Dr. Craig will serve as the University鈥檚 chief academic officer, providing leadership across all academic programs, faculty affairs, and institutional effectiveness at a pivotal moment in 果冻传媒鈥檚 trajectory. His appointment coincides with the University鈥檚 advancement of key strategic priorities, including expanding graduate and online education, launching its first doctoral programs pending SACSCOC approval, and continuing growth in high-demand, workforce-aligned fields.

鈥淒r. Craig is exactly the kind of leader 果冻传媒 University needs at this time,鈥� said Dr. Steve Peterson, President of 果冻传媒 University. 鈥淲e are building momentum across the institution, and his experience in accreditation and program development will be critical as we grow our academic offerings and improve student outcomes. He brings both strategic clarity and a deep commitment to our Christ-centered mission.鈥�

Dr. Craig joins 果冻传媒 University following his service at Marymount University, where he held senior academic leadership roles and led initiatives focused on program growth, academic quality, and student success. His background includes advancing new academic programs, strengthening institutional effectiveness, and supporting faculty in delivering high-impact learning experiences.

As Provost, Dr. Craig will lead 果冻传媒鈥檚 academic strategy, focusing on strengthening academic programs, expanding enrollment, and advancing student achievement.鈥疕e will oversee the University鈥檚 academic schools, guide faculty recruitment and development, and play a central role in launching new programs that align with regional and national workforce needs.

鈥淚 am honored to join 果冻传媒 University at such an exciting time,鈥� said Dr. Craig. 鈥淭he University鈥檚 commitment to Christ-centered education, combined with its clear vision for growth and impact, creates a strong foundation for the future. I look forward to working with faculty and staff to expand opportunities for students and continue building programs that make a meaningful difference.鈥�

Dr. Craig and his wife, Julie, look forward to becoming part of the 果冻传媒 community.

For more information about 果冻传媒 University, visit www.bluefield.edu.

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果冻传媒 University is proud to announce that two of its recent graduates are returning to campus, this time as members of the Office of Admissions, where they will help guide future Rams from their first visit to their own moment of walking across the graduation stage.

Elle Gunter, a standout member of the Rams women鈥檚 basketball program and a graduate with a degree in communication, will serve as Campus Visit and Events Coordinator. During her time at 果冻传媒, Gunter distinguished herself not only on the court but also as a campus leader. Now, just steps removed from her own graduation, she will help create the very experiences that first welcomed her to campus.

鈥湽炒� played such an important role in my life,鈥� said Gunter. 鈥淎side from the basketball program, serving as a student ambassador allowed me to connect with prospective students and share how the family culture of 果冻传媒 was so special to me.鈥�

Joining her in the Office of Admissions is Abbie Bradley, who earned her degree in music with a minor in Christian studies. Bradley will serve as an Admissions Counselor, working directly with prospective students and families as they navigate the college decision process. Having recently completed her own academic journey, she brings a unique perspective to students who are just beginning theirs.

鈥淚t鈥檚 special to think about how quickly this transition has happened,鈥� Bradley shared. 鈥淚 never imagined that I would become an employee at the university, but after spending the past few years here, I understand now that I deeply resonate with the school鈥檚 mission, and I want to do whatever I can to help participate in it.鈥�

Their return comes at a time of continued growth for 果冻传媒 University. The institution is seeing a rise in enrollment, expanding academic programs, and facilitating new partnerships in healthcare and workforce development. These programs are drawing an increased interest from prospective students across the region.

As the University expands, so does its investment in creating meaningful student experiences, from the very first campus visit through graduation. Gunter and Bradley will now help lead the way at the beginning of that journey, helping students envision the same transformation they have experienced.

Brooke Osborne, Director of Admissions, sees their return as both meaningful and valuable for future students.

