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FERRUM COLLEGE 2020 ANNUAL REPORT

FERRUM COLLEGE 2020 ANNUAL REPORT Profess Message from President David Johns

Historic Change: Ferrum College Begins Offering Graduate Programs

Three New Majors Added to Curriculum

Accreditation Renewed for Ten Years

Two New Nursing Programs Launched

Transfer Students Guaranteed Two-year Path to Graduation

104th Ferrum College Commencement Held Virtually

Campus Community Embraces “New Normal” Pictorial

Athletics Message from Director of Athletics John Sutyak

Fall 2020 Athletics Pictorial

Billy Wagner ’93 Enters National College Baseball Hall of Fame

Jerry Venable ’68 Inducted into NJCAA Hall of Fame Class of 2020

Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2020 Announced

Philanthropy Message from Vice President for Institutional Advancement Wilson Paine

Michael T. Christian ’63 Center for First Year Experience Established

Craddock Veterans Lounge Unveiled

Virginians for Veterans Establishes Endowed Scholarship

BRI Celebrates Completion of the Leo H. Scott Educational Pavilion

Gift Enhances Carter Center for Academic Success

By the Numbers

Voluntary Leadership Recognition

Stronger Together is a publication of the Ferrum College Office of Institutional Advancement. Please send address changes by mail to Office of Institutional Advancement, P.O. Box 1000, Ferrum, VA 24088-9000; by calling 540-365-4211; or by emailing advancement@ferrum.edu. On the cover: Village area resident advisors gathered for socially-distanced group photos on the steps of Schoolfield Hall at the start of the 2020 fall semester. Pictured are (bottom to top, left) Suzie Maines ’21 and Alex Mattson ’21; (bottom to top, middle); Area Coordinator Leya Deickman ’19, Tazz Rodgers ’21, Brianna Sawyer ’21, Ahjaley Henderson ’22, Mia Brower ’21, and Dexter McCraw ’23; and (bottom to top, right) Sam May ’20, and Dakota Fletcher ’21.

Dear Ferrum Community, As we count down the last days of 2020, it is hard to believe all we have experienced this year. Last January, what feels like a lifetime ago, I challenged the College to develop 20/20 vision for our future. While I did not anticipate 2020 unfolding as it did, it nevertheless revealed why Ferrum College is wellsuited for the challenges that lie ahead. In response to COVID-19, we transitioned to remote learning that will be a component in our teaching moving forward. We held the College’s first virtual commencement ceremony, raised a glass in an online #PantherToast, and watched our faculty, staff, and students live our motto, Not Self, But Others, by volunteering in their home communities. We launched the College’s first graduate programs, a nursing program, and rolled out the Ferrum Promise – a guarantee that transfer students will graduate in two years, or we will pay for any remaining coursework. This pandemic has forced every college to examine who they are and who they want to be. We have used this opportunity to amplify how Ferrum’s mission and values focus on the whole person. We have reaffirmed our commitment to one another and to an education that fosters curiosity and that prepares our students to be thoughtful leaders in society. In short, we achieved 20/20 vision. So while I will join all of you in saying “good riddance” to 2020, I do so with a deep appreciation to each of you who supported the College this past year in so many ways. With Panther Pride,

David L. Johns, Ph.D. President

“...with a deep appreciation to each of you who supported the College this past year in so many ways.” –President David Johns

The first cohort of Ferrum College graduate students attend orientation via Zoom.

After more than a century of educating students as a training school, junior college, and four-year institution, Ferrum College now offers 100% online graduate degree programs: a Specialist in Education (EdS) in teacher leadership and coaching, and a Master of Science in psychology. The first cohort began in June 2020. “This is an important and historic moment for Ferrum College,” said President David Johns. “We have been listening to our students and to our region, and as we have in the past, we grow and change when there is need. We are part of this community, and we are committed to helping the community thrive.” Alumna Sandra Via has been named Dean of the School of Graduate and Online Education Studies. Via is a 2004 graduate of Ferrum College and has served the College for ten years as an adjunct professor, an associate professor of political science, and as the program coordinator of international studies. She holds a Master of Arts in political science from Virginia Tech and a doctorate in planning, governance, and globalization, also from Virginia Tech. She directs the implementation and logistical coordination of the graduate programs. “I am honored and excited to be able to implement Ferrum College’s first graduate programs. Our new graduate degree programs embody our mission by promoting the intellectual, ethical, and civic growth of students into 5

leaders that serve their community and the world. Like our undergraduate programs, these graduate programs incorporate a personalized learning experience, specialized and caring Dr. Sandra Via ’04 attention from faculty, and an experiential learning experience for which Ferrum College is known,” said Via. The Master of Science in psychology attracts graduate students who wish to prepare for research and teaching careers that require an advanced degree, such as working at nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, governmental agencies, social services agencies, educational institutions, and community outreach organizations. The Education Specialist degree is geared toward students who already hold a master’s degree and wish to advance their professional knowledge in either teacher leadership or coaching. Both programs also serve as a stepping stone to a doctoral program in either discipline. Ferrum College began accepting applications for enrollment in its graduate programs in January 2020. The College plans to launch additional graduate degree programs within the next two years. Learn more: www.ferrum.edu/goes

