Blue Ridge Community College Marketing & Communications Dept.
On Friday afternoon, April 22, Blue Ridge Community College unveiled a new 6,500-square-foot Public Safety Training Facility with a special ribbon cutting ceremony. Public safety personnel from across Henderson and Transylvania counties gathered for the memorable celebration.
“The most important thing about this facility is that it was developed to meet the needs of our frontline public safety professionals here in our communities – the brave men and women who protect and care for us every day,” said Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood, President of Blue Ridge Community College. “The College supports these professionals with a broad range of academic degrees, hands-on training, and professional certifications.”
The program began with the Presentation of Colors performed by members of the Henderson County Law Enforcement Honor Guard and Fire and Rescue Honor Guard. Speakers included Dr. Leatherwood; Mr. John B. “Chip” Gould, Chairman of the Blue Ridge Community College Board of Trustees; Mrs. Rebecca McCall, Vice Chair of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners; and Mr. Jimmy Brissie, Director of Emergency Services in Henderson County.
The facility was funded by the Henderson County Board of Commissioners and the Blue Ridge Educational Foundation. It will support about 50 public safety programs and courses offered by the College, as well as specialized training for law enforcement, fire and rescue, and emergency medical agencies.
“Your investment in Blue Ridge Community College is an investment in the lives and livelihoods of the people who live in the communities we serve,” said Mr. Gould.

The community celebrates the opening of the new Public Safety Training Facility on April 22, 2022.