What does 48-hour decision mean?
It is simple. Apply to RBC, submit the necessary documents, and receive an admittance decision within 48 hours. This initiative is designed to capitalize on a student’s excitement and remove the anxiety around having to wait. Plus, a quick decision allows students and families the opportunity to plan for life post high school. Applying to college should be a positive experience, and we want to add to that. 

What does the admission  process entail?
The process is straightforward. Complete a free application at rbc.edu and send us the necessary admittance documents to make a decision. Most students only need to submit an official transcript from their high school and/or college. It is common at RBC for students to apply and get an acceptance decision before the week’s end. 

What is the thought process behind creating 48-hour admittance?
This process is indicative of our culture at RBC and provides prospective students a glimpse of what to expect when they become students. How an organization does one thing is how they do everything. Student success is our number one priority and having a customer- centric environment is required to ensure we meet this metric. 

Is there a deadline to apply for 48-hour admittance?
There is no deadline to apply, but sooner is always better. Why put off until tomorrow what you can do today?

What is the RBC 360 Virtual Tour?
The 360 virtual tour provides prospective students with the opportunity to explore RBC’s gorgeous campus from the comfort of their home. No car? Live hours away? No problem. Simply go to rbc.edu to access the virtual tour and learn about the features that aid in student success and set us apart from other schools. 

I’ve been accepted into Richard Bland in 48-hours, what  happens next?
First, congratulate yourself, then tell your family and friends. Getting admitted to college is an exciting event and should make you proud.Shortly after being admitted, you will receive an email and packet in the mail. The email will have a URL link to confirm your acceptance. I recommend confirming as soon as possible so you can access your RBC accounts and start applying for institutional scholarships. Be sure to schedule a time to visit the campus and get your free RBC t-shirt. RBC offers a unique college experience with many services that separate us from other institutions.

The post 48-Hour Decision appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Abbigayle Poirier, Art Professor at Richard Bland College and gifted oil painter, is a lover of the art of paint—not only what it represents.

“I’m not a painter because I want to paint narratives,” she said. “I’m a painter because I’m interested in paint.”

Poirier defines herself as “a figurative landscape painter inspired by folklore, personal narratives and dreams.” However, how she creates her art is a bit unorthodox—she combines printmaking and painting techniques by using a gelli plate to create mono prints on wood panels. She blends realistic and fantastical elements in her work, often incorporating borders inspired by medieval manuscripts. Her paintings focus on capturing light, color and personal interpretations of scenes, rather than strictly adhering to hyperrealistic representations.

Poirier’s talent has taken her places near and far. Next January, she will be attending the Green Olive Arts residency in Morocco, which welcomes top artistic talent from around the world.

“I think about all the designs and colors in Morocco,” she said. “I feel like it will be really influential to my work.

“It could push things that I don’t have the answers to right now.”

Recently, Poirier had a solo exhibition in the Thyen-Clark Gallery at Jasper Community Arts in Jasper, Indiana. The gallery is roughly 70 miles southwest of Poirier’s graduate alma mater, Indiana University (IU). The school is heralded for its figurative art programs, which Poirier sought to master. She learned under esteemed artists Eve Mansdorf and Tim Kennedy, who together have taught at IU for more than a half-century.

Poirier developed an affinity for art around 12 years of age. She spent hours every day perfecting her drawing technique to “get as close to the photograph as possible.”

Today, she has largely abandoned this style and philosophy and opted for a more imaginative and figurative approach. This shift can be traced back to John Lee, one of her art professors at William & Mary, who opened her eyes to see the world in color, not just the black and white confines of hyperrealistic drawing.

Poirier scoured the landscape for inspiration and stumbled upon French impressionist painter Pierre Bonnard. She was drawn to how skillfully he used light and colors.

“I think ultimately, for me, painting is also about pursuing light,” Poirier said. “If you look at Bonnard’s work, he’s pursuing light and capturing its fleeting moments.”

Circling back to her time at Indiana University, one of her favorite memories was participating in the IU Prison Arts Initiative, which immersed incarcerated people in art.

“I was able to teach drawing and watercolor courses,” she said glowingly. “It was an incredible experience getting to teach the students and getting to know them.

“We also did exhibitions of their work in the local community. One of my students made comic strips and got published. For me, that was my proudest moment because it was awesome to watch him grow and build his passion for art.”

After graduating from IU, Poirier wanted her next move to be somewhere she could make a lasting impact. She wanted to teach at a modestly sized institution because she felt her teaching style would thrive the most in that setting. When Richard Bland College came across her radar, she seized the opportunity.

“I wanted to be in a student body where I felt like I could truly help students start to make some choices or start to feel like they have an understanding of what they want to pursue next,” Poirier said.

Her teaching philosophy centers self-discovery for her students.

“I come from the background of being taught art from observation,” she said. “How do you take a 3D world and then put it onto a 2D surface?

“I’m not looking at a student’s work and saying, ‘Oh, this good or this bad.’ It’s more ‘Are you grasping these bigger ideas about art?’ I want them to learn how they personally see the world—not an idea of the world, but truly seeing what is around them.”

Poirier, who has been teaching at RBC since the fall of last year and was recently hired as full-time faculty, has enjoyed working with the faculty and staff at the College.

“Since day one, I have been met with a smile,” she said. “There’s a strong community here, which can be difficult to find at some colleges.

“I have made good friendships here with colleagues, such as Dr. Kalota Stewart and Dr. Adam Zucconi, who I know I can count on for endless support and advice.”

Over the course of her artistic journey, Poirier has learned the importance of being malleable. She cautions against having preconceived ideas about art because it stifles growth. She imparts this same wisdom on her students.

“You have to be willing to let go of  your ideas and what you think is correct, or what you think is best, and just be a sponge—soak everything up,” Poirier said.

The post Abbigayle Poirier: Artful Storyteller appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Second-year RBC student Adrian Rios has been legacy-focused from an early age.

“The legacy I would like to leave here is that I was a man of honor and respect—a man that cared for others and went above and beyond to provide for others,” Rios said.

He’s the first in his family to pursue higher education. He’s a resident assistant and he’s involved with faith and wellness events on campus. He was even recruited to the RBC soccer team, where he played for one season.

Funny enough, Rios, who hails from Puerto Rico, was a pen stroke away from attending VCU. But during his recruitment visit to RBC, the College’s homey atmosphere drew Rios in. He knew here he wouldn’t get lost in the shuffle and he would be embraced by the faculty, staff and his peers.

“They know you by your first name,” Rios said. “The small classroom sizes, residential living and overall family environment really caught my eye.”

The Barbershop Talk series—a collaboration between Rios and the RBC Office of Residence Life and one of Rios’ proudest achievements at RBC—creates a safe space for male students to share about their challenges in and out of the classroom.

“We let them know it’s okay to let your guard down,” Rios said. “It’s okay to not feel okay.”

As an RA, the second-year student uses his innate leadership skills to mentor and advise his peers, which is very rewarding for him.

“You get to be a role model and people really look up to that,” he said.

After he graduates from RBC, Rios plans to pursue a career in real estate. Aligning with his mission of serving others, this profession will help him facilitate family trajectories for generational wealth.

The post Adrian Rios: Servant Leader appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Amy Lacey

Football has been an escape for Meziah Scott since he was seven-years-old.

“It’s my world away from the world. My peace and happiness,” Scott says. “I put most of my life and time into football. If I’m stressed out, I go out and throw a ball around and then everything is okay.”

The 2021 Petersburg High School quarterback continued his passion on the field at Western Carolina University this past fall. Unlike most 18-year-olds, Scott began his freshman year at WCU with 60 college credits.

Scott completed the coursework necessary to graduate from both Petersburg High School and RBC’s Middle College program. It is a partnership with Petersburg City Public Schools that allows eligible students to fulfill their high school requirements while also getting a jump start on college.

“When the prospects of becoming a Middle College student at Richard Bland were introduced to me, it gave me an opportunity to exceed,” Scott explains. “I looked for that challenge. It’s what I take to the field, and I want it in other areas of my life, especially academically. 

Richard Bland offered that to me in so many ways.”

RBC’s Middle College program is available to Petersburg High School juniors and seniors who test into college-level Math and English courses. They attend eleventh and twelfth grades on the RBC campus. 

While accepting his high school diploma, Scott also earned an associate of science degree thanks to his enrollment in the RBC Middle College program. 

Scott originally decided to   continue his education on a football scholarship at Western Carolina, but entered the NCAA Transfer Portal and will return home to attend Virginia State this fall. His success as a student in RBC’s Middle College program also attracted the attention of several other universities. He was a model student-athlete who earned good grades and excelled athletically.

In addition to playing football, Scott will pursue an education in Sports Management at VSU. He hopes to become a graduate assistant and work his way up the ranks in the coaching program, secure internships, and eventually oversee the careers of athletes.

“It’s an honor and an achievement to graduate from RBC and Petersburg,” Scott says. “The curriculum was challenging, but it helped raise my GPA. It also showed people that at a young age you can handle academic responsibilities and a highly academic atmosphere, be successful at sports, and manage life and a social world. Coaches saw that and were impressed.”

He will also look to his life-long football mentor, his father, Michael Scott, who is the head football coach at Petersburg High School.

Scott highly recommends RBC’s Middle College to any Petersburg student who qualifies for it. 

“You go into college ahead of the game,” Scott says about being an RBC Middle College student. “It’s definitely a sacrifice for a long-term goal, but the results are unexplainable. The rewards are unexplainable. You learn to manage your time. The work will pay off if you have the right mindset.”

The post Ahead Of The Game appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Amanda Turner’s life is governed by teamwork and meticulousness.

At her day job as procurement manager at Richard Bland College (RBC), she reviews countless pages of procurement contracts for various campus projects submitted by College staff and external stakeholders. She works with her team to ensure all bases are covered by handling the procurement process with fastidious care.

“Staying in compliance and being aware of how we’re spending money is essential to the mission of the College,” Turner said.

She’s also responsible for training her end users on how to use eVA, the Commonwealth’s Procurement Management System. The College uses the platform to notify registered vendors of procurement opportunities available on campus and to process purchase orders.

Her attention to detail and affinity for teamwork doesn’t just apply to her 9 to 5. It also does on the gridiron.

In high school, the Williamsburg, VA native’s football dreams unfortunately didn’t fully materialize. When she was finally granted the opportunity to play her senior year, she tore her ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in practice, thereby ending her season.

But roughly fifteen years later, her football dreams became a reality.

Turner came across a news article about women’s semi-pro football team, the Richmond Black Widows. She decided to try out for the team the following year and made the roster.

You’d might assume there are glaring differences between how football is played amongst women versus men. But you’d be pleasantly surprised.

“The ladies come down hitting,” said Willie Burns, Richmond Black Widows Offensive Coordinator. “They put it all on the line.”

Turner—who played center for the Black Widows for nearly a decade—quickly became a team favorite and revered for her work ethic.

“I tell everybody that center is probably one of the hardest positions other than the quarterback because they’ve got to know the whole offense,” Burns said. “So she’s got to make that call so everybody knows who they’re supposed to block on each play.”

In 2017, the home of Turner’s neighbors, Katreese and Walter Moyler, caught on fire. Turner ran into the burning home twice to help rescue the couple.

“Not many people would do what Amanda did,” Katreese said. “My family and I are forever grateful to her for helping save our lives.”

Because of her heroics, she was admitted into the ICU for smoke inhalation. Fortunately, Turner didn’t suffer any major internal or external injuries. From that day forward, her teammates crowned her with the nickname, “Smoke” (they adorably call her daughters “Puff” and “Spark”).

“If there’s an uncommon situation that’s going to appear in somebody’s life, it’s going to appear in Amanda’s life,” said Jessica Harris, General Manager of the Richmond Black Widows and long-time friend of Turner.

Although she was able to play the game she loves, her ultimate dream is to one day become an NFL referee. Over the course of her officiating career, she’s officiated at the little league to the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) level.

Namely, on October 4, she will be a part of a historic all-women officiating crew of the Virginia Union University vs. Winston-Salem University football game. This would be the second-ever all-women referee crew in collegiate football history—the 2023 Hula Bowl crew was the first.

On her teams on and off the field, Turner is a vital cog. In each setting, she works diligently to make sure things are done efficiently and with intention. The stakes are equally as paramount in her mind.

“I don’t think RBC would like the amount of intensity I have on the football field,” she said with a laugh. “But I treat both with respect.

“I’m just grateful to be a part of a great team at RBC, as well as just as grateful I have the teammates that I have.”

To find out more about Turner, take a look at this mini-documentary highlighting her accomplishments both on and off the field. Click to play.

The post Amanda Turner: RBC’s Team Player appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

My family is originally from Syria and I was raised with strong values centered around discipline, perseverance and hard work. My biggest passion is bodybuilding, which has shaped much of who I am today. Through training, nutrition and learning about performance, I discovered a deep interest in how the body functions and adapts. This passion inspired me to pursue a degree in sports science, medicine and nutritional science so I can turn what I love into a meaningful career.

Are you a residential or commuter student?

I am a commuter student—being able to go home after classes provides comfort and balance for me. This allows me to stay connected with my family while still focusing on my education. The flexibility makes it easier to manage my time and responsibilities effectively.

Why did you decide to attend RBC?

I initially attended RBC a little while ago but stepped away because I was unsure about my direction and whether college was the right path for me. Once I discovered my passion for bodybuilding and performance science, I realized education would help me turn that passion into a career. Seeing Usra, my younger sister, attend RBC and thrive also encouraged me to return. My family supported my decision wholeheartedly and motivated me to pursue my goals with confidence.

How has it been attending RBC with your sister?

Attending RBC with Usra has been incredibly helpful. She is naturally confident and outgoing, and she has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone. Through her example and support, I have become more social, more confident and more willing to engage with others. She has inspired me not just academically, but personally as well.

What do you like most about the college?

One of the things I appreciate most about RBC is the flexibility. Much of the work can be completed anywhere on campus, which helps me stay focused. I also value the independence college provides. The faculty and staff have been extremely supportive and approachable. Whenever I have questions or concerns, they take the time to help, which makes me feel supported in my academic journey.

What are your plans after RBC?

After graduating from RBC, I’m considering transferring to Virginia Wesleyan University. After undergrad, I plan to continue working toward my master’s degree. Ultimately, I want to become a professional bodybuilding coach and personal trainer. Lastly, I plan to compete at a high level and earn my Pro card in competitive bodybuilding.

Tell us about your experience with the Office of Research & Innovation. What are some of the projects you’ve been a part of? Has your experience informed your desired field of study?

Being a part of the ORI has been one of the most meaningful experiences I have had at RBC. It’s more than just an internship. It has given me the opportunity to express my passion in a professional environment while gaining valuable skills and exposure to new ideas. The experience has helped me better understand what to expect in my future career and has strengthened my commitment to my chosen field.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in?

Outside of RBC, I focus heavily on building my presence on social media related to bodybuilding. I have been teaching myself camera work, editing and content creation. This has allowed me to collaborate with local gyms and expand my confidence in sharing my passion publicly. Watching my content improve and reach more people has been both motivating and rewarding.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

RBC is one of the most impactful first steps you can take toward building your future. It offers strong support, flexibility and opportunities that can open doors far beyond what you expect.

The post Amar Jabri: Bridging Biomechanics and Bodybuilding appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Ian Sykes has wanted to pursue a career in mechanical engineering for as long as he can remember. Growing up and attending school in Pasadena, Md., Sykes excelled in math and science classes.

When it was time to decide where to pursue a higher education, Sykes chose Richard Bland College. For the spring 2021 semester, RBC launched the Virginia Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (VA FAME) program, which allows students to earn their associates degree over two years while immersing themselves in paid on-the-job training.

“My dad told me about it,” recalled the 19-year-old. “He sells 3D printers to colleges and learned about FAME at Richard Bland. The coursework hasn’t been super challenging, and I like being able to be on my own for the first time, especially after COVID. I like Virginia. It’s a nice place, and I like the campus.”

Two days each week, VA FAME students attend classes at RBC and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM), a nonprofit applied research center founded in 2011 that includes industry, university and government representatives.

For 24 hours during the week, students work for a local company to gain technical skills while earning $15-17 an hour. VA FAME’s nine industry partners include AMPAC Fine Chemicals, Amsted Rail, BluePrint Automation (BPA), Civica, Coesia, EPT Connectors, Niagara, Phlow and Sabra.

“They’re getting the academic side and the work experience. It’s a huge selling point,” said Thomas Midgette, the VA FAME program director at RBC. “They’re learning how to maintain the equipment with little to no student loan debt and a career trajectory. There’s upward movement for you in those positions.”

If RBC’s program falls in line with those in more than a dozen other states, Midgette projected 85-90% of enrolled students will accept a full-time job offer from their initial sponsor company upon graduation. The average salary in the region for the entry-level technician roles is $50-60,000.

“The pay after school is incredible,” said Sykes. “It’s a great opportunity. You don’t have to do four years and can make $60,000 to start without student debt.”

Sykes, who is one of seven students currently enrolled in VA FAME, also appreciates the support RBC offers with small class sizes and regular contact with faculty and staff.

“Mr. Midgette is a great guy,” Sykes noted. “He is very interested in us. I have some anxiety issues, and he was able to help me through some of it.”

After completing VA FAME at RBC, Sykes plans to work toward a mechanical engineering degree through a tuition reimbursement program at his current manufacturing company. He encourages anyone who is interested in mechanical engineering to consider enrolling.

“Someone who is willing to learn, willing to work and is coachable and ready to be a part of the team,” Midgette listed traits of VA FAME candidates. “In addition to soft skills with a strong math base, those with any kind of [Career and Technical Education] courses, classes with electrical, engineering, mechatronics.”

With more awareness of VA Fame, Midgette expects a boost in enrollment. Graduates will then help to create a larger talent pool for companies needing to fill advanced manufacturing technician positions.

“I sure hope so,” Sykes said. “It’s a great program.”

The post An Education with Experience appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Upon graduation in June, Conner will graduate No. 4 in her high school class of roughly 400 students, as well as receive her associate’s degree from RBC. She majored and minored in biology and psychology respectively. In addition to being a star in the classroom, she also advocates for women’s and children’s rights and well-being. It breaks her heart to see the most vulnerable populations being mistreated and underserved the most.

“In the future, a long-term goal of mine is to establish a safe haven for those experiencing crises,” she said.

Conner, who attends Prince George High School, decided to enroll in the Dual Enrollment Program at Richard Bland College (RBC). Despite her initial anxiety about college coursework and culture, as well as often being the youngest person in the room, she’s held her own. She’s even tutored students who are several years her senior.

“It was definitely intimidating because I started here at 16,” Conner admitted. “And some of the people that I am tutoring are like 21 to 24 years old.

“But nobody in the academic setting, professors or anybody, treated me any differently.”

During her time at RBC, Ana has learned more about diverse and international cultures, as well as the challenges those populations face.

“I got opportunities with my internship [with the Research & Innovation department] to work with international students,” Conner said. “One of the interns was from China and the other intern was from Azerbaijan.

“I had great conversations with them about their country’s politics and history and how that all plays a role in how they live. Talking with these people is the best way to learn. There are very, very different people on this campus and I wasn’t exposed to them before—especially international students.”

Through her studies and working under the RBC Vice President and Chief Research & Innovation Officer Dr. Kimberly Boyd, Conner has learned about health disparities within the African American community as well.

“I’ve been educated about Black maternal and child health, and African American women and their contribution to obstetrics and gynecology,” she said.

Dr. Boyd and Dr. Marcina Porterfield, Conner’s direct supervisor, sang Conner’s praises for her diligence as a researcher and advocate.

“Ana has been a stellar intern embracing each opportunity here at Richard Bland College,” Dr. Boyd said. “She is highly motivated, independent, intellectually curious and productive.

“Her passion for the work is evident and we can’t wait to see the inevitable strides she’s going to make in her career.”

“It’s been a pleasure working with Ana on the Maternal and Child Health initiative because of her diligence and willingness to learn,” said Dr. Porterfield, who leads the MCH initiative on campus.

Despite her community health inclination, Conner is also a lover of music and the arts. She is currently enrolled in an introduction to rock class at RBC. She’s learned Black people have not only been trailblazers in the field of medicine, but in music as well. These learnings have helped expand her worldview.

“I think it just helps you not only to be a smarter person academically, but it helps you to have a higher emotional intelligence and better awareness,” she said.

Conner has even starred in a handful of RBC commercials—some have aired during the Super Bowl.

The uniqueness and benefits of the RBC Dual Enrollment program, as well as RBC’s culture resonated with Conner.

“I’ve met a lot of really good people who want to see me succeed and who are willing to help me succeed,” Conner said.

Post-graduation Conner plans to continue her tenure at RBC for one more year and then hopes to transfer to her dream school, Johns Hopkins University. From there, she would like to pursue a career as a labor & delivery nurse or obstetrician-gynecologist.

This summer, she will participate in RBC’s Summer STEM Camp and advise students as they engage with drone and virtual reality technology, as well as mindfulness and mental health training.

It’s only the beginning for Conner. She can’t wait to make an indelible impact on her community and beyond.

“I really want to be remembered as someone who stood up for women’s rights and advocates for young women and young moms,” she said. “And I want young people to be inspired to do big things, even if they’re scared.”

The post Ana Conner: An RBC All-Star appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Andy Yang, a Richard Bland College (RBC) dual enrollment student from Colonial Heights High, takes his learning beyond the classroom. Namely, he developed software to bolster his family’s restaurant digital capabilities to stay afloat during the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yang’s parents yearned for career and financial opportunity in the United States—more than 7,000 miles away from their village in Fujian, China. They eventually established their roots in Colonial Heights, Virginia and started their own Chinese restaurant. From an early age, Yang was immersed in the family business—managing customers, as well as overseeing inventory and operations.

His parents, who aren’t fluent English speakers, rely heavily on Yang with day-to-day demands. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Yang developed a custom software application that connected multiple delivery platforms to the restaurant’s internal operations. This facilitated a unified workflow, centralized online orders and modernized the business.

“I posted QR codes that linked to our restaurant at colleges and universities, and other businesses in the area,” Yang explained. “Because we’re located in a rural area, the delivery services makes it easier for our customers so they don’t have to travel several miles to us.”

According to Yang, most of his family’s restaurant revenue comes from delivery platforms.

But he didn’t stop there.

He translated his food service model to neighboring immigrant-owned businesses to facilitate their operations as well.

“Initially, they were hesitant,” Yang admitted. “But they were elated when they started getting so many new customers.”

Through classes in sociology, biology, psychology and Spanish, Yang has strengthened his ability to communicate with and support diverse communities.

“I’m passionate about bridging the digital gap in these communities,” Yang said. “I’ve gained so much valuable knowledge from my courses and I implement it in my work.”

Recently, Yang was awarded the prestigious Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, totaling over $40,000. The scholarship also guarantees a paid internship at Amazon after he completes his first year at the university of his choosing. Yang, who is the valedictorian of his high school class, will attend MIT in the fall and plans to major in both computer science and mathematics.

Yang was also admitted into this year’s Jane Street Academy of Math and Programming summer cohort. During the program, he will be immersed in rigorous and interactive STEM curriculum focused on mathematics, computer programming, data analysis and game theory. Additionally, he’ll be awarded a $5,000 scholarship. Lastly, at this year’s RBC Awards of Distinction Ceremony, Yang was recognized as the top dual enrollment student among more than 2,000 peers across the Commonwealth.

As he prepares for the next stage of his academic journey, Yang is grateful to Richard Bland College for helping him apply his academic learning to better his community.

“I love how supportive the professors and faculty are,” he said. “They teach us how to think creatively and how we can help make this world a better place.”

The post Andy Yang: Civic-Minded Innovator appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Abigail Holmes

Established in 2005, Anime Club is one of the oldest organizations at Richard Bland College. More than just a way to get together and watch anime, its goal is to give students a place where they belong.  

Vanessa Stout, Associate Professor of Sociology RBC, became anime club’s faculty advisor in 2017. Her passion for sociology and anime creates an opportunity teaching  students about critical race theory through pop culture. 

Currently, the club is coming together to co-write an article on the recent anime series Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon. The piece will be presented at the American Sociological Association. Stout admits, “To write a paper as a club is cool. We’ll be talking about race representation in anime.” The group’s intellectual discussions analyze relevant themes in anime and help students to understand real-life issues. 

While Stout’s fascination with anime started as a child, students do not need any prior knowledge of it to join the club and have fun. The club president, Joshua Washington, affirms, “The club is a place where you can learn about anime. Anime is for everybody.” Washington and Stout think of their club meetings as a time for the community. They have created a safe space for students to enjoy themselves and share in common interest. 

Members can be found gathering in Ernst Hall 105 every Thursday from 12:30 pm-2 pm for their weekly meeting. The occasion includes anime viewings, trivia games, and group discussions relating to the subject. The category of anime varies from Stout’s childhood favorites like Dragon Ball Z and Sailor Moon to newer shows like Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon. People join Anime Club for the content, but they stay because of the people. 

One of the reasons that Stout thinks anime has spread so rapidly throughout our society is that it appeals to a wide variety of people who can appreciate its culture. Washington relates, “Anime is a place where people can be themselves. I felt like myself when I first watched anime.” 

In the coming year, the anime club hopes to join in on Virginia’s oldest anime convention called NekoCon. The convention features cosplay, as well as role-playing games, karaoke, and dancing. The event’s activities either originated in Japan or are inspired by Japanese culture. Attending NekoCon in the Fall will be anime clubs biggest social event of the year. 

Anime Club is for students who want to connect with their peers over anime and its culture. The club functions to teach its members about critical race theory in relation to anime, educating students by using a fun and unconventional approach. Washington and Stout welcome all students to come and participate even if they are not familiar with anime. It is an opportunity to build friendships and collaborate with other students.

The post Anime In Academics appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Amy Lacey

During the three years Miah Wallace spent in the foster care system during her childhood, she never imagined that one day she would be an honors student at Richard Bland College. 

“I was always labeled the slow kid,” Wallace remembered. “I was labeled as so many things. ADHD told me college would be too much for me. I didn’t think I would ever be able to succeed. But here I am, 3.4 grade point average.”

Wallace found RBC through her college advisor at Dinwiddie High School, where she graduated in 2020. At the time, Wallace had a low grade point average (GPA), and thoughts of a four-year program were intimidating. 

“I fell in love with RBC the first time I toured it,” Wallace said. “I actually got denied the first time I applied, so that let me down a little bit. But a couple months later, I got admitted because I brought up my GPA. The second I started my classes at Richard Bland, it became the greatest experience of my life.”

At RBC, Wallace found the sense of community she desired along with the one-on-one attention from professors she needed to ease her jitters about college.

“The professors treat us like family,” Wallace described.  “[Dr. Katie Bjorkman, assistant professor of mathematics] especially helped me grow and think differently about college. I communicated with her throughout COVID over Zoom, and she understood college was hard for so many students. The work was complex, but she pushed me and encouraged me not to give up. Now I’m stronger than ever.”

Wallace did so well her first semester that she met the criteria for the RBC Honors Program, which combines academic, leadership and service opportunities both on campus and in the community. In addition to maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.25, members complete volunteer projects, showcase talent at the Research Expo and enroll in honors courses. 

“RBC is perfect for me. I am learning advanced classes at a condensed level,” Wallace explained. “Right now I am taking a philosophy class, which I was anxious about at first, but now I’m seeing how it is helping me academically and, so I can focus better to achieve the goals I have.”

Wallace will graduate from RBC in 2022 with her associate’s degree. She plans to transfer to the College of William & Mary School of Education in hopes of becoming a teacher.

“I love kids, and I want to help others with my background in and out of foster care,” Wallace said. “I want to inspire other kids with a story like mine, those with anxiety who don’t think they can academically make it in college.”

Wallace knows her dream is now within reach thanks to the RBC support system.  

“I want to teach kids that even through the hardest times, working hard and being dedicated will make everything work out,” Wallace said. “Anything is possible.”

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By Sterling Giles

Dating back to his childhood, Braxton Coleman—a second-year student from Prince George County, Virginia—has been captivated by nature. This led him down a path to consider environmental science as a potential career path.

“When I’m in the garden, I don’t just see plants,” he said. “I see how everything’s connected—the animals, the insects, even the microorganisms in the soil.”

Braxton’s interest in nature often puzzled his family—particularly his mother.

“I’d pick up a bug and my mom would say, ‘You don’t even know if that’s poisonous or not!’” he said with a laugh.

As a student at Richard Bland College, Coleman’s interests were cultivated by Dr. Eric Miller, Associate Professor of Biology, whose hands-on, interactive teaching style made environmental science come alive. Dr. Miller’s unique Alternative Spring Break trips—which immerses students in learning experiences across the country—further grew Coleman’s love of nature.

Choosing RBC over a larger university proved to be life changing. Originally planning to attend VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University), on his school visit, Coleman found the environment overwhelming. RBC offered something different—affordability, proximity to home and meaningful connections.

“When I did orientation here, everything was magnificent,” Coleman said. “It was so quiet and serene.

“I knew this was my place.”

Coleman frequents the Dean’s List and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a nationally renowned honor society for two-year colleges. He’s also a part of the RBC Agriculture Club.

This fall, the Prince George County native will attend William & Mary and major in environmental science.

Amidst the busyness of life and his desire to achieve academic and professional excellence, Coleman manages to make an active effort to level set as often as he can.

“Sometimes, I like to sit in my garden and just think,” he said. “To think about the past—but don’t dwell on it—to be in the present and strive for future.”

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By Abigail Holmes

The great Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks famously said, “let’s play two.” This spring, the new RBC baseball team will play 45 games in their debut season at the Dinwiddie Sports Complex. 

The team will be under the leadership of head coach John Fletcher. Fletcher’s extensive coaching experience, 29 years, and connections honed from his years of teaching and coaching in Chesterfield and Henrico County Public Schools —  like Manchester, J. R. Tucker, and Mills E. Godwin — made him a great fit to lead the      program.  

“John’s experience as a coach and educator was attractive to the college since he has been around student-athletes who aspire to play at the college level,” says Scott Newton,        Director of Student Life & Athletics. “He can relate to student-athletes holistically.”

In the fall of 2020, Fletcher accepted the role of recruiting and building an entire baseball team from scratch. There were no players, no schedule, no coaching staff,. Meanwhile, he was still virtually teaching pre-calculus to students at Mills Godwin out of his garage (COVID-style). He worked long hours at both jobs to avoid leaving his students mid-year. 

“COVID-19 actually paved the way for me to pursue becoming a college baseball coach,” Fletcher explains. “I had a great coaching staff and knew the program was sound.” 

In his final season, Mills Godwin advanced to the Class 5 State Championship, where the Eagles lost by a run in the last inning. By January 2021, Fletcher traded in the position at Mills Godwin for the challenging role at Richard Bland College. 

Determined to get the program up and running as quickly as possible, Fletcher would spend 2-3 hours every night for the next three months making phone calls to potential recruits. “I reached out to fellow high school coaches that I knew,” Fletcher says. “A coach in Vienna won two state championships, and I asked, ‘Do you have names of players you can pass on for me to call?’”

Convincing students to commit to a program still in construction and a team with no players was no easy feat. COVID-19 presented the difficulty of not being able to recruit in-person. 

Fletcher was forced to rely on coaches vouching for players’ character and video footage for showcasing players’ talent. “Culture and commitment is the identity of our team,” Fletcher says. “Guys we recruit now are setting the identity of what this program is going to be in three or four years.” 

