FERRUM, VA, November 4, 2026 — Ferrum College will honor the men and women who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces during its annual Veterans Day program on Wednesday, November 11, at 11:30 a.m. in Vaughn Chapel. The event is free and open to the public.
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.
