Southern Virginia University News

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James Ballstaedt Named Vice President of Athletics and Strategic Growth

President Bonnie H. Cordon has named James Ballstaedt as Vice President of Athletics and Strategic Growth for Southern Virginia University. In this role, Ballstaedt will spearhead fundraising and strategic development for the university’s athletic programs, as well as drive strategic growth initiatives, with a focus on innovation, student experience, and long-term sustainability.

Feature Story

Ammon Hepworth, Matthew Crandall, and Amy Uber Join Southern Virginia University Faculty

Southern Virginia University is pleased to welcome Ammon Hepworth as assistant professor of computer science, Matthew Crandall as assistant professor of political science, and Amy Uber as instructor of economics.

Spotlight

Russell Watson’s Unexpected Dental Journey and SVU Connection

Russell Watson (‘23) wasn’t planning on becoming a dentist when he started his undergraduate, but after several unexpected series of events, he is now part of the inaugural class at Lyon College's brand new School of Dental Medicine. A program that coincidentally is being shaped by another Southern Virginia University alumnus: Burke Soffe, the school’s inaugural dean.

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Trusting in God’s Guiding Hand in Personal and Career Aspirations

Consistently striving to recognize God’s hand in his life, psychology major Lucas Martin (‘27) feels strongly that he was guided to attend Southern Virginia University after his mission and is seeking to learn the most he can while there.

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Finding a Spiritual Brotherhood on the Basketball Court

From San Clemente, CA, Kade Harrick (‘27) came to Southern Virginia University looking to play basketball and live in a Christ-centered environment. During his freshman year, he was supported by his teammates to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he has since rejoined the men’s basketball team for a record-breaking season.

News Release

Ben Gaughran, Brady Hanson, and Donnie Tapp Join Southern Virginia University as Assistant Professors

Southern Virginia University is pleased to welcome Ben Gaughran as assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, Brady Hanson as assistant professor of biology, and Donnie Tapp as assistant professor of art.

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Becoming a Full-time Artist: Allison Walker (‘13) and the Pillars She Developed at SVU

Ignited at Southern Virginia University, Allison Walker Gaughan’s (‘13) artistic career has led her from studying at Scotland’s University of St. Andrew’s and working at national museums, to recently making the leap to open her own studio in New York.

News Release

SVU’s Sport Performance Major Receives Standing Ovation at Nike New York Headquarters

On June 25, Professor of Philosophy John Armstrong traveled to Nike’s New York City headquarters for the first meeting of the Sports Major Collective. Armstrong presented Southern Virginia University’s new Sport Performance major, the first of its kind in the country, to an audience of nearly 150 college professors, administrators, coaches, and athletes.

News Release

Samuel Hirt Named Interim Provost, Additional Changes Announced Within Provost’s Office

President Bonnie H. Cordon has named Associate Provost Samuel Hirt as Southern Virginia University’s interim provost. Hirt succeeds Dr. James Lambert, who served as the chief academic officer and provost since 2021. Several leadership changes within the Office of the Provost have also been announced.

Spotlight

Going Overseas–Henry Pullan (’26) Prepares for Diplomatic Internship to Belgium for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

This September, Henry Pullan (‘26) will gain valuable career experience as he travels to Brussels, Belgium as a European Union & Diplomatic Outreach Intern for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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