Fortunately, COVID-19 disruptions caused The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to grant athletes at four-year schools an extra year of eligibility, prompting graduates to play a 5th year in their sport. Fletcher reached out to underclassman at many colleges and universities throughout Virginia in search of those student-athletes interested in more playing time before       potentially moving back to 4-year athletics.

The 2022 RBC roster, after hundreds of phone calls, has 28 players, all but one from Virginia, and several who played at other colleges previously. “If I could get a student-athlete to visit and tour campus, I knew I had a chance,” he says. “I was blown away by the campus myself.”  

“There are not a lot of two-year colleges playing baseball in Virginia, so RBC is a hidden gem that affords opportunity,” Fletcher explains. “Our goals are to bring in talented, hard-working men, develop them academically and athletically, and help them get to a four-year college.” 

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What year are you and where are you from?

I am currently a second-year student from Chengdu, China.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

I was initially attracted to RBC’s transfer partners program, particularly the guaranteed transfer pathway with the University of Virginia (UVA). UVA is highly recognized in Virginia and RBC is allowing me to complete the first two years of my program at a much lower cost, which is very important for international students like myself.

Another reason I chose RBC was because it provided a smooth transition into the American education system. The small class sizes make it easier for me to adjust to the all-English environment and allowed me to get more individualized support.

What do you like most about the College? How have you been supported by faculty and staff since you’ve been here?

My favorite thing about RBC is the small class sizes—it has revolutionized the way I learn. As an international student, I was worried about being invisible in a large classroom. But here, there are only 15-40 people in each class. For example, in my calculus class, the professor, Dr. Pode, not only remembers everyone’s name, but he also guides us to ask questions and think positively. I ask him many questions after class and he is very patient in answering them. So I was always able to quickly solve the problems I encountered and in turn, I got good grades in not only his, but in my other classes as well.

What are you currently studying and what are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

I am currently majoring in Mathematics with a concentration in Applied Mathematics. The Linear Algebra, as well as Probability and Optimization Theories courses I’ve taken are the cornerstones of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, which I’m interested in as well. These courses have strengthened and polished my math skills.

After graduating from RBC, I would like to attend highly ranked universities such as University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Mary Washington, University of Washington and UVA, among others. I plan to continue studying Mathematics.

How has your experience been as an Office of Research & Innovation intern? What’s been your most memorable experience?

My internship in the Office of Research & Innovation completely turned my imagination about the use of technology on its head. My daily duties included operating and maintaining the lab’s VR (virtual reality) equipment and assisting professors in designing immersive math teaching modules. Students have used the VR technology to explore digital worlds and to meditate.

My most memorable experience was traveling to Petersburg High School with my VR device to demonstrate STEM technology to the students. When I saw one student, “walk” into the world of VR and exclaim, “This is like a sci-fi movie,” it made me appreciate the power and significance of the technology.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy intimate campus support and have transfer opportunities to top universities, RBC is the perfect choice. As an international student, the small class sizes here have made me less afraid to ask questions. The professors even remember how to pronounce my Chinese name! Lastly, you can complete a four-year degree through RBC’s transfer agreements program, like I did. You save money without sacrificing the quality of your education.

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Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Damien Westfield came over to the U.S. on a partial soccer scholarship at Young Harris College in Georgia. He started by playing on a junior college level before making his way up to D1 on a full ride. After coaching soccer at Young Harris College and Truett McConnell University, Dr. Westfield returned to the junior college level as head coach of the men’s soccer team at Richard Bland College.

Dr. Westfield’s passion for playing and coaching soccer coincides with his love for teaching Communication and Leadership Studies. When Dr. Westfield is off the field, he can be found in the classroom lecturing his students on how to recognize and give verbal and nonverbal feedback.

Dr. Westfield observes, “Young people don’t always speak up, so it’s very important for me to pay special attention to how my students and athletes communicate through nonverbal feedback.” To teach students how to strengthen their communication skills, Westfield tailors his teaching methods to accommodate whether his students are visual learners or auditory processors.

“Learning is a continuous and collaborative process that takes place in and outside of the classroom,” reminds Dr. Westfield. His following philosophy creates a space for students where communication can flow both ways: “My class is an exchange of messages between me and my students. I am a lifelong learner and realize that I can learn from my students, they can learn from me, and we can all learn together.”

Humility has a strong presence in Dr. Westfield’s teaching style, acknowledging that students are people like him who should be respected by their professor in the same manner that they should also have respect for their professor. “I tell my guys, I do not consider myselfthe greatest soccer coach, but every day that you come to my session, you will be challenged, and there will be opportunities to also challenge me as well,” relates Dr. Westfield.

Incorporating modern classroom tools like technology helps Dr. Westfield to interact with the current generation. “Good teaching takes place where learning takes place, so as an instructor, I need to adapt to meet my students’ needs.” Our digital age no longer limits communication to in-person interactions.

Dr. Westfield enjoys learning and creating just as much as teaching, so he will often visit outdoor places like zoos and beaches to observe and learn from animals and nature. In his personal time, Dr. Westfield bakes French and Caribbean bread, the latter of which reminds him of his Caribbean upbringing.

“Some days, I think I am the greatest chef,” Dr. Westfield brags, “but others, I am just someone messing around in the kitchen.” The takeaway from Dr. Westfield’sexperiences should be that there is never a point at which a person is above learning. Coming from an academic with a Ph.D., “there’s always more to learn.”

“I am a lifelong learner and realize that I can learn from my students, they can learn from me, and we can all learn together.”

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By Sterling Giles

The journey to higher education for David See, a first-year student at Richard Bland College (RBC), is shaped by discipline and a renewed sense of purpose.

When See graduated from high school, college was not a part of his immediate plan. Instead, he decided to enlist in the Army. He spent several years stationed in Texas and served a year-long stint in Germany. As a cavalry scout, his role involved surveying battlefields and conducting reconnaissance to provide critical intelligence for infantry and armored units.

“My time in the military was fun in many ways,” he said. “But my job was very stressful.”

In 2022, he decided to leave active duty and pursue higher education. Despite taking an eight-year break between high school and college, he says the biggest difference now is his mindset.

“I have a better motivation and desire to learn,” he said. “The Army taught me discipline and values that I know will help me succeed.”

He initially decided on RBC because of proximity. But he was unaware of the wealth of opportunity and support in store.

“Richard Bland is a great school,” he said. “The teachers here are top notch and want the best for their students.”

See found instant success—he finished his first semester with an impressive 3.8 GPA.

Outside of the classroom, fitness plays a major role in See’s life. He trains regularly in powerlifting and weightlifting, as well as judo and jiu-jitsu. He’s also considering starting a martial arts club at the College.

Looking ahead, See plans to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue a career in sports medicine.

“I feel I have a lot to offer in the athletic world,” he said. “I want to educate people on how to take care of their bodies.”

Additionally, the first-year student serves part time in the Army Reserve, where he works as an instructor for ROTC cadets during the summer.

With the discipline he gained through military service and a clear vision for the future, See is living proof it is never too late to begin your higher education journey.

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By Sterling Giles

Richard Bland College is home to one of the best video gamers in the country. His name is DeAndre Taylor. At his peak, he was ranked among North America’s top 85 players in “Overwatch 2,” a popular first-person shooter video game.

Taylor currently serves as the Esports President and Captain of the College’s Overwatch team. He thrives as the squad’s vocal bedrock—calling out defensive and offensive tactics for his teammates to follow.

“It’s kind of like playing chess,” the second-year student said. “You’ve got to do the work to roll as a team.”

Like a traditional sports club, the team reviews game film to see the pros and cons of their play. Taylor admitted he doesn’t shy away from giving constructive criticism to his teammates. However, he’s not above critique—he wants everyone to get better, himself included.

“You have to have that competitive drive and willingness to win,” Taylor said. “And a willingness to look back on your plays because that’s the only way you can improve.”

Led by Coordinator and Head Coach Cameron Mewhirter, the Esports team was instituted in the fall of last year. In addition to “Overwatch 2,” RBC plays “Tekken,” “Fortnite” and “Valorant” competitively.

Taylor is currently working toward his associate’s degree in Business Administration. Once he graduates from RBC, he’s considering majoring in Accounting at either William & Mary, Virginia Tech or VCU. He also plans to continue gaming competitively.

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By Amy Lacey

In April of this year, Thomas H. Solenberger, M.D. visited Richard Bland College (RBC) for the first time in nearly a decade and was impressed by everything he witnessed.

“This place is just like watching a flower blossoming,” Solenberger said with a smile. “There’s a go, go, go attitude here and it is just a wonderful environment for students to learn in.”

Solenberger is the son of the late Capt. Earl “Gus” Solenberger, a professor of math and business at RBC from 1967-1971. His mother, Marjorie Solenberger, served as a public relations specialist at the institution for 28 years and was an RBC Foundation board member from 1997-2002.

“[She was] a community activist with many eclectic interests,” Solenberger said about his late mother, who passed away in 2003. “She liked herbs, and fossils and history and she was very gregarious and got along with many, many people.

“She got initiatives going that no one else had. She just liked doing things in a fashion that didn’t offend other people. It wasn’t threatening to anyone.”

In addition to promoting RBC’s students and programs in local newspapers, Marjorie established a series of nature walks and lectures around the Tri-Cities, as well as a clean up of an abandoned African American cemetery. Majorie even housed members of Kuwait’s ruling family, House of Sabah, for a brief stint.

“Members of the Kuwait royal family were looking to get to the U.S. and transfer to more advanced schools,” Solenberger recalled. “We had someone who became the foreign minister of Kuwait here at RBC and he lived at our house.”

In 2016, the Solenberger family received the inaugural Richard Bland Award, which recognizes a member of the RBC family for exemplary service to the college.

“It’s quite an honor, no question,” Solenberger said. “We weren’t expecting it and we are pleased to see how RBC has matured over the years.

“So many superb kids [are] coming out of here.”

The Solenberger family contributed a number of items to the RBC collections, including books about the Civil War and Virginia’s tobacco industry. However, Solenberger said some of the greatest gifts are yet to come.

“It’s no longer about what we can leave, but what we can fund,” Solenberger explained. “We want there to be scholarships to allow the institution to have great wisdom and help the next generations of students with what they want to achieve.”

The family endowment is set up so a portion of the Solenberger estates will move to the RBC Foundation. While it may be some time before it is fully funded, Solenberger hopes the endowment will provide full tuition for as many as five students. 

Solenberger, who is currently an obstetrician-gynecologist in Kodiak, Alaska, credits his parents for instilling the value of pursuing advanced degrees.

“Mother and Dad were always talking about getting ahead through academics,” Solenberger said.

Thomas’ parents, natives of Oregon and North Dakota, came from humble beginnings. But that didn’t deter them from pursuing higher education.

Walking on RBC’s campus, Solenberger appreciated seeing the growth and affirmed his family’s investment in the school.

“We are strongly committed to RBC and the future and the students who come through here,” he said. 

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Governor Glenn Youngkin announced recently that DroneUp, LLC, a leading drone flight services innovator and aviation technology provider, will invest a total of $27.2 million to expand its headquarters in the City of Virginia Beach and establish a testing, training, and R&D center at Richard Bland College in Dinwiddie County. Virginia successfully competed with Arizona, New York, North Carolina, and Texas for the projects, which will create 655 new jobs. 

DroneUp will invest $7 million to expand its headquarters at 160 Newtown Road in Virginia Beach, creating 510 new jobs. The company will also invest $20.2 million to establish a new testing, training, and R&D center for drone operators at Richard Bland College, which will create 145 new jobs. 

In addition to the headquarters facility and training center, DroneUp plans to establish three drone hubs at Walmart locations in the Commonwealth this year. DroneUp recently announced a multi-year commercial services agreement with Walmart, Inc. to provide drone delivery services at 34 sites, providing the potential to reach 4 million U.S. households by the end of the year. Walmart has a minority stake in DroneUp and a seat on its board and in turn, DroneUp is the exclusive provider of drone services for Walmart. 

“This is an impressive and highly impactful project for Virginia Beach, Dinwiddie County, and beyond that represents a new age of technology for our society, and DroneUp is at the forefront of Unmanned Aircraft System development,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This homegrown Virginia company is transforming product delivery through its partnership with Walmart, and we are proud to partner with DroneUp as it extends its footprint across the Commonwealth and creates more than 650 cutting-edge jobs. The Commonwealth successfully competed against multiple states for this expansion project and I’m so proud of the multi-pronged effort to attract this investment to Virginia.” 

“DroneUp’s expansion in Virginia Beach and new testing, training, and R&D center at Richard Bland College is an exciting step forward for the unmanned systems industry in Virginia and serves as a model for higher education partnerships and economic development,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “With the second-highest concentration of tech workers in the nation and world-class education institutions, the Commonwealth is well-positioned to empower DroneUp’s continued success.” 

“The team at DroneUp couldn’t be happier with the support we’ve received from Governor Youngkin’s office and the Commonwealth of Virginia as a whole over the years,” said Tom Walker, founder and CEO of DroneUp. “Virginia is our home, and we are proud to be able to continue to bring new innovation, talent, and economic opportunities to our great state. This investment and expansion will not only bring new career opportunities to our region, but also allow us to tap into the brightest minds around Unmanned Aircraft System development and design.” 

“We are beyond thrilled that DroneUp has decided to make Virginia Beach its corporate headquarters and expand their operations by bringing more than 500 new jobs to our community,” said Virginia Beach Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer. “Their expansion is the latest shining example in our city’s history of fostering an environment where businesses can thrive.” 

“DroneUp is investing over $20 million in RBC and bringing 145 plus jobs.” 

Being a student in FAME is a great opportunity. You can make $60,000 a year while avoiding student debt.

“We welcome DroneUp and their training center program to Dinwiddie County,” said Harrison A. Moody, Chairman, Dinwiddie County Board of Supervisors. “The campus of Richard Bland College is the ideal setting for their testing, training, and R&D center, and bringing 145 high-quality jobs to the County presents a phenomenal opportunity for our citizens. DroneUp’s work complements ongoing efforts of Richard Bland College to develop a curriculum for an unmanned aviation program. Drone technology is cutting-edge, and we are proud to be a part of it.”

“Through strategic linkages with partners like DroneUp, Richard Bland College (RBC) continues to assert itself as a new model for higher education in the Commonwealth,” said President Debbie L. Sydow, Ph.D. “RBC and DroneUp share the vision of delivering a world-class drone pilot training program to expand the UAS workforce in Virginia and across the nation. Now the vision is becoming a reality as DroneUp prepares to welcome its first class to the drone testing, training, and R&D center at Richard Bland College.”

“This exciting announcement is a testament to Virginia’s Gateway Region, a top logistics center in the Commonwealth,” said Keith Boswell, President & CEO of Virginia’s Gateway Region Economic Development Organization. “We look forward to the economic impact this project will bring to our seven communities as individuals and companies travel from near and far to hone their skills in drone technology and delivery.”

Tobacco Commission member Senator Joe Morrissey said, “It is wonderful to see an innovative technology company like DroneUp partner with Dinwiddie County and Richard Bland College to bring the future of last mile delivery to our area all while creating 145 new high-quality jobs. Additionally, I am excited to see that DroneUp will work with Richard Bland College to instruct students on the use of drone technology, a field that is only going to continue to grow. This is a big win for Dinwiddie County, and I very much look forward to seeing this project succeed.”

Tobacco Commission member Coley J. Drinkwater said, “This is a great day for Dinwiddie County, and I am excited that DroneUp chose to locate here and create 145 great new jobs that will have a lasting impact on our community. Dinwiddie is the perfect place to live and work and I look forward to welcoming DroneUp as our newest business partner.”

“VIPC’s relationship with DroneUp spans several years and multiple pilot programs with our Virginia Unmanned Systems Center and funding opportunities through our Commonwealth Commercialization Fund and Virginia Venture Partners,” said Robert Stolle, President and CEO of the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC). “They are a shining example of Virginia’s willingness to welcome and support innovation and job creation.”

“As an emerging industry, unmanned systems has been a priority for the Hampton Roads region for several years. We are proud to have DroneUp as a cornerstone of that industry cluster,” said Doug Smith, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Alliance. “DroneUp’s investment at their Virginia Beach headquarters is a testament to their innovation and rapid success in a niche market, and their expansion into other locations in Virginia shows potential for even greater future growth. The Alliance extends its sincere congratulations to our friends at DroneUp, the City of Virginia Beach, and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on this exciting win for the Commonwealth.”

“Virginia Beach is the perfect place for DroneUp to continue leading in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries,” said Representative Elaine Luria. “When I visited DroneUp in May, we discussed how investing in technologies and workforce programs is good for business and good for Coastal Virginia. This expansion is a testament to the thriving workforce in Hampton Roads. I will continue to support businesses like DroneUp that lead in development and innovation and grow and diversify our economy in Hampton Roads.”

“It is an honor and true testament to Virginia’s pro-business climate that DroneUp has decided to invest in our Commonwealth and expand its headquarters in Virginia Beach,” said Senator Jen A. Kiggans. “DroneUp’s expansion develop this valuable industry right here in Hampton Roads. I look forward to watching their business grow and provide high-quality service to our residents!”

“The 85th District of Virginia Beach is proud to serve as home for DroneUp, a small business gone global,” said Delegate Karen S. Greenhalgh. “Today’s announcement of plans to expand DroneUp’s headquarters, bringing 510 new jobs, is a tremendous investment into our city. Virginia Beach is a great place to live and to work, and we are definitely looking up, thanks to DroneUp!”

“I am thrilled that this innovative technology company has decided to call Virginia its home,” said Representative A. Donald McEachin. “DroneUp’s expansion in our Commonwealth will create hundreds of new jobs in localities across my district, stimulate economic activity, and support other businesses in our communities. Tech is a burgeoning industry, and I look forward to seeing the impact DroneUp will have in Virginia.”

“This is a fantastic opportunity for DroneUp and the folks in Virginia Beach and around Richard Bland College,” said Senator Frank Ruff. “As innovations in the drone world continue to advance, the opportunity for training will also grow.”

“I am thrilled to hear the news of DroneUp investing $20.2 million in our community and bringing 145 jobs to the new training facility at Richard Bland College,” said Delegate Emily M. Brewer. “Innovative partnerships like this demonstrate how creativity in higher education can yield incredible opportunities. This year, it was one of my priorities to facilitate budget language so the General Assembly could reduce regulatory barriers to make this training facility happen. I am also very grateful to Governor Youngkin for championing innovation in higher education and workforce development in our Commonwealth.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Virginia Beach, Dinwiddie County, Richard Bland College, and Virginia’s Gateway Region to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $928,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist with the project. The Governor also approved $4 million in funds from the Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant. The Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant was established as a self-funded program of performance-based incentives that the Commonwealth awards to exceptional economic development projects with large numbers of employees and very high wages relative to average wages for that particular area. The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission approved a grant for $111,000 from the Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund for the project, and funding and services to support DroneUp’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

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High schools partner with Richard Bland College to dually enroll students in classes, allowing them to complete up to two degrees by the time they finish high school. 

Opportunities to ‘Seize Your Potential’ are open to college and high school students at Richard Bland College. Students can earn college credits while working towards their high school diploma through dual enrollment. Typically, dual enrollment is open to 11th and 12th graders, but the program is flexible, and exceptions can be made. 

Dual enrollment is offered in the following ways: credentialed high school teachers instruct college classes in high schools, RBC professors travel to high schools to teach, students take asynchronous classes online, and students take courses on RBC’s campus. 

The Director of Dual Enrollment and High School Programs, Christie Clarke, says, “It gives students an opportunity to experience a college course and explore different content while thinking about long-term goals.” 

RBC partners with 21 high schools in Virginia and accepts all high schoolers and homeschoolers upon agreement from parents and schools for them to participate in the program. Some school divisions have as many as 500 students dual enrolled at RBC. The college regularly holds informational luncheons with local school superintendents to discuss the benefits of jumpstarting students’ college careers. 

In 2021, Hopewell High School partnered with RBC to create the Early College Academy, where Hopewell students take RBC classes taught by credentialed Hopewell teachers. Any college courses not available at Hopewell are supplemented online and taught by RBC’s instructors. So, Hopewell students can complete an associate’s without leaving high school. 

In addition, RBC partnered with the Homeschoolers Education Association of Virginia (HEAV) last year to make the program more accessible to homeschool students. The flexibility in courses and schedules offered to students is also available to homeschoolers. 

Students working towards an associate’s degree usually take a full load of classes, while others take about 3-6 credits combined with their high school work. Each student has a different goal, and their high school guidance counselor and RBC Learner Mentor work together to help them achieve it. 

Julia Wright, a Millwood School student says, “Attending RBC as a dual enrolled student has allowed me to transition into college life while I am still in high school. I was dreading going off to college and being away from home but being able to take classes at RBC reduces that stress.” 

Earning a high school diploma is a priority, so students need to begin planning out their classes early on to make sure they will be able to meet the requirements for both degrees. Clarke says, “The earlier on a student can plan, the easier it will be to create a workable course plan and meet their graduation requirements.” 

All high school students may apply to the dual enrollment program by going to rbc.edu and clicking “Apply.” 

“Students can earn college credits while also in high school.” 

– Christie Clarke

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By Sterling Giles

It’s the summer of 1972. Ed Hatch just graduated from Hopewell High School and landed a job at a local plant unloading liquid fertilizer from train cars. But whenever there was a lull in the day, Hatch whipped out his pen and pad and got to sketching.

Hatch’s boss caught wind of this, but his response wasn’t what you’d expect.

“He literally picked the phone up and said ‘Call Richard Bland College and take art classes, will ya?’” Hatch reminisced with a chuckle.

He obliged—and the decision changed his life forever.

Hatch grew up in Spring Grove, VA, a sleepy town nestled in Prince George County. A stone’s throw from his childhood home was his family’s general store founded by his great-grandfather in 1912.

As a toddler, he would spend hours upon hours in the store sketching from his treasured bird book. Decades later, Hatch still sketches in the same space. But it’s no longer a store. It’s home to his art studio, Ed Hatch Fine Art.

Along the interior walls of the century-old building hang dozens of Hatch’s creations. He’s a disciple of the late Andrew Wyeth, a legendary realist painter who lifted from nature surrounding his home as inspiration for his paintings.

“I remember seeing his wonderful paintings that showed the ordinary things in life,” Hatch said. “I saw beauty in that. Nothing grandiose caught my attention—it was just the simple things.”

Hatch, much like Wyeth, doesn’t venture far from home for his muses. The nearby creeks, mountains, and countryside are all he needs. From there, his fastidious, delicate strokes craft breath-taking, picturesque snapshots of nature.

You can hear the stream gently trickling over elephant-gray rocks. The faint chirping of plump, petite birds in the autumn sky. The soothing ocean waves crashing on the sandy shore.

———

Richard Bland College (RBC) is a little under 45 minutes away from Spring Grove. But it might as well have been worlds away because the culture there—particularly within the art department—was nothing like Hatch had ever experienced before. The program featured a motley crew of gifted artists of diverse orientations, races, and ethnicities.

“It was just a lot of variety of people, which was really good for me,” Hatch said. “It really exposed me to a lot of different things I wasn’t used to.”

Susan Brown, associate professor emerita of art, left an indelible mark on Hatch and helped him become a more disciplined artist.

“She was fantastic,” he reminisced. “She’d make you work and she didn’t put up with any foolishness.”

The seeds planted by Brown and Hatch’s classmates inspired him to bet on himself and work toward his dream of becoming a full-time artist.

“I didn’t know how I was going to make a living at it,” Hatch said. “But I felt it in my heart.”

In 1974, Hatch received his associate’s degree in art and transferred to Old Dominion University. There, he worked under Charles Sibley, the founder and first chair of the university’s art department. Three years later, Hatch received his bachelor’s in fine art with a concentration in printmaking.

Hatch was finally out of the nest and ready to take flight. But it wasn’t smooth sailing out the gate. On one occasion, he presented his portfolio to a museum in Virginia Beach and within three seconds he was told “come back in about five years.”

Over the years, the rejection was harsh and at times, the financial strain was harsher. But Hatch refused to quit and stayed the course.

“Never give up on following something that is very rewarding to your heart and soul,” he affirmed.

But with the valleys also came the peaks.

A memory etched in his mind is when Robert Bateman, one of the most celebrated naturalist painters of all-time, complimented his Big Tumbling Creek painting.

“He said, ‘Gosh, I wish I’d done that,’” Hatch recalled, smiling cheek to cheek. “I could have exploded.

“It doesn’t get any better than that for me.”

Over the course of his decades-long career, Hatch has received countless regional, state, and national awards and honors. He’s also been featured in private and corporate collections around the world, as well as produced hundreds of commissioned paintings.

When pondering his legacy, Hatch wants it to mirror what his art embodies.

“I try to put a small amount of beauty in people’s lives,” he said. “It’s subtle work.

“But if it’s done right, it really hits you.”

In 2023, the “5 & Dime” trail—a historic, meandering route along Routes 5 and 10 that carves through Hopewell, Prince George, Charles City, Surry, and James City—was established. Ed’s studio is listed as one of the trail’s official landmarks.

Ed Hatch Fine Art is located in Spring Grove and is open by appointment only.

The post Ed Hatch: Finding Extraordinary in the Ordinary appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Amy Lacey

Ian Sykes has wanted to pursue a career in mechanical engineering for as long as he can remember. Growing up and attending school in Pasadena, Md., Sykes excelled in math and science classes. 

When it was time to decide where to pursue higher education, Sykes chose Richard Bland College. For the spring 2021 semester, RBC launched the Virginia Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (VA FAME) program, which allows students to earn their associate’s degree over two years while immersing themselves in paid on-the-job training.

“My dad told me about it,” recalled the 19-year-old. “He sells 3D printers to colleges and learned about FAME at RBC. The coursework hasn’t been super challenging, and I like being able to be on my own for the first time, especially after COVID. I like Virginia. It’s a nice place, and I like the campus.”

Two days each week, VA FAME students attend classes at RBC and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM), a nonprofit applied research center founded in 2011 that includes industry, university, and government representatives.

For 24 hours during the week, students work for a local company to gain technical skills while earning $15-17 an hour. VA FAME’s nine industry partners include AMPAC Fine Chemicals, Amsted Rail, BluePrint Automation (BPA), Civica, Coesia, EPT Connectors, Niagara, Phlow, and Sabra.  

“They’re getting the academic side and the work experience. It’s a huge selling point,” said Thomas Midgette, the VA FAME program director at RBC. “They’re learning how to maintain the equipment with little to no student loan debt and a career trajectory. There’s an upward movement for you in those positions.”

If RBC’s program falls in line with those in more than a dozen other states, Midgette projected 85-90% of enrolled students will accept a full-time job offer from their initial sponsor company upon graduation. The average salary in the region for the entry-level technician roles is $50-60,000. 

“The pay after school is incredible,” said Sykes. “Being a student in FAME is a great opportunity. You can make $60,000 a year while avoiding student debt.”

Sykes, who is one of seven students currently enrolled in VA FAME, also appreciates the support RBC offers with small class sizes and regular contact with faculty and staff.    

“Mr. Midgette is a great guy,” Sykes noted. “He is very interested in us.”

After completing VA FAME at RBC, Sykes plans to work toward a mechanical engineering degree through a tuition reimbursement program at his current manufacturing company. He encourages anyone interested in mechanical engineering to consider enrolling.

“Midgette listed the qualities of an ideal FAME candidate: “Someone willing to learn, willing to work and is coachable and ready to be a part of the team.” He also stated “In addition to soft skills with a strong math base, candidates might also have taken any kind of [Career and Technical Education] courses, classes with  electrical, engineering, mechatronics.”

With more awareness of VA Fame, Midgette    expects a boost in enrollment. Graduates will then help to create a larger talent pool for companies needing to fill advanced manufacturing technician positions.

The post Education With Experience appeared first on Richard Bland College.

For the student juggling work or family responsibilities, online classes are offered in a couple different formats. Fully online classes are called asynchronous and allow students to complete course work on their own time. If you need school to be ultra-flexible, consider weaving asynchronous classes into your schedule. 

Maybe you would prefer to take your classes online, but you want the structure of attending class at a certain time and seeing your professor. Synchronous classes meet over Zoom, so students get the benefit of a live lecture and class discussion, while participating remotely. Sometimes, there is even an option to go in-person. 

Hybrid classes are a mix between online and in-person and equip students with the variety they need to streamline their schedule. In-person class is held one day a week and is paired with online activities and assignments. These types of classes are recommended for commuter students who are looking to cut down on drive time. 

The traditional class format is also a great option. Students are highly encouraged to include completely in-person classes like these in their schedules. Professors are more able to become mentors to students who are regular participants in their classrooms. Moreover, in-person classes are opportunities for students to form relationships with their peers. Students searching for the college experience should enroll in traditional classes. 

When considering what types of classes to enroll in, consider your availability for attending in-person, what you want out of the class, and how you are best able to learn. The right combination of classes depends on you, and RBC wants to foster a learning environment that will meet your needs. To further discuss getting an education your way, prospective students can reach out to an Admissions Counselor and current students can contact their Learner Mentor.

The post Education Your Way at RBC appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

For years, gamers have received earfuls from their loved ones that video games are a waste of time. But with the astronomical growth and popularity of gaming and Esports within the last decade or so, gamers have the last laugh.

Tim Hurley, Head Librarian at Richard Bland College (RBC) and an avid gamer himself, has had his finger on the pulse of Esports. So much so he was inspired to sponsor and bring it to RBC. He tapped RBC Director of Student Life and Athletics Scott Newton to legitimize the venture as a varsity sport.

The Esports team could not have been introduced at a better time because it aligned with the mission of the newly-constructed RBC Academic Innovation Center set to open this fall. The edifice will be a space for multimedia and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programs and initiatives. Among its impressive amenities will be a gaming sporting arena and lounge, which will primarily be used by Esports. It will be stocked with top-of-the-line computers and monitors, gaming headsets, consoles, as well as cameras for video streaming.

However, the big question mark that remained was getting word out about the team. The first phase of building Esports was making it a club first and in the succeeding phase, establish its competitive team.

“We started thinking about who on campus would be the best and the best positioned to make this a successful program,” Hurley said.

He set up shop at one of the college’s club fairs and came across RBC student Kevin Meza. The club intrigued Meza and he would eventually come on board as president.

Meza was introduced to Esports in high school and was hooked from the onset.

“I didn’t really realize how competitive it could get,” Meza recalled. “It was really fun.

“I think it definitely kickstarted me to want to do more with Esports and try and maximize what it could be here.”

Currently, the club meets Monday through Thursday from 2-4:30 p.m. in room 120 in Ernst Hall. Still in its pilot phase, the modestly-sized collective hopes to grow in the fall once the competitive team is established. “Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege,” “Call of Duty,” “Fortnite” and “Rocket League” are a handful of the titles Meza anticipates the team will play competitively.

RBC will compete in the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) Division II Region 10 against Wake Technical Community College, Johnston Community College, Guilford Technical Community College, among others.

Hurley values the hard and soft skills these competitions will foster among his student-athletes.

“Not only do you get the general athletic standpoint of teamwork, leadership and learning a routine, I think it teaches them to be successful not only in sports but on the academic side as well,” Hurley said. “The structure provides them with a lot of skills that are transferable to the future.”

Meza is hopeful about the future of Esports and its impact at RBC and beyond.

“There are people on the team that have shown interest that they want to pick this as a genuine career path, which I think is important to foster,” he said.

For more information on the Esports club and team, contact Tim Hurley.

In photo (L-R): Solius DelCristo, Logan Moses and Kevin Meza

The post Esports: A New Frontier appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

A Butterfinger candy bar led to forever for Jacob Howe (‘17) and Cecilia Gonzales (‘17).

