Edwards was among seven individuals and organizations honored at SPTC’s 2026 Innovation Stars Awards Banquet on October 27 at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) in Danville. The annual awards recognize achievements that strengthen southern Virginia through technology, entrepreneurship, education, and community leadership.

For the Student Innovator Award, the SPTC specifies that it selects “a student demonstrating exceptional leadership and achievement in technology and innovation.” An agricultural sciences major with a horticulture emphasis, Edwards maintains a 4.0 GPA while applying her academic knowledge to research with practical implications for commercial agriculture and regional environmental health.

As an AgTech intern this summer at the Virginia Tech-IALR Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Innovation Center, Edwards contributed to research on hydroponic production of edible signet marigolds. Her work evaluated three cultivars grown at varying fertilizer rates to identify cultivation practices that maximize plant growth, flowering, and overall quality. The findings are intended to help regional commercial growers make informed decisions about production methods, nutrient management, and crop performance.

“Winning the Student Innovator Award means so much to me because it recognizes the curiosity and hard work I’ve put into becoming an agricultural scientist. This honor gives me even more confidence to keep asking questions and pursuing a future in agricultural science. I am beyond grateful for IALR and Ferrum College for giving me the opportunity, space, and creative freedom to explore my scientific curiosity. With their guidance, I was able to turn my ideas into meaningful research,” Edwards said.

Throughout the summer Edwards also worked with Ferrum College’s Smith Mountain Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program, which celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. Specializing in microscopic algae analysis, she examined water samples to identify and count algal species, documenting ecological changes that help researchers monitor the lake’s health and support the preservation of its natural resources. Edwards is second from left in the photo of this summer’s four student technicians in a Garber Hall lab.

“Gracie’s recognition as a Student Innovator reflects the exceptional talent, curiosity, and commitment to meaningful work that we strive to cultivate at Ferrum College,” said Ferrum College President Mirta M. Martin. “She is applying her knowledge in ways that advance agricultural innovation while contributing to the stewardship of our region’s natural resources. We are incredibly proud of Gracie and the way she represents Ferrum College and the promise of Southern Virginia’s next generation of innovators.”

Ferrum College Professor of Crop Science Tim Durham praised Edwards’ contributions to both research initiatives.

“Gracie is a Ferrum standout. This award is the culmination of years of intense study invested towards the betterment of the local community. I’m delighted to see her recognized for all of her accomplishments. No doubt this is just a prelude of things to come,” Durham said.

Edwards credits Ferrum College’s emphasis on experiential learning and faculty mentorship with helping shape her academic and professional goals.

“Ferrum College has been an incredible place to learn, grow, and build the foundation for my future,” Edwards said. “I’ve loved being part of a campus where the faculty truly invest in their students and where hands-on learning is part of everyday life.”

After graduating this fall, Edwards plans to pursue a master’s degree in horticulture at Virginia Tech. Her long-term aspirations include opening her own “Purple Farm,” specializing in anthocyanin-rich fruits and vegetables, while continuing research to improve indoor growing systems and crop performance.

Through her work in controlled-environment agriculture and environmental monitoring, Edwards exemplifies the impact of Ferrum College’s hands-on approach to education, preparing students to apply their knowledge, address real-world challenges, and contribute to the future of their communities and industries.

Watch the SPTC video with Edwards explaining her work and agricultural goals.

Photos from the awards banquet are courtesy of SPTC.

Read more about Edwards’ summer work.

Read about Edwards’ Controlled Environment Agriculture Innovation Center internship.

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The ceremony will feature remarks by Lt Col David Taylor, United States Air Force (Ret.). He brings to Ferrum more than four decades of experience in military service, national defense, executive leadership, education, and Christian ministry. Taylor was appointed Chaplain of Ferrum College in 2026 and serves as pastor of Maple Grove Church in Ferrum.

A native of Chester, Virginia, Taylor graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1981 with bachelor’s degrees in physics and mathematics and a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He later earned a master’s degree in operations research from North Carolina State University. His military career included assignments supporting strategic missile-warning systems, military space operations, and senior-level defense planning. He completed 22 years of service in the Air Force, spanning active-duty and Air Force Reserve assignments.

Taylor’s military decorations include three Defense Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals, and six Air Force Organizational Excellence Awards. Beyond his military service, Taylor has held executive roles in the defense industry; founded Next Summit Advisors, a veteran-owned leadership coaching and consulting firm; and taught mathematics, science, and leadership at colleges and universities for more than 40 years. He is also an International Coaching Federation Professional Certified Coach.

Members of Ferrum College’s Orchestra Appalachia will perform musical selections during the ceremony. The program will also recognize veterans and active-duty service members from across the College community in appreciation of their service and sacrifice.

“Veterans Day gives us an important opportunity to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude to the men and women who have answered the call to serve our nation,” said Ferrum College President Mirta M. Martin. “Their courage, dedication, and commitment to something greater than themselves embody the spirit of service that is central to the Ferrum College mission, ‘Not Self, But Others.’ We are proud to recognize members of our own College community who have served and continue to serve, and we welcome the public to join us in honoring these remarkable individuals.”

The Veterans Day program will begin at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 11, in Vaughn Chapel on the Ferrum College campus. The event is open to the public.

