Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center

09/18/2026

The new school year is officially underway at the Higher Ed Center! We asked a few of our students what they’re most excited about this semester.
Wishing all our students a great year ahead. We’re so glad you’re here! 💙

09/18/2026

Thank you to Senator Todd Pillion for joining us to make this exciting grant announcement! We are eager to help first responders have the tools to more effectively respond to opioid overdoses.

As Chairman of the Opioid Abatement Authority, I’m honored to advocate for bringing resources back home and investing in the people on the front lines of the fight against addiction.

Today, I joined the monthly staff meeting at the SWVA Higher Education Center to announce a $62,665 Opioid Authority grant supporting simulation-based training for EMT and paramedic students.

This training will be deployed across Southwest Virginia to better prepare our first responders to address substance use disorders and support recovery.

09/17/2026

The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center has received $62,665 from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority to help current and future first responders prepare to save lives through realistic opioid overdose response training.

“The opioid epidemic has deeply affected families and communities across Southwest Virginia, and we have a responsibility to help prepare the healthcare professionals who respond when an overdose occurs,” said Karen Brown, Director of Healthcare Education Initiatives.

Read more about how we’re helping our communities: https://bit.ly/opioidgrant

09/16/2026

When the Higher Ed Center opened, five institutions came together to expand access to higher education in Southwest Virginia: the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Radford University, Clinch Valley College (now The University of Virginia's College at Wise), and Virginia Highlands Community College.

That spirit of collaboration still defines the Higher Ed Center today. By bringing partners together under one roof, we're able to create more opportunities for students, employers, and our region than any one institution could alone. Learn more about our partnerships and programs at www.swcenter.edu.

09/15/2026

09/15/2026

Give your middle schooler a fall break day made for discovery! 🩺💡

Introducing Discovery Days, hands-on experiences that help students in grades 6–8 explore careers, try something new and discover what excites them.

Our first theme is Healthcare & Innovative Technology. Students will explore healthcare careers, practice basic medical techniques and experience realistic scenarios in our Simulation Lab.

📅 Monday, October 12
⏰ 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
💵 $30

Seats are limited! Register your student today at www.swcenter.edu/discoverydays.

09/14/2026

Classes start tomorrow! 🎉

The College for Older Adults begins its fall term Tuesday, September 15. Adults 50 and older can enjoy six weeks of engaging classes, new connections and lifelong learning, with no homework, grades or tests.

There’s still time to join us! Learn more and register at www.swcenter.edu/coa

09/11/2026

When every second matters, preparation matters.

Team members from Highlands Air Medical Transport put their skills to work in our Simulation Lab this week while training with a new ventilator. They practiced responding to two high-stakes scenarios: a pediatric drowning emergency and a severe asthma emergency involving an adult. Both provided realistic opportunities to build confidence using the new technology when rapid assessment, sound decisions, and coordinated care are critical.

This is why hands-on simulation matters. It helps healthcare professionals turn new technology into confident action before real lives are on the line. We’re proud to provide a place where regional healthcare teams can sharpen their skills, strengthen teamwork, and prepare to deliver lifesaving care when their patients need it most.

Learn more about our Sim Lab at www.swcenter.edu/healthcare

09/10/2026

🎶 BIG NEWS FOR SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA! 🎶

Three Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees. One unforgettable evening. One powerful purpose.

Richard Leigh, Tony Arata and Roger Cook are coming together for an intimate evening of songs and stories supporting memorial scholarships for students pursuing education at the SWVA Higher Ed Center.

📅 Saturday, October 10
🕖 7 p.m. | Doors open at 6 p.m.
🎟️ General admission tickets are $40 per seat. VIP tables are $1,000 per table.

Tickets are on sale now:
https://bit.ly/Richard-Leigh