On a school field trip, Jacob bought the candy bar from a vending machine and decided to give Cecilia a piece of it, which naturally sparked conversation. But after the field trip through the rest of that third-grade year, the two didn’t interact again until more than 18 years later as students at Richard Bland College (RBC).

By a stroke of fate, Jacob and Cecilia were bunkmates on the inaugural RBC Alternative Spring Break trip at Hobcaw Barony in South Carolina. The Alternative Spring Break was founded by Dr. Michael Rogers—the Assistant Director of Student Activities and Leadership at the time—in 2017. The experience invites students to locations across the country to experience the sciences out of the classroom. The learners often engage in service work on these trips as well.

The COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately idled the program for several years, until Dr. Miller revived it in 2023. Back in 2017, both Dr. Miller and Dr. Birdsong, who had a great rapport with Jacob and Cecilia respectively, nudged them to go on the spring break trip. The two were thrilled about changing course from their routine spring break vacations and experiencing something new.

“At first, it seemed like a way to network with my professors,” Howe admitted. “But it turned into more than that—it was really something special.”

On the first night at Hobcaw Barony, Jacob and Cecilia did introductions—and there seemed to be an air of familiarity.

“We broke the ice and she asked if I gave her a Butterfinger back in elementary school,” Howe said with a smirk. “We also had a lot of similarities and the same aspirations of what we wanted out of life.”

During the trip, Jacob, Cecilia and a dozen of their classmates created and rebuilt trails surrounding the historic Hampton Plantation. Additionally, they learned about the local history and ecology. Finally, Clemson University and the University of South Carolina welcomed the students and offered guided tours of their marine and forestry labs.

“This is an opportunity for these students to try new things, to gain new life lessons and it has the potential to lead to lifelong relationships,” Dr. Miller said.

Over the course of the trip, Jacob and Cecilia learned more about one another and the sparks began to fly.

“It was like a butterfly effect situation,” Howe said. “Giving her that Butterfinger in third grade ended up being an icebreaker when we met again in college.

“There’s a few decisions you make in life that completely changes it.”

———

Both Dr. Miller and Dr. Birdsong took Jacob and Cecilia under their wings as they contemplated their desired fields of study. Dr. Miller who described Jacob as a “phenomenal student,” exposed him to local habitats and wildlife because of his interest in environmental science. Cecilia, a first-generation student, was inspired to pursue psychology because of Dr. Birdsong’s love of the profession.

“Cecilia was the kind of student every professor hopes for, curious, focused and deeply compassionate,” Dr. Birdsong said. “Watching her confidence grow—something I deeply understood as a first-generation college student myself—was incredibly rewarding.

“Our relationship didn’t end in the classroom—it evolved into mentorship that has lasted beyond her time at RBC. Cecilia’s decision to major in psychology and eventually nursing with such purpose in serving others has been one of the greatest joys of my career.”

By graduation, thanks to Dr. Birdsong, Dr. Miller and a host of other professors, Jacob and Cecilia were fully equipped to transfer to their next destination—VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University). As anticipated, Jacob and Cecilia received their degrees in environmental science and psychology, respectively. A few years later, Cecilia garnered an accelerated bachelor’s degree in nursing.

The duo made the most of their VCU experience, but they longed for RBC’s cordial learning environment.

“Honestly, we wish Richard Bland was a four-year college,” Gonzales said. “We really liked the teaching styles and the small classroom sizes.”

Presently, Cecilia works as a registered nurse in the St. Francis Hospital emergency department. Jacob works as a laboratory analyst at the Henrico County Water Reclamation Facility. The couple tied the knot in December 2021 and currently live in Chesterfield with their two daughters.

To this day, the couple credits RBC for positively impacting their lives in myriads of ways.

“The decision to go on the spring break trip really changed the trajectory of our lives,” Gonzales said.

“Everyone is not going to have our story,” Howe added. “But you must go out of your comfort zone to experience a major change in your life.”

Photo credit for fourth image: Michael Rogers

The post Finding Forever at Richard Bland College appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Amy Lacey

The coronavirus pandemic and the move to distance learning changed the face of education for families across the country, including Virginia. A number of students have not gone back to traditional schooling, choosing instead to have more control over the curriculum at home.

“Out-of-the-box learning is what homeschooling is all about, especially at the high school level,’’ said Yvonne Bunn, director of Homeschool Support and Government Affairs at the Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV).

Richard Bland College identified a need for additional advanced homeschool learning opportunities for the growing number of homeschoolers in Virginia. RBC is working on a dual enrollment program that would allow them to earn an associate’s degree while completing their state educational requirements.

“Every student should have a chance to earn college credit while in high school,” said Justin May, RBC director of admissions. “This program will be a way to offer them accelerated learning and look for means of education beside a crammed classroom.”

To develop the program, RBC connected with HEAV, which has worked with the Virginia Department of Education (VDE), legislators and families since 1983 to promote and protect home education.

“RBC gives homeschoolers the ability to work at their own pace and considers their own style of learning,” May explained. “A student coming out of a homeschool scenario moving to a school like Virginia Tech, for example, with up to 40,000 students can be intimidating. It can be a stepping stone or a launching pad to a four-year school.”

The post Homeschoolers Become RBC Statesmen appeared first on Richard Bland College.

BY ABIGAIL HOLMES
Attending Richard Bland College was foundational for Mario Mastroeli, class of 1990. After graduating from Thomas Dale High School, Mastroeli ended up at RBC because he wanted to continue playing the keyboard with his high school band. Mastroeli says, “I did studio musician work, and I thought I was going to be a professional song writer.”

His love for music is still very much alive, but Mastroeli’s initial dream changed over time. One of RBC’s economics professors was particularly influential, and Mastroeli decided to study Business Management. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Radford University in economics and studied for his master’s degree in economic development at both Virginia Tech University and Virginia Commonwealth University. 

He and his ex-wife, Larissa Mastro met at RBC and teamed up to accomplish their academic and professional goals. They finished up at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where Mastro completed her

Doctor of Dental Surgery degree (DDS) and Mastroeli completed his Juris Doctor degree (JD). 

While in graduate school, the couple began brewing their own beer because it was less expensive. Mastroeli recalls, “We were 26 years old, and we started brewing beer together. Before I was interested in law school, I wanted to be a chef.” Little did they know, their little hobby would transform into a huge company. 

After moving to Hickory, North Carolina, Mastroeli decided to purchase a 119-year-old soda bottling factory and open a brewery in the neighboring town of Granite Falls. “I had practiced law for 16 years and was looking for an investment,” says Mastroeli. In 2012, Granite Falls Brewing Company (GFB) was opened to the public. 

The business expanded quickly and became a destination brewery, drawing people in from as far as California and Florida. For the locals, “Granite Falls is a little oasis in the midst of a dry county,” relates Mastroeli. When Mastroeli founded GFB, he wanted to serve the Caldwell County community by creating jobs and providing a place to congregate. 

The company is a huge source of income for the county, paying out 3.6 million in payroll over the last 10 years. Mastroeli adds, “The town of Granite Falls really had no where to gather. I have had employees and patrons who have met here and are now married with children or their own businesses.” With a dog friendly patio, arcade for kids, and cigar lounge, there is a place for everyone. The brewery fosters and gives back to its surrounding community. 

Mastroeli is a proud alumnus of RBC and attributes the college to giving him his start. He says, “If I could go back in time, I would do it all over again. RBC was the best education I got, and my professors at RBC were better than the ones I had in graduate school.” Across the five schools that Mastroeli attended, he looks back the most fondly on RBC because it taught him how to be a life-long learner. 

“The most important thing in life is not knowing what you do know, it’s knowing what you don’t know. RBC taught me to love learning new things,” reminisces Mastroeli. 

The post In a Glass by Itself appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies, interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying etc.

My name is Jada Ramirez. I’m a second year and I’m originally from Houston, Texas. I come from a very supportive family. They have always been a big motivator for everything I do. Some of my hobbies include reading and painting. My interest in psychology grew out of my curiosity in behavioral development and helping others navigate their mental health.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

I chose RBC because of the opportunities for leadership, the small community feel and the resources that help students succeed. After high school, I wanted a smooth transition into higher education without feeling overwhelmed. RBC’s close-knit environment, supportive faculty and staff, and flexible opportunities gave me exactly that. My family encouraged me to pursue what felt right for me and they’ve been supportive every step of the way.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Whichever pertains to you, tell us about your experience and how you’re supported.

I’m a residential student and living on campus allows me to be fully involved in activities, organizations and leadership roles. I work as a desk assistant, which has helped me connect with other students and staff, as well as build my professional skills. Overall, the residential experience has made me feel supported and more engaged in campus life.

What do you like most about the college? How have you been supported by faculty and staff since you’ve been here?

I like how connected the faculty and staff are with students. Professors truly want you to succeed and there are so many support systems in place.

What are your goals and aspirations for this academic year?

My goals are to continue building my leadership skills and stay on top of my academics. I’d also like to leave a positive impact through my extracurricular involvement, especially with the RBC Starlettes cheer team and Student Assembly where I serve as secretary.

What’s been the most difficult part about transitioning from high school to college?

I graduated a year early from high school, so I wanted the beginning of my college experience to be a good way to ease myself into adulthood. The hardest part about transitioning from high school was learning how to manage my time independently. Balancing school, work and extracurriculars took some adjusting, but I’ve grown stronger because of it.

What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

After graduating from RBC, I plan to attend North Carolina A&T University. My ultimate goal is to get my bachelor’s and eventually my master’s to become a behavioral therapist.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

RBC is a place where you’re not just a number. It’s a community where you can truly grow, take on leadership roles, and be supported by faculty and staff who care. If you’re looking for a place to start strong and build your foundation, RBC is the perfect choice.

The post Jada Ramirez: Compassion-Driven Leader appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies, interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying etc.

My name is James E. Revere, Jr. I was born in Richmond, Virginia. My family and I later moved out to Prince George after I finished 6^th grade. A few hobbies of mine include playing video games, going out to have fun and spending time with family.

In 2024, I graduated from Prince George High School with a 4.0 GPA. Upon graduation, I also completed the Rowanty D/E Criminal Justice course through Brightpoint Community College. I’ve wanted to be a police officer ever since I was a kid. As I’ve gotten older, joining the FBI or other federal law enforcement agencies, going into forensics, or becoming a lawyer have also been top of mind. I’m currently majoring in Sociology, with plans to attend William & Mary after I graduate from RBC to pursue a concentration in Criminology, Law and Society.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Whichever pertains to you, tell us about your experience.
I am a commuter student. I really enjoy being a commuter student because I have a good balance to spend time at home, as well as on campus. I am very much supported by my family and friends. I’m also a first-generation college student—my parents tell me all the time that they are so proud of me.

Why did you decide to attend RBC?
I decided to attend RBC because it fit better with my academic path. In high school, however, I had no idea RBC was a junior college and the many opportunities available here. Today, I’m proud to be a Statesman! My family is very supportive of me as I continue to work hard to fulfill my academic success.

What do you like most about the college? How have you been supported by the faculty and staff since you’ve been here?
I like the limitless opportunities RBC has to offer. I have gained so much leadership experience and opportunities in just my first year here. The RBC community is wonderful and I am well supported by faculty and staff. I’m a member of the Honors Program and serve on the Student Assembly as the Campus Relations Intern, which are just a few of the many great ways to be a student leader here at RBC.

If you’re involved in one or more extracurricular activity, what’s your title or how are you involved? How has your experience been?

As I mentioned before, I am the Student Assembly Campus Relations Intern. I help organize events with Richard Bland College departments and neighboring communities. Lastly, I help manage administrative tasks that arise. I love supporting RBC and I plan to serve on the Assembly again next year. My biggest accomplishment to date is organizing the campus blood drive a few months ago. It was a successful event!

Recently, I joined the Rotaract Club. Through the club, I get to help people in the community and have fun! Lastly, I’m a part of the Student Conduct Board and a Promise Scholar.

Have you received scholarships through RBC?
I will be receiving an RBC Endowment Scholarship, as well as the Promise Scholars and Honors Program Scholarships.

The post James Revere, Jr.: Scholar for Justice appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies, interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying etc.

I am Bosnian, however, I was born in Germany and moved to the States when I was in second grade. I have lived in Virginia for about 10 years now. I am really close with my family—they have always prioritized education and hard work. They’ve helped shape my values such as giving back, caring for others and staying ambitious. They are a big part of my drive and putting my all into everything I do.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

I decided to attend RBC because I had no idea what I wanted to study or what school I wanted to go to. I had people around me recommend it and it was close to home. So, I thought it would be a great fit. My family supports me in everything I do.

What do you like most about the college? How have you been supported by the faculty and staff since you’ve been here?
What I love most about RBC is the community. Everyone helps each other to do better. I like that Richard Bland College is small enough so you don’t feel overwhelmed, but the opportunities exceed its physical size. They are endless. Faculty and staff have always been there for me and supported me in all my ideas such as my “Shatter the Silence” human trafficking awareness event. They showed me anything is possible if you take the chance and believe in yourself.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Whichever pertains to you, tell us about your experience.
I am a residential student as well as an RA. Serving in this position, being a full-time student and staying involved in other organizations on campus, things can get challenging. However, Residence Life has been supportive of me and go out their way to make things easier for me. They hold me accountable, but still make sure I am putting my mental health before anything.

What other leadership positions have you held? How have they developed your leadership skills?
This experience has been amazing—it gave me the chance to grow as a leader, while helping build a real sense of community within the dorms. Through these roles, I learned how to think quickly, resolve conflicts and handle tough situations, especially those surrounding mental health. More than anything, it taught me the power of creating a space where people feel safe, seen and valued. As a residential representative, I got to advocate for my residents on issues, like improving the dorms’ Wi-Fi. But what means the most to me are the everyday moments: checking in and connecting with people from all walks of life and being someone residents know they can turn to. Knowing I can help them feel a little more at home and a little less alone is what I love the most.

Additionally, I’m a member of the Mental Health Diaries Club and I serve as on the Student Assembly as the Residential Representative, as well as on the Assembly’s Community Service Committee. Lastly, I’m the President of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve organized a human trafficking awareness event, a school food drive for Petersburg, coordinated the volleyball team send off for Nationals in 2024 and volunteered at an elementary school. This summer, I’ll be interning with the RBC Office of Research & Innovation and working closely with the Health Careers Camp.

What are you currently studying? What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?
This fall, I will be attending VCU and studying Neuroscience. I specifically plan to focus on brain cancer.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?
RBC truly changed my life. At first, I was unsure where I wanted to go, but choosing RBC was the best decision I’ve ever made. It gave me the tools, confidence and opportunities I needed to succeed in my future. The campus has dorms, so you still get that full college experience and the smaller class sizes allow for more personal engagement with the professors.

Being involved on campus opened doors I never could have imagined. I had the chance to go on a healthcare trip to Miami, sit at a table with leaders like Sen. Tim Kaine and Mayor Danny Avula, network at professional events and even create my own events with the support of amazing staff. These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and RBC made every moment worthwhile.

Have you received scholarships through RBC? If so, please name them.

I’ve received the RBC Foundation Scholarship.

The post Janelle Mujadzic: A Driven People Leader appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Like most of us, Janiya Nabinett’s life was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the absence of facetime with her peers and other complications caused by the virus, Nabinett’s grades began to slip. Because of this, she could no longer go to her top college choices. But that didn’t deter her from pursuing higher education altogether.

The Prince George’s County, Md. native learned about Richard Bland College’s Back On Track program. The federally funded initiative equips high school and college students with additional academic support and workforce skills. It also funds college classes, training courses, job placement support and mental health resources.

“The classes here are smaller, the teachers are really friendly and they guide you,” the first-year RBC student said. “So, if you feel like you need more assistance than others, know you can get that here.”

Ever since Nabinett has set foot on campus, she has thrived.

Last fall, she was elected to the Student Assembly as the Commuter Representative by a sizable margin. A commuter student herself, Nabinett believes there’s room for opportunity to get non-residential students more involved on campus. She is advocating for more event programming during school hours so more commuters can attend and not have to come back to campus later in the evening to participate.

One day, Nabinett hopes to create her own business in the psychology sector. The work she’s currently doing with the College’s Office of Research & Innovation (ORI) aligns with her mission for holistic wellness for all. She’s been very appreciative of the experiences she’s had with the ORI.

“It’s been amazing,” she said. “I got the opportunity to go to a psychology conference in California.

“An opportunity like that helped me figure out what path I want to go on.”

Nabinett has also been instrumental in helping with the office’s Meditation Lab in the Academic Innovation Center.

“The goal was to make the space really calming and inviting for students to be able to decompress and be fully immersed into the virtual reality headsets,” Nabinett said.

The post Janiya Nabinett: Deferred Not Deterred appeared first on Richard Bland College.

 By Sterling Giles

The trajectory of Dr. Javaid Siddiqi’s (’98) life calling is the furthest thing from linear. A native of Chesterfield, VA, Siddiqi went into his undergraduate studies wanting to pursue a career as a doctor. Today, he sits at the helm of The Hunt Institute, a nonpartisan leader in K‐12 education policy and political leadership.

Siddiqi admittedly had a subpar first semester as a Longwood University freshman. Rather than continuing his tenure there and shelling out thousands of tuition dollars, he decided to attend Richard Bland College (RBC) to reset.

“I was able to live at home and was able to get back on track,” Siddiqi said. “At Richard Bland College, the professors knew my name and they knew my struggles.

“They knew when I was late or didn’t show up for class. And they made you feel a certain way when you didn’t come because they cared in a way that big universities don’t.”

Siddiqi also spoke highly of RBC’s Dual Enrollment program, which he has spent more than 15 years advocating for first as a part of former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell’s administration and now at The Hunt Institute.

“It has become a personal passion for me,” he said. “I advocate for dual enrollment more so than AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) courses because there’s more transferability.”

Upon graduation from RBC, Siddiqi matriculated at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). He remained in the Biology/Pre-Med track his first year there. But in his final year there, he decided he wanted to pursue a career in education.

However, Siddiqi stayed the course and earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology. But since he wasn’t a licensed teacher, his first stop post-grad was serving as a probationary teacher (a teacher being evaluated for suitability at an institution) in Chesterfield, VA.

He would later earn a master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Virginia State University where his father was a professor for many years. To round out his educational journey, Siddiqi returned to VCU and earned his Ph.D. in General Educational Leadership and Administration.

In 2004, Robious Elementary School was the first school in the state to implement Expeditionary Learning, a revolutionary, inquiry-based approach that improves school culture by making curriculum more relevant to students.

Siddiqi—who was the principal of Robious Middle School at the time—and his teaching staff were convinced the middle school curriculum needed an overhaul. So they decided to partner with Robious Elementary’s educators to adopt its Expeditionary Learning program. The middle school officially implemented the initiative in 2006, making it the first secondary school in the Commonwealth to do so.

“We found that phonics was the way that kids learn best to read,” Siddiqi said. “I didn’t realize this, but we were about five years ahead of the game and 10 years ahead of most of the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

Research shows strong literacy correlates with high school graduation rates, college enrollment rates and lifetime earning potential.

After serving as principal of Robious Middle School for roughly four years, Siddiqi was appointed Deputy Secretary of Education for the Commonwealth of Virginia in the fall of 2011. Two years later, he was promoted to Secretary of Education.

After leaving his post as Secretary of Education, Siddiqi served on several boards, including Voices for Virginia’s Children, Chesterfield County School Board and the Radford University Board of Visitors, among others. Additionally, he was handpicked as an honoree of the inaugural RBC Foundation Notable Alumni class in 2017.

Siddiqi was hired by The Hunt Institute in 2014 and three years later, he was named President & CEO. Founded by former North Carolina Gov. Jim Hunt, the longest-serving governor in the state’s history, the nonpartisan Institute works to design strategy, shape policy and drive educational improvements at the national and state levels.

“Dr. Siddiqi’s work at The Hunt Institute profoundly influences education policy, strategy and improvement,” said RBC President Debbie L. Sydow, Ph.D. “Javaid and his team are committed to lifting up individuals and communities by improving education at its core.

“So in my mind, this is sacred work.”

One of The Hunt Institute’s seminal initiatives, One Million Teachers of Color, is aptly titled. Within a decade, the Institute, in collaboration with several education reform partners, are campaigning to add one million teachers of color, as well as 30 million leaders of color, to U.S. schools. According to the initiative’s website, 80 percent of teachers are white and 40 percent of schools don’t have a single teacher of color.

According to Education Northwest, students of color who have at least one teacher of color tend to perform better in the classroom and are less likely to have disciplinary issues. Research also shows white students show improved problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity when they have diverse teachers.

The nonpartisan nature of Siddiqi’s work is an extension of his frame of mind.

“I’ve learned so much about how to navigate the nuance of the middle,” he said.

He pointed out compromise is necessary in every facet of life, especially in policy work. He cautioned against operating in polarity because it impedes progress.

“It speaks to the diversity of thought that we need to have as a country because we are divided,” Siddiqi said. “We’re not willing to consider somebody else’s perspectives or shared experiences or life experiences.”

However, in the same breath, Siddiqi acknowledges being outspoken about what you believe in and advocate for is paramount as well.

“Your voice matters,” he said. “Your experiences matter.”

But if you don’t share them, they will never matter.”

The post Javaid Siddiqi, Ph.D.: Working In The Middle appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Over the last few years, Richard Bland College (RBC) has leaned in to becoming a beacon for STEM-H (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math and Health Sciences) innovation. A testament to this is the college’s aptly named Academic Innovation Center (AIC) set to open this fall.

Over the last several months, RBC sought out premier talent across the Commonwealth to lead programs and coursework at the center. Psychology researcher Jennifer Van Schoick, Ph.D. was one that rose to the top.

“Her research complements what we’re doing at the AIC,” said Dr. Kimberly Boyd, Principal Investigator, Vice President and Chief Research & Innovation Officer at RBC. “She fits a missing piece to our pie not only from a physiological standpoint, but also from a team and engagement standpoint.

“She’s very personable, she’s very thoughtful and I just think she’s going to be an excellent fit for Richard Bland College.”

Van Schoick, whose official title at the college is Research Psychologist, will teach and conduct research revolving around behavioral science, physiological psychology and psychodrama. She is ecstatic about the learning and research that will take place in the AIC and beyond.

“I would love to get a handful of students that would like to be mentored and that would like to have experience in the lab working with EEG (electroencephalogram), with physiological data [and] mixed method studies,” she said.

Van Schoick will be introducing her first course, Behavioral Neuroscience, this fall. Students will study brain anatomy and plasticity, as well as learn research methodologies.

Van Schoick’s upbringing played a large part in her pursuing her field of study. Her family—plagued by substance abuse, addiction and mental health disorders—inspired her to study the mind. Over the course of her decades-long career, she’s learned in recovery journeys “it comes back to wellness, wholeness and holistic approaches.”

Van Schoick and Boyd previously crossed paths at both Virginia State University (VSU) and Hampton University. As her doctoral professor at VSU, Boyd guided Van Schoick and her classmates on community health campaigns addressing various issues such as mental and sexual health, as well as addiction. Van Schoick’s specific focus was addiction and trauma interventions. Also during her time at VSU, Van Schoick served as a Physiological Psychology instructor and received her Ph.D. in Health Psychology.

At Hampton, Boyd hired Van Schoick to come on as Assistant Professor of Physiological Psychology. Namely, she implemented psychodrama workshops—a form of psychotherapy in which participants act out events from their past—in her teaching. It was a hit amongst her students.

“It’s where theater meets therapy,” Van Schoick said. “There’s no right or wrong—it’s their story.

“It doesn’t leave out their spiritual beliefs, it doesn’t leave out their experience, skin color or culture.”

Van Schoick understands the importance of diverse representation in her research processes. Several years ago, she conducted a study on the victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). The participants were African-American and white women.

She enlisted her colleague, Courtney Leeks, an African-American woman and licensed therapist, to undergo the study with her. Van Schoick anticipated the conversations would differ amongst the study groups, but she was floored by the learnings she and Leeks received.

“Many women faced substantial challenges in accessing safe assistance for both IPV and addiction,” Van Schoick said. “Particularly troubling were the additional barriers encountered by African American women, who often experienced discrimination and abuse within supposed safe havens.”

Despite the harsh reality many of these women faced, the duo reaped the benefits of fostering a safe space for honest conversation to later develop sustainable, holistic solutions. Van Schoick and Leeks identified protective factors within the community that could help the women, such as trained spiritual leaders and support programs.

The culmination of these experiences, research and workshops, has equipped Van Schoick to serve RBC’s and the Greater Petersburg Region’s unique populations. Cultural sensitivity and inclusion are always at the forefront of Van Schoick’s mind, especially with her research.

She is excited about the potential of the AIC, but she’s even more excited about the students she will be working with.

“I think at the heart of it for me is to make connections with students,” she said. “They are the key to the future.”

For more information on the AIC and the Office Of Research & Innovation at RBC, click here.

The post Jennifer Van Schoick, Ph.D.: An Astute Researcher of the Mind appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Chesterfield, Va. native Jordyn Brown has had a proclivity for computer science and technology for most of his life. Prior to RBC, he attended CODE RVA, a Richmond, Va-based computer science magnet school, to immerse himself in STEM. There, he learned about computer engineering and programming, as well as hardware networking among many other STEM subjects. He thrived off the creative energy in his classrooms.

“You could definitely tell, ‘Oh, this person is about to do something big,’” Brown said. “You had people designing websites in the 10^th grade.”

After graduating from CODE RVA and looking ahead to higher education, Brown wanted to learn in comparable class sizes to the ones he experienced in high school, which capped at around 20 students. He didn’t just want to be a warm body in a seat. Brown wanted his professors to know him on a first name basis. After sifting through different options to see what best aligned with his learning preferences, he decided RBC was the best fit.

Brown ingratiated himself within the campus community and eventually connected with the College’s Office of Research & Innovation (ORI). He and his fellow ORI interns are currently thinking through innovative ways to use VR technology in the classroom, including incorporating it with the College’s Ameca robots—the world’s most advanced humanoid machines.

The first-year student is enjoying his time so far at RBC and encourages others to make the most of all the College has to offer.

“You get a lot of experience in the two years that you’re here,” he said. “You get to meet people, interact with great professors and the facilities are really nice.

“You’re going to be comfortable while you’re here.”

Fun fact: Brown made a cameo in our latest awareness campaign!

The post Jordyn Brown: Powered by Virtual Reality appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Over the last decade, the Russia-Ukraine war has ravaged thousands of lives. Kateryna Pakliachenko and her family were among those displaced by the conflict.

“You’re sitting in the basement, and you hear missiles that are near you and you understand that it can be your last minute,” Pakliachenko said.

Around the time she graduated from high school in 2022, the war escalated in intensity after Russia invaded Ukraine, which prompted Pakliachenko, her mother and her sister to seek refuge in Austria for several months. Her father couldn’t join them because all able-bodied men were required by law to stay in case they were needed to enlist in Ukraine’s armed forces.

Amid all the despair, eventually a glimmer of hope peeked through. An American family that helped with the planting of Pakliachenko’s church in Ukraine agreed to take her in so she could go to college in the U.S. She chose Richard Bland College (RBC) because of its unique iRBC International Student Success Program—which supports and empowers its global students—as well as the College’s proximity to her host family’s home in Chesterfield, Va.

Initially, the transition was rough for Pakliachenko. She hasn’t been able to see her family since she left Ukraine in December 2022. But RBC’s modest size, personable professors, supportive friends and church family encouraged her to come out of her shell.

“As time goes on, everything gets better,” she said. “I’ve started to open up and I feel free.”

Pakliachenko has been utilizing the Transfer Scholars Network to try to matriculate into an Ivy League school once she graduates in December. She’s also considering universities in Europe.

The post Kateryna Pakliachenko: Steadfast Faith appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“Since childhood, I wanted to pursue a career in the FBI,” explains Haney, a sophomore who will graduate in May. “RBC sets you up to achieve your future goals.”

Haney, a star softball player, had several offers to play at other colleges but decided that RBC offered the academic and athletic balance she desired, especially after suffering softball injuries in high school.

“Attending RBC and receiving a solid academic base was the best start to my college journey. Being a student-athlete with set schedules and having teammates and coaches push you to be the best you can be has helped me grow.”

Haney excels in her declared major of mathematics due to strong relationships fostered with RBC professors. She says the attention received from the faculty has helped her improve in courses that were previously problematic.

“My favorite part of learning from the professors is the passion they have for what they’re teaching,” says the Farmville native. “They truly love what they’re talking about and teaching you. It creates an exciting learning atmosphere.” Haney adds, “I still have teachers from first semester freshman year who ask me how I’m doing, how my grades are. They support me at games, they care about me.”

Haney was one of just 40 students who graduated from the Fuqua School in 2017. Because of it, she appreciates the small classroom sizes at Richard Bland.

The Statesman Scholar honor student finished her first semester with a 4.0 GPA and knows her FBI dreams are now even more attainable. “I really like to help people, and I see the good in the world,” Haney says. “At the end of the day, I hope to have a positive influence on others.”

The post Katie Haney Statesman Scholar appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

My name is Kaya Pope and I’m a second-year student. I’m from Petersburg, Virginia. Some of my hobbies include listening to music, baking and crocheting. I’m a business major with a strong interest in marketing. I like learning about this industry because I’m interested in how people think and how I can leverage this to support their business or organization.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

RBC was recommended to me because it’s close to home, has a small community and a great residential life. As a former homeschooled student, I was nervous about what my college experience would look like. After hearing about the great experiences RBC could offer me and a supportive environment to learn and grow, I knew it would be a good fit for me. To this day, my family continuously offers advice and connects me to resources I need to succeed.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Tell us about your experience.

I am a residential student. I feel being one has made me independent and prepared to attend a four-year college when the time comes. Additionally, living on campus has made it convenient for me to attend class and go to my job as an office assistant and tour guide in the College’s admissions office.

Tell us more about the work you do in the admissions office.

In my office assistant role, I mainly answer calls from students or families who need assistance throughout the admissions process. I also assist with filing, data entry and events. As a tour guide, I give one-hour tours to students and their families to show them everything RBC has to offer.

What do you like most about RBC?

I love RBC’s small campus and community. I believe this makes for a welcoming experience that creates opportunities to make connections with others. RBC’s faculty and staff have been incredibly supportive of me during my journey. My professors and Learner Mentor are always open to helping me when I’m in need—both are very accommodating. Lastly, I appreciate the admissions team for helping me develop professionally, as well as supporting me through my own admissions process.

What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

After graduation, I plan to transfer to William & Mary to earn a bachelor’s degree in marketing.

If you’re involved in an extracurricular activity, how are you involved? How has your experience been?

I’m a member of the RBC Rotaract Club and together we organize and participate in different community service activities. My experience has been great as I’ve been able to make friends and help the community through volunteer work. I would say my most memorable moment was when I first decided to join the club. When I walked into the room and saw everyone smile and welcome me, I knew it was the right place for me.

What would be your elevator pitch to someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

If you’re looking for a college that will support you through your journey and set you up for success beyond your time as a student, RBC is the place for you. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity to reach your greatest potential.

Have you received scholarships through RBC? If so, please state them.

I receive scholarships through the Promise Scholars program. This means I have more than 80 percent of my tuition covered at RBC and eventually at William & Mary.

The post Kaya Pope: Marketing Mind in the Making appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Jasmine Hickson is the first person to admit that she did not know everything the Learner Mentor program at Richard Bland College (RBC) offered before joining the staff as a student worker during the Spring 2022 semester. 