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The program featured a student impact message by Hannah Dix from Bassett, Virginia, a senior theatre major who is graduating this semester; she shared how the support of faculty, mentors, and donors has shaped her Ferrum experience and helped her prepare for the future.

“Ferrum College has become so much more than a school to me. It has become a place where I have grown into a more confident and capable person,” Dix said. “What makes Ferrum special is the people. I love our motto: ‘Not Self, But Others.’ I’ve always felt supported here, whether it was through encouragement from a professor, guidance from a mentor, or simply knowing there were people who believed in me.”

Dix spoke particularly about the importance of scholarships and the encouragement they represent.

“The scholarships I’ve received are more than financial assistance. They are a reminder that someone believes in my future,” she said. “Knowing that others have invested in my education motivates me to work harder and take full advantage of the opportunities I’ve been given.”

She concluded by thanking the donors whose generosity helps students pursue their goals.

“Because of their generosity, I am one step closer to achieving my goals and building the future I have always hoped for. Thank you for believing in students like me. Your support is making a lasting difference in my life and other students.”

During the program, Ferrum College President Mirta M. Martin; Chris Watters, vice president for Institutional Advancement; Corretta Patterson ’97, director of Alumni and Family Relations; Brooke Gill ’05, president of the Alumni Board of Directors; and Brenda Martin, donor stewardship administrator, joined in expressing appreciation to members of the College’s giving societies: the Arthur Society, 1913 Society, Ruth Society, Beckham Society, Ferrum Fund Society, Panther Club, and Iron Panther Club.

The celebration highlighted the meaningful connection between donor generosity and student opportunity, recognizing the alumni, families, and friends whose continued investment helps make a Ferrum College education possible.

Celebrating Alumni Achievement and Service

The College also presented awards to four outstanding alumni whose professional accomplishments, leadership, community service, and commitment to Ferrum exemplify the enduring impact of a Ferrum education.

“Today we’ve witnessed the extraordinary power of the Ferrum College spirit, alive in every life that we have celebrated here today,” Martin said. “Frank Boxley reminds us that the education received here prepares students not only for careers, but for leadership and impact. Greg Craddock reminds us that courage, service, and integrity can transform organizations, communities, and lives. Darrell and Bonnie Huffman remind us that a life dedicated to faith and service leaves a legacy that extends far beyond ourselves. Each of our honorees demonstrates what is possible when talent is guided by values, success is measured by service, and leadership is rooted in purpose.”

Frank A. Boxley III ’17 received the 2026 Outstanding Young Alumni Award, which honors graduates within 15 years of earning their degrees who have demonstrated professional success, leadership, and service to their communities and alma mater.

Boxley serves as vice president of finance at Foot Levelers, Inc., in Roanoke, Virginia, where he leads financial planning and analysis and partners with executive leadership on strategic planning and business performance. His career has included leadership roles in supply chain management, procurement, and operational finance, including oversight of operations across three manufacturing facilities in Paris, France. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from Ferrum College and an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Reflecting on his continued involvement with Ferrum College, Boxley spoke about the welcoming culture that has kept him connected to his alma mater.

“The culture of genuine care is why staying connected to Ferrum means so much to me,” Boxley said. “Having access, as a young alumnus, to sit on the alumni board, to have a seat at the table, and the opportunity to be engaged in the platform to give my time, talent, and treasure back to Ferrum, to this institution, is an extraordinary privilege that I do not take for granted. Ferrum doesn’t just educate you and send you on your way. It welcomes you back to campus. It gives you the opportunity to help shape the future generation.”

Greg Craddock ’92 received the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, which is presented after review of a nominee’s lifelong record of professional accomplishment, ethical leadership, service, and embodiment of “Not Self, But Others.” The award recognizes graduates who have achieved exceptional professional success, served their communities, remained actively involved with the College, and demonstrated an enduring commitment to its mission and values.

A former Ferrum football player and U.S. Army Ranger and Special Forces noncommissioned officer, Craddock built a career spanning military service, national security, and business leadership. He serves as chief executive officer of Patriot Group International, a government contracting company providing intelligence, security, defense, and mission-support services. Under his leadership, the company has earned national recognition for its growth and workplace culture.

Craddock’s commitment to service extends beyond his professional accomplishments. He helped establish the Global Dagger Association, a nonprofit supporting former members of the intelligence community, and joined Ferrum College’s Board of Trustees in 2024, where he serves as second vice chair. His generosity also helped establish the Craddock Veterans Lounge in Stanley Library, providing a welcoming space for student veterans and military-affiliated members of the campus community.

Reflecting on the honor and the importance of investing in Ferrum’s future, Craddock emphasized the role of the College’s supporters and leaders in creating opportunities for generations of students.

“Any time we come back, we thank and honor the past, but we always have to keep an eye on the future, and this group of people is helping us get here,” Craddock said. “We’ve got the leadership in place, and we’ve got the people who can make that vision happen and continue to happen, so that a young Hannah Dix, or a young Greg Craddock, or George Yancey, can have the same kind of opportunity.”

