Virginia Western Community College announced that a record-setting nine dual-enrolled students were awarded the Governor’s Medallion this year for earning their Associate’s Degree or General Education Certificate while still in high school. Three of those students are from Botetourt.

Numerous other dual-enrolled high school graduates received Virginia Western career studies certificates in various fields, according to the announcement.

Governor’s Medallions are awarded to high school graduates who have proven academic excellence by simultaneously earning a high school degree and an Associate’s Degree or General Education Certificate at a Virginia community college.

Students who receive this award were able to wear the medallion during their high school graduations as well as during their college commencement ceremonies.

Virginia Western students from Botetourt who earned Associate’s Degrees are Sydney Gordon, James River High School; Kaelyn “Katie” Dooley, Lord Botetourt High School, and Erin Bohannon, Lord Botetourt High School.

The others are Chloe Amala Pusha, Northside High School; Lauren Hall, Northside; Robert Wampler III, Northside; Lauren Cook, William Byrd High School; Brenna Harman, Cave Spring High School, and Jack Diviney, home schooled.

High school students who choose to dual-enroll through Virginia Western have the opportunity to get ahead on their college education, gain valuable experience and save money. While taking college credits as a high school student is challenging, it is also rewarding.

“It is such a fulfilling experience for someone who is passionate about learning, but it requires dedication and sacrifice,” said JRHS graduate Sydney Gordon, who will be attending James Madison University with plans to go on to a Doctorate in Audiology. “You will meet so many new people and make great memories along the way.”