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Featured photo: Pictured, left to right: Emily Gill, Rey Castillo, Jr., Jon Grunder, Tonya Stephens, Brenda Blackburn and Rachel Meriwether. Photo by Rich Keen.
The following story was featured in Blue Ridge Community College’s 2024-25 annual report. This report and others are available online on the About Blue Ridge webpage.
Blue Ridge Community College proudly celebrates its 2025 Employee Award winners—exceptional faculty and staff whose dedication fosters a vibrant and inspiring academic community for learners and colleagues alike. Presented by the Educational Foundation in partnership with Human Resources, these awards honor employees who consistently go above and beyond to support students, advance workforce development and elevate our mission.
Whether guiding students through financial challenges, transforming academic programs, providing the highest quality of instruction or promoting community wellness, each honoree reflects the excellence that defines Blue Ridge.
“Our annual award winners represent the very best of what we do,” said President Leatherwood. “Through their leadership, innovation and commitment to student success and personal growth, they strengthen both our college community and the state’s workforce.”
2025 Employee Award Recipients
Emily Gill, Wellness Award
Rey Castillo, Jr., Dr. David W. Sink Jr. Community Service Award
Jon Grunder, Dr. Molly A. Parkhill Staff Person of the Year Award
Tonya Stephens, Dr. and Mrs. William D. Killian Outstanding Teacher Award
Brenda Blackburn, Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood Excellence in Leadership Award
Rachel Meriwether, Dr. Eliza B. Graue Extra Mile Award