Darrell E. Huffman ’74 and Bonnie L. Huffman ’75 received the 2026 Beckham Medallion, Ferrum College’s highest tribute. Named in honor of the College’s first president, Dr. Benjamin M. Beckham, the medallion recognizes individuals whose professional achievements, community service, and dedication to Ferrum College exemplify the institution’s motto, “Not Self, But Others.”

The Huffmans have devoted more than five decades to Christian ministry, community service, and mentoring future generations. They co-founded New Life Church in Huntington, West Virginia, in 1985, where Darrell has served as pastor for more than four decades. Their work has included supporting ministries worldwide, counseling and community outreach, and mentoring emerging leaders.

Since 2012, they have also led the East Coast Youth Camp at Ferrum College, introducing hundreds of young people and many youth leaders to campus and helping strengthen their connection to the institution. Their continued support of Ferrum’s athletic programs, youth initiatives, and students reflects their enduring commitment to the College and its mission.

Bonnie Huffman reflected on the role Ferrum played in their lives and the path that led them to a lifetime of service.

“It was my divine appointment to come to Ferrum, and to find my place called there. It was a stepping stone. Each one of us has a stepping stone, and I take that with passion,” she said.

Darrell Huffman added, “We are so honored to receive this award. Ferrum has been an absolute foundation stone in our lives.”

Together, the four honorees represent the far-reaching impact of a Ferrum education, demonstrating how leadership, generosity, and service can strengthen communities and create opportunities for future generations.

Through the Celebration of Impact, Ferrum College recognized the powerful connections among donor generosity, student success, and alumni achievement. The College remains grateful to the alumni, families, and friends whose continued investment in its mission helps ensure that future generations of Panthers can enter with promise and leave with purpose.

Click here to learn more about alumni awards and recipients.

Click here for more photographs in Ferrum College Flickr album for Homecoming 2026.

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Whited and Gilbert were both interviewed for a September 18 article by Kaitlin Reilly in Y!Entertainment, titled “Can fans separate ‘Harry Potter’ from J. K. Rowling? For some, the answer is no.” Both gave thoughtful responses to questions about one of the most difficult dilemmas that face fans of literature and other arts whose makers reveal personal views or actions that become highly controversial. 

Gilbert, who teaches drama at O. T. Bonner Middle School in Danville, Virginia, was an avid fan of the Harry Potter book series and adaptations since she was a child. After the first four Harry Potter books were published in the 1990s, quickly becoming some of the bestselling books in history, Whited edited the first book of scholarly essays about the series, The Ivory Tower and Harry Potter, published by University of Missouri Press in 2002. She decided to compile that first book after both children and adults swamped the meeting room, spilling out onto the hallway floor, for a session on Harry Potter in which Whited presented a paper at the Children’s Literature Association Conference in 2000 at the Hotel Roanoke. Usually only adult scholars attend the conference. Later a Ferrum College staff member and some children of faculty persuaded Whited and others to organize a conference at Ferrum, and some Harry Potter fans traveled long distance to attend the intergenerational one-day event.

Whited’s extensive research, publishing, and presentations on the series since then have influenced her teaching as well. She developed a week-long course about Harry’s magical boarding school, Hogwarts, for middle-school-aged children attending a summer enrichment camp that was hosted by Ferrum College for many years. As a Ferrum College student Gilbert took Whited’s literature course linking the series with fantasy and mythology throughout world history, Harry Potter and the Hero Myth. As the photographs show, both Gilbert and Whited wear Hogwarts school robes on special occasions such as the Ferrum Park Halloween Trail where Whited was handing out candy to local children this month in her photo.

Reilly ended her article with Whited’s view of the apparent disconnect between Rowling’s most controversial personal views on gender identity, which became public in 2017, and values embedded in her books. “I think she taught us anti-prejudice herself,” Whited told Reilly. “The primary theme of the Harry Potter series is the importance of condemning an agenda…based on the notion that some people are better than others because of an aspect of their identity, of their blood status. She taught us this herself.”

Whited was also featured in a podcast that was released on October 12. She was interviewed by Katy McDaniel and Emily Strand, hosts of the Potterversity podcast, a MuggleNet production. Their discussion focused on the significance of Halloween in the Harry Potter series. They observed that events in the background provide the key to dates in the novels such as Harry’s birthday and the years he attends Hogwarts. A ghost at Hogwarts, Nearly Headless Nick, was executed on October 31, 1492, and the school celebrates his deathday with him every year. Harry’s parents were killed 489 years later on October 31. Much of Whited’s research involves links between the fantasy novels and real historical events, especially race relations in world history and in the fictional series’ fantastical and fraught relationships among humans (called Muggles), wizards and witches, and so-called Half-Bloods.

Another interview request came to Whited from Sukanya Datta at the Hindustani Times in Mumbai. She was working on a feature about the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Harry Potter film franchise. The article has not yet appeared on the Hindustani Times website. While Harry Potter-themed events, games, amusement park attractions, and conferences continue every year (Whited attended such a conference virtually last weekend), some of these media stories have been appearing in anticipation of the HBO streaming service’s new series based on the Harry Potter books.

Photo of Dr. Lana Whited at Ferrum Park by Dr. Bob Pohlad. The other photo is courtesy of Ms. Jamie Gilbert.

