University of Virginia Library

REPORT BY CHANCELLOR JOSEPH C. SMIDDY OF CLINCH VALLEY COLLEGE

Chancellor Smiddy outlined the history of Clinch Valley College from its opening in 1954 to the present. At this time the College enrolls 743 full time and 278 part time students. Forty percent of the present students reside at least 300 miles from the campus.

The faculty is divided into four divisions: Education, Humanities, Mathematics and Science, and Professional and Social Sciences. Chancellor Smiddy expressed satisfaction with the high caliber of the instructional staff of the College. He observed that there is a continuing study being made of opportunities for the College to serve Southwestern Virginia. The State Council of Higher Education has approved an Environmental Science Program to provide for the training of specialists in the field of surface mine reclamation and for training in other environmental areas. Under consideration is a program of training in mine management for both surface and deep mines.

Mr. Smiddy requested assistance in two areas. One of these was what he regards as a low faculty salary average. He expressed hope that this can be improved. He also regards as a serious problem the difficulty in maintaining fine arts and language programs within the State's present "Full Time Equivalent" funding policy.

Referring to the relationship of the Board of Visitors to Clinch Valley College, he expressed need for a local Board. He said that many of our programs are suffering because the College has no board to help raise needed funds to supplement state funds for high quality academic programs.

He concluded with an expression of appreciation for the leadership provided by the very capable administrators at the University of Virginia. He said that the University has always responded with assistance when needs for it were made known. He expressed pride in the graduates who have returned as professionals in the area. He is confident that Clinch Valley College has been an important factor in helping Southwest Virginia take its rightful place among the great areas of the Commonwealth.

The Rector thanked Mr. Smiddy for his thoughtful report.