The Southwest Virginia Community College family is mourning the passing of its founding president, Dr. Charles R. King, whose vision, leadership, and commitment to educational opportunity transformed higher education in Southwest Virginia and shaped the institution that serves the region today.
Selected in 1967 to lead the creation of a new community college for Southwest Virginia, Dr. King guided the institution from its earliest planning stages through nearly four decades of growth and service. He served as the college’s first president until his retirement on January 1, 2007, making him the longest-serving president in the history of both Southwest Virginia Community College and the Virginia Community College System.
When Southwest opened its doors in 1968, approximately 710 students enrolled in the college’s first classes. Under Dr. King’s leadership, the institution expanded dramatically, growing its academic offerings, facilities, community partnerships, and regional impact while maintaining a mission centered on student success and opportunity.
Throughout his career, Dr. King championed a belief that became synonymous with Southwest’s mission: that no one who could benefit from a college education should be denied the opportunity. His commitment to ensuring that “no student was left behind” helped define the culture of the college and inspired generations of students, faculty, staff, and community leaders.
In March 2026, Southwest Virginia Community College formally honored Dr. King by naming the roadway surrounding campus Dr. Charles R. King Road, recognizing the enduring impact of his leadership on both the college and the region. The designation serves as a permanent reminder of a legacy that continues to shape the institution and the communities it serves.
“Dr. King was more than the founding president of Southwest Virginia Community College,” said Dr. Clint Hayes, president of Southwest Virginia Community College. “He was the architect of a vision that changed countless lives across Southwest Virginia.
“Because of his leadership, generations of students found pathways to education, careers, and opportunity. He believed deeply in people, in communities, and in the power of education to improve lives.
“His influence can still be seen across our campus and throughout the region we serve. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a remarkable life dedicated to service, leadership, and opportunity. We are honored to carry his legacy forward.”
Dr. King often credited the success of the college to teamwork, community support, and a shared commitment to serving others. During his retirement in 2006, he reflected that his proudest accomplishments were not buildings or programs, but the thousands of individuals whose lives had been changed through access to education.
The college extends its deepest condolences to the King family, friends, former colleagues, alumni, and all those whose lives were touched by Dr. King’s leadership and service.
