Southern Virginia University News

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Four-Year Streak: Lauren Madsen Continues University Trend Receiving Sigma Delta Pi’s Gabriela Mistral Award

The National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society Sigma Delta Pi announced today Lauren Madsen (’26) as a recipient of the prestigious Gabriela Mistral Award, becoming the fourth consecutive Southern Virginia University student to receive this award.

Speeches

Honoring the Past, Welcoming the Future: Highlights from the 2026 Graduation Forum

Leading up to Southern Virginia University’s upcoming Commencement ceremonies on May 1, the campus community filled the Knight Arena with cheers at the annual graduation forum on April 17 as they celebrated the Class of 2026. The event recognized senior and Professor of the Year awards, welcomed President-elect Aaron Hale, and honored President Bonnie H. Cordon’s leadership.

Official Statement

Sports and Entertainment Executive David W. Checketts To Address Graduates at Commencement

Southern Virginia University is honored to welcome David W. Checketts as our 2026 Commencement Speaker.

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A Life of Consistent Correct Choices – Celebrating Jim Skeen at Third Annual Founder’s Day Forum

The Southern Virginia University campus community gathered in the Knight Arena on March 27 to celebrate the annual Founder’s Day Forum and honor board of trustees member Jim Skeen.

News Release

Southern Virginia University Announces Dr. Brent Yergensen as New University Provost

Southern Virginia University today announced Dr. Brent Yergensen as provost, effective July 1, 2026. Yergensen succeeds former provost James Lambert and interim provost Samuel Hirt.

Spotlight

SVU Theatre Takes Flight with World Premiere of FLY

When the curtain rose at the SVU Performing Arts Center in February, it marked more than opening night. Southern Virginia University Theatre was staging the world premiere of Fly, a new musical based on the extraordinary true story of the 1929 National Women's Air Derby, the first ever cross-country air race for women.

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SVU Alumna Tayma Vanek Johnson (’23) to Publish Book on Women’s Decision to Serve a Mission

When Tayma Vanek Johnson ('23) enrolled at Southern Virginia University, serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wasn't part of her plan. But new friendships sparked conversations about her future and missionary service in ways she never anticipated.

News Release

Southern Virginia University Football: DuPaix Announces Staff Updates; Pickup Named OC, Ehorn Jr. Promoted

Buena Vista, Va. – Southern Virginia University head football coach Joe DuPaix has announced key updates to his coaching staff, highlighted by the addition of Travis Pickup as offensive coordinator and the promotion of Chris Ehorn Jr. to associate head coach.

News Release

Press Release: Southern Virginia University Names Aaron Hale as Next President

The Southern Virginia University (SVU) Board of Trustees has unanimously selected Aaron Hale as the University's 11th President. Hale succeeds President Bonnie H. Cordon, whose term concludes on May 6, 2026.

Feature Story

Finding God in Her Interests–Leigh-Anne Verburg’s (‘26) Growth at Southern Virginia University

Leigh-Anne Verburg (‘26) is making the most of her time at Southern Virginia University by being involved in as much as possible and finding the Savior in every aspect of her busy schedule.

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