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About Central Virginia Community College

Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu 

CVCC Press Releases

Marci Gale travels abroad to participate in an EU Study Tiour. in an LYNCHBURG, VA (May 7, 2024) — Central Virginia Community College’s (CVCC) Marcella Gale, mechatronics faculty and program head, was selected by the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD) through her National Science Foundation (NSF) grant work to participate in an EU Study Tour in April. This prestigious opportunity was part of the NSF grant-funded project, Preparing Technicians for the Future of Work.

Preparing Technicians for the Future of Work is a US National Science Foundation project led by CORD, aimed at fostering collaboration between community college educators and industry partners to address the impact of emerging technologies on workforce needs. With a focus on advanced digital literacy, data knowledge and analysis, and business processes, the project seeks to equip graduates with essential skills applicable across industries. In line with this initiative, competitive applications were sought for an EU Study Tour to Spain and Germany.

During the tour, Gale and her fellow educators journeyed through Spain and Germany, visiting industrial facilities and training centers to gain invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of technical education. The itinerary included stops at renowned institutions such as SMC, MONDRAGON, IMH, DANOBAT, TKNIKA, MAN Truck & Bus, FESTO, and SIEMENS, among others.

Armed with these learnings, Gale will identify innovative practices to integrate into curriculum and programs at CVCC. Furthermore, Gale hopes to disseminate her findings through webinars, conference presentations, and potentially joint presentations with EU counterparts.

"I am honored and excited to be selected for this enriching experience," said Marcella Gale. "This tour presented a unique opportunity to collaborate with international counterparts, gain insights into cutting-edge practices, and ultimately enhance the quality of technical education at CVCC."

Ms. Gale’s participation in the EU Study Tour underscores CVCC's commitment to staying at the forefront of technical education and ensuring that students are prepared for the demands of the future workforce.

For more information about Marcella Gale and CVCC's mechatronics program, please visit https://centralvirginia.edu/programs-classes/industry-and-manufacturing/mechatronics-aas.

Danny Murphy receives check from A3Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) proudly announces that Danny Murphy, assistant professor of mechatronics and outstanding member of our faculty, has been honored with the prestigious A3 Educator of the Year award by the Association for Advancing Automation. The A3 Educator of the Year award celebrates educators who demonstrate remarkable dedication, innovative teaching methods, and leadership in advancing automation education. This esteemed recognition highlights Murphy's exceptional contributions to education and his profound impact on the field of mechatronics. 

Danny Murphy brings a wealth of expertise and experience to his role as assistant professor of mechatronics at CVCC. With a background in electronics engineering and over 25 years of experience in industrial automation, Murphy's insights and knowledge have greatly enriched the learning experiences of his students. 

"Danny Murphy's passion for teaching and dedication to his students is truly inspiring," said Jason Ferguson, CVCC’s associate vice president of professional and career studies and workforce solutions, "His innovative approach to mechatronics education and his extensive industry experience make him a valuable asset to our faculty and our students." 

Murphy's contributions extend beyond the classroom, as evidenced by his involvement in various industry projects. From designing collaborative automation for Harley Davidson to developing cryostat positioning systems and facilitating the on-site installation for the ALMA Observatory, Murphy's work has made a significant impact in industries ranging from automotive to cosmological research. Other notable work includes the design of night-vision production equipment for suppliers of the U.S. Army and U.S. Special Forces, as well as electric vehicles that print fiber optic communication pathways on runways at domestic U.S. Navy and Air Force bases. 

"It is an honor to be awarded A3 Educator of the Year," said Danny Murphy. "The connections provided further enable me to equip my students to tackle our nation's technical skills shortage." 

For more information about Danny Murphy and CVCC's mechatronics program, please visit https://centralvirginia.edu/programs-classes/industry-and-manufacturing/mechatronics-aas

Marci GaleCentral Virginia Community College’s (CVCC) Marcella Gale, mechatronics faculty and program head, was selected by the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD) through her National Science Foundation (NSF) grant work to participate in an EU Study Tour in April. This prestigious opportunity was part of the NSF grant-funded project, Preparing Technicians for the Future of Work.

