Herb Coulton: Champion of RBC
Herb Coulton was searching for the right college for his son, Jalen, which led them to RBC. The wealth of opportunities available at the institution inspired Coulton to join the staff and become one of the College’s most vocal advocates.
By Sterling Giles
For Herb Coulton, Richard Bland College (RBC) not only changed his son’s life, but his own as well.
A Petersburg, Virginia native and Virginia State University alumnus, Herb left his hometown for the Army and resided in Atlanta, Georgia for several years. However, his father’s waning health called him back home—along with his own son, Jalen.
Before moving back to Petersburg, Jalen considered attending Georgia State University. However, his parents suggested he consider a less busy, more cost-effective institution. Unbeknownst to them at the time, Richard Bland College was the perfect fit.
Herb’s first introduction to RBC was by a family friend whose daughter was excelling in the College’s dual enrollment program. This, as well as other insights he gained on RBC’s programs, piqued his interest. So he and Jalen decided to tour the campus.
“My dad’s pitch about Richard Bland was—it’s cheaper, I can drive my own car as a freshman and campus is only five minutes from home.
“I stepped out of my comfort zone with my decision to attend RBC and I’m glad I did. It gave me the foundation I needed to excel.”
Herb was thrilled about his son’s decision because of the cost savings and multitude of transfer agreements available upon graduation.
“For once in his life, he listened to me,” Herb chuckled.
At RBC, Jalen flourished. He made the President’s List, was involved on campus and graduated with cum laude honors. From there, he transferred to Virginia Commonwealth University, majored in information systems and once again graduated with cum laude honors. From there, he notched an internship with Ernst & Young, a world-leading professional services firm, which eventually evolved into a full-time opportunity.
“If my son could do what he accomplished at RBC and beyond, how many other students could do the same?” Herb proclaimed.
That question eventually led Herb to RBC to pursue a career more rooted in purpose. To start his tenure at the College four years ago, Herb accepted a position driving Promise Scholars students between RBC and William & Mary. Today, he serves as an admissions counselor and helps students and families discover the opportunities at the College that impressed him and Jalen several years before.
Herb is one of the first faces prospective students and their families see. To him, recruitment is more than enrollment numbers. It is about opening doors, changing trajectories and helping students realize their potential. Every student who walks through RBC’s doors reminds him of his son—a young person searching for direction and a chance to succeed.
“When Jalen and I went on our tour, it sealed the deal on his decision to attend RBC,” Herb said. “Now I’m giving tours and educating families about the great opportunities offered here.
“Seeing students come here, grow and graduate is why I get up every day excited to do this work. It’s so rewarding to see everything come to fruition and full circle.”
Left photo (L-R): Herb Coulton, Jalen Coulton and Jalen’s mother, Valerie Coulton at the 2022 RBC Commencement.
Right photo: After graduating from VCU in 2024, Jalen Coulton interned with Ernst & Young—a world-leading professional services firm—and later secured a full-time position with the company.
