VCOM Receives Department of Health Grant

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Montgomery County, VA – U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith recently announced that the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Blacksburg has received a $444,816 grant from the HHS U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support research and training in complementary and alternative medicine. This grant, awarded through the HHS National Center for Complementary & Integrative Health, will enhance VCOM’s capacity to pioneer new approaches in healthcare education and research.

Founded in 2003 through a partnership with Virginia Tech, VCOM has become a vital institution in the region, transforming healthcare by focusing on the needs of rural and medically underserved communities. Earlier this year, VCOM received a prestigious accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) in recognition of its dedication to high standards in healthcare education. This achievement underscores the college’s commitment to preparing future physicians who are ready to meet the evolving demands of the medical field.

With this new grant, VCOM is poised to make an even greater impact, bringing enhanced healthcare resources and educational opportunities to the New River Valley.

Learn more about education in the NRV here.

Read U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith full press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University has Dramatic Increase in Enrollment

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Radford, VA – WSLS 10 recently reported that Radford University has brought in more new students this school year than any year previously. According to the story, Radford recorded a 28% increase in freshman enrollment and a 39% increase in new transfer students.

Growth at the university is due to several new programs, most notably the Tuition Promise program. The Tuition Promise program’s goal is to make education at Radford University affordable. The program allows undergraduate students to earn their degree for free if the household makes under $100,000.

Radford University is a comprehensive public university located in the City of Radford that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 28 master’s programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 18 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate.

Watch the full story here.

Discover more about education in the New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Virginia Tech Ranks as Top University

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that they have been ranked as a top university by both the Wall Street Journal and the U.S. News & World Report.

The Wall Street Journal ranked Virginia Tech as the top university in Virginia the sixth best public school in the country, and nineteenth overall in their list of 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. According to Virginia Tech’s article, the list was composed of 500 universities and ranked on how much a school improves students’ chances of graduating and their future earnings as well as the overall student experience.

The U.S. News & World Report ranked Virginia Tech as tying for twenty –first on the list of the country’s top public schools. U.S. News & World Report releases annual rankings of bachelor’s degree institutions in the United States, providing guidance to high school students seeking their ideal college match. The publication looks at over 1,400 schools and classifies them into a variety of different categories. The ranking methodology differs by category. In the Top Public Schools category, 19 factors of academic quality are evaluated, including graduation and retention rates, affordability, post-graduation degree value, faculty resources, expert opinions (from presidents, provosts, etc.), financial resources, and test scores.

Eight of Virginia Tech’s individual College of Engineering graduate programs also ranked in the top 25 in the U.S. News and World Report. They are as follows:

  • Environmental: Tied for No. 5
  • Industrial and Systems: No. 5
  • Civil: No. 9
  • Biological/Agricultural: Tied for No. 10
  • Aerospace: Tied for No. 11
  • Computer: No. 15
  • Mechanical: No. 17
  • Electrical: No. 20

    • According to Virginia Tech’s website, they are the most comprehensive university in the Commonwealth and a top research institution, providing around 280 undergraduate and graduate programs to over 38,000 students, including undergraduates, graduates, and professionals, while managing a research portfolio exceeding $556 million.

    Read Virginia Tech’s article on their Wall Street Journal rankings here.

    Read the Wall Street Journal 2025 Best College in the US list here. (pay wall)

    Read Virginia Tech’s U.S. News & World Report article here.

    See the U.S. News & World Report rankings here.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Lane Stadium Ranks Top 5 Toughest Places to Play

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Montgomery County, VA – Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech was recently ranked as one of the top five toughest stadiums to play in college football by Bruce Feldman in The Athletic article “What is college football’s toughest stadium to play in?”. The Athletic, the sports journalism department of the New York Times, stated that “Lane Stadium comes alive like no other venue” and the stadium can be “ominous”.

Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium is known for its electric opening, “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, that has become synonymous with Hokie pride. The Hokies’ entrance is so impactful that it has been measured on a seismograph.

Read The Athletic article here.

Learn more about the Virginia Tech Hokies here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Forbes Ranks Radford University’s GIS Among Best of 2024

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Radford, VA – Forbes recently ranked Radford University’s geographic information systems (GIS) third on its list of Best GIS Certificates Online of 2024. GIS uses state-of-the-art technology to do computer-based mapping. According to Forbes, “well-paying GIS jobs can be found in all sorts of industries, including business, urban planning, agriculture, forestry, transportation, science and the military.”

Radford University’s geospatial intelligence online certification program (GEOINT) was selected by Forbes because it “aligned with national standards and the core competencies set by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation. The program caters to working professionals and has no prerequisites beyond a high school diploma.” Forbes continues to say that “Radford’s GEOINT program consists of five self-paced courses. You have eight weeks to finish each course but can finish in as quickly as six months. The flexible, asynchronous coursework is delivered through competency-based instruction, and students practice their skills through virtual remote labs.”

Radford University’s GEOINT certification is available through their IMPACT lab. Learn more about the program here.

Read Forbes’ list of Best GIS Certificates Online of 2024 here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University Receives Grant for Workforce Development

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Radford, VA – Radford University recently reported that they have received a $202,872 grant from the GO Virginia State Board to support the Developing IT & Cybersecurity Certification Pipeline (ITCCP) initiative.

According to Radford University’s press release, the ITCCP, “a partnership between the Radford University Division of Economic Development and Corporate Education and the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative Southwest Virginia, is a collaborative project with Radford University, Virginia Tech and New River Community College designed to increase the number of professionals with IT and cybersecurity certifications.” The partnership seeks to address regional talent gaps by creating a pipeline of students and graduates with IT and cybersecurity professional certifications.