Preparing Technicians for the Future of Work is a US National Science Foundation project led by CORD, aimed at fostering collaboration between community college educators and industry partners to address the impact of emerging technologies on workforce needs. With a focus on advanced digital literacy, data knowledge and analysis, and business processes, the project seeks to equip graduates with essential skills applicable across industries. In line with this initiative, competitive applications were sought for an EU Study Tour to Spain and Germany.

During the tour, Gale and her fellow educators journeyed through Spain and Germany, visiting industrial facilities and training centers to gain invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of technical education. The itinerary included stops at renowned institutions such as SMC, MONDRAGON, IMH, DANOBAT, TKNIKA, MAN Truck & Bus, FESTO, and SIEMENS, among others.

Armed with these learnings, Gale will identify innovative practices to integrate into curriculum and programs at CVCC. Furthermore, Gale hopes to disseminate her findings through webinars, conference presentations, and potentially joint presentations with EU counterparts.

EU Study Group with Marci Gale at FESTO"I am honored and excited to be selected for this enriching experience," said Marcella Gale. "This tour presented a unique opportunity to collaborate with international counterparts, gain insights into cutting-edge practices, and ultimately enhance the quality of technical education at CVCC."

Ms. Gale’s participation in the EU Study Tour underscores CVCC's commitment to staying at the forefront of technical education and ensuring that students are prepared for the demands of the future workforce.

For more information about Marcella Gale and CVCC's mechatronics program, please visit https://centralvirginia.edu/programs-classes/industry-and-manufacturing/mechatronics-aas.

Eddie AmosCentral Virginia Community College (CVCC) has announced that William 'Eddie' Amos, DCS, will be the Commencement Speaker for its 56th graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, from 7-10 p.m., at the Liberty University Vines Center.

Dr. Amos stands as a technology leader and visionary in Software Development, Data Science, and Organizational Transformation. With over three decades of experience, his journey is a testament to the enduring value of dedication, continuous learning, and strategic foresight. Dr. Amos attributes his foundational learning to Central Virginia Community College, a pivotal catalyst that ignited his lifelong pursuit of education and technological advancement. 

A lifelong learner, Dr. Amos boasts a distinguished academic pedigree, including a Doctor of Computer Science Degree from Colorado Tech and a Master of Science from American University, bachelor’s degrees from the University of Maryland and Virginia Tech, an associate degree from Northern Virginia Community College, and postgraduate degrees from The National War College, American University, and Harvard Business School.

“We are beyond proud of our students and thrilled to be preparing to celebrate our graduates at the 2024 commencement ceremony,” said Karen Alexander, CVCC College Registrar.  “Our graduates have proven that they have the skills, talent, intelligence, tenacity, and resilience it takes to accomplish their goals and we are confident that they will utilize all they have learned at CVCC to make a positive impact on the world.  Whether transferring on to a 4-year institution, entering the workforce in a new field, or advancing in their current career path, our graduates are prepared to succeed and excel.  Please join us in honoring CVCC’s Class of 2024.”

CVCC expects to graduate 401 students at its 56th commencement exercise, and confer a combined total of 1,823 credentials for various associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, career study certificates, and Workforce credentials. 

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About Central Virginia Community College

Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu

About William 'Eddie' Amos, DCS

Dr. Amos serves as the Chairman of GO Virginia Region 2. Through collaborative efforts with business and academic leaders, he spearheads initiatives aimed at job creation and economic revitalization. His passion for nurturing talent extends to mentoring startups, educational institutions, and emerging leaders, embodying the spirit of giving back and fostering innovation. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Amos has left a lasting mark on establishments such as General Electric, Microsoft, and Meridium, steering high-caliber teams towards unprecedented success. Notably, his tenure as Chief Transformation Officer at Torc Robotics underscores his devotion to pioneering technologies like autonomy and robotics, ensuring organizational adaptability and prosperity in an ever-evolving landscape. Dr. Amos is a luminary within the tech community, his contributions have garnered prestigious accolades, including recognition by the RBTC Technology Hall of Fame.

LYNCHBURG, VA – Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is thrilled to announce that Ana Leng, an international student from Cambodia currently completing an associate degree through CVCC, has been named the inaugural Poet Laureate of Virginia’s Community Colleges (VCCS).

