King University Honors Virginia Intermont Alumni with Merchandise

Honoring alumni with Virginia Intermont merchandise at King University.

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News Summary

King University has launched a special merchandise initiative featuring the Virginia Intermont logo to honor alumni and support a scholarship fund. This move comes after a devastating fire at the former Virginia Intermont College campus in Bristol, Virginia. Proceeds from the sales will aid students closely connected to the college, while offering a nostalgic reminder of their educational roots. The initiative reflects the emotional ties alumni have to the institution as they face the deteriorating state of the campus.

Bristol, Virginia Salutes Virginia Intermont Alumni with Special Merchandise

In a heartfelt gesture to honor the alumni of Virginia Intermont College, King University has decided to bring back the beloved college logo by offering a range of merchandise. This initiative has come to light amid the unfortunate circumstances following a fire that decimated several buildings on the former Virginia Intermont campus.

Bringing Back Memories

The King University bookstore has proudly showcased a collection of items featuring the Virginia Intermont logo, allowing alumni and supporters to proudly wear and display their school spirit. With every purchase, not only do individuals get a piece of nostalgia, but they also contribute to a special cause: proceeds from these sales will support a scholarship fund intended for students closely connected to Virginia Intermont College.

The Fire Incident

On May 13, 2024, a significant fire broke out at what used to be Virginia Intermont College, sending local firefighters into action around 3:30 a.m. As they arrived at the scene on Campus Drive, they were met with a thick plume of smoke billowing from the college’s library. The blaze originated in the basement and quickly spread to the first and second floors, fueled by combustible materials, including books.

Fire crews worked diligently for several hours to contain the fire, which ultimately was restricted to the library area. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries related to the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, though it is being treated as an accidental fire for now.

A Nostalgic Reflection

Virginia Intermont College, which held its doors open for over 130 years before closing in 2014 due to financial issues and loss of accreditation, carries a rich history dating back to its founding in 1884. The college transitioned to a co-educational institution in 1972, opening its doors to both male and female students and creating lifelong memories.

Many alumni reflect on the emotional impact of the college’s closure, especially during its final days. In 2016, the former campus was acquired by U.S. Magis International, a Chinese-owned company based in New York, with ambitions to transform the site into a business college. However, further plans have faced delays, particularly due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Status of the Campus

Sadly, the former Virginia Intermont buildings remain boarded up and are in a state of disrepair. City officials, including Bristol’s mayor, have acknowledged the concerning condition of the campus but have faced limitations in intervening due to the property being privately owned. The city has taken steps to maintain the grounds by mowing the grass and adding the costs to the owner’s tax bill while trying to collaborate with U.S. Magis to curb further deterioration.

Alumni’s Sentiments

As the community comes to grips with the state of the campus, alumni have expressed deep sadness over the conditions of their alma mater. They feel a strong connection to the site and echo a need for restoration to bring back the spirit and memories of their time spent at Virginia Intermont College.

As King University moves forward with its initiative to retail merchandise featuring the beloved Virginia Intermont logo, it provides an excellent opportunity for alumni and supporters to engage once again with their cherished past while helping to create a brighter future for the next generation of students.