Ferrum, VA, January 8, 2026 — “The Roanoker” magazine’s “40 Under 40” Class of 2026 includes two Ferrum College alumni: Rachel Walton ‘15, and Tyler Lee ‘14. Each year the magazine recognizes forty Roanoke Valley professionals nominated by readers and chosen by the magazine’s editorial team for their outstanding leadership, early career achievements, and community involvement.
Rachel Walton, director of Stanley Library at Ferrum College, completed an M.A. in Information and Library Science from the University of South Carolina in 2025, as well as leading a number of new initiatives in the College’s library operations, tutoring services, and first-year experience program. She commented in the magazine article, “Teaching at the college level matters deeply to me because it allows me to help students discover their potential and their place in the world. Higher education plays an essential role in shaping both individual lives and the future of our community.”
Walton’s nomination for this honor stresses her work building partnerships with all departments of the College and the Franklin County Public Library. Her undergraduate majors in both history and recreation leadership have influenced her efforts to ensure that the library is a welcoming place serving all students and the community. She said that the goal of both recreation and librarianship is “creating spaces where people can grow, connect and find joy in discovery. Whether through a classroom, a library or a trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains, these experiences foster curiosity, reflection and community.”
Click here to read the magazine’s page about Rachel Walton.
Tyler Lee works in banking with a focus on serving medical professionals. His many community involvements include serving on the Rocky Mount Town Council, where he became the youngest-ever member in 2020. After graduating from Ferrum with a B.S. in Health Sciences and minors in psychology and coaching, he earned a Master of Healthcare Administration degree from Radford University in 2021. He was recognized with the Ferrum College Health Sciences Alumni of The Year award in 2019. Lee continues to serve Ferrum College as a volunteer tennis advisor.
In the magazine article, Lee says “The Roanoke Valley’s strength is its distinctive blend of rural values and dynamic growth. My inspiration is drawn from a vision of what is possible when a community balances tradition with ambition.” His nomination stresses his ability to excel in a wide variety of professional, community, and personal roles; his “combination of professional excellence and authentic compassion makes him truly stand out.”
Click here to read the magazine’s page about Tyler Lee.
The Franklin County Board of Supervisors will recognize the eight Franklin County members of this year’s “40 Under 40” class at its January meeting in Rocky Mount.
“The Roanoker” website says, “We honor the young professionals working to affect positive change in our community.” They “represent the talent, passion and dedication shaping the Roanoke Valley today and for years to come, inspiring innovation, strengthening our communities and leaving a lasting impact on the region they call home.”
