鈥嬧�婬ilary Echols writes fiction and nonfiction that inspire a love of learning, an appreciation of others, and a curiosity about the natural world. After studying English and elementary education in college, she spent a season in the classroom and eventually had the privilege of homeschooling her own children. She currently lives and writes in Virginia with her husband, kids, and a chocolate lab named Bear. She is represented by Lori Steel of SteelWorks Literary.

Toni R. Settles is an author, literacy advocate, and founder of Well Read Child, an organization dedicated to increasing access to diverse children鈥檚 books. A proud Washingtonian and mother of two, she creates stories that celebrate identity, confidence, and imagination. Through books, school book fairs, and community programs, Toni works to ensure every child can see themselves reflected in the stories they read and the dreams they pursue.

A wild thunderstorm may have disrupted the order of events at Laurel Ridge鈥檚 20th anniversary celebration for the Luray-Page County Center (LPCC) on June 11, but it wasn鈥檛 enough to put a damper on the spirits of those in attendance. Speeches by President Kim Blosser, current students, alumni and supporters were moved inside Jenkins Hall, as was the buffet line, but a stoppage of the storm and cooler temperatures lured diners back outside to the large tent erected for the occasion.

The original LPCC opened in September 2006, in the former Vanity Fair Wrangler Annex building on North Hawksbill Street in Luray. The new 13,000-square-foot center located near the Walmart on land donated to the Laurel Ridge Educational Foundation opened five years ago. With this new site, Laurel Ridge has been able to expand its class offerings with the presence of on-site trades and science labs.

鈥淭his week, we started our first cohort of the certified nurse assistant program,鈥� said President Kim Blosser, who noted that the center has been home to a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program since 2022.

The PTA course had been operated as an accredited satellite site for Germanna Community College鈥檚 program, but starting this fall, Laurel Ridge will be an accredited independent operator of the program.

In the 20 years since its inception, the LPCC has served 2,875 students. President Blosser was one of several speakers to pay tribute to longtime LPCC Manager Judy Suddith.

鈥淎lmost since the very beginning, Judy Suddith has been a constant presence here,鈥� said Dr. Blosser. 鈥淪he has been an adviser, and has now taught hundreds of students. She serves as a mentor to many students.鈥�

In more recent years, Suddith has added teaching English classes to her duties.

鈥淚 told her my plan, and she was just as determined for me to succeed as I was,鈥� student Sophia Wolf, who wants to become an art teacher, said of Suddith. 鈥淪he has given me the support and drive to succeed in my education. I leave this campus knowing that she isn鈥檛 just my adviser and my teacher 鈥� she鈥檚 my very best friend.鈥�

Jessica Knight, who is the vice president of administration and executive operations at Pioneer Bank, graduated from Laurel Ridge in 2007. She said she was the very first work-study student at the LPCC.

鈥淏efore this beautiful building existed, Laurel Ridge was already helping me and so many others pave our path to success,鈥� said Knight, who chose the college for its affordability and proximity.

Former Page County Public Schools Superintendent Donna Whitley-Smith, the vice chair of the Laurel Ridge Educational Foundation Board, was the evening鈥檚 final speaker.

鈥淚 have been a witness of how this college has impacted lives and opened doors,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he presence of this college says something important about our community 鈥� we鈥檙e willing to commit to a better future for those who follow us.鈥�

Just shy of 3,000 Page County residents have been served by the LPCC since it first opened in 2006. The vast majority 鈥� 2,573 鈥� have taken college credits. The remainder have taken Workforce Solutions classes 鈥� 226 鈥� and Adult Education classes 鈥� 76. Our credit students have earned an average of 14 credit hours each. The 923 LPCC students who have graduated from the college have earned a combined 1,564 degrees and certificates.

The college鈥檚 most recent issue of The Laureate provides a more in-depth focus on the LPCC.

At Laurel Ridge, sometimes meaningful change begins with a simple conversation. Nearly a decade ago, a chance discussion between a college employee and a dedicated Rotarian sparked an idea鈥攐ne that has since evolved into an international outreach effort bringing dental care to those who need it.

That impact was clearly felt during a recent four-day service experience in Negril, Jamaica. In just a few days, more than 100 patients received care鈥攎any experiencing a professional dental cleaning for the very first time. For Laurel Ridge, those moments go far beyond numbers. They reflect the college鈥檚 commitment to expanding access to care while shaping compassionate, skilled professionals.