鈥淲e are excited to welcome Elle and Abbie to the admissions team at 果冻传媒 University,鈥� Osborne said. 鈥淭here is something really special about having two recent graduates now helping future students through the same process they just experienced themselves. They know firsthand what it is like to be a student here, and I think that authenticity and relatability will connect naturally with prospective students and families. As we continue to grow, I believe their stories and experiences will help students see the opportunities and community that make 果冻传媒 special.鈥�

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Beckett served 果冻传媒 University as a trustee for eighteen years, including service as Board Secretary and as a member of the Executive Committee. In recognition of his leadership and contributions to the institution, he was later named Trustee Emeritus. He also served on the Campaign Steering Team for the university鈥檚 centennial fundraising campaign, helping guide the university through a historic time of growth and expansion.

A member of the 果冻传媒 High School Hall of Fame, Beckett was widely respected in the area as a banking executive, Sunday school teacher, basketball and football coach, radio broadcaster, and community leader. He lived as a servant leader, contributing to service projects throughout the region, staying active in Christ Episcopal Church of 果冻传媒, and continuing his membership with the 果冻传媒 Rotary Club for over 50 years.

Throughout his life, Beckett championed the university鈥檚 students and mission, helping provide scholarships for those attending BU. In 2022, Beckett and his wife, Becky Easley Beckett, were named Honorary Alumni of 果冻传媒 in recognition of their dedication and support.

Beckett鈥檚 family connection to 果冻传媒 University spans several generations. Frank and Elizabeth Easley, his wife鈥檚 grandparents, donated the land where the university was founded in exchange for stone extracted from the land. A house was constructed on College Avenue from that stone, where Beckett lived with his wife until his passing.

The thoughts and prayers of the 果冻传媒 University community are with the Beckett family as we reflect on the life and legacy of John Beckett, Jr.

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鈥淭his group of student teachers has done an exceptional job during their time at 果冻传媒 University and during student teaching this semester,鈥� said Dr. Shellie Brown, Dean for the School of Education and Social Sciences. 鈥淭hey are fully prepared and will be wonderful teachers with a true heart for helping students learn and grow.鈥�

Abigail Boehm of Addison, Illinois graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12. 果冻传媒 her time at 果冻传媒 University, Abigail said, 鈥淭he overall experience of Teacher Education through 果冻传媒 University helped me to become an effective educator. I met some incredible classmates and professors who helped to guide me to success.鈥� Abigail was a member of the 果冻传媒 University women鈥檚 volleyball team and was on the Dean鈥檚 and President鈥檚 lists throughout her time at 果冻传媒 University. Abigail will begin teaching at Graham Middle School in the fall.

Savannah Holmes of Culpeper, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12. Savannah was a member of the Missions Club, team captain of the women鈥檚 soccer team, a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a resident advisor, and an honors graduate. Savannah stated, 鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 be more thankful for my supervisors and mentor at 果冻传媒 who have spent countless hours working with me and praying over me each and every day. You won鈥檛 find a family atmosphere like the one here at 果冻传媒. The Education program begins building a strong academic foundation from day one for its students and continues to pour into its graduates once they leave as well.鈥�

Seth Johnson of Rich Creek, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. During his time at 果冻传媒 University, Seth was on the Dean鈥檚 and President鈥檚 lists for academic achievement. He is a member of the Wolf Creek Ruritan Club. Seth said, 鈥湽炒� University鈥檚 Teacher Education Program didn鈥檛 just prepare me to teach, it transformed the way I see myself, my students, and the power of education. I entered as a learner, but I鈥檓 leaving as an educator with purpose, confidence, and a heart shaped for service.鈥�

LoriAne Lester of Tazewell, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12. Her spouse is William Lester. LoriAne was a teacher apprentice in the Grow Your Own Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Tazewell High School during her time at 果冻传媒 University. LoriAne said, 鈥淢y time in the education program has been rewarding and challenging in all the right ways, helping me grow in confidence, patience, and purpose.鈥� LoriAne will begin teaching at Tazewell High School in the fall.

