NRCC History Book

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Preface

A s I approached retirement on February 1, 2023, Dr. Pat Huber and Dr. Mark Rowh asked if I would compile the second edition of New River Community College’s history. The first edition, A Journey through the Years: A History of New River Community College, 1958-2000 , was completed by Bonnie V. Wynn, an associate professor of English at the college for over 33 years. I was both honored and intimidated when I considered the task of recording the next 20 years of history. Knowing I would have Wynn’s excellent work as a guide, I returned to the college in July 2023 as a part-time employee to begin this project. The second edition records the major events that occurred at the college from 2000 to 2019. As I researched 20 years of history, I realized the massive amount of information that had to be condensed into a few topics. Comparable to the initial historical account, this edition contains facts and statistics on enrollments, budgets, grant funding, and foundation contributions. This history also includes details on faculty, staff, students, curricula, instructional methods, student services, buildings/grounds, and strategic plans. The book begins with messages from presidents who served the college during this time. Intermingled throughout the two chapters of college history are individual comments and stories from faculty, staff, students, and board members. Each chapter ends with photographs of college family members. The appendix includes photographs of all college retirees since

the first edition was published in August 2002, a memorial page, lists of college and foundation board members, and enrollment/

graduation statistics. Acknowledgments

Information for the second edition was gathered from several NRCC offices, including Human Resources, Institutional Effectiveness and Research, Public Relations and Marketing, Workforce Development, the Office of the President, and the Library. Many individuals supported this project, including Dr. Pat Huber and Dr. Mark Rowh, who gave encouragement and feedback throughout the process. Kathy Ridpath, administrative assistant to the president, frequently answered questions and provided information. Jill Ross, public relations specialist, and Kelly Kaiser, public relations assistant, proofread the document and suggested areas of improvement. Rick Maitri, media specialist, gathered photographs of retired employees. Travis Newman, web services manager, provided websites where college information was stored. Dates of service for employees were supplied by Melissa Anderson, vice president for finance and administrative services; Tim Jones, director of information technology and facilities services; Tiffany Pannell, former payroll specialist; and Angie Simpkins, benefits specialist. Information on the NRCC Educational Foundation was given by Angie Covey, retired executive director of the Foundation. Dr. Fritz Streff, director of institutional effectiveness and research,

Preface