Monday, November 22, 2010


By Kimberly P. Blair
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Ferrum College


As the fall semester gathers to a close, we eagerly look forward to the holidays and time with friends and family. It is essential that at some point during all the festivities for me to take time to reflect on the many things for which I am thankful. This year, near the top of the list, is the gratitude I feel for the Ferrum family of alumni, parents and friends. Their expressions of continued support for this wonderful place are inspiring.

I drove by the location for the Hank Norton Center today and saw the crews with their heavy machinery working on the utility and water lines in preparation for the foundation of the Center. Ferrum Mountain looms over the sight displaying the last vestige of fall color and showing signs that change is in the air. The construction activity and the Center itself generate feelings of progress and opportunity for the future for our College.

It will transform that section of campus and will give us an opportunity to showcase our student athletes and provide a more competitive facility for recruitment for our outdoor sports. The Center is an exciting development for Ferrum.

Again, during this season to give thanks, and throughout the year, we feel blessed for the progress of the College made possible by the unrelenting support from the “Ferrum Family.” Go Panthers!

Kimberly P. Blair

Monday, November 8, 2010

Ferrum College's First Mountain Bike Race


By Aaron Conover
Assistant Director of Ferrum Outdoors


The brisk and sunny morning on Saturday, October 30th provided a perfect setting for a mountain bike race. The riders started the 2.5 mile course at Chapman Pond working their way through the woods to connect with a challenging ascent. After regaining their breath, they descended a fun, newly built single track section then pedaled to the finish. All the riders returned sporting smiles with their bikes (and themselves) intact.
This event came together because of the students here at Ferrum College. Brian Wilson, Matt Fioramonti, Matt Foster, Max Ruozzi and Zack Johnson participated in designing the course layout, trail design and new trail construction. Erin French handled the registration plus timing and Henry Buchanan was out on the course making sure everyone was safe on the day of the race.

Ferrum Outdoors is excited about the growth of mountain bikers on campus and is looking forward to expanding the opportunities and resources for them. New Trails, riding technique and repair clinics, group rides and another race are in the works. Those with bikes or without can contact us at ferrumoutdoors@ferrum.edu or call (540) 365-4324 to take part in activities or receive more information.

Race Results:
1. James Turbyfill
2. Matt Fioramoniti
3. Max Ruozzi
4. Brian Wilson
5. Aaron Conover