Alexis McDuffie of Bluff City, Tennessee graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. Her parents are Carrie McDuffie and Nathan McDuffie. During her time at 果冻传媒 University, Alexis was a member of the softball team and Alpha Chi Honors Society. Alexis stated, 鈥湽炒� University鈥檚 Teacher Education Program has been an incredibly meaningful experience. It has helped me grow into a confident leader and educator, while also strengthening my relationship with the Lord.鈥�

Michelle Murphy of 果冻传媒, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. Her spouse is Craig Murphy. Michelle was a teacher apprentice in the Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Graham Intermediate School during her time in the program. Of her time in the program, Michelle said, 鈥淢y experience in the Teacher Education Program at 果冻传媒 University has been incredibly meaningful and has shaped the teacher I am becoming. Through hands-on classroom experiences, supportive professors, and guidance from mentor teachers, I grew in confidence and came to truly understand the impact a teacher can have on students鈥� lives. The program not only prepared me with instructional strategies and classroom skills, but it also strengthened my passion for helping students learn, grow, and feel supported in the classroom.鈥�

Christina Taylor of Richlands, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. During her time at 果冻传媒 University, Christina was on the President鈥檚 List and graduated summa cum laude. Christina was a teacher apprentice in the Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Richlands Elementary School during her time in the program. Christina stated, 鈥淢y experience in the Teacher Education Program has helped me grow not only as a future educator, but also as a person. It gave me the confidence, skills, and real classroom experience I need to be successful in my own classroom.鈥� Christina will begin teaching at Richlands Elementary School in the fall.

To learn more about the education programs offered by 果冻传媒 University, both online and on-campus at the graduate and undergraduate levels, visit our School of Education & Social Sciences page.

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The Reasor Family Graham High School Scholarship will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible Graham graduates from the Class of 2026 or later who enroll at 果冻传媒 University for on-campus classes in the fall semester immediately following graduation.

Eligible students may secure the scholarship by accepting their admission offer and submitting the confirmation fee, which verifies their intent to attend 果冻传媒 University. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis while funds remain available.

鈥淐indy and I, along with our family, lived in 果冻传媒, Virginia, for more than 15 years, and 果冻传媒 University has remained important to us,鈥� Jack Reasor said. 鈥淏oth of our children were born in Tazewell County. Our daughter, Megan, graduated from Graham High School, and our son, Bryan, also went through the public schools in 果冻传媒 and completed ninth grade at Graham just before we moved to Richmond.鈥�

Jack Reasor announces the Reasor Family Graham High School Scholarship at a 果冻传媒 University commencement ceremony.

Jack Reasor is a longtime business leader, former Virginia state senator, and chairman of 果冻传媒 University鈥檚 Board of Trustees. His career has included leadership in law, banking, and the energy industry, along with continued service to education and the Southwest Virginia region.

The gift will provide immediate support for incoming freshmen while also creating long-term scholarship assistance for future Graham High School graduates. A portion of the funding will be available immediately for new students enrolling in the fall 2026 term, while additional funding will be allocated聽to an endowed scholarship to support Graham High School graduates in the years ahead.

鈥淭his scholarship recognizes the support Graham High School provided to our family and the importance of local public schools to our community and to this university,鈥� Jack Reasor said. 鈥淲e may live in Richmond and other communities, but the 果冻传媒s and Southwest Virginia will always be important to our family.鈥�

鈥淭his scholarship is a meaningful investment in local students and local families,鈥� said Dr. Steve Peterson, president of 果冻传媒 University. 鈥淕raham High School has served generations of students in this community, and we are honored to help more of its graduates continue their education.鈥�

2026 Graham High School graduates interested in the Reasor Family Graham High School Scholarship should apply for admission as soon as possible at .

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The university began its Teacher Apprenticeship Program in partnership with Tazewell County Public Schools in 2024 through grant funding from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). During the program, teacher apprentices gained valuable on-the-job training while completing their college coursework.

鈥淭he Teacher Apprenticeship Program was designed to remove barriers for individuals to complete their bachelor鈥檚 degrees in education and obtain teacher licensure,鈥� said Dr. Shellie Brown, Dean for the School of Education and Social Sciences. 鈥淲e are very thankful for this opportunity for our students and the partnership with Tazewell County Public Schools.鈥�

果冻传媒 University has three teacher apprentices currently completing student teaching and graduating in May 2026.