Leng’s accomplishment comes after a rigorous state competition held on April 6 at Piedmont Virginia Community College. The competition’s theme, “I belong,” inspired Leng’s poem titled “How Dare I Say That I Do Not Belong?” Her powerful words and captivating performance impressed the judges, earning her the prestigious title. Leng was one of more than 300 students who entered poetry or visual arts across the VCCS, highlighting the depth of talent within the community college system.

“As we were lined up on stage, I just remember thinking that everyone did so well and that each poem was so different and unique,” Leng said. “Hearing the host call out ‘Central Virginia!’ at first did come as a shock, but I remember feeling quite honored and grateful for the title and for everyone who helped me get to that moment. Once the shock wore off, all I could think was, ’It’s time to get to work!’”

Capping off her impressive win at the Virginia’s Community College System Poet Laureate competition, Ana Leng delivered a powerful performance of her winning poem, "How Dare I Say That I Do Not Belong?" at the VCCS New Horizons conference on April 10 in Roanoke.

Leng came to the U.S. to pursue higher education, intending to transfer after community college to pursue a psychology major. Fueled by her passion for mental health advocacy, Leng plans to pursue a career dedicated to aiding individuals in overcoming emotional and psychological hurdles to enhance their well-being. Her poem, titled “How Dare I Say That I Do Not Belong?” embodies her commitment to this cause. Beyond personal expression, Leng's intends to leverage her role as Poet Laureate to further awareness for mental health.

“We at CVCC are incredibly proud of Ana for her outstanding achievement. Ana’s dedication to her craft is an inspiration to all,” said CVCC President, John Capps.

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About Central Virginia Community College

Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu

Lynchburg, VA Central Virginia Community College invites the community to celebrate the upcoming solar eclipse during the "Out of This World (Partial) Solar Eclipse Event" on the Main Campus on April 8 beginning at 11:15 a.m. This event promises a day filled with intellectual stimulation and celestial wonder while witnessing an extraordinary astronomical phenomenon.

The eclipse event offers a range of activities and lectures suitable for both seasoned astronomy enthusiasts and those simply curious about the mysteries of space.

Activities:

  • Amazement Square’s Planetarium: Explore the mysteries of the universe with our captivating planetarium experience.
  • Escape Room: Engage your problem-solving skills in an eclipse-themed escape room challenge.
  • Academy in Motion’s T-shirt Bleach Dying: Bring along a black t-shirt and create eclipse-inspired designs through bleach dying.
  • Live Streaming of Total Eclipse: Witness the awe-inspiring total eclipse via live streaming on-site.
  • Solar Telescope Viewing: Observe the eclipse up close through specialized solar telescopes provided by the Blue Ridge Astronomy Club.
  • Photobooths: Capture memories of this celestial event with our interactive photobooths.

Lectures:

  • Eclipsing Einstein by Matthew Poteat at 12:10 p.m.
  • That's Yesterday's Eclipse by Michael Babcock at 12:35 p.m.
  • Look Who's Talking by Vic Sizemore at 1:00 p.m.
  • Scientifically Speaking... by Daniel Schmidt & Timothy Marshall at 1:25 p.m.
  • Expert Panel Q&A: Engage with our panel of experts in a lively Q&A session at 2:15 p.m.

“Rain or shine, the event will go on!” Jodi Gillette, CVCC’s executive director of institutional advancement and the CVCC Educational Foundation stated. “To ensure everyone can safely enjoy viewing the eclipse, the Foundation is providing free eclipse glasses to the first 5,000 viewers.”

For more information and to stay updated on event details, visit https://centralvirginia.edu/event/out-world-partial-solar-eclipse

This event is made possible thanks to our sponsor BWX Technologies, and media sponsors WJJS and Living in the Heart of Virginia.

CVCC’s community partners have also supported this event, including Academy Center of the Arts’ Academy in Motion, Amazement Square, and Blue Ridge Astronomy Club.

