New Foundation Executive Director

The Southwest Virginia Community College Educational Foundation has appointed Stacey McGhee as its new Executive Director. With her deep-rooted commitment spanning over a decade, McGhee is poised to fortify the Foundation’s support of the college’s mission, leveraging her comprehensive institutional understanding and her community and donor relationships.

Throughout her career at Southwest, McGhee has displayed versatility by managing scholarships, endowments, supervising budgeting, and donor relationships. Additionally, her contributions span board development, fundraising, campaign orchestration, event planning, alumni engagement, and program innovation, underscoring her broad range of expertise.

“I am deeply honored to take on this new role. The legacy of the Foundation is profound, and my primary goal is to build upon the work that others have done before me.By fostering relationships and spearheading innovative initiatives, we can continue to expand our impact and provide unparalleled opportunities for our students and community,” said McGhee.

Susan Lowe, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at the college and former Foundation Executive Director, says, “I am so pleased that Stacey has accepted this role. She has spent the past 11 years working in various roles within the foundation and has an unmatched understanding of our community and our donors. We are confident in her ability to lead the Foundation to new heights.”

As Executive Director, McGhee will spearhead the Foundation’s strategic initiatives and oversee its daily operations. This includes the Appalachian Arts and Events Center in Cedar Bluff and the new student housing facilities. These accommodations can house well over 100 students, offering proximity to the campus with the latest development at Eagle Valley directly across the road from the college, and Midway Apartments situated just a brief drive away.

“I’ve met some truly amazing people and witnessed dreams coming true first hand. It’s both humbling and inspiring. As the Executive Director, my mission is clear: to propel the Foundation forward, ensuring our impact resonates even louder,” said McGhee.

Established in 1981, the Southwest Virginia Community College Educational Foundation was created to secure essential financial support for both the college and its students. Its core mission is to reinforce the college’s objectives while addressing the needs and expanding opportunities for students, faculty, and staff. Operating as a non-profit, the Foundation is overseen by a Board of Directors comprising esteemed leaders from the community.

Over the years, the Foundation’s assets have grown significantly, which has enabled it to provide thousands of financial scholarships to students from the college’s service region of Buchanan, Dickenson (partial), Russell, and Tazewell Counties. Gifts of cash, securities, bequests and trusts, equipment, and services have been provided by individuals, families, foundations, and service organizations.

All gifts to the Foundation are tax-deductible within the guidelines of the Internal Revenue Service.

For more information, visit sw.edu/edfoundation