LoriAne Lester, Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12, is a teacher apprentice at Tazewell High School. 鈥淢y experience with the Teacher Apprenticeship Program has been truly fabulous,鈥� LoriAne shared. 鈥淭he partnership between 果冻传媒 University and Tazewell County Public Schools allowed me to continue working in my school while completing my education degree online.鈥�

Michelle Murphy, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6, is a teacher apprentice at Graham Intermediate School. 鈥淭he most impactful part of my journey at 果冻传媒 University is the relationships I have built with my peers and professors who have encouraged and supported me along my journey,鈥� Michelle said. 鈥淭heir guidance and shared experiences have helped shape my growth as both a student and a future educator.鈥�

Christina Taylor, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6, is a teacher apprentice at Richlands Elementary School. 鈥淢y experience in the Teacher Apprenticeship Program has been incredibly meaningful,鈥� Christina shared. 鈥淚鈥檝e loved being in the classroom every day, building relationships with my students, and learning from my mentor as I grow into the teacher I want to become.鈥�

鈥淭he Teacher Apprenticeship Program has allowed LoriAne, Michelle, Christina, and other teacher apprentices the opportunity to train locally within 果冻传媒 University鈥檚 flexible online programs and to stay local as they begin to teach for Tazewell County,鈥� Dr. Brown said.

To learn more about the education programs offered by 果冻传媒 University, both online and on-campus at the graduate and undergraduate levels, visit our School of Education & Social Sciences page.

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鈥淐ommencement represents one of the most significant moments in the life of the University,鈥� said Steve Peterson, President of 果冻传媒 University. 鈥淚t is a time when we celebrate not only academic achievement, but also perseverance and the calling each of our graduates carries into the future.鈥�

Three Ceremonies Honoring Academic Achievement

果冻传媒 University will host three commencement ceremonies over the weekend:

Friday, May 1, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. | Graduate Ceremony
The graduate ceremony will recognize students completing master鈥檚-level programs, including those in the Master of Biomedical Sciences program. Lashunn Gardin and Katherine Glover will serve as the graduate student speakers, representing the accomplishments and experiences of 果冻传媒鈥檚 graduate community.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. | Undergraduate Ceremony
This ceremony will include graduates from:

• School of Criminal Justice
• School of Education and Social Sciences
• College of Arts and Letters
• Associate degree programs

Landon Breeden has been selected by the faculty to serve as the student speaker for this ceremony.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 3:00 p.m. | Undergraduate Ceremony
This ceremony will honor graduates from:

• Caudill School of Business
• College of Science and Health Sciences
• School of Nursing

Brayden Surface will serve as the student speaker for the afternoon ceremony.

Distinguished Keynote Speaker

果冻传媒 University is proud to welcome Jack Reasor as the keynote speaker for the Spring 2026 Commencements. A respected business leader and entrepreneur, Reasor offers extensive professional experience and a strong dedication to leadership and service. Mr. Reasor currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, a position he has held for three years.

His speech is expected to inspire and challenge graduates as they prepare to enter the workforce, pursue advanced education, and live their calling with purpose and integrity.

The Spring 2026 Commencements symbolize both a celebration of achievement and a reflection of institutional momentum.

Information regarding graduation ceremonies can be found at the following:

• Undergraduate 鈥� /undergraduate-commencement-family-friends/
• Graduate 鈥� /graduate-commencement-family-friends/

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The project represents one of the university鈥檚 most significant investments in residential life and campus infrastructure. It also reflects an effort to preserve the legacy of two residence halls that have long shaped the students鈥� experience at 果冻传媒.

