Jefferson College of Health Sciences Merger: A Celebration of Year-Long Efforts

Dear Jefferson College and Radford University Faculty and Staff:

A year ago today, we announced a bold initiative to merge Jefferson College of Health Sciences into Radford University. As we commemorate the first anniversary of that exciting announcement, it is our distinct privilege to share with you the significant progress accomplished thus far and the forthcoming efforts to ensure a successful merger of our two institutions.

We must first express gratitude for the work accomplished by you, our colleagues, to push this merger forward. Your feedback and insights have been valuable and enlightening. In this process and for the future, the contributions of each member of the Jefferson College of Health Sciences and Radford University families will be invaluable toward fulfilling our mission of service to current and future students, our local communities and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Our sincere thanks are also extended to the transition team of more than 100 campus and community leaders, who have worked diligently to oversee the integration of our two vibrant academic institutions and individual cultures. We have been impressed and inspired by the collegiality and productivity of the Steering Committee and the achievements and dedication of the five subcommittees. The individuals on these groups have consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our overarching vision and forward momentum.

As we mark the one-year milestone, we are pleased to share that our progress includes the following:  

  • All programs currently offered by Jefferson College of Health Sciences will continue to be offered following the merger.
  • Alignment of policies and procedures is underway, and implementation is being readied.
  • A review of systems has been completed in order to determine compatibility and outline a detailed plan for the successful transition of students, faculty and staff.
  • The majority of letters of intent to hire have been hand-delivered to Jefferson College of Health Sciences employees with final distribution to be completed in the near future.
  • Next year’s tuition for students studying in Roanoke will be reduced by at least 10 percent when compared to the current cost to attend Jefferson College of Health Sciences.

While much work has been accomplished, there are remaining tasks to be completed in the coming weeks. As such, we ask for your continued support.

Work is currently underway to secure state and accreditor approvals. We are especially grateful to Governor Ralph Northam for including funding for the operation of the Roanoke campus in his introduced budget. We are also appreciative of the strong leadership and diligent efforts of both Delegate Nick Rush and Senator Bill Carrico, who introduced bills for General Assembly consideration that will grant the necessary state approval to complete the integration of our two institutions and open our Roanoke campus.

Additional efforts are underway to develop a comprehensive brand and related marketing strategies that are reflective of the unique health sciences educational experience that Radford University will provide to students in Roanoke in strong partnership with Carilion Clinic.

Transparency throughout this process has been very important and will remain so. We invite you to stay connected and informed through the Radford University Merger website dedicated to information, updates and FAQs. The FAQs were recently updated to reflect the merger progress and respond to emerging questions.

Jefferson College of Health Sciences and Radford University share an enduring focus on student success. Together, we can, and will, distinctively enhance the quality of healthcare education for our students and provide them unparalleled access to crucial clinical experiences and limitless research opportunities. As such, for generations to come, these students will serve our communities by working in local hospitals and clinics and caring for families across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

With Blue Healer and Highlander Pride,

Nathaniel L. Bishop, D.Min.
President
Jefferson College of Health Sciences

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President
Radford University

Jan 18, 2019