Spire Summer 2020

Dear Bluefield College Alumni & Friends:

“In the eye of the storm You remain in control.” These lyrics by Ryan Stevenson from our Friday Night Live concert series in May were a wonderful reminder looking back at our 98th academic year at its conclusion. From the ever-changing landscape of higher education, discovering in real time how to respond and how to continue creating community during the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning the necessary and difficult conversations on racism, and navigating the repositioning of the College to become a sister institution with the Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) consortium of schools, this year was anything but ordinary at Bluefield College. However, while taking quiet time this summer to reflect on the rollercoaster of emotions the year produced, God’s providence and ordering of our steps to arrive at this point can clearly be seen. This is especially true concerning our impending new level of partnership with VCOM. Our relationship with VCOM began as an articulation agreement which blossomed into a dynamic partnership - our Biomedical Sciences program. As Bluefield College met to strategize on how to meet the challenges in higher education, it was the right moment to join the VCOM family. VCOM has a unique mission as does Bluefield College, and we will have a symbiotic relationship as to how we operate and develop new sciences and health sciences programs that either provide pathways to medical school or alternative paths to health profession careers. The future is exciting, and opportunities are limited only to one’s imagination. Bluefield College has a distinct and important part to play in bringing Christ to our world through education, service, and connection. I am asking you to continue with us on the journey. Your involvement with, and investment in, our students and our collective mission will continue to transform lives and transform the world.

from the president

Partnering with you in faithful service, 1

David W. Olive President

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