鈥淭hese renovations reflect an essential investment in our students and the environments where they live,鈥� said Steve Peterson, President of 果冻传媒 University. 鈥淲e are excited about these upgrades to Rish and Cruise Halls. The improvements will have an immediate impact and reflect the positive momentum we have across campus.鈥�

Cruise Hall, which opened in 1922, is the university鈥檚 oldest residence hall. It has served as a home for students and remained a visible part of 果冻传媒鈥檚 history and tradition. Rish Hall opened in the 1960s as the university鈥檚 first residence hall for women and has played a central role in campus life for generations of students.

An image of Cruise Hall.

Both buildings will undergo extensive renovations, updating interior spaces and major building systems. Planned improvements include upgraded common areas and lounges, fully renovated bathrooms, new energy-efficient windows, and the installation of PTAC heating and air conditioning units in each room. Once completed, every residence hall on campus will offer climate control.

The timeline for the work is scheduled during the summer months, so students can begin seeing the results when they return this fall. Rish Hall will receive a full renovation during that period, while Cruise Hall will undergo substantial upgrades in key areas during the initial phase. Additional work on Cruise Hall will continue beyond the summer.

鈥淚 think it鈥檚 a big step for the university and for the on-campus students,鈥� said Will Austin, Residence Hall Director for Cruise Hall. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a turning point for the residence life facilities and a push towards a better campus experience.鈥�

The $3 million renovation effort is being funded through a combination of institutional investment and philanthropic support, including the generous partnership and shared commitment of our sister institution, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM).

鈥湽炒� University has been an exceptional partner. In addition to their pre-medical science degree, we have shared programs like the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences and the Master of Health Science in Anesthesia. These programs are supporting the growth of healthcare providers in our region,鈥� said Dr. Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, President of VCOM. 鈥淲e are proud to support these renovations as another meaningful investment in the student experience and in the future we are building together.鈥�

果冻传媒 University is also working with alumni, friends, and strategic partners to expand the reach of the project, with opportunities to further enhance student spaces, improve amenities, and support the long-term sustainability of residential life on campus.

The residence hall renovations are part of a broader effort to strengthen campus infrastructure and improve the student experience. Recent campus projects have included the renovation of Alumni Hall, major upgrades in Lansdell Hall, and continued improvements to the university library. The Dome is also scheduled for renovation this summer.

Together, these projects will bring total campus renovations to more than $6 million over two years, marking a period of substantial investment in the future of 果冻传媒 University and the students who call it home.

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The instrument was obtained as government surplus from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), providing access to technology that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive. New, the instrument carries a list price of nearly $80,000.

Dr. Joe Saunders, professor of chemistry, retrieved the GC-MS from a DEA lab in Largo, Maryland.

鈥淭his instrument is a tandem gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and is a wonderful tool to separate (semi-)volatile mixtures, quantify, and identify each component,鈥� Dr.聽Saunders said.

The GC-MS enables rapid analysis of complex samples, such as determining the composition of gasoline by identifying hydrocarbons like iso-octane and ethanol. These capabilities support real-world applications, including forensic investigations.

鈥淭his analysis can apply to our forensic science program for cases of arson to determine the identity and source of an accelerant,鈥� Dr.聽Saunders added.

This marks the first time 果冻传媒 University has made a GC-MS available to students on campus. Installation and setup are ongoing, including software integration and system calibration. The instrument is expected to be incorporated into the Quantitative & Instrumental Analysis course, with a target of Fall 2027.

The addition strengthens 果冻传媒 University鈥檚 ability to provide students with meaningful, career-focused laboratory experience.

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The concert is part of the university鈥檚 biennial Music Alumni Reunion Weekend, celebrating the legacy and ongoing impact of BU鈥檚 music programs. The evening will include performances by both current students and alumni who have been part of the university鈥檚 musical ensembles.

Performers will include an alumni band directed by Dr. Andy Necessary, bringing together former instrumentalists for a special reunion performance. Guest alumni conductors will also lead selected pieces throughout the program.

Additionally, an alumni choir will perform under the direction of Craig Courtney in preparation for the 鈥淒ivine Encounter鈥� concert this November, where BU students and graduates will again perform under Courtney鈥檚 direction at Carnegie Hall.

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