The Virginia Intermont College Fire and Its History
Virginia Intermont College (VI), a private college in Bristol, Virginia, had a rich history dating back to 1884. Founded as Southwest Virginia Institute, it aimed to provide education to women in southwest Virginia. Over the years, it evolved, becoming coeducational in 1972 and expanding its academic programs. However, the college faced financial struggles, leading to its closure in 2014. In December, a devastating fire struck the former campus, leaving several buildings in ruins. This article delves into the history of Virginia Intermont College, its challenges, and the tragic fire that marked a significant event in its story.
Founding and Early Years
In 1884, Reverend J.R. Harrison, a Baptist minister, established the Southwest Virginia Institute in Glade Spring, Virginia. His vision was to create additional educational opportunities for women in the region. The institute began its operations on September 17, 1884, marking the beginning of Virginia Intermont College's journey.
As the institute grew, it became necessary to relocate to a larger campus. In 1891, the college began moving to a new site in Bristol, Virginia. The relocation was completed in 1893, with classes starting on September 14. Shortly after the move, the institution's name was changed to Virginia Institute. In 1908, it was renamed Virginia Intermont College, a name that reflected its mountain setting ("Intermont" referring to the mountains). The motto of the college was "Nil sine numine" which translates to "Nothing without Guidance".
Growth and Development
During the 1960s, Virginia Intermont College experienced significant growth, leading to the construction of five new buildings to accommodate the increasing number of students. In the early 1970s, the college transitioned into a four-year institution, granting baccalaureate degrees. This marked a significant milestone in its academic development.
In July, the college hired its first female president, Dr. E. Clorisa Phillips, who had 30 years in administration at the University of Virginia. Phillips focused on fundraising to renovate the historic campus and added academic and athletic programs for the academic year of 2012-13.
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Accreditation Issues and Financial Struggles
Despite its growth and development, Virginia Intermont College faced challenges related to accreditation and financial stability. The college was accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to award various degrees. However, in early December, the college received a one-year warning for not meeting SACS' financial standards.
In December, the college's accreditation was not renewed, and it was placed on probation for six months. This setback raised concerns about the college's ability to maintain its academic programs and attract students. The accreditation is important for a college, as it is what allows them to offer federal financial aid.
The college also faced financial difficulties due to the post-recession economy. The SACS placed VI on warning again in 2010. The commission held concerns of the financial viability, as before, and this strung into 2011. But with little change this time, the SACS removed VI from membership in June. An appeal was put in place, but it failed in August. This challenge led to a lawsuit that was taken to Georgia federal court.
In January, the college announced plans to merge with Webber International University in Babson Park, Florida, due to declining enrollment. However, this measure failed in April.
Closure and Aftermath
Faced with persistent financial struggles and declining enrollment, Virginia Intermont College closed its doors in May. The final graduation ceremony was held on May 4, marking the end of an era for the institution. One day later, the board of trustees accepted the resignation of President Clorisa Phillips, who stepped down for personal reasons after serving for nearly four years.
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The board of trustees placed the day-to-day leadership of the college with Compass Executives of Nashville with Art Rebrovick serving as interim president and restructuring agent. Bluefield College expressed interest in purchasing the property, but backed out when inspections indicated there was millions in deferred maintenance to the buildings.
The closure of Virginia Intermont College was a significant loss for the community. Laura Mondul, a graduate and former public relations director, expressed her disappointment, stating that the college had incredible history and love.
The Fire
On December, a fire broke out at the former Virginia Intermont College campus. The fire destroyed several buildings, including some of the oldest structures on the campus. The blaze was so large that fire departments from across the region were called in to assist.
City officials deemed the buildings unsafe and initiated demolition. During the demolition process, workers salvaged artifacts, including the cornerstone and crest. The cornerstone was accidentally cracked, revealing a time capsule from 1891, which contained historical items.
The cause of the fire remains unknown. City officials had been concerned about the state of the buildings and the danger they posed for years. In October, the city notified the owner to submit a plan to improve the condition of the buildings. In April, the city tax assessor declared some buildings derelict and blighted.
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Campus and Architecture
The original campus buildings, constructed between 1891 and 1893, included the main hall, a fine arts building, and two outbuildings. The main hall featured a dining hall, rooms for boarders, a gymnasium, and an indoor pool. The original structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 4, 1984.
Over the years, several additions were made to the campus. In the early 1920s, Hodges Hall and the president's home were constructed. East Hall was built in 1922, followed by the gymnasium in 1930, and the Library and Humanities building shortly after. In summer, Science Hall was renovated, adding state-of-the-art labs and equipment.
Other notable buildings on campus included the Turner Student Center, completed in 1959, and the Worrell Fine Arts Center, completed in 1961. The J. Harrison-Jones Memorial Hall, completed in 1967, served as a chapel-auditorium. The J. F. Hicks Memorial Library housed a traditional print collection and provided access to electronic resources.
Academics and Athletics
Virginia Intermont College offered programs in Arts and Sciences, Fine Arts, Pre-Professional Studies, and Business Administration. The college was governed by a president, provost, and a board of trustees.
The Virginia Intermont athletic teams were called the Cobras. The college competed in nine intercollegiate varsity sports, including baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, softball, volleyball, and cycling. The equestrian teams had a long history of competitive success, with more than 15 national championships.
Traditions
One of the spring traditions at Virginia Intermont College was the Torchlight ceremony. Graduates marched around the campus and had a torch lit by the president. The group then formed the college below Harrison-Jones Memorial Hall and sang the college song, "Nil Sine Numine." This song was written by students in 1952 as part of a tradition for students of writing and competing with a song demonstrating pride in the institution. The music for the song was taken from a song called "The Gaudeamus" which was sung in the musical The Student Prince.
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