Southwest Virginia Community College (Southwest) honored its inaugural president, Dr. Charles King, on his 90th birthday on Saturday, March 23, 2024, with a celebration and special recognitions.
The college’s Educational Foundation and King’s family members hosted the birthday celebration at the Appalachian Art and Event Center in Cedar Bluff, Va. King’s leadership from 1967 to his retirement in 2006 was instrumental in establishing and guiding the college through its formative years and beyond.
The celebration also highlighted the Virginia House of Delegates’ recognition of King, with the adoption of a resolution in his honor at this year’s General Assembly session. Attendees reflected on King’s legacy and his role in shaping the educational landscape of southwest Virginia.
In acknowledgment of his contributions, Dr. Tommy Wright, the current president at Southwest, presented King with the title of President Emeritus of Southwest Virginia Community College. This title, given by the State Board for the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), is a mark of distinction for retired staff who have dedicated over ten years of exceptional service in leadership capacities, including the presidency, to the VCCS.