This work is powered by a strong partnership with Rotary. Through global grants, a simple shipping container was transformed into a fully equipped dental clinic鈥攏ow a welcoming, functional space serving patients year-round. It stands as a powerful example of what鈥檚 possible when organizations align around a shared purpose.

For recent graduates of Laurel Ridge鈥檚 Dental Hygiene Program, the experience is both a milestone and a beginning. Stacey Escobar, Dahye Seo, and Nataly Hernandez each put their training into action, navigating real-world challenges while building meaningful connections with patients. It鈥檚 an opportunity to step confidently into their careers while making an immediate difference.

Back in Middletown, that same philosophy guides the Laurel Ridge dental clinic. Community members can receive free cleanings while students complete clinical hours鈥攃reating a shared experience that benefits both learning and access to care.

The Dental Hygiene Program remains intentionally small and highly focused, accepting just 18 students every two years. Looking ahead, opportunities to get involved continue to grow. From volunteering as a patient, to supporting future trips or even traveling to Jamaica, there are many ways to be part of this work. At Laurel Ridge, education reaches beyond the classroom鈥攃onnecting people, strengthening communities, and changing lives.

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The college was recognized for its community contributions during the 100th annual Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce banquet and awards ceremony May 28.

The Nonprofit Excellence Award is presented to a nonprofit chamber member that goes above and beyond in communicating its mission and tirelessly works towards goals that not only align with a common purpose, but also have a positive impact on the larger community, while also actively fostering relations with other nonprofits to promote collaboration and a collective effort to address community needs and being committed to a lasting positive community impact. The chamber was looking to recognize an organization鈥檚 outstanding leadership and the significant benefits it brings through service, mentoring and community outreach efforts.

鈥淲e are so honored to receive the Excellence Award from the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce, one of our long-term partners equally dedicated to serving all of the citizens of Luray and Page County,鈥� said Laurel Ridge President Kim Blosser. 鈥淲e just celebrated the 20th anniversary of having a physical presence in the Luray-Page area, and that wouldn鈥檛 have been possible without all of the local support we have received. We are excited to continue to serve the residents and businesses in this area for many years to come.鈥�

The nomination for Laurel Ridge noted that more than 1,500 degrees and certificates have been awarded to students who have attended the Luray-Page County Center (LPCC) since it opened 20 years ago. The center has served around 2,600 credit students, 230 Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions students and 80 Adult Education students.

鈥淧age County Public Schools has a strong tradition of encouraging its high school students to take dual-enrollment courses offered through Laurel Ridge and of supporting their teachers in earning the necessary credentials to teach those classes that deliver both high school and college credits,鈥� the nomination states. 鈥淣ot only do these DE classes save Page County residents tuition dollars when they transfer to four-year colleges and universities, they also help them save time, develop the skills to take on the rigor of college-level courses and become more impressive job applicants.

During the 2024-25 academic year, there were 146 dual-enrolled students from the county, up from 141 the previous year.

My name is Erika Santiago the founder of She Is More Co. and author of You Are Not Alone. I am a mother of three and caregiver to a child with complex medical needs, I write from lived experience with grief, healing, and resilience. Through my work, I encourages women to rediscover their strength, reclaim their identity, and remember they are never alone in their journey.

群交AV has been notified of the passing of our second president, Dr. Marilyn C. Beck. Dr. Beck died on May 7, at her beloved home, 鈥淭he Barn,鈥� in Andalusia, Alabama. She was 86.

While founding President Dr. William McCoy is credited with establishing the college, Dr. Beck鈥檚 tenure, from 1988 to 2003, marked a period of remarkable growth and transformation. Under her leadership, the college evolved into a comprehensive community college, expanding beyond a traditional liberal arts curriculum to include high-demand, career and vocational programs that served the needs of more students and the region.

Dr. Beck was instrumental in broadening access to higher education across the service area. Most notably, she oversaw the development and opening of the Fauquier Campus in 1989, and later the construction of Wolk Hall. Her tenure also included the gift of 20 acres of property in Middletown from the estate of Garland Snapp, which now holds the Student Union Building, as well as the establishment of the Warren French Telecommunications Center during the rise of distance learning and the creation of a learning lab in the Paul Wolk Library on the Middletown Campus.

