2024
Dr. Robert H. Sandel has served as President of Virginia Western Community College since 2001, leading the institution through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. Under his leadership, the college has seen over $138 million in new construction and renovations, including state-of-the-art facilities like the Fralin Center for Health Professions and the STEM Building. Dr. Sandel also helped establish the nationally recognized Community College Access Program (CCAP), which has provided more than $11.8 million in tuition assistance to local students.
A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Dr. Sandel has been a dedicated advocate for education and workforce development for over 50 years. His commitment to the community extends beyond the college, serving on numerous boards and earning him the title of Roanoke City Citizen of the Year in 2013. As he prepares to retire in 2025, Dr. Sandel leaves behind a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and profound impact on the region.
Dr. Robert Sandel was inducted into the Southwest Virginia Business Hall of Fame in 2024.