Elementary Education, Music, and Ecotourism Majors Added to Curriculum

Ferrum College announced the Department of Education’s approval of the addition of three new majors to the College’s baccalaureate degree granting programs: elementary education, music, and ecotourism. These majors became available in fall 2019. With the Bachelor of Science in elementary education, Ferrum students interested in teaching in an elementary school are able to earn a degree focused specifically in elementary education. Previously, the College was bound by Virginia state regulations to require students interested in teaching at an elementary school level to major in liberal arts and minor in teacher education. One hundred percent of Ferrum College teacher education program graduates are employed, according to data gathered across three years, from 2016, 2017, and 2018. The Bachelor of Arts in music focuses on two tracks: music business and music performance. This degree incorporates woodwinds, brass, percussion, piano, voice, and Appalachian folk instruments. Students are able to intern for artist management agencies around the country, public relations agencies, concert venues, and record labels. For years, Ferrum College offered ecotourism as a minor only. Now, Ferrum College students who earn a Bachelor of Science in ecotourism may find careers as ecotourism entrepreneurs, guides, and interpretive rangers with land management agencies.

Ferrum College’s Accreditation Renewed for 10 Years On Thursday, September 24, 2020, after an extensive review, Ferrum College received a glowing approval report from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) team. “We are assessed according to dozens of standards ranging from academic programs, faculty qualifications, budget and finance, planning and assessment, board governance, administrative leadership, student services, general education, and the list goes on and on,” explained President David Johns in a campus-wide email. “Almost always, an institution is given a few (sometimes many!) ‘recommendations’ that MUST be enacted in order to continue its accreditation.” Upon completion of this rigorous and extensive review process, the SACSCOC team determined that Ferrum College is 100 percent in compliance with every standard set forth, and made no recommendations. Final approval will occur in June 2021 by the SACSCOC board of trustees. “I wish I could convey…just how absolutely rare it is to receive such a final report,” wrote Johns. “We have all worked very hard over the last few years reshaping the College, encouraging leadership, and dreaming big.” SACSCOC is the regional accrediting body for higher education institutions in eleven southern states (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia) and Latin America. Once every decade, a SACSCOC team made up of peers from other higher education institutions performs an extensive accreditation evaluation on SACSCOC colleges. “We have been preparing for our ten year compliance report and the off-site and on-site visits for several years,” explained Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Aimé Sposato. “We brought together various groups of talented and dedicated faculty and staff to analyze the systems, protocols, and program offerings. I am delighted to share in the joy that our faculty, staff, and students feel across the campus. I am proud of our work, our dedication to our students, and our mission.” “The best part of the process of preparing the report was getting to work with people from all over the College to tell the Ferrum College story,” said Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Kevin Reilly, who spent countless hours preparing for the evaluation. “So many people worked so hard and with such excellence because they love Ferrum.” “The final SACSCOC report with no recommendations is so gratifying,” continued Reilly. “It means that a team made up of our peers from colleges around the southern United States took a very close look at all aspects of our College and discovered that we are doing outstanding work at Ferrum College.”

President David Johns was joined by (left to right) Nursing Division Chair and Associate Professor Kimberly Brown; Vice President for Academic Affairs Aimé Sposato; Dean of Health Professions and Social Sciences and Associate Professor Angie Dahl; Health Professions Division Chair and Associate Professor Katie Goff; Nursing Program Specialist Betsy Smith; and Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital Vice President Carl Cline to create a video announcing the launch of the pre-licensure BSN program.

Pre-licensure BSN Program to Welcome First Cohort in January 2021 Ferrum College has added a pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will launch with its first cohort in January 2021. The new BSN program complements the College’s existing and completely online RN to BSN program (read more on next page) that launched in fall 2020. The nursing programs are among a host of new offerings Ferrum College has added to its repertoire in just over a year, including a graduate school and various new majors. “If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that nurses are national heroes,” said Ferrum College President David Johns. “Our nursing students will be prepared to strengthen the health and well-being of their communities and promote the College’s motto, Not Self, But Others.” “We are thrilled to receive Board of Nursing approval to offer a pre-licensure BSN,” said Nursing Division Chair and Associate Professor Kim Brown. “This program comes at a critical time for Ferrum College, surrounding communities, and our clinical partners in the region.”

