Here’s a roundup of news briefs from around Southwest and Southside. Send yours for possible inclusion to news@cardinalnews.org.
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Former UVA Wise College board member Quillen gives $1 million to school
The David J. Prior Convocation Center’s court at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise will be named the Quillen Court in honor of former board member Mike Quillen, who recently gave $1 million to the school.
The gift will be used to help fund “student potential and college priorities,” according to a news release from the college.
Quillen had a long career in mining in Southwest Virginia, serving as president of Paramont Coal and later founding Alpha Natural Resources.
In addition to serving on the college board, Quillen led several local businesses that provided internships for UVA Wise students, the release states.
The center’s court is where the college’s basketball and volleyball teams compete.
“I’ve attended the economic forum and athletic events at the Prior Center. It’s an impactful place. High school students come here and see it, and it’s impressive. As K-12 students come into the Prior Center, they are like ‘Wow!’” Quillen said in the release. “The Prior Center is more than an asset to the college — it’s an asset to our community.”
— Susan Cameron
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Youngkin announces board appointments
Gov. Glenn Youngkin has announced additional appointments to state boards, including these residents of Southwest and Southside:
Board of Nursing: Lila Peake of Lynchburg, travel nurse and case manager, Capital Caring Hospice.
Radiation Advisory Board: Dr. Gregory Daniel of Blacksburg, professor emeritus of radiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
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Blacksburg student named congressional art contest winner
A Blacksburg High School student won the 2024 Congressional Art Competition in the 9th District, Rep. Morgan Griffith, R-Salem, announced last week.
Rishi Nair’s “Mabry Mill” will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol.
Isabella Lawson of Richlands High School earned first runner-up with “The Barter Theatre.” Second runner-up was a tie between Katelyn Wheatley of Carroll County High School with “Creek Crossing” and Emily Paul of Blacksburg High School with “Cascading Down.” Their work will be displayed in Griffith’s Abingdon and Christiansburg offices.