Virginia Western Community College and the Virginia Western Educational Foundation recently honored Campus Police Chief Craig S. Harris and J. David Wine with Distinguished Alumni Awards for 2014. The Powell Charitable Foundation was selected for the Community College Impact Award.
Harris, who has been the college’s Chief of Police since 2005, earned his Associate’s Degree from Virginia Western in 2000. His work at Virginia Western has resulted in numerous recognitions for campus safety. Prior to graduating from Virginia Western, Harris was a Sergeant in the Investigations Division of the Vinton Police Department. He also holds an Administration of Justice degree from Bluefield College and a Master’s Degree in Business Management from Liberty University.
“Chief Harris is an extremely deserving recipient of our Distinguished Alumni Award,” said Dr. Angela M. Falconetti, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “Not only is he a role model for our students showing what they can achieve if they dedicate themselves, but he is also on campus every day ensuring that the College is as safe as it can possibly be. We thank him for his continued service to Virginia Western.”
In addition to Harris, Wine was also honored with a 2014 Distinguished Alumni Award. Wine, a 1973 graduate, has been a long-time supporter of the college and had a successful career as an entrepreneur. He recently joined the Virginia Western Educational Foundation Board of Directors. After beginning his career in respiratory therapy at Pulaski Hospital, Wine started his own company – Advanced Healthcare Services – selling in-home nursing care equipment. He sold Advanced Healthcare Services in 1998 and has supported the community through work with numerous organizations including the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, the Taubman Museum of Art, Roanoke College, Hollins University and Carilion Clinic.
The Powell Charitable Foundation was recognized for its philanthropic work in support of Virginia Western. Started at the request of the late Paul A. Powell Sr., the Foundation pledged $200,000 to Virginia Western’s Community College Access Program (CCAP) in 2012. Mary Powell Roberts, Peggy Dowell Daniel (now deceased), William N. Powell, Paul A. Powell Jr. and John D. Powell have continued their father’s legacy by ensuring that college is possible for all the region’s high school graduates.