The first BSN program cohort will begin in January 2021 with a second cohort slated to begin in August 2021. The pre-licensure BSN program prepares students to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

“Ferrum Promise” Guarantees Path to Graduation in Two Years for Transfer Students Dr. Kim Brown

“In the ever-growing field of health care, Ferrum recognized that nurses who hold a BSN are able to incorporate complex concepts and advanced clinical reasoning into practice, which offers increased value to clients, teammates, and employers,” said Brown. The mission of Ferrum’s Division of Nursing is to prepare principled, professional, and scientifically grounded nurses who embrace discovery, value diversity, and are caring and compassionate as they serve in both global and domestic communities. “We have worked very hard to develop a quality program that will prepare students academically and professionally to excel in their chosen field,” said Brown.

Online RN to BSN Program Launched in Fall 2020 In fall 2020, Ferrum College launched a 100% online RN to BSN program that can be completed in as few as 18 months. Students accepted into the program must either hold an unencumbered RN license or be enrolled in an RN program within the Virginia Community College System. The RN to BSN program at Ferrum College underscores the significance of research and evidence-based practice, leadership, legal, and ethical implications in contemporary nursing practice. Learn more: www.ferrum.edu/nursing

Ferrum College made a bold “Ferrum Promise” that began in the fall of 2020: students who transfer from a Virginia community college with an appropriate associate’s degree will be able to graduate within two years of transfer, or they will receive free tuition for the remaining coursework. “Today, nearly forty percent of students who graduate from a Virginia community college need three or more additional years to finish a bachelor’s degree because their new college will not accept many of their credits. This is not what they expected–it’s frustrating, timeconsuming, and expensive,” said Ferrum College President David Johns. The College already guarantees admission from all 23 community colleges in Virginia. The “Ferrum Promise” is the College’s next step to become even more transfer friendly and applies to all students who are enrolled full-time, enter with an appropriate associate’s degree from a Virginia community college, and meet certain academic requirements. This promise encompasses many Ferrum College majors, including its signature programs: agriculture, business, criminal justice, ecotourism, environmental science, recreation leadership, social work, and teacher education. “We are making a promise to our transfer students that will dramatically impact their future,” said Johns. “We support a vision of making college affordable, accessible, and even a little more predictable, and we promise to make this a reality for students who transfer to Ferrum College.” Learn more: www.ferrum.edu/promise 9

On Saturday, May 9, 2020, a day usually filled with activity, excitement, and crowds of family and friends, the Ferrum College campus was brilliantly sunny, chilly, and quiet. At 10 a.m., the College began its 104th commencement ceremony during which 199 seniors from 14 different states were honored during a ceremony that was streamed online. The College was forced to postpone its traditional inperson graduation event due to COVID-19. Although the delivery was different, the commencement exercises remained generally the same. The program began with a slideshow of the graduates, and President David Johns and Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Aimé Sposato continued the tradition of ringing the Schoolfield Hall bell on campus to signify the start of the ceremony. Johns offered a greeting, telling the graduates, “Against all odds, and in the face of enormous challenges, Class of 2020, you made it! We all know, now more than ever, that great achievement comes from teamwork. It requires a group effort. Graduates, in addition to your own hard work and determination, the love and support that you’ve received from your family and friends helped to bring you to this moment.” Sposato recognized nine distinguished faculty members with 212 years of combined service in 10

teaching at the College: Director of Technical Services in Library Sciences Peggy Barker; Professor of Economics Rathin Basu; Assistant Professor of English Karen Duddy; Professor of English John Kitterman; Associate Professor of English Melvin Macklin; Assistant Professor of Marketing Michele “Micky” Naff; Associate Professor of Accounting and Business Christine Stinson; Associate Professor of Social Work Jennie West; and Assistant Professor of Sociology Peg Wimmer. The rank of Faculty Emeritus was bestowed upon the following retirees: Professor of Philosophy Gary Angel; Professor of Theatre Arts Harold Wayne Bowman; Professor of English John Bruton; Professor of Biology and Horticulture Bob Pohlad; Associate Professor of History C. Milton Rowan; Professor of Biology and Environmental Science Carolyn Thomas (awarded posthumously); Professor of History Mike Trochim; and Professor of Business Demetri Tsanacas. Jennie West, who retired this year after 25 years of teaching at Ferrum College, received the Exemplary Faculty Award. This award recognizes a full-time faculty member at the College who exemplifies excellence and commitment to teaching. West was described by her colleagues as one who “always leads by example, educates future professionals, challenges them, and opens their perspectives to different world views to make them more