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FERRUM, VA, October 28, 2026 — Ferrum College will welcome alumni, families, and friends back to campus October 30 through November 1 for Homecoming Weekend 2026, a celebration of Panther Pride, lifelong connections, and College traditions. The weekend will feature class reunions, athletic competitions, alumni recognition, a play about college history, and family-friendly Halloween festivities. For the full schedule of events and registration information, visit the Homecoming Weekend webpage.

Among the weekend’s highlights are milestone reunions honoring Ferrum College’s history and the people who have shaped its legacy. On Friday, October 30, the Class of 1976 will celebrate its 50th reunion and induction into the Golden Panthers, including members of the historic first class to graduate with bachelor’s degrees. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. in the Blue Ridge Mountain Room in Franklin Hall.

The College will also recognize the 60th anniversary of the 1966 Ferrum Junior College football team’s national runner-up championship. Members of the Black Hats, cheerleaders, and mascot are invited to reunite during the All Golden Panthers event on Friday, which will include a special presentation honoring the team’s achievement.

On Saturday, October 31, Ferrum College will host its Celebration of Impact: Donor Appreciation and Alumni Awards Ceremony in the Blue Ridge Mountain Room in Franklin Hall. The event will recognize donor generosity and honor the recipients of the 2026 Alumni Awards. Check-in and a reception begin at 8 a.m., followed by a breakfast buffet and recognition program from 9 to 11 a.m. Register for the Celebration of Impact.

Athletics will take center stage Saturday as the Panthers take on Chowan University in one of Ferrum’s oldest football rivalries. During halftime, the College will present the 2026 Homecoming Court and crown the Homecoming King and Queen.

The weekend will also bring a century of College history to life through Faith of Our Fathers, an uplifting performance written by the late R. Rex Stephenson that combines song and storytelling. In the long tradition of the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre, this production has an intergenerational cast as well as staging that is improved and expanded since its earlier debut. Musical interludes include hymns, some performed by a handbell choir, and popular songs representing different eras of twentieth-century history. The rehearsal photo here shows a bit of recent history from the end of the show (directed by Emily Blankenship-Tucker, standing on left, and Kristina Stump ’97, seated at bottom right, as stage manager). Free performances are scheduled for Friday, October 30, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 1, at 2 p.m. in Sale Theatre. Find ticket information.

Halloween Festivities and Family Fun

Halloween and Homecoming come together Saturday, October 31, with activities beginning at 10 a.m. at the Alumni Welcome Tent and tailgate grounds at Bassett Hall Field. Tailgate spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is encouraged.

The Teal Pumpkin Project Trunk-or-Treat Tailgate will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the Alumni Tent, offering non-food treats for a more food-allergy-friendly Halloween, along with games and a costume contest. Tailgaters are encouraged to decorate their trunks and compete for prizes in categories including Best Group/Family Costume, Most Creative, Best Retro/Throwback, and Best School Spirit.

Additional activities will include complimentary cotton candy and popcorn, a cornhole tournament sponsored by the Agriculture Club, live music, photo booths, campus tours, and family-friendly lawn games leading up to kickoff. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the festivities.

Children in costume will be admitted free to the Homecoming football game when accompanied by an adult.

More to Explore on Campus

Visitors can stop by the Campus Store in Panther Grounds for Ferrum spirit wear, gifts, Pink-Out apparel, Starbucks® coffee beverages, and grab-and-go food. The store will offer 20% off all in-store merchandise purchases throughout Homecoming Weekend. Weekend hours are 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Scroll down the Plan Your Visit page for more information on exhibits and displays to view on campus.

The College’s acres of woods and Chapman Pond, adjoining the new Ferrum Park, add to the possibilities for relaxation and recreation. In the College’s wooded property are a disc golf course and the Nature’s Writers Trail created by faculty with some help from recreation and art students. Ferrum Park, developed by a community nonprofit, has an ADA-compliant, accessible walking trail funded by an AARP grant; a primitive campground; and a new children’s playground installed with a grant sponsored by the Ferrum Lions Club. The small playground is near the Rt. 40 park entrance at Ferrum Park Lane. Other park and college trails connect near the pond behind the lakeside residence halls (see photo from the trail entrance).

Homecoming Weekend offers alumni and friends an opportunity to reconnect with classmates, honor shared traditions, recognize the impact of the Ferrum community, and make new memories with family and friends.

For the full schedule of events and registration information, visit the Homecoming Weekend webpage.

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Working from a boat on the College’s Adams Lake, students helped collect, measure, and document fish before returning them to the water. The results were encouraging, especially given this summer’s significant drawdown of the water level for spillway repairs and dredging.

“We captured as many fish this fall as we did during our fall 2024 sampling,” said Dr. Fredericksen. Of the 150 fish processed, only one mortality was recorded, demonstrating that this technique enables researchers to gather valuable population data while minimizing harm to the fish.

The team also discussed ways to manage aquatic vegetation, including the potential introduction of grass carp to help maintain a healthy pond ecosystem.

Dr. Fredericksen, an associate professor of forestry and wildlife, and other professors in the environmental science programs often lead students in activities at the College’s two ponds and surrounding woods. Experiences like this bring classroom concepts to life, equipping Ferrum College students with practical skills and firsthand insight into wildlife management and conservation.