The press release also stated that “a regional testing center will be established at The HUB at Radford for Economic Development to increase accessibility to certification testing for IT and cybersecurity certifications for students at partnering institutions and incumbent workers in the New River Valley.”

Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit” for businesses in software development, cybersecurity, IT support, digital creative, and other Information Technology subsectors. Thanks to outstanding education programs from local universities, the NRV is cultivating one of the nation’s top IT workforces. This skilled talent can thrive in a region that boasts an excellent quality of life and a low cost of living. Learn more about Information Technology in the NRV here.

Read Radford University’s press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New River Community College Announces Economic Impact

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Pulaski County, VA – WSLS recently reported on New River Community College’s economic impact study for the Fiscal Year 2021-2022. The report shows that the community college is having a large influence in the region, contributing more than $121 million to the NRV’s economy in 2022.

According to the Economic Value of New River Community College Report, “for every dollar invested in the college, students gain $4.50 in higher future earnings and taxpayers see a net benefit of $2.20 in added tax revenue stemming from students’ higher lifetime earnings and increased output by businesses and public sector savings.”

The study also profiles the college’s operations spending impact, student spending impact, and the alumni impact in Virginia’s New River Valley for the 2021-2022 fiscal year.

Watch the WSLS Story here.

Read New River Community College’s full economic impact study here.

Virginia’s New River Valley offers exceptional educational opportunities, featuring several world-class universities and colleges within the region. Learn more about the educational landscape of the NRV here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University Releases Economic Impact Study

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Radford, VA – Radford University recently published their 2022 Economic Impact Study, which outlines the university’s contributions to Virginia’s New River Valley and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The study reveals that Radford University generated a total economic impact of $421.7 million for the state of Virginia and $390 million for the NRV in the 2022 Fiscal Year. For every $1 Virginia invested in Radford University, the university returned $6.35 to the state’s economy.

The report also emphasizes the university’s impact on employment, student spending and volunteerism, visitor spending, alumni spending, and human capital improvements during the 2022 Fiscal Year.

Read Radford University’s full economic impact study here.

Virginia’s New River Valley boasts outstanding educational opportunities, with several world-class universities and colleges located in the region. Learn more about the educational landscape of the NRV here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

10 Most Popular Blog Posts of 2023

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has experienced an exciting 2023! Let’s count down the top ten 2023 posts on TheNRV.org website. The following posts had the most pageviews online:

10. Broadband Partnership Brings Countywide Fiber to Floyd

Citizens Telephone Coop recently reported that their Countywide Broadband Expansion project with Floyd County is almost complete. This will make Floyd “the first of a handful of rural counties to achieve universal broadband in the Commonwealth.”

9. 2 NRV Locations Featured in Southern Living For Best Fall Foliage in Virginia

Southern Living recently highlighted two locations in the New River Valley on their “15 Virginia Parks Where You Can Catch the Best Fall Foliage” list. Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County was #4 and Mabry Mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Floyd County was #9.

8. NRV Companies Announce 2,530 jobs and $551 million in Investment Since 2018

Virginia’s New River Valley has seen great economic success in the last 5 years. 24 new or expanding companies announced plans to create 2,530 jobs and invest over $551 million in the NRV region.

7. Radford University Partners with City of Radford to Launch The HUB

The HUB at Radford for Economic Development opened on October 17th following a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This new partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford will “serve as an economic development support system to help businesses thrive in the City of Radford and across the region.

6. NRV Famers Market Trail

If local vegetables, handpicked flowers, and fresh baked goods are what define your summer, then it’s time to hit the NRV Farmers Market Trail. Each market brings its own finds and, in some cases, music. Explore the exciting flavors that abound in the New River Valley by grabbing your bag and joining us as we delve into the local NRV Farmers Market Trail.

5. New LewisGale Montgomery ER Coming to Christiansburg

Work has begun on a new emergency room in the town of Christiansburg. This will be LewisGale’s first freestanding ER in the New River Valley. There are 2 others located in the Roanoke area.

4. Camrett Logistics to Expand and Create 58 New Jobs in Pulaski County

Camrett Logistics is expanding their capacity in Pulaski County, creating 58 new jobs and investing $2 million into the area.

3. Virginia Tech Ranks Top 3 Best College Campuses in America

Virginia Tech ranks third in 2020 Best College Campuses by Niche.com.

2. Fall Activities in the NRV

Join us as we explore fall in the NRV! The list has a little something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Four NRV Businesses Named Best Employers in Virginia by Forbes

Forbes recently released their 5th annual list of America’s Best Employers by State. Several New River Valley companies made the list for Virginia: Virgina Tech, BAE Systems, Carilion Clinic, and Volvo Group.

Discover more of the 2023 news from around Virginia’s New River Valley visit here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University and Virginia Tech Among Best Student Cost of Living in VA

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New River Valley, VA – Radford University and Virginia Tech are among the top 10 best colleges for student cost of living in Virginia according to SmartAsset.com Radford University is ranked #6 for 2023 and Virginia Tech is ranked #7 for 2023.

According to SmartAsset’s methodology, the company “compares schools based on a variety of financial factors and data sets, including starting salary, tuition, living expenses, student retention rate, and scholarships awarded”.

See SmartAsset’s Best Student Cost of Living in Virginia rankings list and the methodology for their placements here.

Learn more about higher education in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Photo: Radford University on the right and Virginia Tech on the left

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.