observant, knowledgeable, open-minded individuals as they grow and learn through their journey and education at Ferrum College.” Christopher Michael Stone ’20 of Ferrum, VA received the Senior Academic Excellence Award. This award is based on grades earned in all college courses by a full-time student, including those taken at Ferrum, as well as those received in transfer from other colleges or universities. Stone maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned a Bachelor of Science in liberal studies. Layura Henley ’20 from Wytheville, VA, received the Arthur S. Owens Leadership Award, which is presented annually to the senior chosen by the faculty who best exemplifies the qualities of leadership, initiative, honor, and outstanding character. Recipients of this award must also hold an excellent academic record, have participated in extracurricular activities, and shown creative initiative in making Ferrum College a better place to study, work, and live. Henley triple majored, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-professional health studies, biology, and health sciences. The keynote address was brought by retired Professor Emeritus of Biology and Horticulture Bob Pohlad. He spoke about the unique graduation ceremonies he and his late wife, Carolyn Thomas, had attended

over their 41 years as professors at Ferrum College but acknowledged that none of those commencements had ever been as unique as this year. “You are the virtual commencement class of 2020! Embrace it! You will always be remembered for it. It may even be a key to your next job,” he said. “We all must embrace the opportunities and experiences that we have had with each other. They make us who we are. We are Ferrum Strong and we adapt.” Senior Class President Caitlin Hodges ’20 told the graduates that “each of you has a niche in the world, and it’s unlike any other person’s niche and it suits you perfectly.” Hodges ended her speech by telling the graduates that “Panthers don’t settle, and we do not take the path of least resistance. So go on, go out into the world and make it one you want to live in.” After the conferring and awarding of degrees, the Panther Band performed the College’s Alma Mater. The ceremony closed with eight celebrity guest appearances by actor Ty Burrell of the television show Modern Family; comedian Joel McHale of The Soup, Community, and Card Sharks; author David Baldacci; Ferrum College alumnus, actor, writer, and producer Mike McColl ’93; actor Graham Phillips of Riverdale and The Good Wife; actor Jamie McShane of Sons of Anarchy, Murder in the First, and Bloodline; comedian Keegan Michael Key; and actor Connor Trinneer of Star Trek Enterprise. 11

Campus Community Embraces “New Normal” Ferrum College campus members began the 2020–2021 academic year in the midst of a “new normal,” which included symptom checking prior to coming to campus, mandated mask use, and social distancing protocols. A hybrid class format of virtual and online instruction was used and the College’s outdoor classroom was also in high demand. Students, faculty, and staff quickly became experts at holding virtual meetings, exercise classes, and student information sessions via Zoom, and recitals and other gatherings were live-streamed to audiences.

Dear Ferrum College Family, As I walk the halls of the Norton Athletic Center, I feel blessed to be the director of athletics at a place like Ferrum College. If this past year has taught me anything, it’s that our coaches, staff, and student-athletes are committed to excellence, on and off the field, and take pride in representing Ferrum College in all that they do. Although this past year did not allow for much competition, we celebrated a number of accomplishments last year, both individually and at the teamlevel. Our men’s wrestling program won its fifth consecutive Southeast Wrestling Conference championship and earned another bid to the NCAA Championships. We also achieved many school records at the ODAC swimming & diving championships, our men’s basketball team hosted (and won) an ODAC playoff game, our baseball team’s senior night scrimmage was recognized on ESPN’s Sportscenter, and our softball team finished the season ranked nationally in the top-25. Ferrum also recognized four individuals honored as all-Americans, including Alisha Elizalde ’20, who became our first all-American in women’s wrestling, football’s Jordan Patti ’20 and wrestling’s Braden Homsey ’22 and Levi Englman ’22, who earned the honor for the second time. As we prepare for 2021, no one is more excited to compete and represent Ferrum College than our phenomenal coaches, staff and students. This year’s adversity will serve as a catalyst for Ferrum athletics to thrive in the future. And when competition returns, I promise you, we will be ready. Thank you for your support of Ferrum College and Ferrum athletics. Go Panthers!

John Sutyak Director of Athletics

Record Number of Ferrum College Student-Athletes Named to 2019–20 ODAC All-Academic Team Visit www.ferrumpanthers.com to view a list of the 2019-20 ODAC All-Academic Team members. 14

of Ferrum College students are

Student-athletes

Ferrum College offers 27 varsity sports for women and men

Ferrum College alumnus and former professional baseball pitcher Billy Wagner ’93 was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame, class of 2019, during a weekend celebration held in November 2019 in Baton Rouge, LA. Wagner credits much of his success to Ferrum College: “Going to Ferrum was the greatest thing that ever happened in my life,” Wagner said in an article that appeared in the October 30, 2019 edition of The Roanoke Times. Wagner spent three years at Ferrum College until he was drafted by the Houston Astros in the first round of the 1993 Major League Baseball draft. His professional career included stints with the Billy Wagner ’93 during the College Houston Astros (1995–2003); Philadelphia Phillies (2004–2005); Baseball Hall of Fame Induction. New York Mets (2006–2009); Boston Red Sox (2009); and Atlanta Braves (2010). Wagner is a five-time Major League Baseball All-Star and now coaches high school baseball at The Miller School in Charlottesville, VA. “There is absolutely no way somebody that hasn’t been to Ferrum could understand the beauty of Ferrum and what it entails,” Wagner concluded during the interview. Wagner is married to alumna and former women’s basketball star, Sarah Wagner ’94. Both are members of the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame, class of 2003 and 2004, respectively.

