Spanberger appoints two new Board of Visitors members, re-appoints one
by Joel Newman
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has appointed Jeanne P. Fishwick and Nancy A. Rice to the Radford University Board of Visitors. She also appointed Jennifer Wishon Gilbert to serve an additional term. Their terms will expire June 30, 2030.
Fishwick is a retired instructor of English, having taught at Roanoke College, Virginia Western Community College, Roanoke City schools and North Cross School. She has also served as an admissions officer at Meredith College and Hollins University. She is active in numerous community leadership and advocacy roles in the Roanoke region and the Commonwealth of Virginia. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English from Meredith College and her Master of Arts in English from Hollins University.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve on the Board of Visitors,” Fishwick said. “As a retired career educator, I have long been aware of the value of a Radford education. I admire the student-focused undergraduate programs and the academic excellence of the graduate school. I am grateful to Gov. Spanberger for this opportunity, and I look forward to joining the Highlander family. ”
Rice previously served on the Board of Visitors from 2019 to 2023. She is a member of the Fairfax County Civil Service Commission. She has also been active in and served as an officer of numerous civic, community, philanthropic and nonprofit organizations. She and her husband, Edward, have been supporters of Radford University since 2009. In 2025, the Rices were inducted into the university’s McConnell Circle and the New River Society. She also serves on the board of the Radford University Foundation. She received her associate degree in arts from Laney College.
“Radford University serves the families of Virginia, and I am happy to be of service,” Rice said.
Spanberger appointed Gilbert to serve a second term. Gilbert has more than 20 years of experience in broadcast journalism and is senior Washington correspondent for CBN News. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications and media studies from Virginia Tech. The Radford University Board of Visitors recently elected Gilbert to serve a second term as vice rector.
"Radford University is a remarkable institution that plays a vital role in the commonwealth,” said Gilbert. “It has been a privilege to serve during such a significant period of growth and progress, and I am deeply grateful to Gov. Spanberger for the opportunity to continue that work."
“We appreciate the experience and commitment each of these appointees brings to the Board of Visitors,” said Radford University President Bret Danilowicz. “They share a deep involvement with community service and advocacy, which are core values within the Highlander family.”