About Central Virginia Community College

Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu

About the CVCC Educational Foundation

The CVCC Educational Foundation (Foundation) was established in 1981 and is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. The Educational Foundation supports the goals and mission of CVCC by raising funds, increasing visibility, building community partnerships, and providing an engaging & accessible learning environment for academic excellence and student success.  Donations to the Foundation help to purchase state-of-the-art instructional equipment to ensure students complete CVCC programs job-ready, expand teaching innovation on campus, and support wrap-around services such as scholarships and emergency relief funds to increase student retention and graduation rates. Learn more about the Foundation at centralvirginia.edu/educational-foundation.

Dr. Kris OgdenCentral Virginia Community College (CVCC) announced the appointment of Dr. Kris Ogden as the new vice president of academic and student affairs. Dr. Ogden’s journey in academia is distinguished by remarkable achievements and steadfast leadership. Having served at CVCC for the past sixteen years, she brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role.

Dr. Ogden’s tenure at CVCC has been diverse and impactful. For the past ten years, she served as the dean of institutional effectiveness and strategic planning, overseeing critical aspects of the college’s operations. Prior to this role, she served as the interim vice president of academic and student affairs. In addition to these roles, she has served as the coordinator of institutional effectiveness, research analyst, adjunct instructor of business, and administrative and office specialist.

“We are delighted to announce Dr. Kris Ogden’s appointment as our next vice president for academic and student affairs,” said CVCC President Dr. John Capps. “Dr. Ogden impressed the search committee with her knowledge, experience, and commitment to student success. Her wealth of experience and education, including her previous service as interim vice president, will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement and continued success of our institution.”

Dr. Ogden’s education includes an associate’s degree from CVCC, a bachelor’s degree from Sweet Briar College, an MBA from Radford University, and a doctorate from the University of Lynchburg. 

“I am truly honored to serve as CVCC’s next Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs,” Dr. Ogden said. “I look forward to working closely with the campus community in this new role and to further advancing the college’s academic excellence, innovation, and student success.”

In addition to her education and experience, Dr. Ogden has facilitated a host of innovative projects and student success initiatives. She has been instrumental in developing new curricula, administering new programs, and implementing improved data analysis strategies to guide new initiatives. Furthermore, she played a vital role in writing successful grant applications for trail-blazing programs including Title III and TRIO, and served as the co-chair of our COVID-19 task force, helping to guide the college safely through the pandemic.

Dr. Ogden’s appointment underscores CVCC’s commitment to academic excellence. 

LYNCHBURG, VA – According to a new study performed by Lightcast, Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) generated $224.6 million annually in economic activity throughout the regions it serves in FY 2021-22. This amount is equal to nearly two percent (1.7%) of the total gross regional product (GRP) of CVCC’s service area. For perspective, the impact of CVCC is nearly as large as the region’s entire transportation and warehousing industry. This added income is also the equivalent of supporting 3,506 jobs.

The study, titled The Economic Value of Central Virginia Community College, assesses the impact of CVCC on the regional economy and the benefits generated by the college for students, taxpayers, and society. The results of the study show that CVCC creates a positive net impact on the regional economy and generates a positive return on investment for students, taxpayers, and society.

“CVCC plays a vital role in our community,” said CVCC’s President Dr. John Capps. “Through job creation and fostering economic growth, the college generates a positive return for taxpayers and contributes to the overall well-being and prosperity of the region.”

For every dollar invested in learning at CVCC, students gain $6.90 in higher future earnings, an annual rate of return of 23.5%. In addition, taxpayers see a net benefit of $2.60 in added tax revenue stemming from students’ higher lifetime earnings and increased output by businesses and public sector savings.

When compared to a person with a high school diploma or equivalent, the average community college graduate with an associate degree will see an increase in earnings of $9,800 annually.
 

CVCC’s Impact on the Commonwealth:

According to the Lightcast report, in Fiscal Year 2021-22, the people in Virginia invested $43.5 million to cover the college’s expenditures, including student expenses and student opportunity costs, with an estimated return on investment of $391.3 million (at present value) in added state revenue over the course of the students’ working lives.

Over the long term, for every dollar invested in CVCC, the people of Virginia will receive a cumulative value of $9.20 in benefits. The Commonwealth will also benefit from an estimated $7.6 million in present value social savings related to reduced crime, lower welfare and unemployment assistance, and increased health and well-being across Virginia.