Former Ferrum Junior College standout Jerry Venable ’68 is the first Ferrum alumnus to be inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Men’s Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, class of 2020. Venable played for Ferrum from 1966–68, earning NJCAA AllAmerica honors as a sophomore. Following his career at Ferrum, he played two years at Kansas State University, where he earned All-Big Eight and All-America honors. He currently ranks ninth on Kansas State’s all-time scoring list, despite just two seasons with the Wildcats. He was selected in the 1970 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, but chose a career with the historic Harlem Globetrotters. During his 13-year campaign with the world travelers, Venable provided a lasting impact both on and off the court through initiatives such as Ronald Reagan’s Drug Awareness Campaign.

Jerry Venable ’68

Venable’s continued community involvement includes the launching of Learning Opportunities Through Sports program; serving as vice president of Little League Baseball; coaching basketball; and teaching high school. He was CEO and an active community member with the Staunton Education Foundation, which helps school aged children through the promotion of sports and educational activities. Venable is a member of the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame, class of 2018, the Booker T. Washington Hall of Fame, and the Virginia Interscholastic Heritage Association Hall of Fame. 16

Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2020 Announced

The Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame class of 2020 includes two former three-sport athletes, two former two-sport athletes, and two coaches. This year’s inductees are Elizabeth Adams O’Neal ’00, Kathy Bocock ’84, former Men’s Basketball Coach Jim Hartbarger, current Assistant Football Coach Bobby James ’84, Shelby Irving ’84, and Becky Piloto Fennessey ’92. With the coronavirus pandemic, an in-person induction ceremony will be delayed until a safe and suitable date can be determined. Read more at www.ferrumpanthers.com.

Kathy Bocock ’84

of Greensboro, NC, played three sports at Ferrum from 1981–83: basketball two years, and softball and volleyball one year each. Bocock has won 463 games as a head softball coach in her career at Averett and Elon combined. She coached the only two AllAmericans in Elon softball history and the only Division I female AllAmerican at Elon.

Shelby Irving ’84

of Danville, VA, played women’s basketball and softball two years each at Ferrum from 1980–84, helping the Panthers win the 1982 Virginia AIWA women’s basketball state title, before serving as a volunteer student assistant coach her junior and senior years.

Becky Piloto Fennessey ’92

of Avondale, PA, played softball four years and women’s basketball three years at Ferrum from 1988–92. She was a USA South (Dixie) All-Conference first team selection in 1990 and 1991, earned spots on the Dixie All-Tournament Team in 1989 and 1990, and was the Dixie Conference Tournament MVP in 1989.

Bobby James ’84

of Rocky Mount, VA, has been part of Ferrum’s Black Hats football program since 1979. He served as a team manager as a Ferrum student, then served as assistant football coach and assistant men’s basketball coach from 1984–91. James accepted a full-time position with the Panthers staff in 2006.

Jim Hartbarger

of Silva, NC, served as head men’s basketball coach at Ferrum three seasons from 1964–67, and produced a 71-15 record. His teams won three straight Cavalier Tarheel Conference titles and Hartbarger was named Coach of the Year all three seasons. The Panthers also won three straight NJCAA Region X titles and advanced to the NJCAA National Tournament all three seasons.

Elizabeth Adams O’Neal ’00

of Wake Forest, NC, played three sports at Ferrum College from 1996–2000. Adams played soccer four years, tennis three years and basketball one year. She was Ferrum’s first-ever Academic All-American, earning third team honors in 2000.