“I was not too sure about what it did aside from registration and campus events,” remembered Hickson, who is now a junior Neuroscience major at William & Mary (W&M). “However, shortly after starting, I understood what their purpose was on campus and how I could help make an impact as well.” 

A Learner Mentor, assigned to each student upon enrollment, serves as a point of contact throughout the individual’s schooling at RBC. Learner Mentors help students develop academic plans and explore majors, while also connecting them to tutors and other resources to help set them up for success in the classroom. 

Thom Addington, the chair of RBC’s English and Humanities Department, also became RBC’s director of Student Success in March 2021. He says the difference between Learner Mentors and traditional academic advisors is best understood by comparing urgent care facilities and the emergency room (ER) at a hospital. 

“If you go to the ER, you wait in triage. They’ll take your information, you’ll wait more, maybe see a physician, but likely a nurse practitioner, and then they send you home with a hefty bill. That’s how academic advising works in some cases,” Addington explained. “I see Learner Mentors at more of the urgent care level. You wake up with a sore throat, and you can pop in without an appointment, see someone relatively quickly and head home, even with your medicine most of the time. Learner Mentors work the same way. You pop in, see them and get the information you need in a shorter period.” 

The Learner Mentor program is located in the campus library for easy access. Virtual office hours are also available. 

“A lot of times students have questions, and they like the ‘open door’ feel,” said Hannah Hensley, who has been a Learner Mentor for more than a year. “We talk about paths to their degree and what courses are required. It is all very individualized based on their backgrounds and where they want to go.” 

Hensley, who worked in residence life at RBC before becoming a Learner Mentor, often connects with participants in the Middle College program, which allows qualified Petersburg High School students to earn an Asociate Degree while finishing their high school diploma. 

“They’re 16 or 17 and still in that high school mindset,” described Hensley. “I work with them on managing their time, making plans and sticking to a schedule. Skills they can use in life in addition to their education.” 

According to Learner Mentor Ben Thoreson, the diversity of RBC’s campus is evident in the range of students and needs his team addresses on a daily basis. 

“I’ve recently talked to international students from Portugal, Vietnam and China,” said Thoreson, who also has a residence life background. “We have athletes who come in from out of state. There’s individualized support needed for socioeconomic status. Maybe they are first generation college students figuring out the language of higher education, or they bounced around the foster system. I hear how they persevered.” 

Learner Mentors are available to both residential and commuter students, and there is no limit to how often they utilize the program. 

Addington notices relief and gratitude are the common threads among students who connect with their Learner Mentor. 

“RBC students come from different walks of life, yet they share the same anxieties; the transfer process is daunting,” Addington recounted. “There is peace of mind in that there is someone on campus who can put them on a pathway that is transparent. I know where I’m going and the classes I need to take, especially for the first year of college. It is heartening to see them leave, knowing we took care of their fears.” 

Hickson considers the Learner Mentor program a highlight of her time at RBC. The aspiring pediatrician recommends every RBC student tap into the resources offered. 

“It really boosts your confidence in your success during your time at RBC and after,” she said.

The post Learner Mentors appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

My name is Lian Núñez Fernández (He/They). I am from Ponce, Puerto Rico and that is where most of my family currently lives as well. My hobbies are reading, writing and watching series—anything that can help me unwind after a long day. One of my biggest interests is in brain development and how it pertains to language. I intend to transfer to William & Mary this fall in order to pursue an education in Linguistics and Japanese Studies.

As for Japanese, I have been learning it for over seven years and it serves as my prime example of how language acquisition changes throughout your life. The older I become, the more effort is needed to remember and implement new, complex and nuanced ideas. This is something I find fascinating because it relates to brain plasticity and how our brains are able to adapt to the input we receive from the world around us. Currently, I am studying for an Associate of Arts degree here at Richard Bland College.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

I decided to attend RBC on my father’s recommendation. When looking for a school in Virginia, it was the best option in terms of opportunities for pathway programs and my interest in William & Mary solidified this decision. My family has been very supportive throughout this process, even when they can’t always be here physically.

What year are you (first- or second-year student)? By chance, are you an international student? If so, where are you from?

I am considered a second-year, but I originally came in as a transfer student from Puerto Rico. I take pride in having a distinct identity and getting to share it with others.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Whichever pertains to you, tell me about us experience and how you’re supported.

I have been a residential student for three semesters now. I am constantly grateful to have a space where I can focus on pursuing my studies and maintaining my lifestyle. Although our campus and community are rather small compared to other institutions, that is one of the reasons why it feels more like home. It is always great to interact with other students on campus and feel like you are actively engaging in educational settings daily.

What do you like most about the College? How have you been supported by the faculty and staff since you’ve been here?

What I like the most about Richard Bland College is its accessibility. The campus is easy to navigate, the community is welcoming and its modest size almost guarantees opportunities to make lifelong friendships.

The faculty has been helpful and insightful, especially during my first semester when I hadn’t yet found my footing. My Learner Mentor, Andrew Frazier, has been an incredible source of inspiration for me. He was the first to openly encourage my then-distant goals of transferring to William & Mary and never missed a chance to tell me I was more than capable of achieving what I set out to do.

What are you currently studying? What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

I am currently studying for an Associate of Arts degree here at RBC. My plans after graduation are to transfer to William & Mary to continue my studies and hopefully set myself on track to earn my Master’s degree as well.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

I believe there are some decisions you can make only after you start moving forward. For me, that is what Richard Bland College was and still is. I didn’t know whether or not it would be the right fit until I came here, but the opportunities I discovered here allowed me to move past my uncertainties.

Have you received scholarships through RBC? If so, please name them.

I have received a merit scholarship due to being part of Promise Scholars. Once I transfer, I will receive an annual scholarship through the program to offset student loan costs during my two years there.

The post Lian Núñez Fernández: Linguistically Sound appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Lilli Brown, a second-year student at Richard Bland College (RBC), prioritizes amplifying student voices. As President of the RBC Student Assembly, she strives to foster a campus atmosphere where students feel heard and their input is taken seriously.

“We are literally the voice of the students,” Brown said. “It’s up to us to sponsor that correctly, get input from them and address their needs.”

Prior to serving as the Student Assembly’s President, Brown had never served in a student government capacity—or a leadership role for that matter. But her mantra is to “say yes, try everything and see what I’m capable of.”

Brown initially planned to run for Vice President of Student Assembly before receiving encouragement from friends to pursue the President position. Now that she’s in the role, Brown does her best to lead with authenticity.

“I’ve never acted like I’m floating above it all—that’s not real,” Brown said. “I’m always myself and don’t hide my personality.”

Another bold decision for Brown during her time at RBC was trying out for the women’s soccer team. Despite only playing the sport as a child, she worked hard and made the team. The experience was humbling, transformative and deeply rewarding. She unearthed both physical and mental strength she didn’t know she possessed. She also gained close friendships, confidence and a sense of belonging.

“I think this experience has literally changed my character,” Brown said. “I’m not the same person leaving as I was coming in.”

Academically, Brown is pursuing kinesiology with the goal of becoming a physical therapist. After years of navigating her own sports-related injuries and nurturing an interest in holistic healing, she realized how meaningful it could be to help others recover by staying active.

“Movement is medicine,” Brown said. “To guide someone through therapy and to watch them progress will be so fulfilling.”

Additionally, Brown is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa—the world’s largest and most prestigious honor society for two-year college students—and RBC’s Honors Program. The second-year student, who is also a Promise Scholar, will continue her studies at William & Mary with a full-ride scholarship.

The post Lilli Brown: Boundlessly Curious appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

For most of her life, Meagan Haire Abbey felt her calling in life was to lead a classroom—not an entire town.

Abbey resides in McKenney [located roughly 30 miles southwest of Richard Bland College (RBC) of William & Mary], a town that spans about one square mile with a population of 480.

After teaching for roughly 10 years in Dinwiddie County Public Schools, Abbey decided to establish her own childcare center, Stepping Stone Academy. This inspired her to be a more active participant in Dinwiddie’s local government. She served on the county’s Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

After several years of service, Abbey was empowered to invoke change in her own backyard. She struck up a conversation with a friend about her frustrations with McKenney’s government. She felt it wasn’t adequately representing its constituents—so she decided to do something about it.

On Sept. 10, 2020, Abbey put in her bid for mayor—roughly a month before election day. The community and her loved ones rallied behind her campaign because she promised to dismantle the old guard and breathe new life into the town.

33 days later, Abbey made history. She became the town’s first woman mayor. She’s since been re-elected and is hoping to go for her third consecutive term.

“The older generation of women [of McKenney] are extremely supportive of the things that I’ve accomplished,” she said. “I think it makes them feel proud that a woman has accomplished these things in their lifetime because these were things they wouldn’t have considered possible when they were young girls.”

But as for Abbey’s three daughters, her feat was essentially an expectation.

“At first, it kind of hurt my feelings that they weren’t more impressed with me,” Abbey admitted. “But then I realized that if I reframe that and think about it, that’s a good thing, because they think it’s normal.”

“And they should because it should be normal. So having my daughters think this is completely normal for a woman to accomplish means a lot to me.”

Among Abbey’s top objectives as mayor is to improve daily operation services for residents, as well as the town’s technology and web capabilities—such as giving residents the ability to pay their utility bills online. She’s also been intentional about empowering her underrepresented constituents.

“I push for all the things that our residents need or deserve that bigger towns or cities have,” she said.

Abbey was born and raised in Dewitt, roughly six miles northeast of McKenney. Her father, Charles Haire Jr., an RBC alumnus and first-generation college student, strongly encouraged her to attend the college.

“I thought it would suit her better to experience college life there instead of a big, four-year college,” Haire Jr. said. “It’s a lot more economical.”

“You’re paying twice as much at a four-year university for the same classes you can take at Richard Bland College.”

Abbey begrudgingly conceded but she was envious of her friends attending four-year universities.

“I felt like I was being left behind,” she said.

However, Abbey’s disposition quickly changed, largely because of her experiences in Spanish professor Dr. Rachel Finney’s class.

Abbey’s class took a trip to Costa Rica—her first international trip—which birthed her travel bug.

“We actually didn’t use English while we were there,” she said. “We were so in tune with the culture.”

Dr. Finney vividly recalled a special moment with Meagan during the class trip.

“I remember standing next to Meagan when she called her mom from the hotel’s front desk,” Dr. Finney said. “Her mom asked what time it was there, so Meagan turned to the desk clerk and asked in Spanish, ‘Que hora es?’”

“The desk clerk answered in Spanish and Meagan relayed the time to her mom. Meagan told me later that her mom was so excited to overhear her asking for information in Spanish. My heart swelled too. Those little moments with students when you see them empowered by the germination of seeds of knowledge that were planted in the classroom are about as good as it gets for a teacher.”

Abbey graduated with her associate’s degree in Arts in 2005 then transferred to Longwood University. She would later receive her bachelor’s from the university and her Pre-K to sixth grade teaching license shortly after.

Stepping Stone Academy, which has been in business for more than a decade, has been very successful and has been a godsend to underserved families in the area. Namely, during the early years of the COVID-19 outbreak, Abbey helped families secure state funding to cover their child’s tuition.

RBC wholly believes in preparing its students for a lifetime of endless potential. Since leaving the college, Abbey has impacted the lives of hundreds of people—young and old alike. She’s a beacon of hope and lover of community. She has traversed several unexpected avenues in her life. But with her North Star grounded in hope, community, and service, she landed right where she needed to be. In her wake, she’s always left spaces better than she found them. 

“If you want to see something happen, then do it,” Abbey said. “Be the one who makes the change.”

Haire Jr. couldn’t be prouder as a father and respects how resolute Abbey is in everything she does.

“Don’t tell her she can’t do it because she will do it,” he said.

To learn more about Abbey’s story, check out this mini-documentary highlighting her journey from RBC to the McKenney mayoral office. Click to play.

The post Meagan Haire Abbey: A Fiery Servant of the People appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Second-year student Melia Grady has had an innate drive to be the best version of herself as long as she can remember. It’s what drove her to run for and eventually be elected as the Richard Bland College (RBC) Student Assembly President, despite never serving in student government up to that point. By participating in JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) all through high school, she bolstered her leadership skills, which gave her the chops to take on one of the most prominent student positions on campus.

One of her top objectives as president is to tend to the diverse voices on campus. This not only pertains to race and ethnicity, but also classification: residential and non-residential students, first- and second-year students, international and domestic students, as well as students with disabilities. Grady and her fellow Student Assembly members are actively formulating ways to keep these different groups engaged on campus and to have their needs met.

“I want to amplify the voices that not everybody gets to hear,” Grady said.

Public service means a great deal to Grady. But becoming a biomedical engineer is her life calling.

Grady, a first-generation student, landed on her major after several bouts of trial-and-error. But after gaining advice from high counselors, watching YouTube videos and trying different courses, she decided biomedical engineering would be her career path. Once she graduates from RBC, she will attend a four-year university to pursue her major and from there she will go to pharmacy school.

Prior to attending Richard Bland College, Grady was unfamiliar with what it had to offer. But during her time here, she’s left no stone unturned by making the most of the resources at her disposal.

“You get so many opportunities just by coming here,” she said. “Just taking one semester here can change how you think about school and change your outlook on life.”

The post Melia Grady: Actualized Potential appeared first on Richard Bland College.

We got a chance to speak with Plunky & Oneness band leader James “Plunky” Branch about his band’s longevity and what he has in store for this year’s “Music In The Grove.”

Q: What’s the inspiration behind your band’s name?

A: Plunky & Oneness refers to an observation and belief that I have that African music in the diaspora—which includes Afrobeats, jazz, and soul music—all constitute one body of music. The music I play comes with several different genre names, but they all have certain similarities. They all have improvisation, high energy and polyrhythms.

Q: How do you and your band complement each other during performances?

A: In several ways—all of my musicians are very accomplished because we’ve been doing it for a long time. I’ve been performing music in Richmond for 50 years. My brother—who plays the bass—has been with me 40 of those years. Two of my bandmates are musicians I taught at Virginia Union University and they’re almost 50. My singers have been with me for about 30 years. I’m the elder of the group and the youngest person in the group is my son who plays electronic percussion. The range of ages and musical experiences adds to the quality of the music. They share my philosophy of rhythm, improvisation and the use of energy. Quite frankly, the aesthetics we have are based on an African principle, “the value of the music is measured by the positive effect on the community.” We relate to our music not just for the virtuosity of our performance, but based on what we can share with the community and the positive impact we can have uplifting it.

Q: How do you approach your performances? How about “Music In The Grove” in particular?

A: I often say my job is to do my best and to give my all, whatever the venue—whether it’s 10 people or 10,000. The setting of the “Music In The Grove” concert is so phenomenally and aesthetically pleasing. I’m based in Richmond and while I’ve performed in the Petersburg area a few times, it’s not my normal stomping grounds. So it presents the challenge of whether or not people will come out for Plunky & Oneness. But last year, we had a phenomenally large crowd—it was very gratifying. So this year, the challenge is meeting the expectations of what we’re expected to be.

Q: What can attendees expect from the band this year?

A: This time, we will be performing a couple of brand new tunes because we have a new album that just came out in January—it’s called Love Is Everywhere. We will perform two or three songs from that album, as well as old favorites.

NOTE: This interview has been edited for brevity.

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By Abagail Holmes

Together we soar with Student Assembly. As the student government on campus, this organization is responsible for supporting engagement and connecting RBC’s community. Council members are elected annually and oversee the college’s clubs, including history, debate, and anime clubs. Miah Wallace, the president of Student Assembly expresses, “It is the easiest way to get engaged because you become familiar with staff and faculty, and everyone can participate and meet people.” 

Student representatives serve alongside officers to ensure that all voices are heard. Wallace welcomes everyone to connect with Student Assembly stating, “To get involved, all you have to do is email me or send in an application. To join other clubs, you can attend their meetings or talk to their club advisors.” 

Additionally, students are encouraged to create clubs based on the passions they share with fellow students. To establish a club, there must be a total of three students and one faculty member interested. Student Assembly is responsible for approving clubs, assigning budgets, and assuring smooth operations. 

Finding community on campus begins with getting involved. Recently, Student Assembly sponsored the Neon Barn Party, and students gathered for a night of dancing. The event featured neon lights, boppin’ music, and finger food. Events held by Student Assembly are intentionally geared towards all students and are accessible to commuter as well as residential students. 

The organization works hard to turn students’ ideas into realities. It functions as the bridge between students, faculty, and staff. Wallace explains, “The purpose of Student Assembly is to represent the voice of students. I hope the organization can grow and provide students what they want.” 

Wallace’s passion for helping her peers achieve their goals is remarkable. Student Assembly is there to design a college experience that students can enjoy and take part in. 

Student Assembly meetings are held over Zoom every Wednesday at 5 pm and updates are posted via their Instagram. Officer elections will be held shortly, but in the meantime, officers can always use a helping hand. Everyone is welcome to attend and share their needs, wants, or concerns with the council. 

Participating in Student Assembly helps students to gain knowledge and skills that they can carry with them into the workplace once they graduate. All council members are afforded the opportunity to practice leadership and improve their communication skills. Wallace testifies, “It has given me a lot of confidence and a sense of independence.”

Student Assembly provides a forum for students to interact and share in school spirit. Take the opportunity to get involved and reach out to Miah Wallace at mawall005@rbc.edu. She would love to hear from you. Also, make sure to follow Student Assembly on Instagram at @rbc_studentassembly. The student experience is better when students come together.

“Student Assembly is the easiest way for students to get engaged on campus because it helps them become familiar with students, faculty, and staff,” says Wallace. “Everyone can participate and meet new people.”

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By Amy Lacey

Like the majority of graduates from the class of 2020, Abigail Holmes’ farewell to high school was largely unceremonious.

“COVID hit me hard,” Holmes remembered. “I couldn’t go to homeschool prom or homeschool graduation. You get to know all the homeschool students from around the area over the course of high school. You want to be together, and COVID took all of that away.”

Because of the coronavirus pandemic and quarantine, the now 19-year-old’s senior year transitioned to hours in front of a computer screen to complete her education. It was a major change from the daily interactions she had experienced through a homeschooling cooperative and sports teams. 

Holmes’ first semester at Richard Bland College offered the connection she craved. 

“Coming to Richard Bland was great because I could take my classes in person; most were hybrid, and they did a great job of not completely shutting down,” Holmes described. “They’ve always allowed students on campus even during the pandemic, but they have made it safe for everyone.”

Holmes is one of RBC’s Promise Scholars, a program that provides eligible students courses from the College of William & Mary, scholarships, and guaranteed transfer to W&M.  

Holmes, who lives at home in Chester, Va., is also part of the Honors Program; RBC requires members to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25, participate in volunteer projects, and take part in advanced opportunities.

“Being in Promise Scholars has been so beneficial for me at RBC,” Holmes explained. “It allows me to be with a certain group of students the whole time. Being a commuter, that is so helpful since I’m not on campus. I know the program and the honors students, and we do things together, have similar goals and are like-minded.”

Last year Holmes also served on the Student Assembly, RBC’s student government. She appreciates the number and variety of programs and clubs available on campus. 

“There’s a lot going on,” Holmes said. “There’s a cool program where students talk with international students and help them with English. It allows them to get used to our culture and pick up phrases we use here to develop their English and be more conversational.”

Holmes is currently taking an interpersonal communication class at RBC and hopes to tap into that learning one day to become a professional or technical writer.

Holmes enjoys the challenges RBC offers through Promise Scholars and the Honors Program. She encourages others to consider it when exploring options for higher education, knowing students will find a community regardless if they live on or off campus.

“I would definitely recommend it to commuter students. The in-person classes are great. The online is great,” Holmes said. “And professors are always responsive and willing to help you. Richard Bland has a little bit of everything.”

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Inside Admissions 

Richard Bland College’s expanded approach to student success leads to increased enrollment. 

During a time when year-over-year enrollment in higher education has declined, Richard Bland College (RBC) has bucked the trend by experiencing a 20.4% increase.

Justin May, Chief Enrollment Management Officer at RBC, credited the college’s focus on relationships. “We’ve redesigned the application process to be more customer-centric and less transactional,” May explained. “Calling a prospective student the same day. Making an acceptance decision within 48 hours.”

May said just as a company like Amazon offers customers updates on the status of a product’s delivery, RBC involves candidates during each step, from confirmation of the application’s receipt and review to conversations about individual needs.“It’s about showing them they can do it and believe in themselves,” May said. “We are giving applications more care. We reach out to prospective students to ensure they understand the process and how we can accommodate them with financial aid and help with other challenges they may face, certainly including but not limited to COVID.” 

According to a report from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center (NSCRC), postsecondary institutions have lost nearly 1.3 million students since the spring of 2020 when the novel coronavirus began; colleges and universities have experienced a 4.7% decline in undergraduates this spring from the spring 2021 semester. The NSCRC expects to release numbers for fall 2022 later this week. 

President Debbie L. Sydow, Ph.D., attributed RBC’s growth to the culture on campus. 

“With the pandemic now behind us, the RBC team has rolled out the red carpet to welcome students back to campus,” she said. “At RBC, students are always our first priority, and everything we do reflects that core value. Our students thrive in RBC’s ‘one size fits one’ environment.” 

She went on to say, “RBC is always mindful that students have many options when it comes to choosing a college, so our team goes the extra mile to ensure that prospective students know exactly what RBC has to offer. We want students to find the perfect college fit, and for many students there is no better fit than RBC. Every student at RBC is unique, and we work hard to ensure that their educational experience is personalized.” 

One way RBC has been able to identify students most interested in its programs and boost enrollment is by working closely with counselors at school systems. 

“Our strategies are the same, but we’ve worked to tighten relationships with those counselors,” said May. “They are trusted advisors. We strengthened our relationships with them with more frequent visits and by hosting more events, like lunches, on campus.” 

Expanded email marketing about new initiatives, an effort May called ‘information campaigns,’ also helped counselors refer qualified students to RBC. 

Further, there has been a focus on hiring additional staff members for programs like Promise Scholars, which offers William & Mary courses and guaranteed transfer to Virginia residents who are high-performing and eligible for a Pell Grant; it has allowed RBC to recruit individuals who are most committed to their education. The most recent incoming Promise Scholar class is the largest since the program’s inception. 

“At RBC, students are always our first priority, and everything we do reflects that core value. Our students thrive in RBC’s ‘one size fits one’ environment.”

Debbie L. Sydow, Ph.D. President – Ricahard Bland College

“These are the students who aren’t applying because everyone else is doing it,” May described. “They’re doing it for the right reason. They know what they are getting into, and they will persist. That naturally leads to increased enrollment, happiness and higher graduation rates.” 

Financial fallout from the pandemic caused many institutions of higher learning to raise their tuition, but Dr. Sydow said RBC has taken great strides to mitigate student loan debt. 

“Cost matters, so to keep college affordable RBC has not increased tuition since 2017. Today’s students also want to know that what they learn in college is going to translate to real job skills. RBC has entered into partnerships with business and industry partners to ensure that students have the option to ‘earn and learn’ on the job, then move directly into living wage jobs.” 

One of those opportunities is the Central Virginia Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME), which RBC launched during the spring 2021 semester. FAME students earn their associates degree over two years while immersing themselves in paid on-the-job training. 

Programs like FAME advanced RBC’s efforts to become an option for students during a time of economic recovery. “Providing them the option to gain job skills at the same time that they earn college credentials makes good sense,” said Dr. Sydow. “Students will graduate without big debt, and they will be well prepared to succeed in the workforce. It’s a win-win!” 

Added May, “Since COVID, we know that people are struggling. We also know they’re looking to retool and advance their skill sets, whether that is to move up the ranks in their current profession or move out of it all together and pursue new opportunities. RBC has always been at the crossroads of a quality education at an affordable price. RBC can get them there.” 

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Richard Bland College is pleased to announce that it is the recipient of a $300,000 Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) grant to reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking (DVSAS) on campus. OVW received 83 applications requesting over $26 million. RBC is one of only 36 projects selected for funding. The college will create RESPECT, a comprehensive program to strengthen prevention education, bystander intervention training, and victim services with a collaborative effort of campus personnel, off-campus partners, and off-campus consultant resources, a Coordinated Community Response Team (CCR). 

The grant was written and brokered by Kimberly Boyd, Ph.D. — Vice-President and Chief Research & Innovation Officer at RBC. Her office is RBC’s hub for research grants at the college. “We hold a commitment at RBC to making the world a better place for others,” says Dr. Boyd. “This grant represents ideals fundamental to our mission.” 

Dr. Debbie L. Sydow, President of RBC adds, “The goal of RESPECT is to reduce or eliminate DVSAS incidents and to offer trauma-informed services to victims with support for long-term healing. The intended outcome is that students will continue to build safe, diverse and welcoming environments throughout their lifetime.” 

The project will work with surrounding RBC communities to engage committed partners to ensure that RESPECT is empowered to accomplish the following objectives: 

They include the creation of a Coordinated Community Response Team to accomplish all mandated tasks including: prevention education, bystander intervention, training for campus, community and victim services. 

It also includes providing prevention education for the entire campus, such as mandatory prevention education for all incoming students about DVSAS. Prevention education for all students will incorporate awareness, cultural sensitivity, bystander interventions, information about resources, campus policies and procedures. 

The initiative will continue to work closely with Dr. Evanda Watts-Martinez – Director of Counseling Services, Thomas Travis – Director of Campus Safety & Chief of Police and Stacy Sokol – Director of Continuing Education at RBC. They will compose the RBC team, serving as the coordinated internal response unit. 

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Richard Bland College is one of Virginia’s hidden gems. Just south of Richmond, VA, and located in the city of Petersburg, the college campus springs forth. Hundred-year-old pecan trees tower over bustling students as they walk the brick paths to class. The two-year school is a cross between a community college and a four-year and is best known as William and Mary’s junior college. 

Kyle Dobry, Associate Director of Admissions at RBC, travels across the state to reveal RBC’s existence to high school students. Through technology, Dobry takes prospective students on a campus tour from remote locations and explains the school’s offerings. A four-year is not always the best fit, but a junior college like RBC allows students to live on campus and benefit from a college experience unmatched by a community college. 

Dobry says, “Reaching out to schools across Virginia allows me to spread awareness about the college and work alongside high school counselors to find students who would benefit most from a two-year.” His role is to meet students and help them decide whether RBC is a good fit. In addition, Dobry assists students through the admissions process, which involves tracking down documents and helping them remember important dates. 

Speaking on behalf of RBC, the Director of Admissions, Justin May says, “The more students see us at schools, the more they learn about how RBC can help them reach their educational goals.” RBC has the benefits of small class sizes, good staff and faculty support, numerous transfer agreements, and cost-effective tuition. 

To get the word out, admissions targets sections of VA over one-week periods, sending Dobry out as a messenger. Dobry finds students who are interested in attending RBC and passes their information on to the back office to follow up. Usually, the admissions team attends 2-3 college fairs per week, in addition to the high schools Dobry visits. 

Sometimes, representatives from RBC programs like the Global Student Success Program or the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program join Dobry on his trips. RBC seeks to provide students with as much information as possible to ease the decision process, giving them a “white glove” experience, as Dobry calls it, 

As an admissions counselor, Dobry looks for students who act with “grit and determination.” RBC is more concerned with a student’s will to learn and succeed than they are interested in the looks of their academic transcript. “If a student bombs the first part of their senior year but continually follows up with me to prove their upwards trajectory, they’ve got a chance,” says Dobry. 

The admissions team helps students access a “lifetime of endless potential.” While many RBC students are local, Dobry’s travels extend this opportunity to students all over Virginia. One of Virginia’s best-kept secrets is out! 

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Students who live on campus at RBC have access to the full student experience. Apartment-style living helps them to form connections on campus, discover who they are, and learn how to live independently. 

Residents are a mix of out-of-state, international, and local backgrounds, creating a diverse and multi-cultural community. All students are highly encouraged to live on campus to benefit from its student-centric atmosphere. 

Most colleges provide students with a small, one-room dorm, shared by two people. RBC goes above and beyond typical accommodations, presenting students with a fully furnished and multi-room apartment! 

There are two great options for where students can live on campus: Freedom Hall and Patriot Hall. Both buildings are just a five-minute walk from class and were built in 2008. In addition to dorm rooms, these modern builds house study rooms, game rooms, and plenty of common areas. 

College staff members are often heard saying that RBC’s dorm rooms by far exceed their first or current apartments. This could be attributed to the fact that each dorm has its own spacious kitchen, fitted with a breakfast bar, additional eating area, and standard-sized appliances including a refrigerator, dishwasher, oven/stove, microwave, and garbage disposal. 

On top of that, students can do their laundry for free without ever having to leave their dorm. A washing machine and drying unit are located in a room adjacent to the dorm’s living and kitchen areas. 

The living room features a large window, sofa, armchairs, and side tables–soon to become your frequented hang-out space, a comfortable place to collapse after class, and the perfect spot for a study-session. 

Having enough elbow room is a common concern for students who may be uneasy about living with suitemates. Worries aside, each dorm has up to four bedrooms and two bathrooms, allowing for plenty of personal space. Moreover, additional sinks can be found outside of the bathrooms to increase the number of people who can get ready at the same time. 

Resident Assistant and sophomore, Thulani Jayasinghe says, “One of the best things I’ve experienced at RBC are the dorms. I’ve enjoyed having my own space, and the freedom has made it easier to concentrate on my studies. I definitely will miss the dorm life at RBC after I have transferred.” 

Jayasinghe is part of the ASPIRE Living & Learning Community (Academic Scholars Program in Residential Environment), which promotes community service, involvement, and leadership. Students in the program live on the 4th floor of Patriot Hall and form a cohort of individuals who love to be academically challenged. 

Located on the first floor of Freedom Hall, The Office of Residence Life (ORL) actively works to design events that will keep their residents busy. Bonfires, ice cream socials, movie nights, and get-togethers galore fill the common areas and neighboring grounds. 

From those who live half-way across the world to those born and raised in Dinwiddie, VA, the dorm life is for everyone. 

“Students who live on campus at RBC have access to the full student experience.” 

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“RBC is excited to partner with the Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce to assist in finding interns for its members,” says RBC Provost Maria E. Dezenberg. “This experience will not only benefit RBC students by giving them the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, but it will benefit the Hopewell/Prince George area as a whole, encouraging students to become invested in these communities and local employers.”

Allison, a native of Prince George, will be working on multiple social media projects, featuring a career awareness video project with schools and local employers. She will also work on tourism promotion for the area. “TeeAnn is exactly what we needed. She brings fresh ideas and new perspective to the team as well as a good work ethic and plenty of skills,” according to Daniel Jones, Communication Coordinator for the Chamber.

In addition to being a full-time student, Allison works at the Fort Lee dry cleaners. She is active in volunteer work, which includes the Colonial Heights Animal Shelter, the Fort Lee Thrift Shop, and in campus activities. She serves on the research and development committee on student assembly.

“At the chamber I will be getting experience in a project off campus that could benefit college students’ leisure activities,” Allison says.

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 By Sterling Giles

Richard Agbo, a Nigerian-born, second-year student at Richard Bland College (RBC), came to the United States more than six years ago aspiring to become a student-athlete at the collegiate level and eventually go pro. Though he grew up playing soccer, a late growth spurt pushed him toward basketball around 14 years old.

“I was raw,” Agbo said with a chuckle. “If I show you my highlight tape from back then, ‘Oh, my God!’”

But Toby Campbell—now former head coach of the boys’ basketball team at The Carmel School in Ruther Glen, Virginia—could see Agbo’s potential. He recruited Agbo and went as far as to serve as his guardian. This wasn’t out of the ordinary for him, Agbo explained.