An executive summary of the Lightcast study can be found here

CVCC Employees Accept National Award for Student SuccessLynchburg, VA  Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is honored to announce that CVCC was awarded with the education company EAB’s Student Success Collaborative - CONNECTEDness Award during the CONNECTED24 National Conference in Denver, Colorado. The award recognizes establishments that build relationships across institution types, connecting community colleges, four-year schools, or the broader higher education community.

CVCC was selected from more than 850 colleges, universities, and individuals that use the student success management system, Navigate. This is the tenth consecutive year that EAB has recognized outstanding achievements in student success.

“I am very proud that CVCC was awarded by the EAB on a national stage,” said Dr. John Capps, CVCC’s President. “Prioritizing our students and seeing their success as integral to our own is a fundamental commitment. CVCC’s partnership with EAB has proven to be immensely valuable in strengthening our communication channels with both current and prospective students.”

CVCC aims to provide open, accessible, flexible, quality learning opportunities through courses that are generally accepted to transfer to four-year institutions and lead to diplomas, certificates, or associate of applied science degrees that are designed to prepare individuals for their desired professions.

“CVCC is always striving to provide the best possible experience for our students,” stated Dr. Michael Farris, Dean of Student Services at CVCC. “This award is evidence of our commitment to student success, all of which is made possible by our dedicated Student Services team and our collaboration with EAB.”

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About EAB

EAB’s mission is to make education smarter and communities stronger. EAB works with more than 2,500 institutions to drive transformative change through data-driven insights and best-in-class capabilities. From kindergarten to college to career, EAB partners with leaders and practitioners to accelerate progress and drive results across enrollment, student success, institutional strategy, and data analytics. EAB works with each partner differently, tailoring their portfolio of research, technology, and marketing and enrollment solutions to meet the unique needs of every leadership team, as well as the students and employees they serve. Learn more at eab.com.

Lynchburg, VA (January 24, 2024) – The Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) Local Advisory Board will next meet on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The meeting will take place on CVCC’s main campus in the President’s Conference Room located in Appomattox Hall.

Speakers must notify the board chairman at least 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the meeting of their intention to address the board along with the topic of their comments.  

The Local Advisory Board meeting minutes are posted on CVCC’s webpage along with other board information at: https://centralvirginia.edu/local-advisory-board.

A map of the CVCC campus can be viewed by following this link: https://centralvirginia.edu/main-campus.

Muriel Mickles on CVCC CampusLYNCHBURG, VA (December 21, 2023) – Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) proudly announces the retirement of Dr. Muriel B. Mickles, Vice President of Academics, Students, and Workforce Development, culminating an exceptional 52-year journey of unwavering commitment and transformative contributions to the college.

Dr. Mickles, a cornerstone of the CVCC community since 1968, initially joined as a student in the institution’s second-ever class. Through her remarkable tenure, she navigated diverse roles from student and staff member to counselor, dean, and ultimately Vice President. Her remarkable journey embodies resilience, dedication, and an ardent passion for education.

Motivated by a steadfast commitment to learning and personal growth, Dr. Mickles embarked on her educational voyage at CVCC, charting her path against the norms of her time. Balancing a full-time job at Lynchburg Hosiery Mill with an ambitious 18-credit college schedule, her perseverance laid the foundation for a remarkable career dedicated to educational empowerment.

"CVCC was the gateway to a world of possibilities," remarked Dr. Mickles, reflecting on her transformative experience. Her tenure spanned pivotal roles in counseling and academic leadership, shaping the destinies of countless students and advocating for their educational journeys.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Mickles spearheaded initiatives pivotal to student success, including the establishment of an Early Alert system, the formation of what is now the CVCC Governance Model, and the implementation of the Early College program. Her impact resonates deeply within the CVCC community and beyond.

"Not only did CVCC shape my life, but it also shaped the lives of my children," shared Dr. Mickles proudly. All three of her grown children, Bethanie, Anna, and Evan, received an education at CVCC, followed by further education and accomplishment.

Dr. Mickles leaves a lasting mark, not only for her professional accomplishments but for her unwavering commitment to empowering students to achieve their fullest potential. Her message to future generations echoes with inspiration: "Dream it, own it, embrace it. The sky is the limit for you. Think big."