Dear Ferrum Family, It is difficult to look back on this past year without mentioning the impact COVID-19 has had across the globe, including here at Ferrum College. From Zoom meetings to face masks, COVID-19 has altered how we live, work, and play in a way that seemed unimaginable a year ago. But it hasn’t all been bad. This pandemic has jolted us from our normal routines, reset our perspective on what is important, and created a sense of solidarity among all of us who care deeply about the future of our College. This was especially evident last March, shortly after we transitioned to virtual learning for the remainder of the spring semester. At the time, I did not know what the overall impact would be, but I knew it was going to be substantial both for the College and our students. So, I recorded a video asking you for help. And the response was overwhelming. As you’ll see, the College saw a 33% increase in giving to the Ferrum Fund and a 40% increase in athletics giving compared to the previous year, while significantly growing our number of donors. We also raised over $300,000 in scholarships, introduced new giving societies, held our first virtual alumni events, produced multiple marketing videos, and designed a website specifically dedicated to the College’s COVID-19 response - www.ferrum.edu/stronger-together. And last, but certainly not least, we produced this 2020 Annual Report to highlight the College’s achievements in this unprecedented year. These achievements are a testament to the hard work of the Institutional Advancement team and to the variety of ways that each of you support Ferrum College and our efforts to build a bright and prosperous future for our students. I hope you are as proud as I am in what we, together, were able to achieve. With Panther Pride,

Wilson Paine ’07 Vice President for Institutional Advancement

“I hope you are as proud as I am in what we, together, were able to achieve.” –Wilson Paine ’07 18

Ferrum College is excited to announce the creation of the Michael T. Christian ’63 Center for First-Year Experience (FYE), made possible by a generous contribution from alumnus Michael Christian. “I made some friends at Ferrum who were serious students. As a result, I became serious about succeeding in college and beyond,” said Christian, who graduated from Ferrum Junior College in 1963. The Center will serve all incoming freshmen, including those who are the first in their families to attend college. Its goal is to integrate firstyear students into college life by connecting them to an academic and social network of professors, mentors, and classmates to help them have a successful college experience. Students will also be connected to other resources at Ferrum College such as clubs, campus engagement, and career services. “The transition from high school to college can be daunting, especially for our students who are the first in their family to attend college,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement and External Relations Wilson Paine. “The Michael T. Christian ’63 Center for First-Year Experience is designed to make sure our firstyear students won’t feel lost as they begin their college journey.” “The Michael T. Christian ’63 Center for FirstYear Experience is the perfect location to study and gather with other students. FYE provides students with a variety of resources to help them perform to their highest potential. These include academic coaching, events, Gateway and Freshmen Orientation courses, and much more,” said First-Year Experience Coordinator Michelle Carter. After graduating from Ferrum Junior College, Christian went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Following college, he attained a US Army,

Michael T. Christian ’63

Armor commission and eventually rose to the rank of Captain and Tank Company Commander upon discharge. After his military service, Christian became executive vice president of NationsBank, now Bank of America, and served as president and chief executive officer of three additional community banks. He also chaired two United Way campaigns and was chairman of the board for Tusculum College. Christian remains involved as a consultant to an east Tennessee regional financial services company and has participated in other civic activities, including previously serving on the board of directors for the Federal Reserve Bank (Nashville branch) and the Tennessee Bankers Association. “I attribute much of my success to Ferrum,” said Christian. “What I gained there is worth much more to me than the monetary donation I made to the school.”

Ferrum College unveiled the new Craddock Veterans Lounge during its 2019 Veterans Day Ceremony on campus. The lounge is a space specifically designated for veterans on campus, and was made possible by Army veteran and Ferrum College alumnus Greg Craddock ’92 and members of the Craddock family. “My hope is that this lounge provides a place of peace for Ferrum’s veterans on campus to study, relax, and spend time together,” said Greg Craddock.

Sandra Craddock, Greg Craddock ’92, Doug Craddock, and Sharon Craddock attended the unveiling of the new Craddock Veterans Lounge in Stanley Library.

“We are grateful to the Craddock family for their generosity which has made this veterans lounge possible,” said Ferrum College President David Johns. “As we all know, courage, sacrifice, and selflessness are the qualities of a veteran, and we owe a great deal to those who give so much in defense of freedom. The Craddock Veterans Lounge is one way we will be able to honor the heroes who are part of our Ferrum College community.” A veteran of the U.S. Army, Craddock has over 20 years of experience in special operations, intelligence, and security operations. He was among the first boots on the ground in

Afghanistan and Iraq. He graduated from Ferrum College in 1992 and holds a master’s degree in business administration from Liberty University. Craddock now serves as the chief executive officer of Patriot Group International (PGI), Inc. Under Craddock’s leadership, PGI earned over $10 million in revenue within two years of operation and was named to Inc. Magazine’s “Fast 500” in 2014. In 2017, PGI was selected as the Government Contractor of the Year in the $25–75 million category.