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The festival has earned two Silver Awards in the magazine Blue Ridge Country’s 2026 Best of the Mountains awards. They are Best Events: Heritage and Culture Festival and Best Events: Fall Festival. The Blue Ridge Institute & Museum (BRIM), which has produced the festival for more than 50 years, also received a silver recognition for Best Sights and Dos: Museum.

Inside the museum building, two current exhibits feature extensive and intriguing research by local historians and other citizens, one on The Vanishing Schools of Franklin County, about the history of more than 200 past school buildings. Father and son researchers and writers, William B. and Abe Gibson, will be at the festival to sign copies of their book about the project. A new exhibit on Raising the Shade, a project funded by a Monuments Across Appalachian Virginia grant, honors the often-overlooked story of the United States Colored Troops from Franklin County during the Civil War and “the role of African Americans in securing the freedom of enslaved people, as well as promoting equality, opportunity and justice for all Americans” (description from the project website).

The exhibits as well as the indoor museum store are open during the festival and beyond, along with the 1800 Virginia-German living history farm museum on the other side of Route 40.

Ferrum College’s Orchestra Appalachia, pictured above at the 2025 festival, will perform on the Youth Stage from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Live music and storytelling by performing artists from across region will fill four stages across the campus and farm museum throughout the festival. A special session at the farm museum stage from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. will commemorate the life and times of the late Kinney Rorrer, an expert on Blue Ridge music traditions who performed at the festival for many years and hosted the popular Back to the Blue Ridge music show on WVTF public radio for sixteen years.

“We are honored that the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival has received two silver recognitions in Blue Ridge Country Magazine’s Best of the Mountains awards, alongside recognition for the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum,” said Dr. Mirta Martin, president of Ferrum College. “As we welcome visitors to campus this Saturday, we’re proud to celebrate the traditions that connect our community to the rich cultural heritage of the Blue Ridge while creating new experiences for artisans, families, and visitors of all ages.”

“These recognitions reflect the lasting appeal of the traditions that bring people back to the festival year after year,” said Bethany Worley, executive director of the BRIM. “We’re excited to welcome visitors to experience the music, craftsmanship, demonstrations, and new offerings that make this year’s festival special.”

Parking fees are $20 per family vehicle (1–9 people), $50 per van or shuttle (10 or more people), and $100 per school bus, charter bus, or motorcoach. There is no other admission fee this year.

For festival details, including the complete program and parking information, visit www.ferrum.edu/blueridgefolklifefestival. Links to photos from past festivals and to recent articles as well as audio and video interviews about the festival can also be found on the BRIM website.

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The ceremony brought together family, friends, community members, and representatives from Wagner’s hometown and baseball journey to recognize his accomplishments and lasting legacy. Speakers included Wagner, one of his Tazewell High School baseball coaches Brad Strong, his Ferrum College baseball coach Abe Naff, Congressman Morgan Griffith, and town leaders. The program concluded with a special moment as Wagner threw a ceremonial pitch to a friend and classmate from Tazewell, mirroring the action pose of the statue by sculptor Maria Kirby-Smith.

Wagner’s journey from Southwest Virginia to the highest levels of professional baseball is a testament to determination, persistence, and hard work. A standout pitcher at Ferrum College from 1991 to 1993, he went on to become one of Major League Baseball’s most dominant closers, earning seven All-Star selections and recording more than 400 career saves.

Naff (in center of group photo with Wagner to his right) described Wagner’s good heart and unpretentious approach to all he did while he attended Ferrum College, as well as his extraordinary pitching skills. “There’s a whole lot more there than a great left arm,” Naff said. “They got guns and stop watches to measure talent. They don’t have one to measure heart.” Since Ferrum didn’t have the latest equipment to measure pitches in 1992, until a major league scout gave Ferrum a radar gun, Naff said he told scouts that Wagner had two pitches, “hard and harder.”

Wagner had a work-study job with college librarian Miss Cooper, and Naff assumes that other Hall of Famers didn’t do that kind of work for minimum wage. While Wagner was being observed by major league teams, he also did chores such as moving bleachers along with the other players. He “never ever got above his raising…. He never ever put himself above a teammate. I’m just so proud of him for that,” Naff said. 

Paying tribute to his “great role models” and “great coaches,” his family and the town that taught him hard work and perseverance, Wagner stressed that when he took the field, he always played for his team and his community, not for himself. “This isn’t about me. This is about us,” he said, pointing to the statue.

Ferrum College’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement Chris Watters also attended the dedication. She said, “From Tazewell to Ferrum College to the pinnacle of Major League Baseball, Billy’s remarkable journey is an inspiring example of determination, perseverance, and excellence. He represents the very best of the Panther Nation. At Ferrum College, we are proud of Billy and excited to celebrate his extraordinary legacy alongside his hometown community.”

In 2025, Wagner was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, becoming the first former NCAA Division III player to receive the honor. He was enshrined alongside fellow baseball greats Dick Allen, Dave Parker, Ichiro Suzuki, and CC Sabathia. Wagner’s Ferrum College jersey, No. 13, is displayed at the Hall of Fame. He continued wearing the number throughout his professional career, and the Houston Astros retired his jersey in 2025.

