SPIRE Summer 2019

Bluefield College’s Very Own is Recognized as Hometown HERO WVVA’s

Bluefield College’s very own Clayton Wagner was named a WVVA “Hometown Hero” back in April this year. Wagner is a groundskeeper at BC and has worked for the maintenance department for 38 years. “Clayton Wagner works long hours in all kinds of weather to take care of BC’s outside work, without complaint, with unfailing good cheer, and with the very model of a conscientious work ethic,” said Werner Lind, co-director of library services. “He’s the person who pretty much single- handedly digs the campus out from snowstorms so that we stay open on schedule and resident students keep access to the outside world,” added Lind. His kindness and willingness to serve the BC community is what made him standout. Before arriving to Bluefield College’s campus, Wagner served the country he loves. All of the men in Wagner’s family served in the Army, Navy, and the Marine Corps. He decided he would go a separate route and serve in the U.S. Air Force. After serving, Wagner returned to his home, Bluefield, and made Bluefield College his second home.

Wagner enjoys his job because he “loves to be outside.” Wagner serves the campus community by making sure it looks pristine and feels like home to all the students. Wagner keeps the College’s campus clean and beautiful by grounds keeping, collecting garbage, plowing the parking lot when needed, and much more. Bluefield’s area receives harsh weather during the winter season so Bluefield College’s campus parking lot tends to get very icy. Samantha Bales, BC Central advocate in student accounts, recalls almost falling behind Shott Hall one winter. Before she could fully fall, Wagner assisted Bales right away. “I had no clue where he came from as I did not see anyone in the parking lot. It was like almost magic how he appeared at the right time,” said Bales. Faculty, staff, and members of the student body have nothing but kind words to say about their hometown hero. Bluefield College is very blessed to have such a kind-hearted servant leader on campus. Here are some remarks from the Bluefield College community about Clayton Wagner: “In addition to meticulous care of the grounds at Bluefield College, Clayton values students as well as facutly and staff and often greets them with kind and pleasant words.” -Phyllis Owens, adjunct faculty, School of Education and Social Science. “He often comes in on his days off to finish up a project or to help someone out. He is the glue that holds the campus together.” -Caroline Dixon, HR specialist/accounts payable manager. “From the moment I met Clayton Wagner, I knew that there was something special about him. He always has a smile and a kind word for me each time he sees me.” -Jennifer Thorn, coordinator of teacher education data & reports. Clayton is described by the BC Community as hardworking, compassionate, and willing to help everyone.

Story submitted by BC student marketing associate Kaleigh Compton.

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