PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — The Patrick County Education Foundation (PCEF) officially launched the Patrick Promise on Thursday, marking a milestone in efforts to make college education tuition-free for Patrick County students.

Formed in 2001, PCEF has worked since 2019 to raise funds that will allow Patrick County High School seniors to attend Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC) for up to 2.5 years at no cost to students or their families.

The program is set to begin in the fall of 2026.

Dr. Greg Hodges, president of P&HCC, said the Patrick Promise represents far more than just an education initiative.

“This is wonderful for Patrick & Henry Community College, but the work has really never been about the college—it’s been about the community the college serves,” Hodges said. “This announcement is as much about economic development as it is about education, because it helps strengthen the local workforce, attract new businesses, and keep families here in Patrick County.”

Hodges said the program supports three major goals: expanding economic mobility for students and families, increasing the county’s economic attractiveness for new industries, and reducing population outmigration.

“In short,” he said, “this work is dedicated to helping the people of Patrick County get good-paying jobs, earn family-sustaining wages, and stay here to raise their families.”

Dr. Stewart Roberson, chair of PCEF, said the initiative is the result of years of community collaboration and vision.

“This was a tremendous community effort that began with our former chair, Governor Gerald Bal, who said, ‘We have the talent—now let’s give our kids the opportunity,’” Roberson said. “That vision set in motion a process of fundraising and partnership that will lift not just our county, but future generations.”

Roberson added that the program’s benefits reach beyond students.

“If you’re a welder or a nurse trained through the Patrick Promise, you can stay here, earn a strong wage, and serve this community,” he said. “Employers will benefit from a skilled local workforce, and over time, these same students will become the leaders of Patrick County.”

The current funds are expected to cover three years of tuition-free education, with additional funds already secured for part of a fourth year through a recent estate gift.

“While this is certainly a celebration of years of fundraising, our work is far from done,” Roberson said. “It’s critical that we continue to build the endowment that supports the Promise so that students have access to this opportunity for years to come.”

Community members and businesses can contribute here or by contacting Tiffani Underwood at 276-656-0281 or tunderwood@patrickhenry.edu.

High school seniors interested in the Patrick Promise should contact their school-based career coach or Megan Willis at 276-656-0348 or mwillis@patrickhenry.edu.

Families can also attend Patrick Promise Night on November 17 at P&HCC’s Patrick County site to learn more.

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