110,000 square feet of professional classrooms, large conference areas, labs, and administrative space, the SWVHEC accommodates hundreds of events annually. The SWVHEC has a vision for achieving its mission of strengthening the regional economy of Southwest Virginia by providing higher education and professional development training of the current and future workforce. This vision is: To Be a Great Place, Doing Great Things Because of Great People.

A Great Place The Great Place goal is to create and maintain an attractive building with properly functioning components and systems that are well maintained, and provide surroundings and conditions conducive to quality instruction, learning, and outstanding event experiences. First impressions are some of the main selling points for students, clients, and community members. Doing Great Things The Doing Great Things goal is to ensure the Center is addressing the economic and workforce development needs of the region through its programs and services. This is accomplished by collaborating with higher education partners throughout the Commonwealth to expand opportunities for Southwest Virginia. In addition to college-level degree, GED and workforce certification programs, the Center offers experiential learning opportunities such as the K-5 STEM Academy, LEGO Robotics competitions, summer camps, and the College for Older Adults. Because of Great People The Great People goal is to provide team members with the culture and tools necessary to meet the mission of the Center through a stable and safe work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth.

The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center continues our mission to serve the people of the region through our programming and services focused on educational, professional and workforce development opportunities.

SENATOR TODD PILLION BOARD CHAIR

DAVID MATLOCK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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