Volume 26, Edition 1

The VCCS Celebrates 60 Years

Cosmetology Graduates

SVCC recently celebrated Cosmetology graduates. Nine students graduated from the program. The ceremony was held at the Estes Community Center in Chase City. Pictured are Shaketia Collins (Instructor), Gloria Luck-Hall (Instructor), Chanel Reese (Instructor), Selah Spence (Dundas), Kearston Duffey (Charlotte Courthouse), Tiffany Williams (Farmville), Jazmine Singleton (Lawrenceville), Chenice Hatcher (Chase City), Syetta Pettus (South Hill), Afirah Dugger-Bynum (Emporia), Kalena Scott (Emporia), Starr Meade (Emporia), and Nicole Cliborne (Instructor).

Alumnus Phillip Rowe Shares How Determination Launched His Trucking Career

Phillip Rowe’s journey into the trucking industry began with determination, family influence, and a clear goal—one he pursued immediately after graduating high school. A graduate of Southside Virginia Community College’s Truck Driver Training Program in February 2009, Rowe credits SVCC with giving him the skills, confidence, and safety foundation needed to build a successful career.

Rowe chose SVCC because it was close to home and had strong reviews. As a student, he traveled from Jetersville to the Southside Virginia Education Center in Emporia, often riding with an instructor to attend class. By his third day in class, Rowe already knew the type of truck he wanted to drive—naming it as a personal goal early in his training.

Coming straight out of high school at just 18 years old, Rowe paid for his tuition out of pocket using graduation money. His motivation was deeply personal. His father was a truck driver, and knowing that parallel parking would be required in class, Rowe asked his dad to teach him ahead of time. After mastering the skill, he returned to class and even helped demonstrate parallel parking to his peers.

SVCC Staff Member Serves As A Lunch Buddy

Jo Wollenberg, SVCC's Digital Media Manager, serves as a lunch buddy for a local elementary school. Connections are so important, no matter the age. These small moments are making a big impact!

A Lunch Buddy program shows how small acts of connection can make a big difference. Spending time with a student during lunch may seem simple, but consistent mentoring can help children feel seen, supported, and motivated to succeed.

The goal is to create a consistent, supportive relationship with a caring adult who can encourage the student and help them feel more connected at school.

Upcoming SVCC Sponsored Trips

Ready to travel? The Louise Ogburn Experience American Travel Program is on the road again. Be sure to reach out to Louise to reserve your seat!

The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum, May 11-16, 2026

Lancaster Show Trip & the Dutch Country, June 1-5, 2026

Mount Rushmore, the Badlands & Additional Stops, August 14-27, 2026

Memphis Home of the Blues, Soul, & Rock-n-Roll, September 13-19, 2026

Biltmore Estate & Asheville, NC, November 16-19, 2026

A Meaningful Gift That Supports SVCC Students

Giving to the SVCC Foundation gives students the opportunity to pursue their dreams.

If you are interested in supporting SVCC students, please click on the link below or contact Jamie Jones, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement by phone 434-949-1068 or by email jamie.jones@southside.edu.