2024 | Southern Virginia University News

Spotlight

Feb. 14, 2024 — Playing a sport builds strong relationships between teammates, coaches, and trainers. But can it also lead to love?

Speeches

Students Testify on Being Faithful, Honest, and Kind at University Forum

Feb. 13, 2024 — On Feb. 9, the Southern Virginia University community gathered in the Knight Arena to hear Student Body President Benjamin Whitted and students Addy Thorpe, Peyton Merwin, and Emmaline Merrill speak on the university’s Code of Conduct and what it means to be faithful, honest, and kind as individuals and as members of the community.

News Release

2024 Commencement to be Held on May 3

Feb. 9, 2024 — Southern Virginia University is pleased to announce that the 2024 Commencement ceremonies will be held on Friday, May 3, at 11 a.m. in front of Main Hall. In the event of severe weather, the ceremonies will be held that afternoon in the Knight Arena at 3 p.m.

Spotlight

Bringing Campus and Community Together One Scoop at a Time

Feb. 9, 2024 — Madeleine Wells Mercer (‘21) knew she wanted to remain in Buena Vista post-graduation after falling in love with the town and a local firefighter. Seeing an opportunity to build a space for Southern Virginia University students and local community members to gather, she decided to create The BeeVe, an ice cream and souvenir shop, which opened in 2022.

News Release

Director of Brand & Experience Bryce Pendleton Named Interim Director of IT Services

Feb. 6, 2024 — Southern Virginia University President Bonnie H. Cordon has named Director of Brand & Experience Bryce Pendleton as interim director of information technology services. While continuing to oversee the university’s brand and digital experience, Pendleton will also now manage the Office of Information Technology. In this new role, he will focus on optimizing systems, services, and user experience for students, faculty, and staff.

Speeches

Understanding and Overcoming Political Polarization with Constitutional Expert Dr. Verlan Lewis

Jan. 31, 2024 — On Jan. 26, the Southern Virginia University community gathered to hear Dr. Verlan Lewis, Stirling Professor of Constitutional Studies and associate professor of political science at Utah Valley University, speak on his recent co-authored book, “The Myth of Left and Right,” and how to be peacemakers in a polarized political nation.

Spotlight

Why Caden Eskelsen (‘25) Returned to Southern Virginia University After His Mission

Jan. 31, 2024 — Caden Eskelsen (‘25), a native of Lisbon, Iowa, was initially unsure if he would be returning to complete his studies at Southern Virginia University after taking several years off to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and getting married.

News Release

Cody Whiting Announced as Director of Student Engagement

Jan. 19, 2024 — Southern Virginia University President Bonnie H. Cordon has named Cody Whiting as the director of student engagement. In this role, Whiting joins the Office of Student Life and will oversee university clubs and associations, including SVSA, and student activities.

Speeches

Keeping the Lord in Your Sights; A Welcome Back Forum with the Cordons

Jan. 17, 2024 — To kick-off the new semester, the Southern Virginia University community gathered on Jan. 12 for a welcome back forum with President Bonnie H. Cordon and Derek Cordon. Together, the Cordon’s spoke on the importance of keeping a narrow focus on the prophets and the Lord, having intentional prayer, and finding ways to serve others.

News Release

Fall 2023 President’s and Provost’s Lists

Jan. 3, 2024 — Southern Virginia University recently announced its Fall 2023 President’s and Provost’s Lists. These lists are compiled at the end of each semester and recognize students who have excelled academically.