Bristol Honors Virginia Intermont College with New Scholarship

News Summary

King University launches a new merchandise initiative featuring the Virginia Intermont College logo to honor its alumni. Proceeds will support a scholarship fund for students connected to the college. Despite its closure, the spirit of Virginia Intermont remains strong in Bristol, with a community gathering planned for May 2. There are ongoing concerns about the deteriorating campus, as safety issues have arisen, prompting city council actions to address the property’s condition.

Bristol Strikes a Heartfelt Connection to Virginia Intermont College with New Scholarship Initiative

Hello, Bristol! Exciting news is coming your way as King University takes a heartfelt step to honor the alumni of the beloved but now-closed Virginia Intermont College. Fans of this historic institution can rejoice as the university has decided to resurrect the iconic VI logo. That’s right, folks, you can now wear your pride on your sleeve while also contributing to a noble cause!

Merchandise with a Mission

The King University bookstore is rolling out merchandise featuring the nostalgic Virginia Intermont logo. And the best part? All proceeds from the sales will directly feed into a scholarship fund dedicated to students connected to this cherished institution. Imagine the joy of wearing something that not only represents your alma mater but also helps future students make their dreams come true!

Keeping the Spirit Alive

Even though Virginia Intermont College has been closed for several years, the spirit of its community remains alive and well. Many residents of Bristol still feel a strong connection to the college, often referring to those involved as “one family.” This beautiful sentiment highlights the importance of community in our lives and truly underlines why this initiative matters.

A Day to Remember

As part of the efforts to remember Virginia Intermont, a memorial event is scheduled to take place on the King University campus starting on May 2. Everyone is welcome, so mark your calendars and come join in honoring the legacy of Virginia Intermont College!

Community Concerns and Realities

Bristol, Virginia City Council has declared the campus as “blighted,” which means it has fallen into disrepair and poses safety risks. The council has decided to approve an ordinance that will raise the real estate tax rate on this property by an additional 5%. The hope is that the funds generated will help pay for increased police patrols and fire services linked to the findings from the fire department.

Fires and Safety Issues

Bristol Virginia Fire Department has faced multiple emergencies at this location over the last twelve months. Sadly, conditions were so unsafe that firefighters couldn’t even enter the buildings due to structural hazards.

Community Leaders Speak Out

Council Member Neal Osborne are expressing deep emotional ties to the campus, highlighting its importance to Bristol residents. There’s a strong desire from many, including Vice-Mayor Jake Holmes, to seek restoration of the property, which has seen better days. However, obstacles remain as the city attempts to push the property owner to manage the deteriorating campus.

Mayor Holmes has voiced frustrations over the financial implications of acquiring or renovating the property, admitting that the costs are considered overwhelming for the city. It’s a tough situation for the community that has grown up around Virginia Intermont.

What Lies Ahead?

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Additional Resources

• WJHL News
• Wikipedia: Virginia Intermont College
• KFOX News
• Google Search: Virginia Intermont College fire
• WJHL Local News
• Google Scholar: Virginia Intermont College safety
• WJHL Local News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Virginia Intermont College
• USA Today
• Google News: Virginia Intermont College fire

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER

The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.