Published on August 23rd, 2024
Last modified August 26th, 2024 03:25 pm
It is with deep sorrow that we share news of the passing of Bill Akers, a beloved and esteemed member of our college community. Bill’s contributions to our institution were immeasurable, spanning many years of dedicated service.
Known for his exceptional med flight experience and leadership as chair of several boards, Bill consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in his professional endeavors. However, it was his personal qualities that truly set him apart. Colleagues remember Bill for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support, which made him a cherished friend and mentor to many.
Bill’s impact extended beyond the workplace, touching the lives of students and community members alike. His smile and kind words were a constant source of encouragement to those around him.
As we mourn the loss of a colleague and friend, we also celebrate the lasting legacy Bill leaves behind. His dedication to our institution and his passion for his work will continue to inspire us for years.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill’s family during this difficult time.
Bill Akers will be deeply missed, but his memory and contributions will forever remain a cherished part of our college’s history.
For those struggling with this loss, we remind our college community that support is available. Faculty and staff are here to listen and provide comfort during this difficult time. Additionally, TimelyCare is a free service for Southwest students and employees that offers professional counseling and mental health support. We encourage anyone who needs assistance to reach out and utilize these resources.
In honor of Akers, the SWCC Educational Foundation, Inc., is establishing the William “Bill” Akers, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, dedicated to supporting paramedic students. The scholarship celebrates the life of Bill Akers’ contributions to emergency medical services (EMS) in Southwest Virginia. Dr. Bob Mueller, a friend and former colleague of Bill Akers, donated initial funding for this memorial scholarship.
Dr. Mueller, who has committed $5,000 to the scholarship, hopes his contribution will inspire others to support this cause. The SWCC Educational Foundation is seeking additional donors to match Dr. Mueller’s gift, with the goal of endowing the scholarship at a minimum of $10,000. This endowment will ensure that the scholarship continues to assist future paramedic students for years to come.
“Bill Akers epitomized a dedication to improving emergency medical care throughout Southwest Virginia by elevating the training and skill levels of pre-hospital providers. He will be greatly missed. This scholarship will ensure his passion endures,” said Dr. Bob Mueller.
Akers dedicated over forty years of his life to serving others, wearing many hats to improve the quality of emergency medical care in the region. He taught chemistry at St. Paul High School before becoming the training coordinator for the Southwest Virginia EMS Council, where he improved EMS education in the region. His passion for quality patient care led him to become the program director for the Southwest Virginia Paramedic Program, a role in which he was immensely proud. Under his leadership, the program expanded from a single class in Richlands, Virginia, to offering paramedic-level education throughout the region, including leading all EMS programs at SWCC. Additionally, he introduced EMT programs, broadening opportunities for community members to serve in EMS roles. Akers also mentored emerging paramedic programs across the Commonwealth and actively participated in regional and state committees to advance EMS education.
Beyond his educational roles, Akers had a distinguished career as an actively practicing paramedic. He served his hometown of Lebanon, Virginia, with the Lebanon Lifesaving Crew since the 1980s, eventually becoming the agency captain for over two decades. In his later years, he continued to contribute as a member of the agency’s Board of Directors. Akers was also one of the original paramedics in the Virginia State Police Med-Flight II program in Abingdon, Virginia, beginning his service in 1987. Despite his numerous responsibilities, he remained deeply committed to the mission of Med-Flight, continuing to work as a flight paramedic.
Throughout his career, Akers received numerous awards and recognitions from local, regional, and state organizations, including the prestigious “2023 Governor’s EMS Award for Excellence in Emergency Medical Services,” presented by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin at the Governor’s Mansion in Richmond, Virginia.
Donations to The William “Bill” Akers, Jr. Memorial Scholarship can be made through the SWCC Educational Foundation, Inc. Every contribution will help the college reach its goal, support more students, and ensure that this scholarship remains available to students for years to come.
Those interested in contributing should contact Dr. Susan Lowe at 276-964-7304 or email susan.lowe@sw.edu.
About the Educational Foundation: Founded in 1981, the Southwest Virginia Community College Educational Foundation supports the college’s mission by providing financial assistance and opportunities to students, faculty, and staff. Governed by a board of community leaders, the non-profit has grown significantly since its inception and offers numerous scholarships to students from Buchanan, Dickenson (partial), Russell, and Tazewell Counties.
Contact:
Southwest Virginia Community College Educational Foundation, Inc. Dr. Susan Lowe Phone: 276-964-7304 Email: susan.lowe@sw.edu