NRCC History Book

76 a ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the Highlander Hub. New River Community College Bridge to Radford University (NRB2RU) . An agreement between the college and RU, called New River Community College Bridge to Radford University (NRB2RU), was signed on June 3, 2019. First-year applicants to RU who did not meet the university’s standard admission criteria were selected to take courses at NRCC for their first year, while living, dining, and engaging in student life at RU. Support services for the students included tutoring, study halls, advising, and transportation between the two campuses. The first group of students enrolled in Fall 2020. Workforce Development During this decade, Workforce Development continued its long tradition of fostering economic growth and development by training the workforce for the New River Valley and the surrounding areas. In 2010 non-credit offerings included customized training for industries such as Moog, Inc. and Corning. Computer training and supervisory/ management training were provided as non-credit courses for VT employees and other local businesses. For the first time, online license renewal courses were offered in electrical, gas fitting, mechanical, and plumbing. Credit courses offered by Workforce Development included classes in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and teacher recertification courses for educators in our service region. In 2011 the VCCS administered the Rapid Response program which provided a variety of services to organizations and workers involved in mass layoffs or plant

closings. Four Rapid Response coordinators served the Commonwealth, with one based at NRCC serving Virginia’s western region. As an example of services offered, 29 separate class sessions covering basic computer skills were offered to laid-off Caterpillar Corporation employees. Operating under Workforce Development, the Office of Transitional Programs offered services to help individuals raise skill levels, T he college has always cared about its students. Between 2012-2014, they took concerns for students even further. The Connection Center was established as a place for students to gather to study, connect with volunteers, and generally receive support. This space has continued to provide those services, along with nourishment as needed by students. NRCC has also expanded in serving students with housing, food insecurities, etc. I am so proud to be a part of this family that works to assist students with the needed tools to be successful though education. NRCC is an amazing place to work. NRCC has created a family atmosphere among their employees and students. Many NRCC students return to NRCC following graduation to seek employment due to their fondness through experiences here. I am one of those students. My affiliation with NRCC has taken me further than I could have ever imagined. I have been able to work with/for some truly amazing mentors and friends. Those relationships will last a lifetime. The support and friendships here at NRCC have been life changers for me. I came to NRCC at 40 years of age intending to get my associate degree. My mentors were so supportive and encouraging. I finished my doctorate in 2022! None of this would have happened without my NRCC family. DIANE GRAY NRCC Graduate Director of Transitional Programs Employment at NRCC: Part-time 2008-2012 Full-time 2012-2024

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