Citing efforts from sponsoring internships to participating in classes, University of Virginia College at Wise Chancellor Donna Henry presented Robert Hardie, the outgoing rector of the University of Virginia, with the Samuel R. Crockett Award at last week’s UVA Board of Visitors meeting.
“He is a strong supporter of UVA Wise, as exemplified by his visits to the campus for commencement ceremonies and participation in finance classes, where he shared his insights and expertise through thoughtful discussions with students,” Henry told the UVA board. “Rector Hardie recognizes the crucial role and immense value UVA Wise provides to the region and the commonwealth.”
The Crockett Award is named for Samuel R. Crockett Jr., who played a key role in creating UVA Wise – then known as Clinch Valley College – in 1954. The award is fashioned from a stone from Crockett Hall, one of the two original buildings on campus.
Hardie discusses University business at last week’s Board of Visitors meeting. The strong supporter of UVA Wise is a native of Southwest Virginia. (Photo by Matt Riley, University Communications)
The award, established in 1995, has been given 25 times. Past recipients include the late President Emeritus John T. Casteen III, former Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Leonard Sandridge, current President Jim Ryan, Deputy University Counsel Barry Meek, Senior Vice President for Operations and State Government Relations Colette Sheehy, Vice President for Advancement Mark Luellen, Vice President for Communications and Chief Marketing Officer Dave Martel, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer “J.J.” Davis Wagner and former Board of Visitors member Don Pippin.
“I am overwhelmed,” Hardie said. “When you consider the past recipients of this award, you find the names of people who have had an incredible impact not only on UVA Wise but on the University of Virginia. It is truly an honor to be among them.”
Hardie said he has an affinity for UVA Wise and the role it plays in the community.
“I am from Southwest Virginia, and I know how important UVA Wise is to the region and the commonwealth,” he said. “The school has extraordinary strengths and positive impacts on the community, and the relationship between the University and UVA Wise has never been stronger. That makes this honor even more special. It means a lot to me.”
Hardie cited the nursing program and the Year at Wise as two initiatives that have been particularly impactful; both of which have seen tremendous growth in recent years.
