News Release
Top 10 Stories of 2025
Whether it was launching new Sport Performance and Environmental Studies majors, students publishing a newly discovered bacteria, or bringing SVU its first-ever national title, the past year was filled with moments that remind us what makes Southern Virginia University so special. Along the way, our students and alumni continued to grow, experiencing academic success, building careers, and making their mark in meaningful ways. These are the top stories that shaped 2025 at SVU.
It was a Monday night spectacle at the Cregger Center in Salem, as the Southern Virginia University men’s volleyball team competed in its first National Championship match against Springfield College.
President Bonnie H. Cordon and the President’s Council are pleased to announce that beginning in the Fall 2025 semester, Southern Virginia University will offer a bachelor’s degree program in sport performance that emphasizes reflective participation in competitive sports. A minor and several related concentrations will also be available.
When Veronica Andersen (‘25) decided to collect her own bacteria samples for the microbiology class in January 2024, it led to the discovery of a new brand of bacteria, a team of students and professors embarking on over a year of research, and an upcoming submission slated to become the university’s first peer-reviewed scientific paper.
On March 11, the campus community, university friends, and special guests gathered in the Main Hall Ballroom for the unveiling ceremony of the stained glass “Sermon on the Mount,” generously donated to the university by the Brent and Bonnie Jean Beesley family.
On Apr. 18, the Southern Virginia University campus community gathered in the Knight Arena to celebrate the second annual Founder’s Day Forum and honor Chairman of the Board Hugh Redd and his wife, Cindy, for their nearly two decades of service and dedication to the university.
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.
The Southern Virginia University Board of Trustees has elected Wendy Kimber as the university’s fourth board chair and alumnus Nelson Knight (‘05) as vice chair. These appointments follow the recent term completions of former board chair Hugh Redd and vice chair Ann Christensen and come at a meaningful moment as the university prepares to celebrate its landmark 30th year.
Beginning Fall 2025, Southern Virginia University now offers a bachelor’s degree program in environmental studies. Distinct from a technical environmental science degree, this program builds on the sciences, social sciences, and humanities, offering students a robust scientific core while encouraging interdisciplinary exploration of environmental issues.
Ben Burningham (‘09) was appointed Wyoming’s first Chancery Court judge, presiding over a specialized statewide court designed to streamline the resolution of commercial, business, and trust cases. His appointment went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
On May 9, Southern Virginia University gathered on the front lawn of Main Hall for the university’s annual Commencement to celebrate the Class of 2025—the largest graduating class in university history. There, Sheri Dew was recognized with an honorary doctorate in recognition of her contributions to the university and the world.