鶹ýrtb

Dear friends,

As we approach the end of another significant year, it's clear that 鶹ýrtb has been a hub of noteworthy achievements and inspiring stories. This month is no exception, with a host of good news and exciting developments that continue to showcase the spirit of excellence within our vibrant community. From prestigious guest appearances to outstanding achievements in sports and academics, the wave of success at VWU shows no signs of slowing down.

We are honored to announce U.S. Senator Mark Warner as the keynote speaker for our Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony, a significant accolade for VWU. We were delighted to welcome entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. Angela Reddix as our featured speaker at the Marlin Business Conference. In a similar vein of leadership, we're excited for John Groulx to join the Marlin family as the new VWU Vice President for Finance in the new year.

In the world of sports and academia, our women's soccer team clinched the 2023 ODAC Championship and advanced to the NCAA "Sweet Sixteen." The completion of the Eleanor and Henry Watts Field House marks a new era for our championship softball team, equipping them with state-of-the-art facilities to complement Tom & Betty Broyles Field at TowneBank Park. Enhancing our academic environment, the Batten Honors College was privileged to host two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author Colson Whitehead.

In a heartfelt tribute to our nation's heroes, VWU honored veterans, reminding us of the values of courage and sacrifice that are integral to our community's ethos. These values were mirrored on Giving Tuesday. We exceeded our goal and showcasing our collective spirit of generosity and commitment to making a meaningful impact.

We wish you all a joyous holiday season and a new year filled with peace, happiness, and prosperity. Here's to another year of making waves at 鶹ýrtb!

Sincerely,
Over the years I have enjoyed writing regular columns and contributing to articles.
Included below are links to several recent publications. Visit vwu.edu/president for more.
The 2023-2024 edition of , a groundbreaking higher education thought leadership series featuring insights from college and university presidents, begins now! This year’s series, titled “,” will examine the many facets of sustainability as well as its importance to students and its impacts on campuses.

In the fourth chapter of this year's series, “,” Roanoke College President Frank Shushok, Jr., Ph.D., examines the value of adaptability and transformation in higher education. He describes how embracing a forward-facing, creative approach in the face of evolving expectations can help campuses balance the need for change with the challenges of operating a modern university.  

We hope you will enjoy delving into these important topics with us and perhaps gaining a new perspective. aims to provide valuable insights that you can apply to your own campus as you work through the unique and ongoing challenges of modern higher education.
Dr. Scott D. Miller is president of 鶹ýrtb. Respected as one of the most entrepreneurial higher education executives in America, he is in his 33rd year as a university president. Dr. Miller has dedicated his career to the opportunities available through education. He especially values the small, classical, liberal arts college environment that offers students personalized pathways to life and career success.

Previously, he was president of Bethany College (2007-2015), Wesley College (1997-2007), and Lincoln Memorial University (1991-1997). He was also Executive Vice President (1988-1991) and Vice President for Development (1984-1988) at Lincoln Memorial University and Director of College Relations and Alumni Affairs at Rio Grande College (now University) in Ohio. Read more.