Describing his pride at attending the Cooperstown parade and ceremony for Wagner’s induction in 2025, Naff said during his remarks in Tazewell, “I knew he was where he was supposed to be, if he was with the best.”

“Billy Wagner’s journey from Tazewell to the National Baseball Hall of Fame is a remarkable story of perseverance, hard work, and achievement, and Ferrum College is proud to be a part of that story,” said Ferrum College President Mirta Martin. “As a standout Panther, Billy demonstrated the talent and determination that would define his professional career. His legacy extends far beyond the baseball field. He and Sarah remain deeply connected to Ferrum College, giving back to our students, supporting our programs, and helping create opportunities for future generations. We are proud of all Billy has accomplished and grateful that his journey continues to reflect the values and lasting impact of a Ferrum College education.”

Wagner’s connection to Ferrum College has continued well beyond his playing days. He was inducted into the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame in 2003, followed by his wife, Sarah Q. Wagner ’94, in 2004 in recognition of her outstanding basketball career. In May 2025, Wagner returned to campus as the commencement speaker for Ferrum College’s 109th graduation ceremony.

In November 2025, Billy and Sarah received Ferrum College’s Distinguished Alumni Award, honoring professional distinction, leadership, and meaningful contributions to their communities and the College. The couple was also inducted into the 1913 Society in recognition of their commitment to the long-term strength and sustainability of Ferrum College.

After retiring from professional baseball in 2010, Wagner returned his focus to family and life in Virginia. He now serves as head baseball coach at Miller School of Albemarle in Charlottesville. Through their continued support of Ferrum College, the Wagners help mentor students, support athletics, and open doors for future Panthers.

The new park in Tazewell will continue to grow as funding becomes available. According to project director Charity Hurst, future plans include benches and points of interest representing different stages of Wagner’s life and baseball career. A bench recognizing his years at Ferrum College is planned as part of the project.

For Ferrum College, Wagner’s story is a powerful example of the lasting influence of a college experience. His achievements reflect not only excellence on the field, but also the enduring connections, opportunities, and sense of purpose that continue long after graduation.

Photos courtesy of Susan Reeves, Executive Assistant for the Town of Tazewell, and her husband John.

Click here for more photos from the dedication ceremony.

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The very best of Ferrum College was on display this month as our community gathered for a special commencement ceremony honoring Jamarion Montford, a senior football student who received military deployment orders before he could participate in our scheduled commencement ceremony in November.

Through the extraordinary efforts of our faculty, staff, coaches, and many others across campus, Ferrum College ensured that Jamarion could complete this important milestone before deploying. Faculty worked together to fulfill his academic requirements, coaches stood beside their student-athlete, and staff coordinated the many details that made the ceremony possible. A community came together because one Panther mattered. Thank you!

This was more than a commencement ceremony. It was a powerful expression of our motto, Not Self, But Others, and a reminder of what makes Ferrum College so special. We do not simply speak about community; we live it. We do not simply prepare students for careers; we prepare them for lives of service and significance.

That same spirit of dedication and collaboration drives our broader progress. Ferrum Rising is ultimately about people – students who choose Ferrum College, families who entrust us with their children’s futures, faculty and staff who invest in student success, alumni who reconnect with their alma mater, and donors who believe in our mission.

Early in September, Ferrum College was honored to be named one of three finalists for Roanoke Region’s 2026 Business of the Year Award. While we did not receive the top distinction, being selected as a finalist was a significant honor and a strong affirmation of the important and transformative work taking place across the College. It was a meaningful recognition of the dedication, progress, and impact of YOU – our Ferrum College community. THANK YOU!

This is all possible through the collective efforts of our Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, coaches, students, alumni, donors, families, and friends, who continue to strengthen our foundation while advancing the mission of the College of Opportunity.

SAVE THE DATE!

Come Home. Join Us. Be Part of the Panther Family.
Fall is a special time at Ferrum College, and we want YOU to be part of the excitement! Mark your calendars for these upcoming opportunities to celebrate our campus, our traditions, and the Ferrum College spirit.

October 17 | Home Football Game
Come cheer on our Panthers and experience the pride, energy, and excitement of Ferrum Athletics.

October 24 | Ferrum College Blue Ridge Folklife Festival & Arts and Crafts Show
Celebrate the traditions, creativity, and community that make Ferrum College such a special place.

October 31 | Homecoming
Come home to Ferrum College! Reconnect with friends, celebrate our students, and join the Panther Family for a day of memories and fellowship.
Whether you are a student, family member, alumnus, friend, faculty member, staff member, or neighbor, there is a place for you at Ferrum College.
Show up. Wear your black and gold. Bring your Panther pride. Join the Panther Family!

Academic Affairs
Ferrum College continues to expand academic opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers while preserving the personal attention, mentorship, and hands-on learning that define a Ferrum College education.

Initiatives in engineering technology, nursing, education, and other professional pathways reflect our commitment to responding to workforce needs while maintaining a strong liberal arts foundation. These efforts require thoughtful collaboration among faculty, staff, and institutional leaders to ensure that innovation remains grounded in our mission and values while ensuring a Ferrum College education remains relevant.