“He’s had other players from back home play for him and stay at his home,” Agbo said. “Most of them went D-I.”

Agbo sharpened his skillset and eventually garnered the attention of Guillermo Cabrera, head coach of the RBC men’s basketball team. Agbo had the ear of a handful of coaches, but he appreciated how invested Cabrera was into his development as a student-athlete.

“He came to my AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) and high school games—tracking me for a while,” Agbo said. “When he got the job at RBC, he called me.”

Now a forward/center for the Statesmen, Agbo describes his time on the team as transformative.

“At first, the game felt too fast,” the second-year student admitted. “But once I learned to slow it down, everything opened up.”

Off the court, Agbo is equally driven. He is majoring in math and computer science, with plans to transfer into an automobile engineering program. His love for cars dates to his childhood. In his free time, he built makeshift models from cardboard and batteries. While his dream is to play basketball at the highest level possible, Agbo is intentional about preparing for life beyond the game.

“I feel like at some point playing basketball is going to end,” he said. “I’m fully equipped and prepared just in case.”

As an international student, Agbo says RBC is a welcoming environment, with supportive faculty and a manageable coursework that allows him to balance athletics and academics. Richard also serves as the International Representative of the RBC Student Assembly.

“Everyone here is so nice—you definitely feel supported,” he said.

Despite the wealth of opportunity he’s been provided in the States, Agbo still misses home. But his mother, who lives in Nigeria, calls weekly and keeps him grounded.

“She gives me assurance and sends me daily devotions,” he said. “She stays up late at night, fasts and prays for me to succeed.”

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By Sterling Giles

Ruopeng and Ruokun Wu are twins in every sense of the word. For practically their entire lives, the brothers have gone to the same schools, attended the same institutions of higher learning and have similar hobbies and interests. But somehow, they still manage to get along swimmingly.

In 2017, the duo were uprooted from their hometown of Beijing, China and sent stateside by their family to get the best education possible. They paired with a host family in New Jersey and attended middle and high school in Jersey and New York respectively. From there, the brothers matriculated at Richard Bland College (RBC). They considered attending four-year universities but RBC’s affordability and guaranteed admissions program to the Commonwealth’s top four-year universities won them over.

“I think it was a good idea to spend the first two years at Richard Bland College,” Ruokun said. “We got the opportunity to save money and have time to explore what fields we were interested in.”

The guaranteed admissions program was a sigh of relief for both the brothers and international students at the college.

“The international students can relax and don’t have to be too nervous about their futures,” Ruokun said. “They can just do their best and strive after their goals.”

This isn’t the norm for most international students at other colleges and universities. They’re not only bearing the weight of expectations from their families back home, but they’re also working tooth and nail to get into top universities, which isn’t guaranteed. RBC removes this stress via its guaranteed admissions program, which empowers students to simply focus on performing at their best in the classroom.

Both Ruopeng and Ruokun felt supported by the college’s staff and connected with their fellow students in the iRBC International Student Success Program, which supports the college’s international students. 

“RBC is a relatively small campus, so everyone knows each other and everyone knows what resources are available, so it’s easier to access them here,” Ruopeng said. “As far as accessibility is concerned, I feel RBC is better than Michigan because for my research I spend a lot of time sending cold emails to my Michigan professors.”

“But at RBC, I knew the professors and I could just walk in and talk to them.”

While at RBC, Ruokun and Ruopeng both majored in computer science (Ruopeng also majored in math). They were also very active within the college community.

Ruopeng and Ruokun served as international representatives for the Student Assembly. They were also the Coding Club president and vice-president, respectively. The brothers interned under RBC Vice President and Chief Research & Innovation Officer Dr. Kimberly Boyd and participated in various projects.

A standout experience for them was attending the Aviation Symposium in Orlando, Florida where they learned more about aviation, aerospace, and drones, as well as networked with professionals in the field.

“Ruopeng and Ruokun were fantastic interns,” said Dr. Kim Boyd. “They are both diligent, intelligent, hard-working students who are model ambassadors of the iRBC International Student Success Program.”

“I know they’re going to make great strides in their future endeavors and impact the next generation of mathematicians and computer scientists.”

The twins are both majoring in math at The University of Michigan. However, they’re planning to splinter off into different fields of study for individual intrinsic callings.

In high school, Ruopeng needed emergency surgery on his broken jaw, but the doctors botched the surgery. He didn’t feel heard or seen during the procedure and recovery process. He even had to return home to China to correct the malpractice. 

“After that experience, I decided I wanted to be a doctor,” Ruopeng said with conviction. “Because I’m not going to do these types of things to my patients.”

On the other hand, Ruokun would like to become a programmer to use artificial intelligence (AI) to help bridge the gap for people, businesses, and organizations, particularly those with limited technological access and resources.

“I want to invest in AI so I can create welfare for all of society,” Ruokun declared.

The brothers have enjoyed their time so far at The University of Michigan. But they do miss RBC’s modest, intimate campus and community. Even as Michigan students, they continue to show their RBC pride.

“Everyone here is wearing a Michigan shirt,” Ruopeng said. “But I’m like ‘No, I’ve got to wear my RBC shirt—I’ve gotta tell them I come from RBC.’”

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By Sterling Giles

Ryleigh Ingraham, a first-year student at Richard Bland College (RBC), is one the nation’s top roller skaters. Her father, an avid skater himself, encouraged her to pursue the sport.

“I fell in love with it and kept coming to the skating rink more and more,” Ingraham said. “And over 10 years later, here we are.”

Despite her love for skating, Ingraham’s path to becoming the talented athlete she is today came with its fair share of challenges.

In a sport predicated on precision and balance, Ingraham has had to work twice as hard because of her rare condition—ocular albinism. The genetic disorder effects the eyes, making her extremely sensitive to light and subject to frequent migraines. But despite her ailment, she’s excelled in skating, even competing on national stages.

“I’ve never been natural at it,” Ingraham said. “I’ve had to work through the balance issues and everything else.

“To be where I am today, I’m definitely proud of myself.”

Prior to attending RBC, Ingraham had been home schooled since the seventh grade. The College’s intimately sized classrooms principally attracted her to the institution. Since she’s been here, Ingraham is very appreciative of how accommodating her professors have been of her needs. They provide her with presentations ahead of her classes, as well as write larger and more legibly, among other accessibility requests.

Upon graduation from RBC, Ingraham plans to study anesthesiology or genetics. With the latter, she hopes to help people like her get answers to their rare disorders and diseases.

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By Amy Lacey

Scott Vincent vividly remembers her son’s expression every time they drove past Richard Bland College (RBC) in the 1990s.

“He would say, ‘That’s where mom and dad fell in love,’” Vincent said. “We made sure the kids knew our story.

“Had I not gone to take classes there, I wouldn’t have met my husband Lindsey. You can call it fate or who God picked for us, but it was definitely meant to be.”

During the summer of 1977, Scott was a rising senior enrolled in summer school at what is now Longwood University. Her two-hour daily commute from her parents’ tobacco farm in Rawlings, Va. to Longwood’s campus in Farmville became a challenge—so she reconsidered her options. She decided to switch her four courses to RBC where her two brothers were also pursuing degrees.

“I didn’t start until the Friday of that first week of summer school at RBC,” Scott recalled. “My very first day in professor Joel Whitten’s psychology class, I felt awkward because the students were already days ahead of me.

“Lindsey was in my class. He had gone to Chowan College after high school but dropped out. He was then 22 when he went back to school at RBC. We became really good friends and started dating.”

Despite the summer heat, the couple would sit in the car and talk for hours in between the two classes they had together.

“That’s how you know you really like someone,” Scott commented. “Neither of us was looking to meet someone.

“We just wanted an education. One day after we met, Lindsey and I went to see his friend Susan Basile, who worked at RBC in finance for many years. Fast forward to the next time Susan saw Lindsey, she told him, ‘You are going to marry that girl. I just know it.’”

The two eventually got married in June 1980. Scott later earned her bachelor’s degree at Longwood University and became a teacher. Lindsey graduated from RBC in 1978 and continued his education at Virginia Commonwealth University.

“Lindsey had a different career path, but from the time I met him he wanted to go into the peanut business,” Scott said. “He had grown up on a peanut farm in Skippers [,Va.] and would cook peanuts every night on our kitchen stove using his grandmother’s recipe.

“This was while he was working another job and I taught school.”

In 1989, their business, Good Earth Peanut Company, officially became a reality in Lindsey’s hometown.

“We quit our jobs, had three kids and had no money,” Scott remembered. “I was scared to death, but Lindsey would always say we had to crawl before we could walk.

“He had a business plan and would stay up until 2 a.m. to figure out how much money we had to make to keep going.”

For the past 34 years, the Vincents make frequent commutes to Good Earth Peanut Company, which is about 40 miles from their home. Despite the long travel, an RBC lesson has stuck with them along the way.

“We had a marketing class together and we watched the film, ‘Eye of the Beholder,’ which was all about what people see depending on their vantage point,” Scott explained. “Five people can look at the same thing and see something different.

“I have thought of that so many times in my career.”

Since they met, RBC has held a special place in the Vincents’ hearts. When their children were young, they would take them for walks on the RBC campus. The couple attended dances in the gym for date nights with friends as well. Their daughter, Claire, credits two classes she took with RBC professor Barbara Morgan as the reason why she chose psychology as her major.

Since the beginning, the couple has had a role in the annual RBC Pecan Festival, most recently serving as a supplier for the event. Additionally, in 2024, Lindsey decided to step down from the RBC Foundation Board where he has served since 2018.

But the Vincents’ relationship with RBC will continue into the future.

“We just love it there,” Scott said. “It is our story and I know it is a great story.

“It’s how two people who had no desire to meet anyone fell in love one summer. RBC is so special to us.”

The post Scott and Lindsey Vincent: An RBC Love Story appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

I was born on a small farm in Gloucester, Virginia. My hobbies include night runs, video games and listening to whatever video essays grace my social media feeds. I’m currently majoring in Behavioral Science/Psychology because I find people interesting. I really like asking why people do what they do and about their morals and motivations.

What’s been the most difficult part about transitioning from high school to college?

Honestly, the transition was easy for me. I was home schooled through high school and it was structured similarly to my schedule now—a few hour-long classes a week and assignments due on Sundays. I was shocked at how well adapted I was.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Tell us about your experience.

I’ve been a residential student since day one. I love the apartment-style layout of the residence halls. They have nice amenities such as a shared living space, kitchen and individual rooms. It feels like home.

What do you like most about RBC?

I love the close-knit nature of RBC. You’ll always have at least a passing familiarity with the people you see every day. The campus feels closer because of it.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in and how has your experience been?

I’m involved in multiple student organizations: Student Assembly, Esports team, Dungeons & Dragons club and I serve as a library assistant. It’s a lot to balance, but the people I talk to while working makes it all worth it.

What are your goals and aspirations for the rest of the academic year?

This is my last year at RBC and I really want to make an impact. My goal for the rest of this year is to say “yes” as much as possible and to do as much as possible.

What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

I plan to transfer to a university—potentially Longwood—and pursue my Doctor of Psychology degree. Afterward, I want to get a job as a clinical psychologist.

The post Seanon Duncan: Fueled By Curiosity appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

The daughter of a Navy father and Army mother, Shyla Cooper—born in Long Beach, California—spent much of her childhood traveling across the country before planting her roots in Norfolk, Virginia. The constant change shaped her resilience, independence and drive to discover herself.

The second oldest amongst her three brothers and three sisters, Cooper quickly learned responsibility and often had to watch over her siblings. Her family is chockfull of creatives and athletes—she so happens to be an amalgamation of both.

“I had to find things that were truly my own,” she said. “That’s where my creativity came in.”

Her natural curiosity and versatility have been lifelong traits. In high school, she participated in multiple activities including wrestling, track, color guard, as well as playing the cello.

Now at Richard Bland College and a standout on the track and field team, the sport dominates her time, so she’s not able to have her hands in as many pots. However, recently, Cooper put together a solid performance in the pentathlon at this year’s Indoor NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) National Track & Field Championships.

Outside of athletics, Cooper serves a vital role on the Student Assembly as the student-athlete representative. In this position, she advocates for the needs of the College’s athletes.

The second-year student tends to her creative side by writing poetry and making music—drawing inspiration from eclectic sources ranging from Erykah Badu to Cartoon Network’s Steven Universe.

“I like the clash between structure and creativity,” Cooper said. “Track is very disciplined and structured.

“But creativity lets me fly free—having both creates balance.”

That balance is what led her to Richard Bland College. Recruited by the College’s track & field coach Rashad Cannon, Cooper chose RBC not only for athletics, but for its strong support system.

“My coaches, faculty and staff really pour into me,” she said. “I’ve never felt more supported at a school.”

With graduation fast approaching in the spring, Cooper is exploring opportunities to continue competing in track while also pursuing her creative passions. She has been recruited by several HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) for track, but she’s also considering VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University) because of its stellar arts program.

But wherever her path leads next, Cooper is assured the foundation she has built at RBC will sustain her well into the future.

“This is the place where I could slow down, grow and really build myself,” she said.

The post Shyla Cooper: Harmony of Becoming appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

At Richard Bland College (RBC), second-year student Sophia Bustillos found an unlikely calling—one that hummed with purpose. Through academic exploration and mentorship, she was inspired to serve as the campus beekeeper.

The Fort Worth, Texas native learned the fundamentals of beekeeping from a family friend. She learned how to manage hives year-round, which she carried over to the College’s hive, located next to the McNeer Hall parking lot.

Dr. Eric Miller, RBC Associate Professor of Biology, gave Bustillos the runway to maintain the hive as she saw fit.

“She’s doing everything with the bees that I didn’t know how to do,” Dr. Miller chuckled.

With time, Bustillos revitalized the hive and is currently doing routine maintenance.

“Bees are kind of like cats,” Bustillos added. “They require attentiveness, but not constant interference.”

On a weekly basis, Bustillos ensures the queen is laying eggs, food reserves are stable and pests are under control. Outside of her care, the bees essentially manage themselves. She’s fascinated by the hive’s structure, which is predicated on teamwork.

“It’s fascinating observing them from a sociology perspective,” Bustillos said. “The survival of the entire hive depends on the health of the queen.”

Outside of beekeeping, Bustillos is a student in the Honors College, through which she received a scholarship to offset some of her academic expenses. This fall, she plans to attend William & Mary to study environmental science.

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When I was 14-years-old I got a job as a kennel assistant at the Disputanta Animal Hospital, and have worked there for the past five years. It has been a labor of love! Now I am an animal nurse in training, which is another step closer to me becoming a veterinarian.

Every day I see how dogs make their owners happy, and vice versa. Two years ago I adopted Keeno. He became my best friend, and has changed my life. I’ve learned responsibility, and how to give of myself freely.

Unfortunately, there are lots of dogs like Keeno sitting alone in shelters, and on the brink of being euthanized. That thought spurred me to foster dogs and find them good homes.

Two months ago I fostered Almond. He’s an eight-year-old mixed breed who beat cancer, and has a silly disposition. It was a huge responsibility considering he was on medication and could never be outside unsupervised. Almond was recently adopted, which was very fortunate.

I want to have an impact on the world, and RBC is helping me make one. I have attended several campus seminars, gotten to know and learn from fellow Honors Students, and participated in campus activities. RBC has been great so far!

The post Statesman Scholar Abby Gill appeared first on Richard Bland College.

My family moved to the United States and settled in Petersburg so I could get a good education. We were fortunate to make Virginia home when my father was able to secure a great job as an Associate Professor at Virginia State University.

When I decided to attend Richard Bland College, there were many areas of my life that I had yet to figure out. As a high school junior, I thought I knew exactly where I wanted to go, and, most importantly, my college major. As a senior, the future that I had laid out was beginning to look more translucent than transparent. I had a difficult time deciding what college would be the “best fit” for me.

I got accepted to VCU but was uncertain about the prospect of jumping straight into a huge university. A teacher advised me to consider a smaller school like Richard Bland, and I realized that RBC would be a perfect place to begin my college studies.

During my first semester, I was still uncertain about my career path. I was overwhelmed with the endless possibilities before me. Despite being unsettled about my future, everything felt comfortable for me at RBC. I knew that being here would make things clearer and help me to focus.

My parents fostered a very nurturing, caring and loving home. Being at RBC helped me to decide that I wanted to love and take care of people like they did for my siblings and me. For this reason, I am pursuing a degree in Nursing, and plan to attend Bons Secours next year.

RBC professors have brought out the best in me, most notably my psychology professor Dr. Barbara Morgan. Psychology has always been one of my passions because the human brain fascinates me. I am intrigued by the decisions that people make and the reasons why. Thanks to the classes I have taken with Dr. Morgan, my love for psychology will always have a place in my life and will be useful to me as a nurse.

RBC’s smaller academic setting gave me an opportunity to be closer and more open with an unfamiliar group of people who were once “strangers” and then became friends. I am looking forward to a great sophomore year and taking what I have learned at RBC to the next stage of my life.

The post Statesman Scholar Aika Temu appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Majoring in Theater and Communications was not my plan in high school. But when I came to Richard Bland College, I realized it was my destiny.

I was ready to experience everything RBC had to offer because while in high school I participated in the Upward Bound Program hosted by Virginia State University. I lived on campus five days a week, took classes taught by VSU professors, mingled with other students, and got a taste college life.

Through Richard Bland’s Bridge Program with William & Mary, I have had the opportunity to take classes in Williamsburg, where I’ve been taught by award-winning actors who have helped me refine my craft as an actress. I am honored and humbled to say that this experience helped me earn an Academic Achievement Award from RBC for excellence in Visual and Performing Arts.

While taking classes at William & Mary, I’ve explored the campus, and taken advantage of the College’s Media Center. It houses all types of technology, such as cameras and video editing software, and has enabled me to study video production. This has been particularly important to me as a visual artist because I can study my acting from a director’s point of view and make adjustments that improve my performance.

After graduating from RBC on May 12, I will attend the VCU School of the Arts and double major in Theater Performance and Mass Communications. I’m grateful to the many opportunities Richard Bland College has given me to start my career.

The post Statesman Scholar Aiyshanti Green appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“I love it here,” says the Stafford native and member of the RBC class of 2020. “The people and professors are great. Everything that drew me to the college has been fulfilled academically and socially.”

But prior to entering Richard Bland, Di Dio’s life took a downward turn when the former North Stafford High School baseball player suffered a concussion and traumatic brain injury during his sophomore year. At the same time, his family was also dealing with his father’s cancer treatment.

“It was an extremely low point in my life, and I strayed from my faith and family,” he remembers. “The biggest struggle was the island that I felt like I was on. No one understood what was going on with me.”

It took time, but Di Dio eventually healed. He wrote an essay about his family’s battle with cancer that earned him the AJ Slye Memorial Scholarship, giving him the needed funds to attend college. Di Dio repaired relationships and began planning for a future that included higher learning.

“Richard Bland showed up on my radar because my brother took classes here,” Di Dio explains. “When I walked into the high school counseling office to get more information on Richard Bland, the RBC admissions representative just happened to be in the office visiting. It was a sign that I was destined to attend RBC.”

At RBC, Di Dio describes an atmosphere that allows him to thrive in and out of the classroom. In addition to the affordability, the honor student enjoys being in the ASPIRE Living & Learning Community. He says programs like ASPIRE give students a four-year university experience with a smaller, cohesive student body and more benefits.

“The professors are amazing,” says Di Dio, who earned President List academic distinction last semester. “They are some of the smartest people I have ever met and also the most helpful people I have ever met. They are working for you as a student and treat you as an adult which is refreshing coming out of high school.”

Di Dio is the first-year representative in the Student Assembly and president of the new Ultimate Frisbee Club.

“We talked to delegates and senators and brought to light some of the issues that students are facing today,” Di Dio says. “There are definitely advantages to attending RBC if you are interested in pursuing a career in politics.”

Using his personal experiences and academic focus on behavioral science at RBC, Di Dio is considering becoming either a therapist or constitutional lawyer, which would allow him to pursue his passion to help people.

After he earns his associate degree at RBC, Di Dio plans to transfer to William & Mary and major in psychology and history.

Di Dio has found a home at RBC.

“The people here have left a tattoo on my heart,” he says. “They are some of the best and most genuine people I have ever met.”

The post Statesman Scholar Alden Di Dio appeared first on Richard Bland College.

During my first year at RBC, I struggled academically. School was not a priority. I wasn’t involved in campus activities, which didn’t make for a good college experience. My sister, Amber, a 2017 RBC graduate and current University of Richmond senior, convinced me to run for Student Assembly. Amber had served as the Student Assembly’s Vice President and spoke highly about her experience balancing academics and extracurricular activities. I was soon elected Student Assembly President, something I never dreamed was possible. This gave me the opportunity to represent RBC students on various committees, and to represent the RBC student body as a member of Virginia 21.

I also signed-up for Dr. Eric Miller’s Eco-stream Assessment class, which included a week of experiential learning in West Virginia. The trip changed my life. I developed a love for the outdoors, and the course challenged me to become a better student and improve my grades.

All has paid off. I made the Dean’s List this spring, a huge achievement for me. I owe my newfound academic success to using campus resources and on-going help from RBC professors who encourage me to succeed and take the extra time to check on me.

I plan on transferring to either Virginia Commonwealth University or West Virginia University, where I will major in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies. I am excited to be graduating soon, and will always be grateful for all of the opportunities RBC has given me.

The post Statesman Scholar Alexis Ange appeared first on Richard Bland College.

During my first semester at Richard Bland, the classroom sizes were perfect, and the professors were wonderful. However, I felt like something was missing. I struggled academically during my freshman year and finished the year with a 2.7 GPA, which was disappointing, knowing that I could do better.

That’s when I heard about the opportunity to get back on the court to play volleyball. I was ecstatic knowing that volleyball was coming to RBC and that the new head coach, Scott Newton, would give me an opportunity to play.

Playing volleyball and being a part of RBC was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It’s taught me time management with a busy college schedule, and it’s given me a wonderful experience with an amazing group of teammates. I completed the 2017 fall semester with a 4.0 GPA, and I am a member of the Statesmen Student Ambassadors.

Richard Bland has prepared me for the next step in my journey. I plan to continue my education at either Virginia Tech or Radford, where I will pursue a degree in veterinary medicine or wildlife conservation.

The post Statesman Scholar Alexis Lyons appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“Attending RBC has proven to be one of the best decisions I have ever made,” Williams explains. “Any insecurities I had as an incoming first-year student have been erased by a College that believes in my abilities and future aspirations. I have been challenged in the classroom and made lifelong friends.”

On an alternative spring break during her second semester, Williams focused on service learning with a group of RBC students and professors in Hobcaw Barony, South Carolina.

“It was an amazing experience! I met people of diverse backgrounds and learned something new from them every day,” says Williams. “The group was immersed in the local culture, and this was the type of outside-the-classroom learning experience few other colleges could have provided me.”

Williams aspires to work in the medical field and knows her RBC education puts her dreams within reach, without the high tuition costs of many four-year programs. She also credits RBC’s smaller class sizes with helping her to excel.

“I am proud to be a Statesmen Scholar, student ambassador, and an honor student,” she says. “Last year I made both the Dean’s and President’s lists and earned the College’s Academic Excellence Award for science proficiency. Williams celebrated academic success at RBC while holding a managerial job at Chick-Fil-A and working as a home-certified nursing assistant.

“Juggling busy days has taught me responsibility, time management and academic focus,” Williams adds. “With the encouragement of professors and staff members, my true potential has been brought out.”

The post Statesman Scholar Alexis Williams appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“My dad is a police chaplain, and I’ve gone to the department with him,” Lyons explains. “I have always had an interest in investigations, and I would love to work for the FBI.”

As a high school senior, the Chester native had four acceptance letters from colleges throughout Virginia but was still not certain where she wanted to go. Speaking with family friends who had attended RBC prompted her to take a closer look at the school practically in her own backyard.

“I feel like the campus fits my personality,” she says. “I’m a laid-back, reserved kind of person. The campus fits you if you’re still undecided. You still get the regular four-year college experience but downsized. There’s more one-on-one interaction than you would get at a four-year school, so you develop a better relationship with your professors.”

A childhood dream came true thanks to a relationship Lyons also formed with the nightshift security officer at the dorm where she was a Resident Assistant. In the summer of 2018, Officer Mark Williams connected Lyons with internship opportunities at both the Petersburg and Richmond Police Departments.

“During my ride alongs, I was able to get an inside look of the typical day of an officer which allowed me to see things from a simple traffic ticket to high priority calls where I was on an active shooting scene,” Lyons recounts. “The adrenaline that ran through my body each time a call was dispatched out to us confirmed that this was something I wanted to do.”

Now a forensic science major at RBC, Lyons appreciates the support she receives from the campus community and the classes available.

“Especially since I’ve taken criminology last semester with Professor Jena Morrison, she kind of understands the route that I’m taking,” Lyons says. “She’s given me different websites to look at and contact information, so I have plenty of resources.”

Through the guaranteed transfer program, Lyons will attend VCU after graduating from RBC in May 2019.

She will carry her experiences as a Student Ambassador and a member of the Student Conduct Board with her as she continues her collegiate journey.

“I am really happy I started out at RBC,” she says.

The post Statesman Scholar Angela Lyons appeared first on Richard Bland College.

I watched all my friends declare majors, commit to schools for their academics and sports, and get accepted into different universities. As I applied to schools, I grew nervous. I still did not know what I wanted to do or learn, or what I even liked. Eventually, I began to realize how much I loved combining academics and softball. I knew I needed a great education to succeed in life, yet I didn’t want to stop playing softball, something I’ve done my whole life.

Attending RBC was both the smart and right choice.

When the RBC softball coach offered me a spot on the team, I knew I was being presented with a fantastic opportunity to further pursue my academic and athletic journey. Although I have never been decisive, I have always been determined.

I finished my first year with a 4.0 GPA, was a Statesman Scholar honor student, and a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. RBC helped me gain the knowledge and confidence that I can succeed no matter where I go from this point forward.

With hard work and determination, anything is possible. After leaving Richard Bland, I plan to attend a four-year school where I can work towards a degree in Engineering and continue my softball career.

The post Statesman Scholar Ashley Fritz appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“I originally grew up in a rural region in Montana and moved to Virginia four years ago,” explains Kirk, who is a member of the RBC Class of ’19. “I was no longer horseback riding whenever I wanted to, and I no longer had vast mountains surrounding my home.”

As Kirk adjusted to life in Dinwiddie County, the transplant soon set her sights on the College of William & Mary. She seized the opportunity to attend Richard Bland College to gain the connection to W&M, and have an affordable college experience.

“This college does an amazing job exposing me to so many rewarding experiences and opportunities,” says Kirk. “I am a member of the Honors Program which connects me to students like myself who want to pursue a higher level of academics. Furthermore, I am in the Bridge Program that allows me to take classes at William & Mary and experience its culture before transferring there.”

Outside of the classroom, Kirk offers food, water and comfort during emergencies as a support member of the Dinwiddie fire department. Kirk also learned more about managing her time with involvement in the RBC Book Club and American Sign Language Club.

“These opportunities taught me to be more social. The RBC environment allows students from different backgrounds to connect very easily. This college helped me overcome my social awkwardness and let my personality flourish.”

After exploring options through those extra-curricular activities and electives, Kirk decided to pursue forensic psychology. She credits RBC Professor of Psychology Dr. Barbara Morgan for developing her passion for learning why people think in a particular way. Kirk also thanks the entire RBC staff for encouraging students to take ample time to choose a major.

“As I plan to transfer to William & Mary after graduating RBC in May, I will always remember Richard Bland College for developing me into who I am today.”

The post Statesman Scholar Ashley Kirk appeared first on Richard Bland College.

I am an international student from Colombia, South America. It was not easy to leave my family and friends to come to the United States and to stay here. When I finished high school in Colombia there were several options for my future but one that really caught my attention was coming to the U.S. with a scholarship opportunity to attend the 12^th grade at St. Christopher´s School in Richmond.

During the first months of 2016, I started to search for colleges where I could combine soccer and academics. Soccer is the sport that I love and have always played, so being able to play soccer at the collegiate level was important. I felt that Richard Bland College was the best option regarding academics and athletics.

During my freshman year at RBC, I earned an overall GPA of 3.7, won the region tournament with the soccer team, and received an honorable mention. This year my main goal is to increase my GPA, plan my transfer to a 4-year college and hopefully win a Region X Conference soccer championship, while giving my best at all times to others. I am a Residential Assistant and am serving as Student Representative to the State Council of Higher Education Student Advisory Council representing Richard Bland College.

At one point I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to stay in America before coming to RBC. My financial situation was very difficult and I couldn’t afford paying for college even with the scholarship that I had received. Thanks to God I received a lot of support from many people who trusted in me and now I can see the reward to all the effort that has been done. I am very appreciative with what God has done in my life and to Richard Bland College for giving me so many opportunities and allowing me to improve and continue my journey in the United States.

The post Statesman Scholar Danny Torres appeared first on Richard Bland College.

You’ll get no complaints, however, from the Nursing major who plans to attend Virginia Commonwealth University next fall. Addington is flourishing at Richard Bland College, embracing her five-class, 16-credit academic course load that also includes an Anatomy and Physiology lab and a 40-hour a week job. How does Addington manage an exhausting schedule and remain one of the College’s top academic performers? “I am results driven,” she says. “I have ambition and I want to succeed.”

For Addington, juggling her hectic weekly calendar takes planning, discipline and stamina. “Before I leave campus, I get all of my on-line computer work done. That’s a priority,” she explains. “When I get home from work at night, I spend the next few hours reading or working on papers, which often has me studying past midnight. I find that time of night soothing, and I concentrate better when I’m relaxed. Maintaining the high grade point average that’s required to be in the Honors Program is very important to me.”

Being a member of the Honors Program at RBC requires incoming freshmen to achieve a 3.5 grade point average, and returning students must maintain a 3.25 or better. Honors students are expected to participate in campus and public service activities, attend outside enrichment programs and workshops, and act in a leadership capacity in their community. Reflections on these activities are captured in their personal blogs. Students conduct an assessment of their leadership skills by surveying their supervisor. Second year students must design and execute an original research project that analyzes or solves a complex issue within their area of interest.

Richard Bland College’s smaller class size combined with one-on-one interaction with professors has enabled Addington to flourish. She is on track to transfer to a prominent four-year institution next year where she will prepare to be a nurse practitioner. “Being a branch of William & Mary is an amazing connection, and it’s a big draw for attending Richard Bland,” Addington says. “I knew I’d get a great education that’s affordable, convenient, and offers guaranteed transfer to many top schools. Professors know my name. I feel like the College really cares about my future success.”

Classes, studying and working at a popular restaurant leaves Addington, who pays for her own tuition, with little free time. She views this period in her life pragmatically, however, saying, “It might sound cliché, but it’s an honor to be in the RBC’s Honors Program. We (students) take the initiative and go out of our way to make a positive change in our lives and community.”

The post Statesman Scholar Darianne Addington appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“College has always been my number one priority,” Roane reflects. “I like the Army for the benefits and opportunities it provides. I’ve traveled to more places, had more experiences than most people my age and met some amazing people.”

Completing basic training in Oklahoma and advanced individual training in Texas took a year, so Roane began college later than other students in his 2017 graduating class at Prince George High. To stay on track, he took extra colleges classes at RBC.

Roane had earned Richard Bland credits through dual enrollment classes in high school, and one of his older sisters attended RBC. He ultimately liked what he saw and decided to begin his own higher ed journey at Richard Bland.