Virginians for Veterans (V4V) has given a generous gift to establish an endowed scholarship to benefit Ferrum College students. The scholarship will be awarded to a Ferrum student who has demonstrated a financial need and is also a veteran, active or reserve military personnel, or the dependent of a military service member or veteran. “Establishing an endowed scholarship is a wonderful way to assist veterans and their family members as they obtain an education that will help them fulfill the American dream,” said V4V Director and President Roddy Davoud, who noted the V4V board unanimously voted in favor of the Ferrum scholarship. “We are honored that Virginians for Veterans has partnered with Ferrum College to help advance their mission of supporting our veterans and their families,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Wilson Paine ’07. “This scholarship showcases Ferrum’s commitment to our military service members and complements our efforts to expand access to more students through scholarships and financial aid.” Ferrum College is approved to offer GI Bill® educational benefits by the Virginia State Approving Agency. 20

Blue Ridge Institute & Museum Celebrates Completion of Leo H. Scott Educational Pavilion The Blue Ridge Institute and Museum at Ferrum College celebrated the completion of the Leo H. Scott Educational Pavilion with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Blue Ridge Farm Museum. Named for the late Leo Hamilton Scott, a Ferrum local who was often described as the backbone of the community, the pavilion was made possible by his wife Geraldine Scott and her grandchildren Chase and Kelli. The Scott family is a longtime presence in the town of Ferrum and strong supporters of the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum, and Ferrum College. “The educational pavilion is my special gift to Leo,” said Geraldine. “It means a great deal to me for everyone to be able to use it, from school children, to the Ferrum community for reunions and parties, to college students. I can’t Members of the Scott family cut the ribbon during the fall 2019 ceremony wait to see it in use.” celebrating the completion of the Leo H. Scott Educational Pavilion.

Scott was a 1951 graduate of Ferrum Junior College. In 1953, he founded Leo Scott Cabinets and employed many local father and son pairs to custom-make cabinets that were shipped throughout southeast Virginia. Scott was active in the Ferrum community; he founded the Ferrum Rescue Squad and Ferrum Volunteer Fire Department. In 2001, Ferrum College awarded Scott the Benjamin M. Beckham Medallion, the College’s highest alumni honor named after the College’s first president. He was also named Franklin County’s Farmer of the Year in 2013. Scott passed away in February 2017 at age 84. “We are so grateful to the Scott family for this generous gift to the 1800s farm museum,” said Bethany Worley, director of the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum. “We’ve needed an educational facility for decades to serve our growing numbers of school tours, homeschooling events, and for the annual Blue Ridge Folklife Festival. The Leo H. Scott Educational Pavilion will also be instrumental in our community fellowship. Everyone can be a part of Ferrum College.” “The Leo H. Scott Educational Pavilion will be a center for learning, recreation, and reflection for years to come,” said Ferrum College President David Johns. “It will stand as a lasting memorial to a beloved member of this community. We are grateful to Geraldine Scott for her gift to Ferrum College and to the Village of Ferrum.”

In this undated photograph, members of the Carter family are listed on the back of the photograph as: (first row, L-R) Leon Carter ’47, Bonnie Carter Corley ’47, Maury Carter ’53; (second row, L-R) Leslie Carter ’30 and wife, Esther Cash Carter, Elaine Carter Nuckols ’43, Reavie Carter, wife of Lauren, Virgie Carter (mother), Sylvanus Carter (father); (third row, L-R) Otis Carter ’40, Donovan Carter ’40, and Lauren Carter ’28.

In the summer of 2020, the Carter Center for Academic Success, formerly known as the Academic Resources Center, received a facelift thanks to alumnus Maury Carter ’53 and his family. “Seven siblings from my generation were Ferrum scholars,” said Carter. “Ferrum College provided more than a college textbook education. Taught there was an outstanding education, but equally important: compassion.” “It is an exciting time for those of us who work in the Carter Center for Academic Success,” said Dean of Student Success David Wiggins. “Now the Carter Center is even more beautiful and functional. The students are thankful for a place where they can study individually or collectively, get peer-assisted tutoring, and learn new skills to help them with their academic success. We are very grateful to the Carter family for their gift.” 22

The newly renovated Carter Center for Academic Success provides resources and services to help students achieve their greatest academic potential and includes spaces where students can study individually or in groups, receive peerassisted tutoring, and learn new skills.

Located on the lower level of Ferrum College’s library, the newly renovated Carter Center is open 24 hours a day and boasts all new furniture, paint, carpeting, and ceiling tiles, plus a new camera and monitoring system. It provides resources and services to help students achieve their greatest academic potential, including one-on-one tutoring support, individual advising sessions, study groups for first-year students and military veterans, and support for students with learning differences. Carter’s family was not financially secure during the College’s early days. “A family of ten. Mom and Dad and eight siblings,” remembers Carter. “A poor family a bit different from the students from more populated areas. Our parents could not have afforded to send any of us to college. Ferrum College made the dream of attending college possible for our family. The professors understood us and taught us well.”