Our responsibility extends beyond providing academic opportunities. We must ensure that students receive the support and encouragement they need to persist, graduate, and achieve their goals.

As you know, four new academic programs were approved by our Board: Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technologies (BSET), Accelerated RN to Masters in Nursing (MSN); Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Masters in Athletic Training (MSAT). Thank you to everyone for carrying out this important work.

In addition, a $3 million Title III grant was submitted to DoE to support the launch of the BSET.
20% increase in returning students – The College achieved its strongest first-year retention results in recent history, representing the highest retention percentage believed to have been achieved since becoming a baccalaureate institution – (50 years ago!!!)

The STAR Program continues to demonstrate the impact of focused student support. During the past year, 134 students participated in full-semester STAR programming, and 89 experienced GPA improvement. These results reinforce the value of intentional intervention and individualized support.
Moving forward, student success will require continued collaboration across campus. Faculty, staff, coaches, advisors, and every member of the Panther Family have a role in helping our students reach graduation and prepare for lives of service and significance.

Financial Stewardship
The long-term success of Ferrum College depends upon responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. Over the past year, we have continued strengthening our financial foundation through careful planning, disciplined decision-making, and a shared commitment to sustainability.
Ferrum College presented a balanced FY 2026–27 budget to the Board, contingent upon achieving certain milestones. Achieving the balanced budget depends upon meeting enrollment expectations, monitoring our financial position carefully, and maintaining appropriate cost-containment measures. We must remain disciplined in our spending and responsive to changing circumstances as we work to achieve the balanced budget we proposed.
To everyone who has contributed to this progress, thank you. A stronger financial foundation will allow us to sustain and strengthen the people, programs, and opportunities that make a Ferrum College education transformational.

Athletics
Ferrum College’s transition to NCAA Division II continues to expand opportunities for student-athletes while contributing to enrollment, campus engagement, and Panther pride.
During the current academic year, Ferrum College supports 21 NCAA athletic teams and 578 student-athletes. Approximately 255 new student-athletes joined the College this year, representing an important part of our enrollment momentum.
Our commitment extends beyond competition. Student-athletes achieved a cumulative GPA of 3.17, reflecting the importance of balancing academic responsibilities with athletic participation.
The Division II journey is about developing the whole person—academically, athletically, and personally. Continued progress will require careful planning, sound financial stewardship, and the collective commitment of our Panther Family.

Campus Operations
Physical Plant
The dedicated work of our Physical Plant team provides the foundation for a campus where students can live, learn, and thrive. Throughout the past year, the team has balanced daily operational needs with major repairs, infrastructure projects, campus improvements, and the preparation of residential spaces for students.
Among the most significant accomplishments was the repair and restoration of Adams Lake and the dam, returning the lake to normal water levels and preserving a beloved feature of the Ferrum College campus.

The team also completed critical infrastructure work and continued addressing residential and campus needs, including the reconstruction of Moore Hall following the sprinkler break and flooding. These efforts are essential to maintaining safe, functional facilities and a positive experience for students, employees, and visitors.
We recognize that maintaining an aging campus infrastructure requires ongoing attention and investment. The work of our Physical Plant team remains essential to the College’s daily operations and long-term sustainability.

Student Affairs
Student success begins with belonging, and Student Affairs plays a central role in creating an environment where students are known, supported, engaged, and encouraged to grow as individuals and leaders. This year, the division has continued developing initiatives to strengthen students’ connections to campus life, including more intentional opportunities for commuter students to participate and engage throughout the day. This opportunity was identified through the Campus Climate Survey that was conducted last fiscal year.
Through programming, support services, leadership opportunities, campus traditions, and student-centered initiatives, Student Affairs continues working to ensure that every student has opportunities to build meaningful relationships and feel connected to the Panther Family.

Enrollment Management
Ferrum College continues to build enrollment momentum as more students and families recognize the value of a Ferrum College education.
Enrollment has surpassed 1,000 students, reaching its highest level in six years and representing 57% growth since 2023. This progress reflects the dedication of our Admissions team, faculty, staff, coaches, alumni, and many others who share the Ferrum College story and welcome prospective students into our community.
While this growth is encouraging, enrollment remains challenging and a priority of the College. We must continue reaching prospective students, strengthening the recruitment process, and helping families understand the academic opportunities, personal attention, and value that distinguish Ferrum College.

Institutional Advancement
The generosity and commitment of the Ferrum College community continue to make a meaningful difference. During the past year, Advancement efforts generated more than $2 million in annual giving, including significant estate commitments. These gifts represent more than financial support. They reflect a belief in our students, our mission, and the generations of Panthers who will follow.

The Ferrum Rising vision provides a framework for engaging alumni, donors, and friends in advancing the priorities that will shape the future of the College. Every gift, conversation, introduction, and expression of support helps strengthen our ability to provide transformational educational opportunities.
We are deeply grateful to those who continue to invest in Ferrum College and believe in what our students can accomplish.
We also recognize the need to continue to identify and engage with our alumni. Efforts in this area have increased with regional alumni meetings and will need to increase further to help bring our alumni home.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey Together
As we look toward the future, we do so with gratitude for the progress we have made and a clear understanding of the work that remains. Enrollment growth, student retention, academic innovation, financial sustainability, philanthropy, alumni engagement, and operational excellence must remain shared priorities. These efforts are interconnected, and success in one area strengthens our ability to advance the others.

