Southern Virginia University News

Feature Story

More Than Resources: Why Paysen Grandy Chose Southern Virginia University Over SCAD

In 2023, Paysen Grandy (’26) was studying illustration on a full scholarship at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), one of the top art institutions in the country. But as the year progressed, she began to realize she wanted something more from her college experience.

Speeches

Finding Joy and Identity After a Life–Altering Trial with Celestial Elam

On Sept. 18, the Southern Virginia University community gathered in the Knight Arena to hear from 26 year-old Celestial Elam, who shared her powerful journey of faith, resilience, and discovering true identity following a life-altering car accident at age 16.

Speeches

SVU Convocation Encourages Students to Find Purpose and Think for Themselves

On Sept. 11, the Southern Virginia University community gathered in Knight Arena for the annual Convocation to mark the start of a new academic year. Provost Brent Yergensen and professors Michael King and Kim Anderson challenged students to consider what will guide them through the year, and how purpose, community, and careful thinking can help them navigate an unpredictable world.

Spotlight

SVU Student and Alumna Named First President and Secretary for LDSPMA’s New NextGen Program

It started with an email from the Launch Center. When Aurora Johnson (‘27) and Paysen Grandy (‘26), opened a message highlighting new opportunities for artists, neither knew it would lead to transformative national leadership roles in a national initiative for young creators.

Speeches

“You Are the Fulfillment of That Prophecy”: Celebrating SVU’s History and Heritage

In celebration of the history, faith, and growth that defines Southern Virginia University, the campus community gathered in the Knight Arena on Friday, Sept. 4, for a special forum focused on the university’s origins, student journeys of belonging, and an invitation to share SVU with the world.

News Release

Southern Virginia University Expands Teacher Licensure Program with New PreK-12 Theatre Track

Southern Virginia University’s teacher licensure program has announced the addition of a new PreK-12 Theatre endorsement track beginning Fall 2026. In this track, students can earn a nationally recognized Virginia teaching license to instruct all aspects of theatre—including acting, stagecraft, choreography, and makeup—across elementary, middle, and high school levels.

Speeches

Give What You Have to the Lord: A Welcome Back Forum With the Hales

In celebration of the new academic year, the Southern Virginia University campus community gathered in the Knight Arena for the annual Welcome Back forum with President Aaron Hale and Becky Hale, where they shared the series of spiritual promptings that led them to SVU.

News Release

Southern Virginia University to Offer Expedited Admission to Valley Forge University Students

Buena Vista, VA— Southern Virginia University and its community offer their empathy and support to the students, faculty, and staff at Valley Forge University at the unfortunate news of the university’s suspension of academic operations.

News Release

Southern Virginia University Announces First Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology

President Aaron Hale and the President’s Council are pleased to announce that beginning in the Fall 2026 semester, Southern Virginia University will offer a bachelor of science (BS) degree in biology. This marks the university's transition into offering bachelor of science degrees alongside its traditional bachelor of arts (BA) programs.

News Release

Michael Griffiths Named Vice President of Online Operations

President Aaron Hale has named Michael Griffiths the Vice President of Online Operations for Southern Virginia University. In this role, Griffiths will lead the design, accreditation, and launch of the university’s online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

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