“Just the whole atmosphere,” Roane explains. “When I came in two or three weeks before classes started to bring transcripts, it felt upbeat. That’s the vibe I got. I’m really happy I’m going here, and I still feel that vibe.”

The knowledge he gained about marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high school has increased thanks to business classes Roane has taken at RBC. These courses are giving Roane the foundation for the marketing degree he plans to pursue at George Mason University after graduating in May from RBC.

“The business faculty here, especially Professor Michael Lehman, have been wonderful mentors and provided opportunities through the Business Club,” Roane says. “Instead of focusing on small things that don’t really lead into the big world of business, Professor Lehman likes to concentrate on the bigger picture and how everything connects.”

Additionally, Roane has enjoyed realizing the overlap between the business and psychology worlds through a class taught by Dr. Barbara Morgan. “The classes are very thorough, and I like that critical thinking is really stressed because that’s important no matter what field you are pursuing,” says Roane.

Roane recently earned the Academic Excellence Award for Business/Economics.

The post Statesman Scholar David Roane appeared first on Richard Bland College.

After graduating from Prince George High School, I enrolled in eight months of military training. College was in my future, but I chose to work at the Amazon Factory first to earn money for tuition and help pay bills at home.

A family friend encouraged me to go to college and offered to pay the tuition. But I turned down the help. I’m a very independent person. Despite being out of school for two years and being apprehensive about college, I was going to do it on my own terms. Richard Bland College offered the best curriculum and flexibility for my schedule, so I started my higher ed journey at RBC.

Once school started, my life became really hard and exhausting. The academics were challenging. Working the night shift at Amazon from 5:30pm to 4:00am left little time for studying and sleep. I also needed more money, so I starting working in the IT Department. My weekends were filled with military commitments. I was busy!

How did I succeed? I used every spare moment to study and squeezed in power naps! Professors and administrators helped me balance school, my jobs and family responsibilities.

RBC has made me a stronger person. I’ve grown up fast and learned that nothing in life comes easily or can be taken for granted. You have to sacrifice to be successful. I will graduate from RBC in May as an honor student. I am happy and appreciative that RBC has been a partner in my challenging journey.

The post Statesman Scholar Destiny Grubbs appeared first on Richard Bland College.

My high school grades were strong enough for me to become a Statesman Scholar and earn a place in the honors program at RBC. The opportunities have been incredible, enriching my college experience. I am a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, the Science Club, and have given public service hours to Pathways in Petersburg.

All RBC students have the opportunity to take part in experiential learning opportunities and apply classroom knowledge to the outside world. Field trips are offered throughout the U.S. and abroad. And there are local options.

Mine has come through a part-time job and internship at Walnut Hill Pharmacy. I’ve been fortunate to acquire hands-on learning experiences prior to attending medical school, and have earned college credit toward my degree in Biology.

RBC has been a fantastic experience, both academically and socially. I have made unforgettable relationships with professors who have advised and guided me towards my goal of becoming a physician. The College’s partnerships and guaranteed admission agreements with prominent 4-year schools has led me to attend VCU this fall.

Everyone has their own formula for becoming successful in college. Mine was centered around not missing a single class, connecting with professors, studying hard, having fun along the way, and never forgetting to chase my dreams!

The post Statesman Scholar Drew Short appeared first on Richard Bland College.

I was born and raised in Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia. Growing up in a city that was recovering from the ravages of war wasn’t the simplest, but it formed me into the person I am today.

Soccer has always been a big part of my life. I can remember dreams of playing soccer as a young child.

As a youth, I would visit an old concrete soccer field, located between the high towers of Belgrade, hoping for a neighborhood pick-up game. A former professional soccer player who lived in the towers used to watch me play and saw my desire to succeed. He helped me join FC Radnicki Belgrade, the most famous and historically prominent club in the country, where I was allowed to train for free!

I spent 10 years with FC Radnicki, wearing the captain band for eight years. I wasn’t known as the most super-talented player, but was considered a strong-minded player who gave 100 percent every day. Due to unfortunate circumstances with my family and within the country, I never advanced to the professional level.

At age 20, I made a decision that would change my life forever. I became an international student-athlete moving to the U.S. to attend college and play soccer. Fortunately, I connected with a Richard Bland College coach, and I soon knew I was in the right place at RBC.

During my two years at RBC, I have worked hard at being excellent in the classroom and on the field. Becoming a Statesman Scholar was a top goal for me. I will graduate as an honor student with a 3.9 GPA.

I am especially proud of my academic achievements because they came during a time when the soccer program was doing very well, which tested my time management skills. My first season, RBC defeated the defending NJCAA Division national champion, won the Region X championship and played in the national tournament. As captain of the team this past year, the squad set a school record with 17 wins.

At RBC I have made friends for life, and the College has helped me find my future direction. I am grateful for the life experiences that have connected me with amazing people. My academic and athletics career will continue next fall at Clayton State University in Atlanta, where I received a full scholarship.

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“I found Richard Bland through a consulting company,” she said. “I decided to come to RBC because it’s not a big college, and I wanted to ease my way into studying in the United States for the first time. A smaller environment enabled me to have more contact with my professors and acclimate myself to college life at a pace I felt comfortable with.”

Kim also feels that Richard Bland has all the resources and opportunities beyond her work in the classroom that rounds out her college experience and prepares her to transfer to a four-year university following graduation in 2020. “The number of internships and programs available for students at RBC is impressive, and a reason why the College is a great fit for me.”

As an aspiring robotics developer, Kim is a computer science major at RBC.

“Computer Science requires programming and a lot of math and science,” she explained. “I am interested in learning programming and math, so I don’t regret choosing my major at the start of my academic career. I am fascinated with robots, especially assembling robots and programming them to make them move and perform a certain way.”

Besides the opportunities to excel in both academics and her career aspirations, Kim has enjoyed being immersed in the RBC community. She is part of ASPIRE, a living and learning community on campus, which houses academically high-achieving residential students, honors students, and international students from all over the world, including Kim’s South Korea, but also Vietnam, China, Taiwan, to name a few. Through the camaraderie and intercultural aspects of ASPIRE, Kim cherishes the memories she’s made through her residential experience on campus as some of her favorites since she arrived at RBC.

“I love having friends who share cultures together,” she said. “In the dorm, we have cooked food for each other, discussed topics that we have different perceptions, and have tried to learn each other’s languages.”

A member of RBC’s Global Student Success Program (GSSP) and the International Club, Kim is able to take her multicultural experiences around campus.

“There are many cultural activities at RBC that I can participate in with my friends,” she said. At the GSSP’s annual holiday party, Kim decorated her first gingerbread house along with friends she’s made through the program.

“I want to transfer to Virginia Tech after graduating RBC,” she said. “I want to expand my knowledge of computer science and work for a robot development tech company.”

The post Statesman Scholar Gayeon Kim appeared first on Richard Bland College.

In May 2016, I read a post on Facebook called, “Virginia Single Father Searching For Living Kidney Donor.” It profiled a man who had been diagnosed with a disease that shrinks the kidneys. He was hooked up to a dialysis machine 10 hours a day while trying to parent his children. As I read the story over and over, I could not resist feeling his sense of helplessness. “I want to give him one of mine,” I told my brother. “This is something I am meant to do … as soon as possible.” Coincidentally, I had met this man five months earlier at a party hosted by mutual friends. Having now learned of his situation online, I was ready to help.

My life was far from perfect at that time. I dropped out of Christopher Newport in 2013. I was a member of the volleyball team, but CNU wasn’t the place for me. I partied five days a week and weighed 270 pounds because I couldn’t pass a fast food restaurant without going in. During this time, furthering my education was the last thing on my mind. But when I read the Facebook post about someone so sick, something clicked. I knew at that very moment I had to change my life and save his.

My family and friends heard about my desire to donate my kidney. We were all in agreement but overwhelmed with the next four months of medical and psychological preparation needed to donate a kidney. Luckily, the surgery was a complete success, and I healed feeling better physically and mentally than ever before. Today I am 100 pounds lighter, maintain a Vegan diet, a strict exercise regimen, and I am a happy person studying and playing volleyball at Richard Bland College.

When I dropped out of CNU, I didn’t think I’d ever play volleyball again. I knew of RBC Coach Scott Newton from Richmond area volleyball, and he encouraged me to enroll at Richard Bland.

I first concentrated on my academics throughout the year, and then became eligible to play volleyball this year. Academics used to be the last thing on my mind, but with the supportive environment at RBC, I am a Dean’s List student.

Every day I look at the scars on my body and remember that by giving to save a life, I was saved.

Being a student-athlete at RBC has given me a second chance at school, volleyball, and most importantly, a healthy lifestyle.

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I graduated from Varina High School in the top 100 with a 3.5 GPA. I had the academic ability to attend many four-year institutions, but decided to take the unconventional route and enlist. The opportunity to become a more well-rounded person through experiences gained in the military was too good to pass up.

Following graduation, I went through eight weeks of basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. During that time, I earned several distinguished accolades, and most importantly, the respect of my peers. I completed my Tech School training at Fort Lee, where I was chosen as the highest-ranking airman in a graduating class of 300. My current assignment is at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, where I earned two Member-of-the-Month awards and a quarterly Airman-of-the-Year award in 2017.

Following my training at Fort Lee, I was ready to attend college. Richard Bland College was the perfect place for me to become re-acclimated with school after a two-year hiatus. I joined the RBC Honors program to challenge myself academically. I was determined to be a successful college student.

Attending RBC was a great decision. The academics have been challenging. I have made new friends and enjoy a variety of learning and social activities. In spring 2018, I earned a 4.0 GPA. Even as a full-time student at RBC, I still have duties in the Air National Guard. My hours are flexible, allowing me to work a part-time job at Kroger.

I will graduate RBC in May. I am considering three transfer options, including William & Mary, the University of Richmond and Virginia Tech. With my military training, I could become a commissioned officer in the Air Force, or a civilian federal employee working in business or communications. Wherever my path leads, I will continue to embrace life with discipline, courage, and perseverance.

The post Statesman Scholar Jalen Harris appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Why did you want to serve as Student Assembly President?
It was important to represent the study body at RBC and be a voice of students. My goal was to become involved in making the campus better for all students – residential and commuter. RBC offers a tremendous number of opportunities, even during the current pandemic environment, and it was important to foster a positive experience for everyone. Being part of Student Assembly has helped me do that and create my own leadership role on campus.

What are your plans as Student Assembly President?
Unify the campus and promote discussion with my fellow students. It’s been important that Student Assembly embrace and promote the College’s Safe & Secure program and keep reminding my fellow students that better days are coming. Although in-person meetings can’t happen, technology enables everyone to meet virtually. Building committee structures and keeping students interested in the Student Assembly has been the main goal.

Why did you choose RBC?
RBC was the perfect fit financially and academically. I wanted to gain experience in my career path before transferring to a four-year school. Being a member of the Honors and Promise Scholar programs has provided many opportunities I never knew existed. I feel grounded on campus and I now have the confidence going forward to pursue my future goals.

What is your advice to a student considering RBC?
I would encourage students to attend to secure their academic base if they’re unsure of the future. The College provides a lot of information and direction to help students made the best decisions moving forward.

What is your fondest memory at RBC?
Participating in the Honors Program and uniting with fellow students. It has been a great experience collaborating with other students in events, seeing how others work, and sharing ideas.

What is your favorite place on campus?
The library. I have worked at the library and it holds so much joy for me studying and seeing other students on campus. I loved studying on the second floor and seeing the vast view of the academic building. It’s a spot I won’t forget.

What are some of your hobbies?
Sunbathing and knitting.

What are your career goals after RBC?
I plan on attending William and Mary and will major in Business/Marketing. I hope to land an internship in Richmond after I finish college.

The post Statesman Scholar Jamaica Jones appeared first on Richard Bland College.

It took a lot for me to leave my home in Ayr, Scotland, and come to America, and during the process, there was a lot of doubt. My family and friends encouraged me to take this big step, telling me the experience would make me a better person.

Prior to Richard Bland College, I spent my freshman year at Newberry College in South Carolina, a small, private four-year school. The soccer program at Newberry did not work for me, so I decided to look for another school that could re-spark my love for the game and help me earn a college degree.

When I arrived at Richard Bland last fall, one of the first things I noticed was the close-knit family environment where everyone, including peers and faculty/staff, had the main goal to help me transfer to a four-year institution after completing my degree at RBC.

During my first semester, I excelled in the classroom, earning a 4.0 GPA. The soccer team had a memorable season, being ranked as high as 14th nationally in JUCO Division I. The team finished the season with a school-record of 17-3 and won the Region 10 regular season championship. Individually, I earned Honorable Mention All-Region 10 honors.

As a student-athlete, it can be tough to find the right balance for success in the classroom and on the field. Richard Bland has all the resources to make this happen.

I will graduate from RBC in May and transfer to a 4-year college this fall where I plan to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

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“When I first arrived at Richard Bland, I thought I would focus on my academics and maybe one or two extracurricular activities, but that’s not my nature,” Foltz says with a smile. “I am heavily involved on campus and want to have a positive impact for future RBC students.”

The 19-year-old is the Director of Activities for the International Club, started a debate club, serves as treasurer of multiple clubs and recently transitioned from being the residential representative to the president of the Student Assembly.

“The Student Assembly wants to get students involved in becoming leaders and create a vibrant campus culture,” Foltz says. “When RBC students are engaged academically, socially and within the community, the whole College flourishes.”

Foltz chose RBC after an on-site visit by the admissions staff. But Foltz says personal challenges during his junior and senior year at John Handley High School caused his academics to suffer.  A mother figure to Foltz passed away, and his own mom lost her job. This prompted him to start his academic journey at RBC, enabling him to get his grades on track while experiencing campus living.

With goals to attend William & Mary through the Promise Scholars program, Foltz says Richard Bland was the perfect place for a fresh start. “Being at RBC is providing me ample opportunity to grow and be a leader,” Foltz says. “Professors provide a strong academic foundation and are always willing to help students.”

After graduating from Richard Bland in May 2020, Foltz plans to major in public policy at William & Mary and then go to law school. He wants to be a litigator and knows many of his RBC courses, especially philosophy, have benefitted him with respect to his career goal.

Though he is just a first-year student, Foltz says one of the best things about RBC are the lasting relationships that he has made.

“I’ve been able to build camaraderie with my classmates and gotten to know them on a personal level,” he says. “RBC students form bonds, get to know one another and have in-depth conversations. We all grow together as students and people, and that’s what the atmosphere at RBC promotes. The College provides every opportunity for students to mature and move forward with whatever ambitions they have in their lives.”

The post Statesman Scholar Jeremiah Foltz appeared first on Richard Bland College.

I did not start out as the successful student I am today. I graduated high school in 2009, unsure of where to go and who I wanted to be. I made an irrational decision to attend a four-year university like my classmates and hoped I’d made the right decision. Unfortunately, my first college experience did not go as smoothly as I would have hoped. It was only when I dropped out that I realized it was a mistake to attend college half-heartedly. I took time off from school and began working in restaurants for the next six years. After all those years of hard work, I decided to recollect myself and return to school.

Thankfully, I did not have to search very hard. My brother, who is a big influence in my life, attended Richard Bland and was successful. I knew RBC would be the perfect place to get back on my feet. When I arrived at RBC, I not only brought myself to campus physically but with all my life experiences. Dropping out of college made me more appreciative of my education. Working for the past six years taught me patience, time management, and social skills that are essential to my success as a Promise Scholars student. But aside from what I brought, RBC provided me plenty as well.

I cannot stress enough how supportive the staff and faculty are at RBC. Students receive one-on-one attention, which is a bit tougher to receive at four-year colleges. Furthermore, everyone is spirited and eager to help. In fact, one of my most impactful professors at RBC is Dr. Eric Miller. With his hands-on approach, I enjoy learning inside and outside of the classroom. I was always interested in teaching kids and Dr. Miller further amplified my passion to teach, especially in environmental studies.

Because of RBC, I was able to realize my passions and pursue them. I am forever thankful that RBC accepted my application and helped me gain confidence again. With the Promise Scholars program, I will receive a top education at William & Mary without worrying about the cost of tuition or housing. Overall, I do not see my previous college experience as a failure. I see it as a valuable learning experience that taught me to be mature and dedicated. With this second chance, I am more prepared and ready to face the challenges in life.

The post Statesman Scholar Jessica Smith appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“I was playing travel ball, and a coach recruited me at a tournament,” remembers Chitty, RBC class of ’19. “I decided to visit and liked how small it was. I loved that it was in the country, and I got to tour the campus with the team and coaches.”

The Stafford County native played softball, ran track and studied sports medicine for two years at Brooke Point High School. At RBC she then found an atmosphere that supported her athletic involvement and academic interests.

“I love health science and sports medicine,” explains Chitty, who earned President List academic honors last semester and plans to major in kinesiology. “Richard Bland helped me get a lot of core courses out of the way. When I go into my next school, I can take the main subject classes for my 4-year degree.”

She also appreciates amenities offered at RBC that make the college experience more comfortable.

“The rooms at RBC are amazing. They are so nice. The dorms aren’t like any you see anywhere else. We have our own kitchen, washer, and dryer. It’s really, really nice and so good for athletes when you have a lot of practice clothes!”

Chitty is a Statesman Scholar and member of the honors program. She thanks professors like Dr. Shawn Holt [biology] for being a positive influence. Chitty also appreciates the number of academic scholarships RBC offers to assist with tuition.

“The professors are amazing and scholarships reduce financial burden,” Chitty says of being an RBC student. “The College offers a great bridge program with William & Mary that provides students the complete 4-year college experience.”

Chitty has yet to decide on where she will transfer to next year. Her passion to remain a student-athlete could lead her to attend a smaller school such as Shepherd University in West Virginia. Last year’s RBC softball team advanced to the finals of the Region X Championship, and another strong season could sway her decision.

If she chooses to hang up her cleats after this season, James Madison and George Mason are options. “I love the field of kinesiology and while I haven’t determined what exact aspect to pursue, I want to be in an environment where improvement is a major goal for everyone involved.”

The post Statesman Scholar Jez Chitty appeared first on Richard Bland College.

My first semester at Richard Bland was everything I had hoped it would be. I’ve always preferred smaller classes. It helps a student get to know professors and classmates in a comfortable learning atmosphere. At RBC, the professors are invested in students and care about their academic success. Meeting new people, whether they are first or second-year students, from Virginia or throughout the world, has been a fantastic part of my college experience. I have made lifelong friends at RBC; that’s one of the neat things about this college. It helps create relationships to build upon throughout your life.

I finished my first semester with a 3.73 GPA, and now that I know how to study in college, I will complete my second semester with a 4.0 GPA.

Being a Statesman Scholar, honor student and athlete has taught me time management. With lots to do every day, I have to stay focused and organized to complete tasks. Perhaps I have learned to stay on track from my position as catcher on the softball team. The catcher has to know what’s happening on the field at all times!

Richard Bland is preparing me to realize my dream, which has always been to attend William & Mary. Through the Promise Scholars partnership with W&M, I will be able to transfer to W& M after graduating from RBC, and earn a prominent degree with little or no debt.

After I graduate from William & Mary, I plan to enroll at the Eastern Virginia Medical School to complete my Masters towards becoming a physician assistant. I thank Richard Bland College for helping me become the responsible adult that I always knew I would be.

The post Statesman Scholar Kayla Hand appeared first on Richard Bland College.

My transition from high school to college wasn’t particularly smooth, which makes me even more appreciative of where I am today. When I committed to attend RBC, I had a clear vision of where my life would lead — my hopes were to become a Foreign Service Officer, but the route I would take to get there wasn’t nearly as defined. I wasn’t sure if the “college life” was for me. I earned good grades my first semester while managing to overcome obstacles typical to most college freshmen.

My tendency to complete everything I start motivated me to put my total efforts into becoming a Foreign Service Officer. The hardships I had were overcome, and wouldn’t prevent me from achieving my dreams.

RBC opened up amazing opportunities I wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere. I met countless wonderful people, explored the surrounding towns and attractions, and began embracing the college life. Richard Bland taught me how to be a positive thinker.

I was able to enjoy college for what it was: an opportunity to grow personally and academically. The administration, faculty, and student body all made this happen for me. As a Foreign Service Officer in the making, I am now aware of how important it is to start off right and set a strong foundation to build upon. RBC has given me the chance to do exactly that. It’s the reason why I chose RBC in the first place, and will become a proud alumnae in May.

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“Sometimes I still don’t believe it. It just doesn’t feel real,” says Robinson, a member of the Class of 2019 at Richard Bland College.

As a high school student, Robinson (who pronounces his first name Lee-KAY) was not sure if higher learning was his future, but the Middlesex County resident did know what type of career he did not want to pursue.

“I used to work with my uncle. He’s a contractor,” Robinson recounts. “I’d do roofing. I didn’t really like it. I had small amounts of work experience but wasn’t ready to go straight to the workforce. I thought being a student a little bit longer can’t be so bad. I knew I could be good at school if I applied myself.”

Neither Robinson’s parents nor his sister had pursued a college degree, but conversations with his aunt offered insight into what one could offer him.

“Arline Robinson, she’s an assistant principal at Varina High School in Henrico,” he explains. “She has a college degree, so taking advice from her was easier. I was looking for colleges to go to, and my aunt had sent students to Richard Bland. She talked with me about it, so I took a tour of RBC.”

At Richard Bland, Robinson, who says he is an introvert, found a welcoming environment where he knew he could flourish academically and personally.

“I come from a small area, so coming here, it being somewhat of a smaller school, was a good fit for me,” Robinson says.

Robinson is a Resident Assistant at the ASPIRE Living & Learning Community and participates in its service projects, like revitalizing the nature trail on campus.

At RBC, Robinson is a Promise Scholar, which offers scholarships, mentors and courses taught by William & Mary professors on the Richard Bland campus.

Through the program, Robinson has taken classes on unique topics like Rastafari and emerging diseases.

He also has visited James Monroe’s Highland and toured the College of William & Mary.

“This is the first time I had the opportunity to go on trips like this,” Robinson reflects. “On the first trip to William & Mary, I thought I would never be able to go there. I just looked at it like it was too high for me.”

However, William & Mary is exactly where Robinson will transfer after graduating from RBC. As a Promise Scholar he will earn degrees at Richard Bland AND William & Mary with little to no debt. He plans to major in business and become a Certified Public Accountant.

Robinson knows his evolution stems from taking chances, working hard and putting stock in his Richard Bland education.

“If I had stayed in Middlesex, I think I would have missed many opportunities. It’s small. I’m glad I pushed myself to take a different path,” Robinson says.

The post Statesman Scholar Leke Robinson appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“Richard Bland College has given me a lot of things that I never even knew that I wanted. It has also checked off everything that I dreamed to have in my college experience,” says Cloninger, a member of RBC’s Class of 2019. “Amazing experiences can come from the most unexpected places.”

Financial reasons prompted the Colonial Height native to apply to Richard Bland when she realized a four-year university’s tuition was out of reach. Through scholarships, Cloninger was able to attend RBC and has flourished.

“When I look back on my freshman year at Richard Bland, I see what I have accomplished and how I have changed since high school,” Cloninger reflects. “I remember how I made my first friend at RBC on the second day of classes, and everything just took off from there. In high school, I was incredibly shy. I would only participate in class when I had to, and I would never actively try to be involved or speak my mind. I never expected Richard Bland and the people here to change me so much. I have gone from that shy girl who would hide in the back of the classroom and barely speak, to someone who actively participates in discussions and is a member of multiple clubs.”

The honor student is a tutor at RBC. She is also a Student Ambassador, a position within Admissions that introduces the College to prospective students through campus tours and orientations.

Last year, Cloninger participated in a service-learning spring break trip to historic Hobcaw Barony, South Carolina. She learned about the ecology and history of the area and helped preserve the grounds. “The feeling of accomplishment to better a place of with such great history is something I will hold onto my entire life,” says Cloninger.

Cloninger also participated in a five-week Stream Ecosystems Assessment program in West Virginia that included classroom study and hands-on experiential learning. “The class measured and evaluated streams and explored aquatic life in the Monongahela National Forest,” Cloninger explains. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that taught me how to make connections and learn outside the classroom.”

Cloninger says the combination of academics and extra circular programs at RBC have prepared her to attend William & Mary this fall. She plans to double major in environmental science and biology with a minor in marine science and wants to pursue a career in marine life rehabilitation.

“I am grateful to Richard Bland for the many opportunities to grow as a student and adult,” she says. “I wholeheartedly believe that RBC offers experiences that are impossible to replicate anywhere else.”

The post Statesman Scholar Makenzie Cloninger appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Becoming a student-athlete at Richard Bland College was something of a family tradition for Cunningham, who has aspirations of becoming a lawyer.

“My father, Eric, was captain of the 1985-86 Richard Bland College basketball team and is a member of the College’s basketball Hall of Fame,” she said. A self-described “athlete since I was 3 years old,” Cunningham decided to follow in her father’s footsteps by attending RBC and playing on the inaugural Women’s Volleyball team.

At her very first practice, Cunningham experienced a major setback.

“I approached the net on a kill shot, something I have done hundreds of times before without incident,” she said. “I jumped high, but landed awkwardly on my left knee. It buckled badly, and excruciating pain exploded as my knee began to swell.”

Following medical tests, Mallory received word that both her MCL and ACL were torn. Having played sports all her life, injuries were nothing new to Mallory, but this injury would require 12 months of extensive rehabilitation.

“Surgery was forthcoming, along with the end of a season that never really started,” said Mallory. “Despite being comforted by my family, I could not keep myself from crying. Each day of therapy seemed to drag on,” she recalled. “I felt emotionally exhausted at the end of every session, and the end seemed like it was nowhere in sight.”

Cunningham credits the people around her – including her family and friends, as well as faculty and staff at Richard Bland – for keeping her on-track and focused on her return to the court.

“Their encouragement kept me motivated to tackle each day of physical therapy and rehab, and focused on my academics as an honors student,” she said.

Going through the injury and subsequent rehab was daunting, but Cunningham learned a valuable lesson from the adversity.

“Despite everything, going through such a traumatic injury ended up having a positive effect on me,” she said. “I learned how challenging it is to develop patience.”

Cunningham plans on applying these lessons outside of the volleyball court, as she looks to continue her education.

“My ultimate goal is to attend the University of Virginia and become a lawyer,” she said. “The journey will require dedication and endurance, but because of my experiences, I am prepared for any obstacle that stands in my way.”

The post Statesman Scholar Mallory Cunningham appeared first on Richard Bland College.

“It’s my world away from the world. My peace and happiness,” Scott says. “I put most of my life and time into football. If I’m stressed out, I go out and throw a ball around and then everything is okay.”

The 2021 Petersburg High School quarterback will continue his passion on the field at Western Carolina University in the fall. Unlike most 18-year-olds, however, Scott will begin his freshman year at WCU with 60 college credits.

Scott completed the coursework necessary to graduate from both Petersburg High School and Richard Bland College as part of the College’s Middle College program. It is a partnership with Petersburg City Public Schools that allows eligible students to fulfill their high school requirements while also getting a jump start on college.

“When the prospects of becoming a Middle College student at Richard Bland was introduced to me, it gave me an opportunity to overexceed,” Scott explains. “I looked for that challenge. It’s what I take to the field, and I want it in other areas of my life, especially academically. Richard Bland offered that to me in so many ways.”

RBC’s Middle College program is available to Petersburg High School juniors and seniors who test into college-level Math and English courses. They attend eleventh and twelfth grades on the RBC campus.

While accepting his high school diploma, Scott also earned an Associate of Science degree, thanks to his enrollment in the RBC Middle College program.

Scott ultimately decided to continue his education on a football scholarship at Western Carolina, but his success as a student in RBC’s Middle College program also attracted the attention of several other universities. He was the prototypical student-athlete who earned good grades and excelled athletically.

“It’s an honor and an achievement to graduate from RBC and Petersburg,” Scott says. “The curriculum was challenging but it helped raise my GPA. It also showed people that at a young age you can handle academic responsibilities and a highly academic atmosphere, be successful at sports, and manage life and a social world. “Coaches saw that and were impressed.”

In addition to playing football, Scott will major in Sports Management at WCU’s College of Business. He hopes to become a graduate assistant and work his way up the ranks in the coaching program, secure internships and eventually oversee the careers of athletes.

During his upcoming academic and professional journeys, Scott will apply the work ethic he honed during his studies at as a middle college student at RBC. He will also look to his life-long football mentor, his father Michael Scott, who is the head football coach at Petersburg High School.

Scott highly recommends RBC’s Middle College to any Petersburg student who qualifies for it. He is certain the program thoroughly prepared him to achieve in his next chapters in education and life.

“You go into college ahead of the game,” Scott says about being an RBC Middle College student. “It’s definitely a sacrifice for a long-term goal, but the results are unexplainable. The rewards are unexplainable. You learn to manage your time. The work will pay off if you have the right mindset.”

By Amy Lacey

Watch Meziah Scott’s story at this link

The post Statesman Scholar Meziah Scott appeared first on Richard Bland College.

As a first-year student at Richard Bland College, the College is providing me with exceptional learning opportunities and a strong academic foundation in both of my career interests. I am taking Chemistry, which covers the basics needed, and Medical Terminology, which is helping me become familiar with common medical terms and an overview of each system in the body.

RBC has great transfer agreements. If I decide on a career in pediatric/obstetric nursing, VCU, George Mason, and James Madison are strong options. For marine biology, I am interested in attending William & Mary or Old Dominion University.

Attending RBC was a natural transition following high school. Both of my parents are RBC graduates. My mom, JoAnn, graduated in 1977, and my dad, Tim, in 2011, deciding to pursue a college degree after working in construction. They said the College’s small class sizes were ideal for learning, and interaction with faculty and staff were positive.

RBC has made the transition from high school to college very smooth. The College is affordable, and I like being able to share my college experience with my family.

I finished the fall semester with a 4.0 GPA, and was selected to take classes at William & Mary through the RBC Bridge Program. Twice a week I take an Archaeology class on W&M’s campus, and it has been a fantastic experience. Not only is the Bridge Program a bonus of attending RBC, but it has allowed me full access to everything that William & Mary offers as a potential transfer school. Without a doubt, RBC is providing me with the academic foundation that I need for future success.

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“I am not a very physically fit person, but even with such barriers I think I was able to go through the entire service because I learned a lesson of mental strength and perseverance,” explains Ahn.

He found Richard Bland College through an agency connecting international students with opportunities for higher learning in the United States. Ahn considered several options, but RBC was the frontrunner for several reasons.

“They have a transfer agreement to William & Mary as well as other prestigious universities in Virginia. Richard Bland College was a perfect setting for me to adapt to the whole American culture as well as the academics required in a four-year school.”

The small professor-student ratio was a draw along with the foundation he could build at RBC to complete a degree focusing on accounting and finance. Ahn is a member of the RBC Class of 2020. He plans to transfer to William & Mary and major in accounting.

“The United States is an influential country in the global economy,” Ahn says. “I think pursuing a career and working here would offer me a better insight of what’s going on in the global economy and a more holistic view.”

Ahn is active on the RBC campus as a member of the International Club and is a math tutor.
As he prepares for employment in the business world, Ahn finds inspiration in many areas, including his Western Civilization class taught by Professor Daniel Franks.

“His way of lecturing offers multiple perspectives viewing historical issues. It’s not just for history but for everything that happens in life,” Ahn reflects. “Later in my career, having that ability to view the issue in multiple ways can really mold me into a more open-minded individual.”