A skilled fundraiser and grant writer, Dr. Beck significantly strengthened the college鈥檚 financial footing. She not only secured funding, but also mentored her team in grant writing, resulting in Laurel Ridge receiving at least $35 million in state and federal grants during her presidency. These funds supported curriculum enhancement, faculty development, student success initiatives, endowment growth, facilities, and institutional effectiveness. She also led the effort to secure a $500,000 federal Title III endowment grant, successfully raising the required $250,000 in matching funds alongside Foundation Board members.

Dr. Beck built and engaged a highly effective Educational Foundation Board, with whom she helped raise millions of dollars for scholarships, capital improvements, and the college endowment. During her leadership, the foundation supported numerous successful events, including the Hart Gala, Dollars for Scholars gala, truck parties, and the Shrimp Feast. Funds raised also supported the college鈥檚 first architectural master plan and led to the launch of its first major gift campaign in 1993, which helped fund scholarships and the community cultural center in Middletown 鈥� now known as the Corron Community Development Center.

Her commitment to the arts enriched campus life in meaningful ways. Through grants and partnerships, including one with the Corcoran Art Gallery in Washington, D.C., students gained increased exposure to the fine and performing arts. Highlights included a Carnegie Hall grand piano, a year-long artist-in-residence program, and use of the library atrium as a community arts gallery.

Colleagues remember Dr. Beck鈥檚 attention to detail and pride in maintaining beautiful campuses, including securing grants for landscaping improvements, such as trees and shrubs. They also fondly recall her personal touch 鈥� sharing her homemade pecan tarts with legislators, colleagues, and community members. It is estimated that she baked and gave away more than 3,000 tarts during her time as president.

After leaving Virginia in 2003, Dr. Beck returned home to Alabama, where she went on to serve as the fourth president of Calhoun Community College in Decatur. Under her leadership, Calhoun grew to become the largest community college in the state, serving more than 12,000 students by 2010.

For more than 50 years, Dr. Beck devoted her life to education, inspiring countless students, faculty, and staff to believe in themselves and embrace the joy of learning and teaching. Her career was defined by her deep commitment to students, her passion for excellence, and her ability to bring people together in service of a shared vision. Dr. Beck will be remembered for her extraordinary leadership, her generosity of spirit, and the lasting impact she made on 群交AV and the broader higher education community.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Jeremy Rodgers is a musician, producer, poet, and author based in Linden VA. He has written a variety of fiction books, a book of poetry, and released many albums, both solo and as the leader of the Helltown Riffraff.

Tj 翱鈥机辞苍苍辞谤 is the award-winning author of The Whisper Legacy, The Dead Detective Casefiles, and other thrillers and mysteries. Tj is an international security consultant specializing in anti-terrorism, investigations, and threat analysis鈥攍ife experiences that drive his novels. He has lived and worked around the world in places like Greece, Turkey, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, and throughout the Americas鈥攁mong others. He's a Harley Davidson pilot, an avid cook, and a man about dogs.

群交AV recently bestowed emeritus status on two retired professors and three retired classified employees. The college honors up to two faculty members each year with this status, recognizing their exceptional service and contributions to Laurel Ridge. They must have at least 10 years of service in the Virginia Community College System (VCCS).

Math Professor Eunice Myers and Biology Professor Brenda Wiens were granted emerita status this year.

The nominations for Professor Myers, who was with the college from 2009-21, noted she worked hard to ensure every student was successful, especially championing students taking developmental math classes.

鈥淪he wanted them to succeed and to prosper in the subsequent math courses that they would need to get their degrees,鈥� one nomination says.

It also detailed how when the college began its Education program in 2004, many teachers seeking licensure struggled to pass the required math courses, Professor Myers 鈥渉ad a natural way of putting teachers at ease and helped them to build their confidence so they could master鈥� the required math skills.

鈥淪he is an excellent mentor and spent countless hours with students one on one helping them with math fundamentals,鈥� another nomination states. 鈥淚 was able to cheer her on when she taught her first online class and have seen the amazing work she did when transitioning to totally virtual education due to the pandemic.鈥�

Professor Emerita Myers said the college was a great place to work with friendly and helpful colleagues.

