President's Message

Greetings, Fellow Highlanders!

As the most recent edition of The Magazine of Radford University arrives, Winter Commencement is just around the corner, and winter break is nearly underway across campus. The Fall 2019 edition focuses on our academic excellence and collective success, strengthened community partnerships and enhanced opportunities for our students as they work to positively impact communities both near and far.

Our talented Highlanders inspire me daily. This edition of The Magazine of Radford University highlights just some of their inspirational stories and transformational experiences. As we welcome a new year and a new decade, let us take a moment to reminisce about achievements of the past and our accomplishments together.

By embracing innovation and tradition, we have continuously provided the academic environment needed to foster intellectual growth, not only while our students are on campus, but also after they begin their careers. Their foundation for success is forged right here during their Radford experience. With the ongoing implementation of our five-year strategic plan, we are truly embracing the tradition and envisioning the future.

Our students are responsive, resilient and real. Through the Highlander journey, we instill students with purpose and the ability to think creatively and critically. We provide an educational environment and the necessary tools to address the social, economic and environmental issues confronting our region, nation and the world.

In July 2019, the Radford family grew overnight as our merger with Jefferson College of Health Sciences was completed. From this unique public-private partnership, Radford University Carilion was born. We are expanding the affordability of a quality healthcare education and saving time and money for students. This great work would not have been possible without the dedication of students, faculty, staff and the community, and I am incredibly grateful for their tireless efforts.

I delivered the annual State of the University Address in October 2019. At that time, I assured the Radford family that our University is strong. Today is no different. Radford University Carilion is changing the landscape of healthcare in our region and in the Commonwealth of Virginia. And, the Vinod Chachra IMPACT Lab continues to create greater opportunities for our campus. At the same time, the main campus’ historical focus on teaching and learning continues to make a mark regionally and nationally!

Each and every day, the Radford family works to fulfill Radford University’s core values. Through a pursuit of discovery, dedication to scholarship and spirit of service, together, we are collectively bridging the knowledge and skills gap by providing new opportunities for our students and our citizens.

Enduring commitment, unmatched dedication and abundant passion are exhibited each and every day by the Radford family in remarkable ways. Indeed, there are so many people who make Radford so very special, and their stories cannot be matched. The stories on these pages are a testament to that fact and showcase the Highlander pride felt each and every day by those who are honored to call Radford University home.

 Please enjoy the Fall 2019 edition of The Magazine of Radford University, and GO HIGHLANDERS!

With Highlander Pride,