As Dr. Mickles bids farewell to CVCC, she envisions a future marked by growth, innovation, expanded programs, and enhanced support for students in need. Her impact will continue to shape the trajectory of CVCC, leaving an enduring legacy of empowerment and academic excellence.

"Dr. Muriel B. Mickles has been an irreplaceable asset to CVCC, leaving an indelible impact on our institution. Her tireless dedication to student success and unwavering passion for education will resonate within our halls for generations to come," remarked Dr. John Capps, CVCC President.

CVCC extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Muriel B. Mickles for her unparalleled service and wishes her the very best in her well-deserved retirement.

Debra Short & William Jefferson at VCCS HIRE Ed Conference(December 19, 2023) — The annual HIRE Ed Conference, a signature event organized by the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), was held December 6 – 8 in Roanoke celebrating remarkable accomplishments in workforce development initiatives. The conference, which showcases excellence, innovation, and collaboration among colleges and their business partners, reaffirmed the pivotal role that Virginia's Community Colleges play in advancing workforce training across the state.

The event saw robust participation from Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) administration, staff, faculty, local businesses, and economic development community members, all representing the Greater Lynchburg area. Dr. Jason Ferguson, CVCC’s Associate Vice President of Professional and Career Studies/Workforce Solutions, delivered impactful insight into CVCC’s achievements as a facilitator and participant across three sessions, notably contributing to the panel discussion that served as the cornerstone of the conference. Dr. Ferguson presented with Christine Kennedy of the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance to showcase the collaborative approach taken to serve businesses by both organizations. Other CVCC partners in attendance at the conference included Nat Marshall from BWX Technologies, Heather Ramsey from Framatome, C.J. Caudill from Aerofin, Kristin King from Centra, Paul Denham from Southern Air and Dr. Justin Hensley from Cloudfit Software, who also serves on the CVCC Local Advisory Board. Paul Denham joined Jason Ferguson on stage for the closing session which involved a panel discussion that highlighted partnerships between four community colleges and their local businesses.

CVCC was recognized with several awards across a variety of categories. Accolades were extended to Debra Short, CVCC’s FastForward Program Manager, honored with the award for Outstanding Achievement by a College Faculty or Staff Member, and William Jefferson, Head of the CVCC HVAC Program, received the esteemed award for Outstanding Achievement from a Rising Star. Furthermore, in a competitive arena encompassing all twenty-three colleges, CVCC claimed the prestigious Showcase Award for its innovative Monopoly-styled exhibit, showcasing CVCC's one-door approach to credit and noncredit programming in a singular, accessible format. The college's exhibit also featured a set of HoloLens; a form of immersive, augmented reality goggles used to enhance medical training and learning by simulating real-world scenarios.

CVCC's Monopoly-styled board game at the VCCS HIRE Ed Conference

"This recognition underscores the dedication and excellence of our team," remarked Jason Ferguson acknowledging the outstanding efforts of Debra, William, and the entire Workforce Solutions team. "Their outstanding achievements exemplify the commitment to advancing workforce development and fostering impactful collaborations within our community. As evidenced by the support shown from local business partners participating in presentations to share their insights regarding how community colleges and industry must work together to meet workforce demands.”

The success of CVCC at the HIRE Ed Conference highlights the institution's unwavering commitment to driving innovation, collaboration, and excellence in workforce development initiatives.

EAB Finalist(October 4, 2023) Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is honored to announce that education company EAB has named CVCC as a finalist for the company’s Student Success Collaborative - CONNECTEDness Award, which recognizes establishments that build relationships across institution types, connecting community colleges, four-year schools, or the broader higher education community. 

CVCC aims to provide open, accessible, flexible, quality learning opportunities through courses that are generally accepted to transfer to four-year institutions and lead to diplomas, certificates, or associate of applied science degrees that are designed to prepare individuals for their desired professions. 

“I am very proud that CVCC is being recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Student Success Collaborative - CONNECTEDness Award,” said Muriel Mickles, CVCC’s Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. “Our students are a priority, and their success is our success. The partnership with EAB has proven invaluable in enhancing collaborative outreach efforts through multimodal communications with current and prospective students. I am delighted to share that our students are the ultimate beneficiaries of this wonderful partnership.  Thank you EAB!” 