鈥溔航籄V really is a family,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a place where you can grow in your career. It gave me opportunities to get involved in other aspects of the college. My life has been so enriched because of my experience at Laurel Ridge.鈥�

Biology Professor Ann Simpson presented the second professor emerita award to Professor Wiens, who taught Anatomy and Physiology, as well as Cell and Molecular Biology in addition to General Biology, while working at Laurel Ridge between 2008 and 2023.

鈥淗er classroom was a place of engagement, curiosity, and encouragement, where students felt supported and challenged in equal measure,鈥� said Professor Simpson. 鈥淪he was deeply involved in Student Life, serving for many years as a faculty advisor to the STEM Club. Under her guidance, students pursued hands-on projects that enriched both their education and the campus community.鈥�

Professor Emerita Wiens said she recently attended a Laurel Ridge Educational Foundation event where President Kim Blosser said that 鈥渃ommunity鈥� is the most important part of the college鈥檚 name.

鈥淭hat really resonated with me,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 think that鈥檚 what really drew me to the college in the first place. My parents impressed upon me the importance of education and the joy they found in lifelong learning, and I hope that I passed this along to my students.鈥�

To be considered for the honor of staff emeritus, the recipient must have had at least 10 years of full-time service in the VCCS. This year鈥檚 honorees were facilities maintenance lead Steve Ayers, administrative office specialist Linda Bursey and trades technician Sarah Kibler.

Ayers came to Laurel Ridge in 2013, 16 years after starting as an HVAC technician at Northern Virginia Community College, said Facilities Director Whitney Miller. Prior to that, he had served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps and 14 years in private industry.

鈥淎s facilities maintenance lead, Steve was deeply committed to ensuring the safety, functionality, and beauty of our campuses,鈥� said Miller. 鈥淗e approached his responsibilities with care and consistency – every single day, including weekends, when needed. Issues were addressed promptly, problems were solved thoughtfully, and operations ran smoothly because of his vigilance.

鈥淓ven in retirement, he has returned in a part-time capacity to assist with special projects. That we continue to rely on his experience speaks volumes about his impact 鈥� and about how deeply missed he would be without his continued presence. His contributions made 群交AV a stronger, more beautiful, and more functional place to learn and work.鈥�

Ayers said he was grateful to everyone who had supported him during the course of his employment.

鈥淚鈥檓 very honored and very humbled,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a wonderful place. It鈥檚 brought me a lot of joy.鈥�

Bursey was in the first class to attend Laurel Ridge in 1970, said library archivist John Owens.

鈥淎lmost immediately, she became part of the college family, taking a work-study position in the business office while pursuing her education,鈥� he said. 鈥淟inda graduated with honors in 1972, and the college made one thing very clear 鈥� it was not going to let her get away. The Monday following her graduation, Linda reported back to work, this time as a full-time employee in the business office. What followed was a 34-year career of exceptional service, culminating in her retirement in 2006.鈥�

She received the Distinguished Full-Time Staff Award in 1995, and in 2006, she was recognized by the Winchester International Association of Administrative Professionals as the Administrative Professional of the Year, among other honors.

Laurel Ridge has been a family affair, according to Bursey. Her husband and two daughters are graduates.

鈥淢y time at the college was 34 years of really good years,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he work was good, but the people were wonderful. I started as a teenager. I retired as a member of AARP.鈥�

Kibler spent 20 years at the college 鈥� 2003-23.

鈥淲ith her signature McDonald鈥檚 sweet tea in hand and a wry sense of humor at the ready, Sarah brought a moment of warmth and light to even the longest days,鈥� said library specialist Wyatt Vaught. 鈥淲hile Sarah technically worked for Buildings and Grounds, it鈥檚 more accurate to say she worked with nearly every department on campus. She knew everyone, and everyone knew her.

鈥淪arah took great pride in her work. She didn鈥檛 just keep things clean, she paid attention to the little details. Library calendars were never out of date on her watch. If someone forgot their keys, Sarah would quietly lock up behind them. If there was a small problem to fix or someone to help, she did it, no questions asked. Helping others came naturally to her.鈥�

Kibler didn鈥檛 deliver a big speech upon accepting her honor, but did get a laugh from those in attendance, joking, 鈥淵ou all do a great job. Mine was a little bit different 鈥� I liked to aggravate people.鈥