At 25, Ahn expects he would have faced discrimination in South Korea for beginning a university program years older than most freshmen. It is why he applauds America and RBC for embracing non-traditional students.

“In Korea they might judge you and think he is not good at studying. Maybe he wasted all the time in between when he could have been much younger,” Ahn says. “The culture here is more open-minded. They listen to the story in between the age gap, and I think it’s a really good thing.”

The post Statesman Scholar Mike Ahn appeared first on Richard Bland College.

I started playing basketball at a young age in Serbia, then earned a spot on both the junior and senior clubs teams in the capital city of Belgrade. The Serbian educational system didn’t allow me to attend school and play basketball at the same time, so I was motivated to seek opportunities in the United States.

A friend living in the U.S. helped me obtain a scholarship at the Friends School in Virginia Beach. I chose Richard Bland College to earn a great education, play basketball, and transfer to one of the many outstanding transfer partners, specifically William & Mary. Unfortunately, I ruptured my Achilles tendon during the first scrimmage game last year. I had to sit out the entire season which was difficult, but it allowed me the time to concentrate on academics as I went through difficult rehabilitation.

My family has been supportive, and we have an interesting history. My great Grandpa was a commandant of a battalion in World War II, and other relatives have been involved in the military. When Yugoslavia fell due to the ongoing war between Serbia and Croatia, my parents were forced to leave their homes and escape. They left everything behind and started a whole new life. I’ve done the same thing.

RBC has a small community. I have been exposed to everything college life has to offer. Professors know my name and my goals. Being a Statesman Scholar has meant a lot to me. I have enjoyed being surrounded by successful people who have brought different perspectives to my college experience.

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“Richard Bland has given me opportunities to express myself and expand my talents,” the honor student says. “I’ve held leadership positions in three clubs, including Statesman Studios, Dungeons & Dragons and Computer/Robotics. These resources have helped me become the person I am today.”

In high school, Noah initially gravitated toward the arts. It wasn’t until his junior year that he says the “cool” world of technology captured his attention. His father bought him a small computer called Raspberry Pi, and he ventured into the world of programming.

“I wasn’t making Facebook,” George joked, “but through a program called Scratch, I began designing software games for children.”

Once he arrived at Richard Bland, George became immersed in technology. He landed a student-worker position in the IT Department which fueled his passion even more.

“Working with the IT Department is amazing,” George says. “The resources I’ve been exposed to at RBC are unmatched. Working with 3D printers and high-level professional servers will carry over into my professional path.”

George hails the opportunity to participate in RBC’s Bridge Program by taking classes at William & Mary twice a week.

“By being part of the Bridge Program with William & Mary, I’ve been able to attend a public Ivy League school and will transfer to W&M without a lot of debt. And I have been able to learn under the expertise of professional software engineers through RBC’s new streamed on-line programming classes with William & Mary,” says George.

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What is your advice to a student considering RBC?
Like myself, there are many students who are first-generation, who may have reservations about going into higher education without prior knowledge. I sincerely believe that RBC provides the chance for new students to have engaging classes and professors that will  give them the time of the day thanks to smaller and more intimate class sizes compared to larger universities. RBC enables students to earn their associate degree with the intent to transfer. This is makes attending RBC an insightful and cost effective decision.

What is your fondest memory at RBC?
It would be learning to engage and interact with people from all walks of life. Honestly, I wasn’t one to get out much when I was younger, but at RBC I have met students who were willing to share their experiences with me in the hopes that I would learn more about myself. I am immensely grateful for this experience.

What is your favorite place on campus?
I love the library, mostly because it is a wonderful place to study, but I also realized that there was an irony to it. Most media depicts libraries as being ghost towns with only a few patrons at a time, but I can confidently say that the library is the busiest place on campus, and that fascinates me.

What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy singing, dancing, and having philosophical discussions.

What are your career goals after RBC?
After I earn my Associate in Science, I plan to transfer to William & Mary to pursue a degree in Clinical Psychology, so I may one day fulfill my dream of becoming a licensed therapist.

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“Richard Bland put me back on the path to success,” he says.

After graduating from Matoaca High School, McDaniel left the four-year college he started when he determined it wasn’t the right fit. While evaluating his options over the next year, McDaniel focused on two-year programs.

The small class sizes and access to professors helped Richard Bland College stand out.

“Once I started at RBC, I was immediately struck by how friendly the professors are,” McDaniel remembers. “Any question I had was answered, and my professors were always willing to help me.”

McDaniel, who loves music, decided to pursue a career in communications upon enrolling at RBC. However, soon after he found a new calling while tending to his grandfather in the hospital. At his bedside, McDaniel witnessed the care and attention nurses provided. He spoke with one of them about medical careers, and it had a profound effect on his academic plans.

“I will finish my academic journey and become a physician’s assistant so I can help others in the future,” McDaniel explains.

McDaniel used this newfound drive and inspiration to become an honor student and student ambassador. One of his most memorable assignments at RBC was an Exceptional Student Experience project where he and his classmates discussed how music affects the brain.

McDaniel plans to attend Virginia Wesleyan after graduating from Richard Bland in May. He credits a number of mentors at RBC for his success.

“For someone like myself who received a second chance, things can be overwhelming,” McDaniel says. “But I found all the support I needed.”

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“No one in the graduating class can say they’re graduating with their dad,” explains Alyssa, “and they’re going to call my name first,” she jokes of the alphabetical list. “I think this has been a really cool opportunity for my dad, and I’m proud that he was able to finally finish his degree at the same time I am.”

Alyssa’s father, Eric Parrish, started at RBC in 1990 but decided to put his education on hold to work full-time.

Visiting the campus with Alyssa ahead of her first semester inspired him to finally complete the requirements for an associate degree.

Remembering his conversation with a Richard Bland learner mentor, Eric was told he was two and a half classes short. “I thought, ‘Let’s just do it,’” Eric says. “Alyssa and I decided to take an online class together.”

The father-daughter duo enrolled in the Comparative Government course, which helped to start a new chapter in their relationship.

“It was kind of funny because we were always saying, ‘What did the teacher say about your paper?’ We were competing,” Alyssa and Eric both reminisce. ”‘How long did it take you to do your homework?’” they often asked one another.

Eric adds, “That class turned out well. And now we will be graduating together. Alyssa is on time, and I am some 20 years in the making.”

The commencement ceremony will mark the end of Eric’s higher learning journey.

“Animals — they’re all so unique,” Alyssa explains about her lifelong dream to be a zoologist. “They could be from the same species, but they’re not the same. I know specifically at zoos they all have different personalities, and you can see that when you’re there.”

While Eric chose to finish his degree with online courses, Alyssa took most of her classes on campus. She also stayed engaged by working in the college library and by participating in a trip to West Virginia to study ecology.

“She’s going to school for something she really wants to do,” Eric remarks.

Attending VCU is now more attainable for Alyssa, who appreciates that RBC allowed her to earn general education credits almost entirely debt-free.

“That’s a big draw,” she says about the tuition. “It’s more affordable than many of the other options in the area.”

“I enjoy what I do,” Eric says about his current job as a dock worker for FedEx Freight. “With my RBC degree, I now have more options if something comes up that matches my skill set.”

For the father-daughter pair, the College has truly allowed them to create their journey.

“At RBC students are given the opportunity to really focus on yourself and who you want to become,” Alyssa says. “It’s been a great experience.”

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My grandmother, who teaches at a nearby college, recommended that I attend Richard Bland College (RBC) because of its outstanding reputation for building strong academic foundations and then allowing students to transfer to a good four-year school. Enrolling at RBC was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Not only is it affordable, but the school also has great professors and administrators. Everyone on campus is passionate and knowledgeable about their respective fields and is always willing to help. They have become role models for the kind of teacher I want to become.

I have gained life lessons and become a more confident and social person thanks to the Promise Scholars program. It also means my dreams can move forward after graduating from RBC. I will attend William & Mary next year with little debt.

I am always looking to increase my worldwide knowledge and learn about fascinating traditions. By being a part of the ASPIRE community and the school’s international club, I interact with students from all over the world. I teach them American cultures, and they share their own. It’s a win-win, and RBC fosters an environment for students to think globally.

My dream is to join DODEA, a government agency that teaches at military bases around the world. I want to improve education systems and inspire others while helping and motivating underprivileged students who do not get the opportunities or attention they deserve. I am fortunate to be transferring to William & Mary next year and want to share my academic and global experiences with a new legion of students eager to learn, just like myself.

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Kotto says making the decision to attend Richard Bland was based on the College’s academic programs and variety of social activities. “The rigorous academic curriculum and transfer agreements with top colleges throughout Virginia, specifically William & Mary, was a big draw for me,” explains Kotto. “I wanted a sense of community, and the ability to be around people who are hardworking and dedicated.”

Kotto’s family settled in Richmond after moving to Virginia from his native Cameroon. He is a Promise Scholar and member of the RBC’s Bridge Program that enables students to take classes at William & Mary. The experience has prepared him to transfer to his dream school following graduation in May.

“William & Mary has always been my top college choice,” Kotto says. “The school’s rich history, the rigor of its academics and alumnae’s contribution to society make the school very appealing. Being a Promise Scholar is a blessing. It means I can attend William & Mary without financial burden. I am grateful for the partnership that helps Promise Scholars realize their dreams of attending W&M.”

Kotto’s enriching academic experiences and the sense of community on campus are the two biggest things he cherishes about being an RBC student.

“All of my professors have pushed me to challenge myself,” Kotto says. “My time at RBC has been fantastic.”

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“I feel really proud for myself and my parents for the opportunity they’ve provided me to earn an education in the United States,” Asare explains. “My parents came to America and sacrificed what they had for me. When they left Ghana, they had to start all over again. My dad said he wanted to travel and see what America was like and give a good life to all his kids.”

After graduating from Clover Hill High School in Midlothian, Asare enrolled at RBC as a part of the inaugural Promise Scholars Program. Having a guaranteed pathway to William and Mary is one of the main reasons why Asare stayed in Virginia when his parents moved back to Ghana in early 2019 to care for a relative in poor health.

“It was a tough decision. I’ve been in America all my life. I am way more American than African, and I didn’t want to go to a completely different country to finish my education,” Asare says. “Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted to go to a prestigious college. I convinced my parents to let me stay, and RBC is making my educational dreams possible.”

In addition to the Promise Scholars Program, Richard Bland has enabled Asare unique opportunities to have a close relationship with William and Mary before his intended transfer next fall. He was selected to be the student representative to the William and Mary Board of Visitors for the 2019-20 academic year. Representatives are chosen for their leadership and commitment to the College, attributes of which Asare exemplifies.

“It is a great honor to have been chosen as BOV representative,” he says. “To me, it means I will be given the great opportunity to show the Board of Visitors how wonderful the RBC experience truly is.”

Asare augments his commitments as a Promise Scholar with being a member of the Honors Program and president of the Musical Statesmen, which is the College’s acapella group. He also works as a tutor, is the public relations officer for the Student Assembly and has a campus job in Residence Life.

After he graduates from RBC as a business major, Asare has set his sights on a finance and marketing degree from William and Mary. He is still exploring career options but hopes to one day be the chief executive officer for a company.

Though Asare has had to make tough decisions regarding his family and his education, he is reminded of the goals set by himself and by the example set by his parents. At RBC, he has found a family to support him through all of his endeavors, and could not be more grateful for the support system he has.

“RBC has given a lot to me,” he says. “There are so many fantastic administrators and professors here. I’m so happy I chose to attend RBC. I live on campus and have met a lot of great people. They have all been very supportive, and it’s been amazing how kind people at RBC are.”

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Why did you want to serve as Student Representative to the William & Mary Board of Visitors?
It is an honor to serve as a student representative to the BOV and voice the students’ perspectives while discussing the important matters affecting them. This position enables me to help elevate the academic and student experience for fellow students by interacting with the governing body and campus departments. Additionally, serving as the student representative has helped me learn more about leadership and college governance.

What are your goals as BOV Representative?
Helping the college’s senior leadership guide decision-making and opening the communication routes are my primary goals. Serving in this role has been an extensive learning experience connecting with students to understand their concerns and points of view that are different than mine.

Why did you choose RBC?
I chose RBC so I could take dual enrollment classes while being a high school student at Rock Ridge High School. This opportunity paved my path to join the Promise Scholar and Honor Programs that not only aided me financially but empowered me academically and socially. I have met incredible people who have become an essential part of my life. Through engagement in campus activities, I came out of my comfort zone and matured. I am grateful that RBC has provided these types of opportunities for myself and many other students.

What is your advice to a student considering attending RBC?
I would encourage students not to be afraid of coming out of their comfort zones. Since RBC has a small community, the college offers multiple opportunities to engage in activities they enjoy while connecting with a diverse campus community.

What are your fondest experiences at RBC?
Working as a Resident Assistant has been my fondest experience at RBC. Meeting new people and welcoming different perspectives while being connected to the residential community has been a fantastic experience.

What is your favorite place on campus?
The Tutoring Center. I serve as a Chemistry and Physics tutor in the MyStic tutoring center. I love helping fellow students with their questions and assignments. It has been a rewarding experience to hear how grateful they are for my help.

What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy painting and volunteering to translate TED Talk videos.

What are your career goals after RBC?
I plan on attending a four-year university and will major in Psychology or Neuroscience. I am a pre-med student seeking to apply for Medical School after I finish my undergrad studies.

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Born and raised in Hanoi, Vietnam, Linh, as she is known to her friends at RBC, discovered the school in 2017 while taking a gap year following her high school graduation.

“During that time I had a chance to meet a lot of people from different countries, and I did volunteer work to help people. I realized it is really cool when you can know what is going on outside of Vietnam and listen to people talk about different countries,” Linh remembers. “I wanted to go to another country to study, and I always wanted to go to the USA. I joined a workshop and met Nimra Khan who works with international students. She talked to me about representation and Richard Bland College, and I think that school is great.”

Average class sizes of 15 to 20 appealed to Linh so she would have more interaction with her professors and new friends in the United States, a country she had never even visited before.

Linh quickly found RBC offers a positive environment for international students like herself.

“I think we have a lot of support,” Linh says. “There are not many international students here, so for example on the campus the first day, everyone was really supportive on the tours and about asking if we needed help. If we have any difficulty, they are always ready to support us. We get along very well with American students here.”

Linh continues to build strong relationships on campus as President of the International Club and was an orientation leader for the Global Student Success Program.

As a member of the ASPIRE program focusing on academic excellence, Linh serves as a Resident Assistant in Patriot Hall.

She hopes to combine the leadership skills she is strengthening at Richard Bland with her business major to work for a nonprofit organization targeted towards children’s education.

“They come from different backgrounds, and there’s difficulty for every kid to have a chance to get a good education,” she describes the reasoning behind her career path. “I want all the kids to have equal conditions and opportunities to study and help them explore what they really want, find their identity.”

Linh did not have to wait to complete her schooling to begin giving back. She participated in an alternative spring break offered by RBC to Hobcaw Barony, South Carolina last year.

“On that trip I went with 20 students and four staff members, and we were very close,” Linh shares. “We helped the people there, did community service, cleaning and gardening for conservation and got to go around to see nature there.”

At RBC, some of Linh’s favorite classes are in Psychology and English. After graduating in December 2019, she hopes to transfer to William & Mary or another institution with a business program.

While she does miss her family and Vietnam, Linh plans to stay in the United States to pursue her career and continue experiencing a life she thanks Richard Bland for giving her.

“Many people really enjoy hearing about Vietnam,” Linh describes the welcoming nature of people she has met since arriving at RBC. “They are open-minded, and many friends of mine want to learn about the Asian culture, where I’m from. That’s the warmness and being open-minded about other people.”

The post Statesman Scholar Thuy Linh appeared first on Richard Bland College.

As a junior in high school, I took the TOEFL (an English-language test), and SAT exams, enabling me to pursue coming to the U.S. The prospect of such a dramatic change was unsettling. I had spent my life in Portugal, and was nervous about moving so far away.

There were challenging logistical obstacles to overcome. I first had to pass the national mathematics exam, which in Portugal is very difficult. I then had to find a selective college I could afford in the U.S. Fortunately, Richard Bland College came into the picture when I was starting to give up hope. The College offered me an opportunity to earn an exceptional education, and continue doing what I love most — playing soccer as a goalie.

Coming to RBC has been a great experience. My first-year was memorable academically and athletically. I earned a 3.8 GPA, something I never imagined possible as an international student. The soccer team won the Region X post-season Championship for the first time in school history, and played in the NJCAA National Championships.

This year has been just as rewarding. I have maintained my 3.8 GPA, and the team had another great season. RBC was nationally ranked for the first time in school history, and won the regular season Region X Championship. I was fortunate to earn All-Region First Team honors.

Richard Bland College has helped me grow during the past two years. Without family and friends to help me, I have learned how to do everything on my own in a completely different country with differences in language and culture. Leaving home was not easy, but I am thankful and pleased that I took this leap of faith to become a Statesman.

After graduation in May, I am considering completing my 4-year degree and playing soccer at Goshen College in Indiana.

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On June 9, Hall will earn another milestone. The Petersburg High School student will receive his high school diploma. Hall is part of RBC’s Middle College Program that enables him to earn his high school advanced diploma and his associate degree at the same time.

The Middle College Program is a partnership between RBC and Petersburg City Public Schools. High school juniors who qualify for college-level math and English courses, and are selected by administrators at Petersburg High School are eligible to start their college journey at RBC. Hall learned of the program from his guidance counselor, saying he “wanted to get a head start on his college academics by getting a strong foundation at RBC.”

At PHS, Hall completed his coursework with a 3.9 weighted GPA and was inducted into the National Honor Society. As a Statesman Scholar at RBC, he has excelled in psychology, biology, chemistry, pre-calculus, algebra, and statistics.

“It’s been a lot of late nights and early mornings,” Hall explains about how he balances his college and high school commitments. “Being in the program has helped build my character and made me a more focused student.”

On any given day, Hall leaves the Richard Bland campus and rushes to PHS athletic fields for practice. The star athlete is currently the captain of the football, basketball and baseball teams and serves as president of the PHS Athletic Leadership Council. If that hectic schedule isn’t enough to fill his days, Hall has a part-time job with Petersburg Parks and Leisure Service where he is a staff member and lifeguard.

He says succeeding with his busy schedule has been possible because of the supportive environment he’s received at RBC.

“I love RBC and the experiences on campus have been great,” Hall says. “Because of smaller class sizes, RBC students get one-on-one time with professors. My first year at RBC was stressful balancing class, homework, sports practices and games. I relied on my professors for a lot of support and advice. They did a great job of calming me down and helping me focus and prioritize.”

Hall, the second of five children raised by a single mother, praises his mother for instilling a sense of responsibility in him at such a young age.

“She is a great role model,” Hall remarks. “She works really hard and has fostered a home full of good morals and values.”

Of his three younger siblings, Hall says, “I try to be the best role model I can be for them. Even though I am busy, I try to spend as much time with them as I can.”

With his high school and RBC educations ending, Hall is now focused on what is next. He will major in agriculture at Virginia State University and play shortstop on the baseball team. He is still deciding whether he wants to pursue a career in agribusiness or food science.

Hall recommends his fellow PHS students look into RBC’s Middle College program. “I am so thankful for the experience,” he says. “A lot of students ask me if it’s hard. I say, ‘Yes, it’s hard, but it’s a great opportunity.’ To not do it is missing out. Graduating high school with an associate degree is big time.”

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“Coming to Richard Bland and being in a classroom for the first time was a refreshing change for me, but a daunting experience,” Mujahid said. Along with his academic strengths he also shined as a First Team All-Region X selection on the RBC men’s soccer team this past season. “I never had experiences with so many students before, so it was a real eye-opener. But I learned to utilize all the resources available at RBC and my experiences here have been fantastic.”

The Meherrin native and member of Richard Bland’s class of 2019 was recruited to play soccer and enhance his academics. With hard work, both endeavors have been successful. The Statesman soccer team won the Region X regular season championship his first year and he was an Honorable Mention conference honoree. His focus on academics placed him in the Honors program this year.

“Umar has been a model student-athlete for the men’s soccer team the last two years,” head coach Damien Westfield said. “He has a 3.51 GPA and has been a huge part of building a successful program.”

“Being a student-athlete was a hard adjustment for me,” explained Mujahid, who aspires to play at a four-year institution next year while pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering with a career goal of becoming a doctor.

“I had to develop a robust and strict work ethic that involved practices and workouts with a rigorous academic workload that comes with being an honor student,” he said. “I was fortunate to have teammates that supported me from the very first day. It helped make my transition from being homeschooled to a college student seamless.”

One of the first things Mujahid noticed upon arriving at RBC was how multicultural the campus was despite its small student population. The Statesman soccer team features players from eight countries. “Not having a common language on the team did not hinder relationships,” says Mujahid. “It helped forge a strong bond centered around a common goal both athletically and academically. My teammates are now friends for life.”

Mujahid was a Dean’s List student in the fall semester and his goal is to be on the President’s List. “Being an honor student bears more responsibility and greater academic expectation,” he said. “But I am driven to succeed. If it means going to sleep later at night or waking up earlier, I will do whatever it takes to achieve my future aspirations.”

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College wasn’t on Gyau’s radar after graduating from Mount Vernon High School. He had planned to play soccer in Europe or join the Marines, but had a change of heart. Gyau was recommended to attend Richard Bland College by former Statesman Peter Diawuo, who also hailed from Ghana.

“I visited the school several times, watched Peter play in home games and got to meet a few professors,” Gyau said. “I knew I wanted to come here to study and play soccer.”

Gyau says he has no regrets about his decision to pursue a new life in America.

“I was reluctant to leave home, but when I look back on how things have turned out, I know coming to the United States was a blessing and a great opportunity. I’ve gotten a great education and been able to play soccer at the college level.”

Gyau is soft-spoken off the field, but hard-nosed and competitive between the lines. When living in Ghana, he attended a private school in the capital city of Accra. He says the school’s strict codes of study, dress and behavior prepared him for academic rigor and time management that came into play once he began his college journey at Richard Bland.

“My teachers pushed me to my potential,” Gyau said. “Professors at Richard Bland have done the same. As a student-athlete I have to pass classes to play, therefore I study and get good grades. I am self-motivated. Being a Statesman Scholar is important to me.”

Gyau was taught to play soccer at age 2 by his father Samuel, a semi-professional player. This past season Gyau was named the unanimous NJCAA Region X Player of the Year for his achievements on the field. It was a big honor for the 5-foot-7, 150-pound defender who dominated games from his center back position.

“League coaches recognized his heart, talent, and leadership,” said first-year RBC head coach Damien Westfield.

“I’d like to pursue a career as a professional soccer player and then use my degree to become a physical therapist. I take my studies as seriously as soccer, so I have life goals I want to achieve.”

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Unlike his love for basketball, though, Clevert’s motivation to learn was not immediate and developed throughout his teenage years.

“I was a passive follower,” Clevert recalled his time at Henrico County’s Mills E. Godwin High School. “I did not reach outside my comfort zone and was not focused on my future.”

Clevert says he grew up struggling with his confidence and finding his career path, but his life changed when he joined the Greater Richmond YMCA Leaders’ Club, a volunteer program that trains young adults with character building and leadership skills.

Through the Leaders’ Club, Clevert embraced the importance of academics. It prompted him to enroll in classes at a local community college and then transfer to RBC after being recruited to play on the Statesmen basketball team. He has flourished academically, earning Athletic Director’s Academic Excellence List recognition every semester. In the fall semester he earned Dean’s List honors for the first time.

Clevert’s academic success also improved his self-esteem. It gave him the confidence to recover from an ACL injury that limited his playing time as a freshman. As a team captain this season he is flourishing on the court as one of the team’s most reliable players and leading scorers.

“I have embraced my leadership role and the ability to become a role model for my teammates,” Clevert said. “I am grateful for the opportunities Richard Bland has provided me.”

Clevert is currently a staff member with the YMCA Leaders’ Club and would like to become a teen director. “I’d like to help others better their lives and prepare for successful futures,” he said.

Clevert plans to pursue a business administration degree with a minor in child development, and is considering transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University, James Madison or Greensboro College. He would like to continue playing college basketball if given the opportunity, but his end goal is off-the-court.

“I want to use all of my academic and athletic experiences at Richard Bland to give back to the community and serve others,” Clevert said.

The post Statesman Scholar Wayne Clevert appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Maybe I shot too high? Richard Bland College suddenly became my choice school and I was determined to make the best of it. To my astonishment, I quickly learned that it was a place that allowed me to not only grow, but to flourish.

My first semester I jumped in with both feet and immediately did everything I could to get the most out of RBC. I joined the chorus, took more classes (and more credit hours) than I could actually manage, secured a campus job, tutored peers, worked on an independent study project, and started planning my future. I changed my major, let my hair grow long, and gradually learned how to manage a busy schedule. At least I thought I did.

The transition from high school to college isn’t easy, and I made it exceedingly harder. Midway through the first semester I realized I took on more than I could handle and struggled.

Thankfully, RBC was supportive, and a team of caring people worked tirelessly to keep me on the right path. My study sessions became planned, focused and productive. The panic I felt heading into finals was no longer overwhelming.

RBC steered me into an academic groove, and taught me how to “study” for the first time in my life. It paid off. I managed to finish four essays on time, and became what I had always thought a college student should be. Thanks to RBC I earned a 3.8 GPA.

The spring semester has been a carbon copy of the fall. Fourteen of the 19 credits I am taking are in math. Additionally, I am enrolled in an acting class that provides a creative outlet, and working a campus job. I started an American Sign Language (ASL) Club, and continue to tutor my fellow classmates. I have loaded my plate as much as possible because I knew I could handle it. That’s what RBC has done for me.

I am graduating in May with my associates degree, and then off to a four-year college that has yet to be determined. Before I leave RBC however, I will continue taking advantage of every opportunity the College offers. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

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By Sterling Giles

In the fall of 2023, Richard Bland College (RBC) and the City of Petersburg initiated a partnership to facilitate the commute for RBC students into the city. The initiative designated a bus, the SCR (South Crater Road)/RBC Express, to RBC’s campus. From there, the bus travels to various locations along South Crater Road and eventually returns to campus. RBC students ride free of charge and there are connecting buses in the city that can take commuters as far as Colonial Heights and Richmond.

“Students have the freedom to get to where they need to be and also have a way to connect to their surrounding community,” said Terelle Robinson, RBC Associate Director of Government Relations & Student Life .

Robinson, who is also an RBC alum, was thrilled about the initiative and empathizes with students who don’t have access to transportation.

“I was a student here from 2013 to 2015 and I struggled finding rides—I didn’t have reliable transportation,” Robinson said. “So I felt like this partnership was everything because I wanted to be on the side where the staff was making a difference in the lives of our students.

“So I felt so deeply about moving on this partnership because I wanted current RBC students to have reliable transportation and be connected to the city and beyond.”

Along the route, are a host of restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies and department stores for students to access. The bus route is user-friendly, so the language barrier amongst RBC’s international students is a non-issue.

Shortly after the initiative launched, the RBC Foundation donated gift cards to a handful of iRBC (iRBC International Student Success Program) students to do a trial run of the bus route. The students stopped at the Walmart on South Crater Road to get groceries and afterward dined at a local restaurant for dinner.

The students raved about the convenience of the bus, which allowed them to have access to things they needed and, in some cases, hadn’t experienced before.

“It’s pretty convenient and necessary for us since most international students don’t have a car,” said Ruokun Wu (‘23). “I’ve been exposed to more diverse food up here that I’ve ever experienced in my hometown in Beijing.”

The bus partnership isn’t just a mode of transportation. It’s a vehicle to foster community between RBC and the Greater Petersburg region.

“It creates that connectivity,” Petersburg Mayor Samuel Parham said. “So much of Petersburg is connected with Richard Bland College—this only builds on our relationship and our partnership.”

The post Students Get A Free Ride At RBC appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Amy Lacy, host of Inside RBC-TV recently sat down with Dr. David Morgan to discuss his experiences as a professor at RBC. 

Amy Lacey: Dr. Morgan, please tell us about your philosophy as a Richard Bland College professor. 

Dr. David Morgan: My philosophy as an RBC professor, and specifically as a professor of science, which is what I teach, is to instruct students, not just about how to use the formulas and how to understand the ideas of science – but I teach them how to think like a scientist. 

One of the things I try to do in my courses is to make sure students are always connecting what they learn to the real world. So when they get an answer to a problem, they think about what that answer means – and that allows them to make sure that their ideas about science are always not just abstract and about the equation, but actually connected to the real world. 

“RBC is a good place for students who may not be quite so sure of what they want to major in.”

– Dr. David Morgan 

Amy Lacy: What are the advantages of going to a junior college? 

Dr. David Morgan: I think the advantages of going to a junior college, aside from just the financial advantages, is that you are in a small environment. You also know all your professors. It’s a friendly environment for students here at RBC — particularly for students who might be first generation college students who maybe don’t have a model of what going to a four-year college is like. So the two-year college is a way to kind of dip your toes into the water of the college experience as it makes every effort to be really safe and supportive of students. And it’s also a good place for students who may not be quite sure of what they want to major in. 

“I teach students not just about how to use the formulas and how to understand the ideas of science, but I teach them how to think like a scientist.”

– Dr. David Morgan

The post Study with Me, David Morgan, Ph.D. appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Within the last few years, Richard Bland College (RBC) has established itself as a national powerhouse in volleyball. NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) Division II National Champions, NJCAA National Runner-Ups and multiple Region 10 Championships are a few highlights of the team’s impressive resume. Taelin Connolley, who is an outside hitter and defensive specialist, caught wind of the program’s success and decided to come into the fold.

Joining the team in the fall of this year, Connolley is one of 12 freshmen on the 15-person roster. But despite its youth, the team has continued its tradition of excellence. As of this writing, its ranked fourth in nation with only one loss on the season.

However, sports alone didn’t draw Connolley to Richard Bland College. The fact it felt like home was comforting to her as well.

“I picked RBC because I definitely pictured myself living here,” she said. “Other colleges I visited were too big or not my vibe.

“This is honestly just perfect for me.”

Off the court, Connolley wants to be a sports psychologist to help athletes navigate challenges such as mental blocks that may be inhibiting their performances. It’s something she’s experienced from time to time. As a psychologist, she hopes to empower athletes to be holistically whole. Her coaches, the couple tandem Stephanie Champine and Shaun Dryden, are consummate models of how she would like to treat her patients in the future.

“This isn’t something you’re supposed to be completely perfect at,” Connolley said. “It’s OK to have emotions and be stressed out.

“It’s normal for humans to do that. So it’s nice having the validation from them and being comforted.”

The post Taelin Connolley: Home Court Advantage appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself — where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

My name is TaKayla Wilbourn and I’m a second year-student here. I’m from Prince George County, Va. I graduated from Prince George High School in 2023. A few of my hobbies include listening to music, watching documentaries, as well as doing my hair and makeup. I’m a Psychology major with a vast interest in law. I have a strong love for learning about the human mind and reading about true crime, which is what sparked my interest in my major.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Whichever pertains to you, tell us about your experience and how you’re supported.

I am a residential student and my experience living on campus has been great overall! I enjoy living in the dorms because it has taught me new responsibilities as I grow into adulthood. The way I make connections with people who are either out of state, athletes or international students has helped me relate to them on different levels because we’re all getting adjusted to a new environment being away from home. This year, I’ve worked with Residence Life as a Desk Assistant. I enjoy this job because it requires me to contribute to the safety of the residence halls. Some of my duties include checking IDs, signing people in and assisting students who get locked out of their rooms. I always feel willing to help anyone who comes to the desk while I’m working, even if they just want to sit in the lobby with me and chat!

