About Us

Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center

Message from our Director:

Welcome to the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center! We are glad you are here. Whether you are interested in a higher education degree, professional development, workforce credentials, event and conference space or ongoing experiential learning opportunities, we have a space for you. Our mission is to serve the educational and workforce development needs of the people of the region through our partnerships, programming and services.

With over 110,000 square feet of professional classrooms, large conference areas, labs and administrative space, the Higher Education Center accommodates hundreds of events and over 55,000 individuals annually.

We hope you find that we provide our partners and guests with exceptional experiences and customer service by being capable, enthusiastic and engaged. We strive to anticipate change regarding the educational and workforce gaps of the region by encouraging new ideas and approaches to the way we do business. We create strong relationships and effective collaboration with local, state and federal partners to achieve strategic outcomes. We value supporting learners with a safe and stimulating environment to learn, achieve their potential and further their career pursuits. Lastly, we devote resources and hard work to create a facility that serves the Southwest Virginia community.  

We are a great place, doing great things because of great people!

Sincerely,

David Matlock
Agency Head/Executive Director
Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center

 

The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center (Higher Education Center), located in Abingdon, Virginia, is the first multi-college and university institution of higher education in the Commonwealth.

Established as a State Agency in 1991, the Higher Education Center partners with public and private colleges and universities to provide degree programs, certificates, and professional development courses.   A variety of learning options and class times are available ranging from face-to-face instruction in the daytime and evening to online study any time.

Professional Suite A at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.

With approximately 100,000 square feet of professional classrooms, large conference areas, labs, and administrative space, the Higher Education Center accommodates hundreds of events annually. On site I.T. support classes and events with exceptional technology equipment, bandwidth, and service. The Higher Education Center is open Monday-Saturday and for special events on Sundays.

The exterior of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.

The Higher Education Center is governed by a Board of Trustees that includes six members of the Virginia General Assembly; eight university presidents; two Agency Heads, and seven citizen members appointed by the Governor. The Executive Director/Agency Head of the Higher Education Center reports to the Board of Trustees and the Virginia Secretary of Education. The Board of Trustees meets twice a year in June and December.

The exterior of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.

Board of Trustees

Meet our esteemed Board of Trustees at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, with leaders from the Virginia General Assembly, university presidents, agency heads, and citizen members appointed by the Governor. Explore educational opportunities in our state-of-the-art facilities today.

A professor looking over a paper during a College for Older Adults course at the Southwest Virginia Higher Ed Center.

Employment Opportunities

Exciting opportunities at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center’s College for Older Adults! Join our community of lifelong learners for personal and professional growth. Connect with like-minded individuals, expand your knowledge, and discover new horizons with us. Start your next chapter today!

Students doing a laboratory activity for A. Linwood Holton Governor's School.

Staff Directory

Meet our dedicated team at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Our staff provides innovative educational opportunities for your successful future. Join us today for endless growth and learning.

A young lady taking an exam at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center's Testing Center

HEC Alerts and Policies

Stay informed and prepared with HEC Alerts and Policies at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Trust in our unwavering commitment to your safety and success as you journey towards a brighter future.

Individuals sitting in a large room listening to a panel of five men during a conference event.

FAQs

Have questions? Find answers here! Explore our FAQs for enrollment and program details at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Start your journey to growth and success today!

Two smiling Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center students sitting inside a bright room with large windows, holding textbooks.

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