Published on March 25th, 2026
Last modified March 25th, 2026 03:44 pm
CEDAR BLUFF, Va. — Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) formally honored its founding president, Dr. Charles R. King, today with a road-naming ceremony recognizing his decades of visionary leadership and enduring legacy at the college.
During a ceremony held at Dellinger Hall, the roadway encircling the SWCC campus was officially designated Dr. Charles R. King Road, following the adoption of a resolution by the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors. The resolution commemorates Dr. King’s unparalleled service to the college, the Virginia Community College System, and the citizens of Southwest Virginia.
Dr. King served as the first president of Southwest Virginia Community College from its founding until his retirement on January 1, 2007, after four decades of service. He remains the longest-serving president in the history of SWCC and across the Virginia Community College System.
“Dr. King’s leadership shaped not only this institution, but the educational and economic landscape of Southwest Virginia,” said Dr. Clint Hayes, president of Southwest Virginia Community College. “Naming this road in his honor ensures that his vision, commitment, and belief in students will remain a visible and permanent part of our campus.”
The ceremony included remarks from Virginia State Senator Travis Hackworth, Tazewell County Board of Supervisors member Curt Breeding, and Dr. King himself, followed by the presentation of the official road sign.
The resolution adopted by the Board of Supervisors recognizes Dr. King’s role in establishing high-quality educational programs, expanding access to higher education, and championing the belief that there should be “no student left behind.” A legacy of that commitment is the Dr. Charles and Mary King Scholarship, established in his honor.
Dr. King came to Tazewell County in 1967 after serving at a community college in North Carolina. A former athlete and coach, he is remembered for his strong, steady leadership, deep affection for students, faculty, and staff, and unwavering dedication to the mission of community colleges.
The designation of Dr. Charles R. King Road stands as a lasting tribute to a leader whose influence continues to guide Southwest Virginia Community College and the communities it serves.