Alethea “AJ” Robinson, a member of the local board at Southwest Virginia Community College and local board liaison to the SWCC Educational Foundation board, has recently been appointed by Governor Glenn Youngkin to the state board of the Virginia Community College System. This appointment marks a significant step in Robinson’s ongoing commitment to education and community development in Virginia.
“AJ’s appointment to the VCCS board strongly reflects her commitment to higher education and community colleges. Her excellence and passion, which have greatly benefited our local college board, will now extend to impact community colleges throughout the Commonwealth positively. Her ability to inspire and innovate is certain to shape the future of higher education, enhancing it for students, educators, and communities alike,” said Dr. Tommy Wright, President of Southwest Virginia Community College.
AJ Robinson, newly appointed Virginia Community College System state board member. (contributed photo)
Robinson is the Director of Communications and Tourism for Tazewell County, Virginia, overseeing the County’s public relations, tourism industry, and recreational development. Previously, she worked in the United States Senate. A native of the Commonwealth, Robinson is passionate about serving her community and serves on the boards of the Virginia Tourism Authority, Appalachian School of Law, United Way of Southwest Virginia, Southwest Virginia Community College’s Foundation Board, Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority, and the Crooked Road. Robinson resides in Bluefield with her husband Erik, and their twins, Ava Sophia and Dalton.
“I am honored to have been appointed by Governor Youngkin to serve on the Virginia Community College Board. Community colleges are vital contributors to our economy, offering accessible education and serving as a catalyst for workforce and economic development. By equipping students from diverse backgrounds with the necessary skills and knowledge, community colleges empower them to thrive in their chosen careers. I look forward to working with my board colleagues, Chancellor Doré, and college administrators to ensure our community colleges across the Commonwealth continue to provide exceptional opportunities to empower students to succeed in today’s economy,” said Robinson.