“The Carter family moved to Ferrum in 1914, one year after the College opened, and have been part of the Ferrum story ever since,” explained Vice President for Institutional Advancement Wilson Paine ’07. “This gift represents over one hundred years of support from the Carter family, and is a testament to their commitment to our students, the College, and the region.” “I love the people there,” said Carter. “I love the town and Ferrum College. When I am on the College’s campus, I have a special feeling: a feeling of being at home.”

Overall Contributions

$1,925,636* TOTAL GIFTS

Restricted Gifts + Grants $957,784 (50%) Ferrum Fund $402,777 (21%) Endowment $383,535 (20%) Capital Gifts $181,540 (9%) Fiscal year 2019â€“20

2020: $52,306,519

2019: $53,671,188

2018: $52,886,524

Operating Revenue

$30,448,747 TOTAL REVENUE

Operating Expenses

$29,752,925

TOTAL EXPENSES

Net Tuition and Fees $13,448,183 (44%)

Auxiliary Services $7,622,198 (26%)

Auxiliary Services $11,109,185 (36%)

Student Services $7,438,633 (25%)

Investment Income $3,840,373 (13%)

Instruction $7,247,766 (24%)

Contributions $1,041,216 (3%)

Institutional Support $5,750,823 (19%)

Grants $787,612 (3%)

Academic Support $1,693,505 (6%)

Other Income $222,178 (1%)

COVID-19 Financials Marchâ€“December 2020

Direct emergency student aid provided by the CARES Act

$1,806,770 COVID-19 RELATED COSTS

Institutional aid received from the CARES Act to cover COVID-19 related expenses Expenses - $970,310 (e.g. spring room & board,

refunds, personal protective equipment, cleaning supplies)

Lost Revenue - $836,460 (e.g. room & board due to Paycheck Protection Program

online learning, campus events, summer programs)

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTARY LEADERSHIP

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE D. Scott Showalter ’73, Chair W. Jeffrey Booker, 1st Vice Chair Bernice Cobbs ’98, 2nd Vice Chair Suzanne Smith ’98, Secretary

OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Twyla Stephen Tatum ’04, President B. Clay Wiley ’06, Vice President Ty’Nesha Jamison Scales ’05, Secretary Ronald E. Singleton ’70, Past President

BOARD OF DIRECTORS David Arrington Denise Bates Suzanne Bell ’62 Suzanne M. Boltz John Cougill ’69 Jeff Davoud ’97 Vicki Gardner Phyllis Karavatakis ’76 Ann Klotz Jeffrey H. “Jeff” Knotts Sharma D. Lewis Judson P. (Jud) Mason ’67 Annita Nelson Baxter Phillips, Jr. ’66 Mary Jane Rawley Glenn Rowley Ronald E. “Ron” Singleton ’70 Carolyn L. Smith Twyla Tatum ’04 Teresa Watson Marilyn H. West Bruce Whitehurst George D. Yancey ’67

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Scotty L. Bryan ’97 Fletcher “Nathan” Daniels III ’99 Philip J. Davis ’02 Thomas L. Davis ’04 Randal L. Doss ’94 Brooke Gill ’05 Lynette Evans Guilliams ’05 Danielle W. Hannuksela ’16 Terrance S. Harrelson ’11 Shannon Jost ’97 Dana Kelley ’94 J. Glynn Loope ’86 Alesha Meadows ’12 Rob Monolo ’92 Trasan Moore ’11 Billie Quesenberry ’17 Jeffrey Reardon ’96 Kevin Reynolds ’13 Matt Scruggs ’04 Elizabeth “Beth” Simms ’09 Deanna Reid Sumners ’13 Holly Stitham-Ellis ’97 Dorothy Carroll Vetterl ’18 LIFETIME MEMBERS Donald Brown ’66 Samuel Camden ’66 James Clark Jr. ’62 Bruce Griffith ’66

With each change that we have made at Ferrum College, we have reaffirmed our commitment to each other and to the staying power of our motto, Not Self, But Others.

THANK YOU.

OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT P. O. BOX 1000, FERRUM, VA 24088

Ferrum College does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran status, gender, sex, disability, or any other protected status in admission to, access to, treatment in or employment in its programs and activities. Ferrum College affirms the dignity and worth of every individual regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and will not tolerate harassment or discrimination toward any individual. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Director of Human Resources, Ferrum College, P.O. Box 1000, Ferrum, VA, 240889000; (540) 365-4235. Inquiries concerning the application of nondiscrimination policies may also be referred to Office for Civil Rights, D.C., U.S. Department of Education, P.O. Box 14620, Washington, D.C. 20044; (202) 208-2545, TDD; (202) 208-7797. OCR encourages use of e-mail or fax to communicate with OCR whenever possible. Also, complainants may file a complaint with OCR online or by email (ocr@ed.gov).

Stronger Together: Ferrum College 2020 Annual Report