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

I decided to attend Richard Bland College because during my senior year I was indecisive about which university I wanted to go to. Since I already knew Psychology was my passion, I still wanted to explore if there were any other paths that I may like more. My aunt and uncle are RBC alumni, so they were also a factor in why I decided to apply.

What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

After graduating from Richard Bland College, I plan on transferring to Virginia State University to earn my bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

Are you involved in any extracurricular activities? What are your titles and how has your experience been? What’s been your most memorable moments?

The extracurricular activities that I’m involved in on campus consist of Student Assembly, Mental Health Diaries Club and the Community Service Committee. The position I have in the Student Assembly is Second-Year Representative. My primary goal is to support second-year students in reaching their full potential through networking and active campus involvement. I strive to ensure that students know the numerous opportunities available to them upon graduation or transfer, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future.

My experience being a student leader has given me so many opportunities to help me shape my future. I’m grateful for the events I’ve been able to attend and the connections with people who are willing to give me advice and mentor me to improve my leadership skills. My favorite memory with Student Assembly is when we went to go see “The Diary of Anne Frank” play. I enjoyed how we all bonded and came together as a group to learn about different parts of history.

The post TaKayla Wilbourn: An Innate Leader appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

I am from Dinwiddie, Virginia, but my family roots trace back to Barbados. I have plenty of hobbies include cooking, learning new languages and writing stories. I’m majoring in public relations with a minor in business. I decided to choose this tract because I love to write and connect with others.

Are you a residential or commuter student?

I am a commuter student. Even though I commute, RBC hosts several events with myself and other commuters in mind to stay connected on campus. I don’t feel isolated at all.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? 

I was unsure of what I wanted to do after graduating from high school. I eventually decided to give RBC a shot. It was the best decision I could have ever made. If I hadn’t done so, I would have never felt so free to be authentically me.

What do you like most about the college?

What I like most is the library—it’s so lively. As a library assistant, I assist Mr. Hurley with administrative tasks to maintain the upkeep of the library. I also interact with new students every day working the front desk. Each day brings a new experience.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in?

I serve as secretary of the anime club. During our meetings, we discuss anime storylines and create comics of our own. We all have a love of the art and soon we’re planning to invite anime authors and artists to campus to share about their work. 

What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

My plans are to go to Virginia Wesleyan University and during my time there, I plan to study abroad in Japan. After I graduate, I plan to work in public relations and use my skills to connect with people all over the world.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

This is a place where you can make mistakes and won’t be cast aside.  There is a really good support system here that prepares you for larger, four-year universities. Here, you learn more about yourself and discover what you need to find success in your major and career.

The post Taylin Manson: Community Cultivator appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Before the confetti. Before the hoisting of the trophy. Before the accolades. Richard Bland College men’s basketball—and the entire athletics program for that matter—had been obsolete for about three decades.

Soon after her arrival in 2012 as president of Richard Bland College, Debbie L. Sydow, Ph.D., resurrected the College’s intercollegiate athletics. She hired Hampton, Va. native Chuck Moore, a well-respected basketball coach, to stand up the program. Moore served as both the College’s athletic director and men’s basketball head coach from 2013-2018.

“The addition of athletics, particularly for a small, residential college like Richard Bland, brings new energy and spirit to campus life,” Dr. Sydow said. “My goal was to reinvigorate the campus, but I couldn’t have imagined that in a few short years Richard Bland would become a school of choice for top junior college athletes around the country.

“Chuck was pivotal in making this plan come to life.”

Dr. Sydow’s vision built the foundation of what RBC athletics is today, which has 14 intercollegiate teams and roughly 200 student-athletes.

“Chuck’s accomplishments during his time here at RBC were remarkable,” Dr. Sydow said. “He and his dedicated staff provided a supportive environment for our student-athletes to excel in both their sport of choice and in the classroom.”

In Moore’s first season, the team took off without a hitch going 27-4. Unfortunately, they were eliminated in the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) Region 10 Tournament. But the team wasn’t chagrined for long because the roster remained relatively intact the following season.

“We had weapons everywhere,” Moore said.

With their early exit in the rearview mirror, the team had championship aspirations for the 2014-15 season. They wouldn’t be deferred and their hunger proved it.

Although the team had a plethora of raw talent, Moore was able to rally his players to buy into his fundamental, smash-mouth style of play. He ruled with an iron fist, while his assistant coaches, Dominic Parker, Brian Henderson and Allen Harris, operated more as player-coaches. But despite the contrast in coaching styles, Moore stressed how emboldened he was and is to his staff.

“I can’t say enough about their character and knowledge of the game,” Moore said. “Every day I learned from them.”

The team’s standard was excellence. All the coaches held the players accountable, conditioned them into tip-top shape and empowered them to reach their full potential.

The team was so gifted and balanced their starting five rotated practically every game.

“We went so deep into the bench,” Moore said. “We didn’t have fall offs.”

Most games this was the starting lineup: guards LeQuan Thomas and Brian Adkins, forwards Melvin Gregory and Averyl Ugba, as well as forward/center Tavon Mealy. Height-wise, the team was relatively small—Gregory, the tallest player on the team, stood at 6-foot-eight. But where they lacked in size, they overcompensated in tenacity and grit.

The team redeemed themselves in the conference tournament by making it to the championship. A win would punch their ticket to the national tournament. But first they had to endure a heavyweight bout with their feisty conference rival, Louisburg College.

“Louisburg College was always tough,” former RBC guard Pedro Berrios said. “It’s a small gym—a hostile environment.”

The game was tightly contested, but the Statesman eventually came out on top, winning 80-77. This was the team’s first conference title since 1990.

The win did wonders for the team’s morale and confidence and gave them their first taste of championship pedigree.

“I’ll never forget when we got in that locker room after the win—we were dancing and screaming,” Moore said. “But our guys said, ‘This is amazing, but we’re not done yet.

We’re going to win a national championship.’”

With the battery in their backs, they were ready to make history.

Unfortunately, during the preliminary rounds, Ugba received news that his brother had been killed. He had doubts about whether he wanted to compete in the tournament.

But somehow, in the days to follow, Ugba was able to compartmentalize his grief and go on to have “one of the best tournaments I’ve ever seen a player have,” according to Parker.

“He played out of his mind in the tournament,” Mealy seconded.

RBC powered through the tournament and eventually made it to the semi-finals against Phoenix College, the reigning national champions. The team, led by All-American guard Brandon Brown whose elite play was lauded by both RBC’s coaches and players, was a formidable opponent in the grueling, back-and-forth game that went the distance.

Moore reminisced on the contest, which he declared as the game of his, his staff and players’ RBC careers. It showcased the team’s competitiveness, resilience and grit.

“We were down by 13 points with roughly 10 minutes to go,” Moore said. “I said, ‘Guys, look at their bench.

Look how cocky and confident they are. They don’t know what’s about to punch them in the face.’”

The Statesman led a gutsy comeback capped off by a clutch shot by guard Evan Bates— which borderline put Moore and the assistant coaches into cardiac arrest—to send the contest into overtime.

“I’ve always had ice in my veins,” Bates said. “It was a bottom-of-the-net type of shot—it didn’t touch the rim.”

The game eventually went to double overtime with RBC narrowly escaping with an 87-85 victory.

“That was actually the championship game,” former RBC guard Jhamir White chuckled.

In the actual championship against John Wood Community College, Berrios caught fire from behind the arc in the early going, which catalyzed the team to a dominant 64–53 win.

The prophecy was fulfilled. The first-ever national championship for Richard Bland College.

“I used to sit in church and just dream about it—dream about what that feeling would be like,” Moore said. “It was powerful because these group of guys believed in themselves and they put the work in.

“And through that work, we got the ultimate prize.”

Moore and Ugba were named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Coach and Most Outstanding Player respectively. The forward’s impressive performance garnered him more than 30 NCAA (National Collegiate Athletics Association) Division I offers. Mealy and Thomas were named to the All-Tournament Team. Mealy was also named an NJCAA All-American and NJCAA Region 10 Conference Player of the Year.

Since RBC is a junior college, the conclusion of the season meant all second-year players had to part ways with the team. It was a difficult realization because the players and coaches knew they had captured lightning in a bottle.

“The guys were asking ‘There’s no way that we can make RBC a four-year school?’” Parker said with a laugh. “It was a true family.”

Moore and Parker both agreed the team was one of the best they’d ever coached. They are immortalized in the RBC history books forever.

Mealy can’t wait to share the historic feat with his son.

“Once he gets old enough, he’ll be able to go back to RBC, and say, ‘Oh, that’s my dad,’” he said with a big smile.

The post The First RBC National Championship: 10 Years Later appeared first on Richard Bland College.

By Sterling Giles

Richard Bland College (RBC) is home to the oldest and largest collection of pecan trees in the state. It makes sense why the college’s most popular event of the year, the Pecan Festival, was named after its most ubiquitous export.

The inaugural festival was in October 2016 and it was a hit. Over the last eight years, Chief Development Officer Jeff Brown and his team have helped build the legacy of the premier event.

“Since its inception, it’s been well organized, it’s been well managed and it continues to be successful,” Brown said.

Brown’s team consists of Associate Directors of Development Katelinn Davis and Carolyn Day Pruett, as well as Terelle Robinson, Associate Director of Government Relations & Student Life. For festival logistics, the team works closely with RBC Events Manager Kerstin Winston and Chief Operating Officer Eric Kondzielawa.

The process of putting on a highly anticipated event on an annual basis is multi-faceted and arduous.

The first order of business is to seek out and identify vendors and sponsors. Brown and his team attend events in the Greater Petersburg Region to scout prospective vendors and sponsors that align with the Pecan Festival. From there, the team sends out communications inviting recurring and new partners to participate in the festival.

Next, the team handles layout planning for the space, which is typically the most complicated part of the process.

“We try to make sure that there’s not two of the same businesses next to each other,” Davis said.

The festival’s reputation of being well organized and managed has allowed it to retain sponsors and vendors year after year. Good Earth Peanut Company, owned by RBC alumni and recurring festival partners Scott and Lindsey Vincent, sources from the college’s pecan trees to create goodies and products for the festival.

To wrap planning, Brown’s team works with Winston, Kondzielawa and the Campus Police Department to address logistics and safety concerns such as signage, medical staff, security, as well as electrical and A/V equipment.

Merchants on-site have products ranging from fine soaps to jewelry and food offerings from barbeque to baked goods. There is also a designated area for kids to partake in craft activities, face painting and games. Lastly, local performers and musicians always put on a great show.

“There’s something for everyone,” Davis said.

According to Winston, in the last three years alone, the festival has averaged between 12,000 to 15,000 attendees. Despite the great turnout, she refuses to be complacent.

“It’s one of the most anticipated events in the Tri-Cities area,” she said. “It’s an amazing festival.”

The Pecan Festival is also a conduit for networking amongst the college’s development team and community partners, organizations and businesses.

“[The festival allows us] to make these great connections,” Brown said. “It’s a friend-raiser—it helps us to generate support for the college in so many ways.”

This year’s Pecan Festival is set for Saturday, October 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public.

If you are interested in becoming a vendor, click here to register.

The post The Pecan Festival: From Soup to Nuts appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Clinical Psychologist becomes Chief Academic Officer at RBC and teaches students how to apply classroom learning in the real world while balancing her duties as head of the school’s educational program. 

By ABIGAIL HOLMES 

Dr. Tiffany Birdsong serves as the Chief Academic Officer at Richard Bland College, overseeing the educational program and seeking student success. As a first-generation college student, she earned her bachelor’s degree at Manhattan College in psychology. During her time at LaSalle University, Birdsong earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology. 

Dr. Birdsong spent the first part of her career working as a clinical psychologist in a women’s trauma center and later teaching psychoeducation workshops and training to medical staff in hospitals.

Her love for teaching people about her profession led her to apply for a faculty position at RBC. 

“I was working on call at Poplar Springs Hospital in Petersburg, reflecting on my time teaching medical staff on the psychological elements of patient care, and I felt a desire to get back to educating others,” says Birdsong, “Richard Bland had a faculty position open, so I decided I would try teaching.” 

Sharing her expertise with college students held some uncertainties, but Dr. Birdsong was willing to try something new if it meant reaching RBC’s student population. She has a special connection with RBC students because many are first-generation college students like herself. Birdsong remarks, “I am passionate about the students because I see myself in them and want them to succeed.” 

Having taught at RBC for seven years, Dr. Birdsong has received many honors, such as the Dean’s Faculty Excellence Award, and served as Chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department. Her recent promotion to CAO occupies much of her time, but she still manages to invest in her students. 

In the classroom, her teaching style emphasizes experiential learning by challenging students to learn concepts and demonstrate their application in the real world. Dr. Birdsong explains, “If a student can digest it and apply it in a non-classroom setting, that’s a success for me!” 

Dr. Birdsong believes “College is a gift,” so she strives to teach her course material using methods that students will appreciate and enjoy. She provides reference points for students that are both memorable and fun. For instance, on a day where the lesson is on paranoia, students might walk into class with Michael Jackson’s “Somebody’s Watching Me” playing overhead to demonstrate its application. 

The environment Dr. Birdsong creates fosters learning and closes the gap between the student and the academic. “Students stay the same age, but I grow older. Their generational experience helps me to develop as an academic because they bring current and first-hand research from their generation.” 

On top of her career, Dr. Birdsong enjoys world travel to places like England, France, Spain, Greece, and Belize, where she went cave spelunking into a Mayan sacrificial site. On a more regular basis, dance, cooking, hiking, listening to true crime podcasts, visiting family in New York, and taking care of her baby occupy her free time. 

Dr. Birdsong loves what she does and attributes it to her tribe—the people she surrounds herself with. She believes that her tribe has been integral to her professional success and life accomplishments. Birdsong leaves you with this question: “Are the people around you feeding you, or are they starving you?” 

Having taught at RBC for seven years, Dr. Birdsong has received many honors, such as the Dean’s Faculty Excellence Award and served as Chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department.

The post The Real World at RBC appeared first on Richard Bland College.

New faculty member at Richard Bland College leaves counseling career to prepare students’ minds and reach a broader audience via a podcast. 

From the time Dr. Tamara Monet Baldwin Williams began preschool at 18 months old, her inquisitive personality pressed her to understand how the minds of people work. At 20 years old, she was equipped with a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Spelman College. She later earned her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. 

When Dr. Williams began her career in clinical psychology at a counseling center, she never imagined she would end up teaching college students. Working as a counselor in school, prison, and medical settings left her unsatisfied with the number of people she could help. “I’ve experimented with many methods to try and reach people, even a podcast and a reality tv show, and I’ve found that teaching is the best method.” Williams continues, “Education is teaching people how to fish instead of bringing them the fish.” 

In 2008, she began teaching in her hometown at Hampton University, readying students for their future lives and careers through the exploration of mind and behavior. Williams found that the dynamic of teaching allowed her to share her passion with the most people in the least amount of time. Recently accepting a faculty position at Richard  Bland College, she hopes to continue giving students a step up in their educations and future careers. She comments, “I love what I do! My job is to get students ready, and theirs is to stay ready.” 

Dr. Williams is a huge proponent of accountability, showing her students that their situations do not limit what they can accomplish. She has high expectations and is a stickler for dates because she takes her students’ studies as seriously as they should and wants them to succeed. “There is no growth in the comfort zone,” Williams would remark. Besides, she is also their enthusiastic cheerleader and constant supporter. 

“I like to show students that you can do what you love,” says Williams. In recent years, she has become a motivational speaker and co-host of a podcast called “Sunday Brunch,” airing every Sunday at noon on WHOV 88.1 iHeartRadio. Williams loves helping a broad audience understand psychology and various table discussions in a way that applies to them. 

A few years ago, Dr. Williams wrote her psychology textbook, “The Science of Psychology: An Introduction,” published by Kendall Hunt. The text uses application as a learning tool to help students understand how the material relates to real-world scenarios. She has also published a life coaching talk called “10 Key Steps to Developing a Winning Mindset,” which she employs through her business, Willing a Win Enterprises. 

Out of all her endeavors, Dr. Williams is proudest when she hears that she is a student’s favorite professor or has helped someone with her talks. She firmly believes in helping people achieve healthy and happy lifestyles and serving her family, church, and community. She reminds us, “If we can get our minds right, then our lives will follow.”

“I love what I do. My job is to get students ready, and theirs is to stay ready.” 

Dr. Tamara Williams 

The post Training Mind & Body appeared first on Richard Bland College.

eff Britt grew up near Richard Bland College in Prince George County, VA, where he graduated in ’95. Government and political science caught Britt’s eye while attending RBC, prompting him to strategically transfer to George Mason University and get involved with the political scene on Capitol Hill. 

Britt and his family knew he would attend college as a first-generation college student. The 4-year school admissions process was overwhelming to the high school senior who was unsure of what he wanted out of his future. “I wasn’t the best student—probably earned solid B’s—but I was accepted to RBC where I could enjoy the comforts of home and get a taste for college life,” says Britt. 

Britt qualified for a Pell grant which made college an affordable option for his family. He remembers, “I took for granted the financial aid I was receiving and didn’t focus on my schoolwork as I should have. During my second year at RBC, I allowed my GPA to dip low enough to lose the grant, forcing me to take out a personal loan to cover my spring classes. That was a wake-up call.” Once Britt was literally invested, he reached the turning point, which drove him to take his education seriously. 

Sight unseen, Britt applied and was accepted to George Mason University. Upon transferring, Britt took advantage of GMU’s proximity to Capitol Hill, interning for a U.S. Senator from Virginia. 

After graduating from Mason, he moved to Richmond where he took a position as a legislative aid in the Virginia House of Delegates during the 1999 General Assembly. That experience led to a part-time job with the VA Board of Elections where he

processed voter applications, proofed ballots, and audited campaign finance reports. “I learned a great deal about Virginia elections and campaigns during my time, but that job was a means to an end. I knew there was more out there. After a few months, the board secretary offered me a full-time job, but I was honest and turned it down, explaining that I would love to work in the governor’s office instead,” says Britt. 

Britt’s bold move to turn down a steady, full-time job right out of college was rewarded a few months later. It was one of those turning points in his life where things started to work out right after taking a risk. He received an offer to work in the governor’s office in constituent affairs, where he served as the governor’s “front door” for two years before the term ended. 

At that point, he took a different course and decided to jump into campaigns. His seasonal volunteer efforts with a candidate for attorney general caused a campaign manager to notice Britt and hire him as a campaign staffer to do grassroots organizing. 

That led to a five-year stretch where Britt worked on three statewide races and served as the political director of the state Republican Party. In this time, he met his wife, January, and they began to build their family. 

“Campaign life and family life are hard to balance,” recalls Britt. “During my last campaign, we had our first son. Unfortunately, we lost that race and suddenly, I was unemployed with a baby at home.” At that point, Britt’s wife went back to work as a school teacher and he was home with an infant considering his next move. 

“I wasn’t sure I had any marketable skills outside of campaigns,” said Britt. 

As luck would have it, a great opportunity presented itself with a powerhouse public affairs firm in Richmond. In 2005, Britt thought he blew an interview at McGuireWoods Consulting when he told the firm he did not care to lobby. Britt reached another turning point because, as it would turn out, he could not have given the lobbyist-heavy company a better answer; they did not want another lobbyist, they were interested in his skillset as a grassroots organizer. 

Britt serves as a senior vice president in the firm’s advocacy practice, having worked at McGuireWoods for almost seventeen years. “The same rules apply at the firm as they do campaigning—it’s all advocacy,” says Britt. He uses grassroots organizing to advocate for his clients in the areas of energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and land use to ensure that good policy is implemented. 

With the support of the firm and his wife and four boys, Britt attended the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at the University of Virginia in 2007 and returned to school to earn his master’s in public administration from Virginia Tech in 2014. But looking back on his career, Britt attributes much of his success to the time he spent at Richard Bland. “I learned a lot about myself while at RBC,” said Britt. “My time at Richard Bland was formative giving me the experience and confidence to forge my own path.” 

Britt currently serves as Chairman of the RBC Foundation Board of Directors, where he is committed to supporting the mission of the college and the success of its students. 

Britt offered this bit of advice to students at RBC, “Take time to learn, take time to play, take time to explore your interests, but don’t take your time at Richard Bland for granted. Make the most of it.”

“Britt and his family knew he would attend college as a first generation college student.” 

The post Turning Points with Alum Jeff Britt appeared first on Richard Bland College.

Q: What’s your elevator pitch for University College?

A: The University College Program supports students who are interested in business, psychology, or education. We have partnerships with Virginia State University (VSU) and Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU). Students can decide to stay at RBC (Richard Bland College) and take their courses at either of the aforementioned universities. It’s an exciting way of expanding our degree offerings so that we’re able to support students who want to earn a bachelor’s degree but really love the intimacy of RBC’s campus. So, with Virginia Wesleyan, students are able to stay at RBC for the third year and then they either need to do their fourth year at VWU or online. And then with Virginia State, students can stay at RBC the entire time and complete their bachelor’s degree. However, they would still be enrolled as Virginia State students but they’d physically be here on RBC’s campus.

Q: Tell me more about other transfer admission pathways and programs offered here at RBC.

A: The Transfer Scholars Network (TSN) connects high-achieving community college students to dedicated admissions representatives from top four-year colleges nationwide with very generous financial aid programs. This provides RBC students with access to the following TSN member schools: Amherst College, Bates College, Brown University, Bowdoin College, Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), Mount Holyoke College, Pomona College, Princeton University, Rice University, Smith College, Swarthmore College, Wellesley College, Williams College and Yale University. Within the next year or two, Columbia University, Northwestern University and Wesleyan University will join as member schools. Another program, Transfer Virginia, provides information about dozens of four-year transfer partners across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Students can upload their transcripts to verify their credits and the transferability of their coursework. They can also find course maps and search majors at partner colleges and universities. Last but not least, there are pathways to the College of William & Mary (W&M). There are several paths for guaranteed admission to W&M for RBC students including the Guaranteed Admission, Honors, Promise Scholars and Bridge programs.

Q: What goals and benchmarks do you hope University College achieves in the short-term and long-term?

A: In the short-term, flooding the campus with information and then expanding the number of majors in the program. Also, involving high schools—finding out which ones have future teacher programs and seeing how we can create pathways through RBC to VSU for the four-year teacher degree and credential program. I would love to be bursting at the seams with students at VSU, VWU and eventually other colleges and universities. My long-term goal is to have more applicants for the program than we have space to accommodate!

Q: How would you convince students on the fence to attend RBC?

A: If they’re really on the fence about whether or not to do this, the opportunity to stay here at RBC and continue courses I think is really attractive, especially since it’s so easy for students to get connected on a small campus in such an intimate setting. The financial piece is amazing, especially with VWU. They give students $24,000 to offset the cost of tuition because as a private institution, they’re much more expensive than RBC is. Plus, just visiting the VWU campus, students get an extra $1,000. 

Click here to learn more about the University College program.

NOTE: This interview has been edited for brevity.

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By Sterling Giles

Usra Jabri, a first-year student at Richard Bland College (RBC), uses her paintbrush to tell authentic stories of her Arabic heritage. But due to life’s circumstances, she had to learn about her identity and culture in isolation.

A few months after her birth in Prince George, Va., Jabri and her family moved to their homeland, Syria. The move was intended to be permanent, but the family was forced to move back to the U.S. a few years later due to worsening civil tensions.

5,900 miles away back stateside, Jabri longed for her extended family’s warm, intergenerational community. But instead of letting her roots wither away, she immersed herself in her culture.

Over the years, she has matured into a gifted artist. Cognizant of the sweeping generalizations of Arabic people in the media, she uses her medium to paint holistic pictures of her people.

“We’re always seeing the politics of war in the news,” Jabri said. “But we’re a colorful people.

“We’re a hospitable people. We love to share. We love family. We love community. I try to show that through my art. I choose a lot of warm colors, like reds, oranges and browns and I always add tessellations and geometric patterns in my work.”

In a similar vein of advocacy, Jabri serves as Historian of the RBC Student Assembly. The organization is dedicated to uplifting and representing student voices at the College.

After RBC, she hopes to utilize the academic pathway to William & Mary (W&M). She hopes W&M’s notable international relations and study abroad programs will cultivate her desire to pursue a career in international law.

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Community colleges and junior colleges like Richard Bland are the same thing… Not quite. RBC resides under the same Board of Visitors as The College of William & Mary and has more extensive opportunities for students academically and socially. 

The junior college experience combines academics with athletics, extracurriculars, and room and board to create a place where students can live, learn, and interact together. Larger universities and colleges offer these programs, but their size can inadvertently turn students into numbers instead of individuals. RBC’s total student population of just over 2400 ensures that each student forms their own unique relationship with the college. 

Dr. Kim Boyd, Vice-President at RBC, explains, “Most intro level courses at larger universities are filled with 100+ students. This can be discouraging for students entering college for the first time. RBC’s class average is 20:1. A small classroom environment encourages participation and increases the retention of course material.” Fewer students in the classroom allow professors to know their students. 

It is a common occurrence for RBC professors to check in on how students are doing individually. Communications professor, Jamia Hines welcomes students to come to her if they need emotional support or just someone to listen. Professors at RBC love

helping students in small ways like this, and they are all required to have on campus office hours in case students need help academically or otherwise. 

Like RBC, community colleges have smaller class sizes, but many of them lack student activities and support. RBC has close to a dozen men’s and women’s sports teams and offers athletic facilities. You would be hard pressed to find a community college with their own gymnasium—one of the many benefits of being a junior college. 

Moreover, offering counseling services and assigning students to a Learner Mentor helps to support students during their endeavors. Learner Mentors advise students on decisions regarding their degree track, class schedules, and transfer opportunities. Their doors are always open to students who want to talk through academic requirements or how they will transition to a four-year. Learner Mentors are also available to provide more general support to students. 

Dr. Boyd says, “Many students entering collegeare undecided on what they want to do, RBC allows them to explore different interests before declaring a major. Most high school students want to explore different career options before committing to a specific major.” At RBC, students are encouraged to explore a range of classes and passions without having to worry about laying a concrete path for their future. 

Because it is a two-year school, lowerclassman get to decide what clubs and activities they would like to see on campus. Incorporating their own interests into RBC’s environment allows them to flourish and enjoy their involvement. The saying around RBC is “Seize Your Potential,” and it is right up there with making it your own and thriving in your own unique and personal design for college.

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By Sterling Giles

Richard Bland College (RBC) is one of the few institutions of higher learning nationwide with not only one, but two Ameca robots equipped with interactive artificial intelligence (AI). Ameca, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot, is designed to engage with humans in remarkably lifelike and captivating ways. There are only 10 robots plotted worldwide.

The office traverses the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and is  It is the world’s most advanced humanoid robot and there are only 10 plotted worldwide.

“Presently, artificial intelligence is ubiquitous in all aspects of life,” said Dr. Kimberly Boyd, RBC Vice President and Chief Research & Innovation Officer. “However, many students have limited access or exposure to this transformative technology.”

Located in a rural community with minimal access to advanced technologies, RBC serves an area with a significant digital disparity. According to LISC Virginia, about one in four households in Petersburg lack access to a computer and one in three are without internet. In response, RBC has committed to expanding STEM-H (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Health Sciences) resources and opportunities for the community.

In the summer of 2024, representatives from the College traveled to London to deepen their understanding of AI and establish a partnership with Engineered Arts—one of the world’s leading humanoid robot manufacturers. Founded in 2004, the company has created and installed more than 100 robots worldwide. Ameca, the latest creation in the Engineered Arts roster, was unveiled in 2021.

“The special sauce of Ameca and a lot of Engineered Arts robots is that sense of human connection that we bring to the table,” said Leo Chen, Engineered Arts Director of U.S. Operations.

Ameca features a powerful Tritium operating system that can be operated remotely and can read virtually all programming languages and software, as well as a host of other cutting-edge features.

The mission and values of the RBC Office of Research & Innovation (ORI) fostered the perfect marriage with Engineered Arts. The ORI is passionate about empowering and equipping learners with tools to help enhance their STEM-H education experiences and workforce opportunities. The robots will facilitate new innovative ways to use AI technology in and out of the classroom.

“The reverberating impact of the College’s partnership with Engineered Arts will be extraordinary,” RBC President Debbie L. Sydow said. “This world-class technology is available to only a handful of universities across the globe, and we believe it will be a differentiator for our students and community.”

RBC received two robots—one stationary, six-foot tall, full-body model and a desktop model. OMNI (Operational Machine Neural Intelligence), the name of the full-body robot, was crowdsourced from the RBC community. The desktop model has the same functionality features as the full-body but doesn’t have arms or legs.

To extend its reach, the ORI also operates a Mobile Career Exploration Unit that travels statewide, bringing the desktop robot, drones and virtual reality (VR) tools to rural areas. The VR technology supports study abroad awareness and prospective student engagement through interactive Marketing and Admissions content.

The robots are also integral to RBC’s new Academic Innovation Center (AIC)—a 24,000-square-foot facility connected to the newly renovated library. The AIC offers advanced classrooms, collaborative space and serves as a hub for STEM-H education and research.

Courtney Boyd, RBC Instructor of Computer Science, envisions pushing the technology even further by integrating the robots with the ORI’s newly acquired AI-powered robotic dogs. She’s working on programming the humanoids to train the robotic canines—an innovative use case rarely seen in higher education.

“I can envision robotic dogs walking through campus while OMNI is telling them what to do,” Courtney said. “There are applications for AI-controlled robotic dogs in agriculture, data center management, rescue support and more.”

Courtney also plans to train ORI interns in programming unique robot personas using Python and is developing custom VR learning experiences tailored for individual students and faculty.

Dr. Dave Morgan, RBC Academic Professor of Physics, has plans to utilize the humanoids for personalized tutoring, language translation, accessibility services and research on the social aspects of human-robot interaction.

“As we integrate the robots into our curriculum, I foresee tremendous potential in how they can enhance our students’ learning experiences,” Dr. Morgan said. “Our goal is to create a more inclusive, accessible and engaging learning experience for all.”

Understanding the need for cultural sensitivity, RBC collaborated closely with Engineered Arts to ensure the robots’ software properly reflects and respects the diversity of the Crater Region. This attention to detail follows concerns about AI systems failing to recognize or represent diverse communities accurately.

“Artificial intelligence right now, or at least large language models, are trained on existing data sets, and unfortunately, these data sets already have inherent bias,” Chen explained. “There’s no getting around it.

“It’s up to the people who utilize the technology to test it and be mindful about this inherent bias, to make sure that we can account for it and that it doesn’t continue to be a self-fulfilling, feedback loop.”

Naomi Hart, Market Development Lead at Engineered Arts, added, “Knowledge is power. “When people get first-hand exposure to the technology, they grow comfortable after just a couple of seconds.”

Recently, the ORI hosted a Sneaker Ball fundraiser to introduce OMNI to the public and support student scholarships. Attendees were amazed by the robot’s human-like interaction.

“There are many people that can’t even fathom something like OMNI or virtual reality,” Dr. Boyd said. “Awareness and education are my goal with the robots.”

With its bold investment in AI and robotics, Richard Bland College is emerging as a statewide leader in STEM-H education. The presence of the humanoids not only enriches the learning environment but also expands access and opportunity for students and the broader community.

“Our investment in world-class AI technology is not just advancing education—it’s positioning us ahead of other institutions in the region,” Dr. Sydow said. “We’re creating smarter pathways to student success, setting a new standard for what modern learning can achieve.”

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