We celebrate where Ferrum College is today, while recognizing we have not yet reached where we need or want to be. There is still important work ahead.
Enrollment and student success require all hands on deck. Every member of the Panther Family has a role in sharing the story of Ferrum College, welcoming prospective students and their families, supporting those already here, and helping our students persist through graduation.

The true measure of our progress is found not simply in numbers, budgets, or new programs, but in the lives we change: the student who discovers confidence because a faculty member believes in them, the graduate who enters a profession prepared to serve, and the family who knows Ferrum College is where their student belongs.

Ferrum College is stronger today because of the dedication of people who believe in this institution and in the students we serve. We have momentum, a clear sense of purpose, and a community committed to the work ahead. Every improvement creates another opportunity to transform a life through education.

Thank you for all you do for Ferrum College and for the students who entrust us with their futures. Together, we will continue building a College of Opportunity where students enter with promise, leave with purpose, and lead lives of service and significance.

Onward and Upward with gratitude!
M3

The post September 2026 Update From the President appeared first on Ferrum College.

The first-year investment from the U.S. Department of Education will support the development of an applied, hands-on engineering technology degree designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in civil, construction, and environmental engineering fields. The program will combine academic instruction, embedded internships, registered apprenticeships, and industry-aligned credentials to equip students with the skills employers need now and in the future.

Chairman of the Ferrum College Board of Trustees Scott Showalter praised the College’s boldness and the promise of the new program.

“Ferrum College has always believed in the power of education to change lives,” said Showalter. “This first-year funding is a remarkable investment in that belief. It will open doors for students who may never have imagined a path into engineering technology and will help build a stronger workforce for the communities we serve. We are proud of the leadership that brought this opportunity to fruition and grateful for the confidence this award places in Ferrum College.”

Ferrum College President Mirta M. Martin said the funding is a meaningful step forward for the institution and the region it serves.

“This is a powerful affirmation of Ferrum College’s mission as a College of Opportunity,” said Martin. “This first-year funding allows us to begin expanding access to a high-value academic program that will prepare students for meaningful careers while also strengthening the economic future of rural Virginia. We are deeply grateful for the support that made this possible, and we are excited to see the impact this program will have on our students, our region, and generations to come.”

Provost Richard Grant emphasized the program’s academic significance and its alignment with Ferrum College’s mission.

“The launch of Engineering Technology represents an important step forward for Ferrum College and the students we serve,” said Grant. “This program brings together rigorous academics, applied learning, industry partnerships, and career preparation in a way that aligns directly with workforce needs across Virginia. Most importantly, it creates new opportunities for our students to earn a high-value degree, gain practical experience, and enter careers where they can make an immediate impact. This is exactly the kind of innovative, mission-driven program that expands opportunities for students while strengthening the future of the region.”

The Engineering Technology program was developed in response to documented workforce needs and sustained student interest in engineering-related pathways. It will serve Ferrum College’s largely rural, Pell-Grant-eligible, and first-generation student population by providing access to a career-focused degree that aligns directly with employer demand in the Commonwealth and beyond.

The first-year funding will support key elements of the program’s launch, including specialized laboratory equipment, renovation and modernization of instructional space in Bassett Hall, and the hiring of essential personnel to guide curriculum development, internships, apprenticeships, and student success. During this implementation year, 100% of grant program activities will be financed with federal money. As proposed in the grant application, non-governmental sources will not be utilized to finance the program. The program will also include embedded credit-bearing internships and direct employer engagement to ensure that graduates are ready to contribute immediately in technical fields.

The new degree program is expected to strengthen the region’s economic vitality by preparing graduates for careers in infrastructure, utilities, construction, and environmental systems—fields that are essential to the future of rural Virginia. Through partnerships with employers and community colleges, the program will also create pathways for transfer students and working adults seeking advancement through higher education.

Ferrum College officials noted that the funding supports not only academic growth but also long-term institutional sustainability. The program is expected to generate new enrollment, expand access to career pathways, and create a model that benefits students, families, employers, and the broader region.

“This is exactly the kind of mission-driven innovation Ferrum College was created to provide,” President Martin added. “We serve students who are determined to build better lives for themselves and their families. This funding helps us meet that promise in an even more powerful way.”

Implementation will begin immediately, with facility preparation, curriculum finalization, personnel hiring, and employer partnership development already underway. The College expects the first cohort of students to enroll for fall 2027 classes.

More Information

Information on Engineering Technology Program

Article on new engineering technology and nursing programs

About Ferrum College

Founded in 1913, Ferrum College is a private, professional four-year liberal arts college nestled in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. As the College of Opportunity, Ferrum College offers an academically rigorous, hands-on education that empowers students to discover their purpose, develop their talents, and lead lives of service and significance. Guided by its enduring motto, Not Self, But Others, Ferrum College is committed to developing graduates of character who lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities. Through innovative academic programs, NCAA Division II athletics, experiential learning, and a steadfast commitment to student success, Ferrum College prepares graduates  who enter with promise, leave with purpose, and transform the world. Click here to learn more.

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