CVCC was selected as one of 25 finalists chosen from more than 850 colleges, universities, and individuals that use the student success management system, Navigate. This is the tenth consecutive year that EAB has recognized outstanding achievements in student success. 

“Many of the students arriving on college campuses today were profoundly impacted by the pandemic and staff have to innovate to ensure these students receive the support they need,” said EAB President of Technology, Scott Schirmeier. “The finalists for EAB’s Student Success Collaborative Awards are rising to the challenge, leading with empathy, and using technology in smarter ways to help students achieve their goal of earning a college degree.” 

“This nomination, and our participation in this initiative, is evidence of our steadfast commitment to student success,” stated Michael Farris, Dean of Student Services Enrollment Management at CVCC. “We love our students and enjoy the collaboration with EAB to help them succeed!” 

The winners of this year’s awards will be selected from among the list of finalists and will be recognized at CONNECTED24, a three-day gathering of thousands of student success leaders from progressive community colleges as well as four-year colleges and universities taking place this January. 

About Central Virginia Community College 

Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu 

About EAB 

EAB’s mission is to make education smarter and communities stronger. EAB works with more than 2,500 institutions to drive transformative change through data-driven insights and best-in-class capabilities. From kindergarten to college to career, EAB partners with leaders and practitioners to accelerate progress and drive results across enrollment, student success, institutional strategy, and data analytics. EAB works with each partner differently, tailoring their portfolio of research, technology, and marketing and enrollment solutions to meet the unique needs of every leadership team, as well as the students and employees they serve. Learn more at eab.com. 

Ribbon Cutting(September 29, 2023) Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is pleased to announce that the College held a ribbon cutting celebration today to unveil its new, state-of-the-art, Skilled Trades Lab, which will enhance our electrical, HVAC, and plumbing programs and ensure CVCC students enter the workforce job-ready. 

CVCC’s Professional and Career Studies Division is at the forefront of education innovation. Our programs provide our community with industry-leading technology, curriculum, philosophies and methodologies that help local businesses thrive. These programs accounted for nearly 30% of the college’s overall enrollments for the 2022-2023 enrollment year. In addition, CVCC enrolled 1,792 students in non-credit WorkForce programs during the 2022-2023 school year. 

“Skilled trades is one of our fastest growing program areas,” said Jason Ferguson, Associate Vice President overseeing CVCC’s Professional and Career Studies/Workforce Solutions Division.  “With over 250 enrollments in these programs, including NCCER Core, Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing, the new lab space will allow our faculty to better train individuals for the workforce.  We will also be able to offer backflow prevention training on the main campus to address this need by local business and industry.” 

The Professional and Career Studies Division, which includes our WorkForce Solutions program, also provides training programs for the local industry and our business partners, like Southern Air, who made a significant contribution towards the new Skilled Trades Lab. Through these training programs, CVCC promotes economic development and innovative solutions to advance the region’s workforce. 

About Central Virginia Community College 

Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu.

CVCC In The News

(November 28, 2023)  Launched in 2019, Stay Close, Go Far (SCGF) is an initiative providing last-dollar free tuition to eligible Lynchburg City Schools students, encouraging them to attend Central Virginia Community College or pursue higher education at partnering institutions at Centra College of Nursing, Liberty University, Longwood University, Randolph College, Sweet Briar College or University of Lynchburg. 
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Posted by Bedford Bulletin

By John Barnhart, Staff Writer; johnbarnhart@bedfordbulletin.com

The Bedford Campus of Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) offers a program called Early College, for high school students. It allows them to attend their junior and senior years of high school at the community college, rather than high school. When they graduate, they have an associate degree along with their high school diploma. In fact, due to the difference in graduation dates, they actually get their degree before they get their diploma.

The program has been going on for a number of years now. Anne Cantrell, Bedford’s finance director, was one of the early graduates of the program. She was in the second group of students to enter the program and entered a four-year college with junior status right away.

Read the full article by the Bedford Bulletin here: https://www.pmg-va.com/bedford_bulletin/news/early-college-gives-college-bound-teens-a-boost/article_af4516eb-2ba1-5fd1-8ed4-ada64061600f.html