Published on June 25th, 2025
Last modified June 25th, 2025 04:24 pm
Richmond – Randall Hillman of Honaker, Virginia, has received the 19th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. He was nominated for the award by Southwest Virginia Community College.
Hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE), more than two dozen individuals, families, and organizations were honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. The awards were presented at a luncheon ceremony in Richmond on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. VCCS Chancellor Dr. David Doré served as the emcee, and Mr. Mark Hourigan, founder and CEO of Hourigan, delivered the keynote address.
“Every time our donors support a scholarship, fund a new program, or an emergency grant, they are not just giving back, they are lifting up,” said Hourigan. “They are invaluable partners whose generosity can and does make the difference between a student dropping out or staying the course and realizing their true potential.”
Doré echoed those sentiments, adding that a culture of care can have a profound impact on student performance. “When our students realize that someone cares enough to help remove the formidable obstacles standing in their way, it’s life-changing,” he said. “The things they thought impossible suddenly become doable, and their confidence soars as a result.”This year’s class of distinguished philanthropy leaders has collectively contributed $24 million dollars to Virginia’s Community Colleges.
Mr. Hillman, a native of Russell County Virginia, has been a longtime dedicated supporter of Southwest and its students. He continuously showcases his commitment through various roles including Donor, Chair of the Southwest Local Advisory Board, and as a long-time participant in the SWCC Golf Classic. In addition to his contributions to education, Mr. Hillman serves on the Board of Directors for Russell County Hospital in Lebanon, VA. Beyond his civic engagements, he is known as a farmer, real estate developer, and successful businessman. Randall takes pride in his family life, cherishing his role as a father and grandfather.
Recipients of the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy:
About Southwest Virginia Community College:Southwest Virginia Community College was founded in 1967 and is in Cedar Bluff, Virginia. Serving the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell, it has served more than 115,000 students since its creation. For more information, please visit www.sw.edu.
About Virginia’s Community Colleges: Since 1966, Virginia’s Community Colleges have given everyone the opportunity to learn and develop the right skills so lives and communities are strengthened. By making higher education and workforce training available in every part of Virginia, we elevate all of Virginia. Together, Virginia’s Community Colleges serve approximately 230,000 students each year. For more information, please visit www.vccs.edu.
About the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education: As the supporting arm of Virginia’s 23 community colleges, the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE) broadens access to educational opportunities for all Virginians, while ensuring the long-term success of the Commonwealth and the needs of its workforce. To ensure access to high quality, affordable degrees and certifications, the Foundation’s statewide leadership raises funds and resources in order to supplement and support the activities of both individual students and community colleges. For more information on VFCCE and its mission, and to provide your support, visit www.vfcce.org.