This time of year, as the leaves change and fall away, we are reminded that change is natural and happens all around us.That's also true at your Hometown University.We are in the midst of an exciting season of growth and change!Recent developments that I am pleased to share with you include welcoming the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Eric Shinseki, to campus; opening the Galesi Family Student Success Center, which provides a central location that will help position our students for success in their years at Averett and beyond; and announcing a partnership with Danville Regional Medical Center (DRMC) to explore the possibility of extending quality nursing programs in the region.I am also very excited to tell you of a recently-announced generous pledge from one of our Trustees to Averett's autism program.Our goal is to now match this gift, which will fund hiring a Director of Autism Studies, and grow this important program!

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Gift to Fund Autism Director Position
Matching gifts are sought in trustee challenge to help children with autism in our region.   Full Story

University Explores Nursing Degree Program
Averett is in the process of exploring the option of offering a nursing degree program at the University. If such a program is approved, classes toward a nursing degree would be available in the fall of 2011. Full Story

Alumnus Joins Office of Institutional Advancement
This month, the University is pleased to welcome Averett alumnus Albert "Buddy" Rawley Jr., '75, as its vice president of institutional advancement. Full Story

Averett to Celebrate Christmas
A special community Christmas celebration has been planned to put you in the mood for the Christmas season. Join us for a free concert on Nov. 30. Full Story

Averett Theatre Department Tackles Death
With the help of Guest Director Fred Motley, students in the Averett Theatre Department are tackling an issue many people face everyday in "The Shadow Box." "The Shadow Box" tells the story of three people who are dying and how their impending death affects their caregivers. Full Story