Bluefield University mourns the loss of Ruth Blankenship, a cherished colleague and friend. Her unwavering faith, kindness, and dedication to her family and friends left a lasting impression on all blessed to know her.
“Her love for Bluefield University is unlike anything else I have witnessed in my 20-year career,” said Caroline Dixon, Assistant Vice President for Finance and Administration. “She lived and breathed Bluefield and wanted everyone to know what a special place it is for the students to receive a fulfilling education to be servant leaders, and she also wanted to make Bluefield a great place to work. She will be sorely missed by many; however, she is rejoicing with our Lord and Savior, her precious parents, and others who went on before her.”
Ruth joined the Bluefield College staff in the fall of 2000, serving as director of the institution’s corporate and foundation relations and its Annual Fund. Her service continued as the coordinator for the Advancement Office and an adjunct business instructor prior to being named the Vice President for Institutional Advancement in 2009. Most recently, she accepted the role of Vice President for Finance and Administration in 2019.
Ruth was known for having a heart for the university. During her tenure, she was instrumental in reaching several institutional milestones, securing funding for new classroom technologies and facility renovations, restructuring BU’s annual giving program, and overseeing significant growth in donor participation. A proponent for students, she served as an advisor for the Phi Beta Lambda, Students in Free Enterprise, Pi Gamma Mu, and Bonner Student Leaders organizations. Naturally, she was granted Bluefield University’s Distinguished Staff Award in 2008 and the Honorary Alumna Award in 2012.
“Ruth and I worked together for twenty-four years at BU. Ruth loved Bluefield College and saw the transition into Bluefield University,” said Cathy Payne, Student Success Coach. “The students, faculty, and staff knew they could come to Ruth for assistance; she always tried to find a solution. To sum it up, Ruth was a servant leader.”
An active member of Bluefield and surrounding communities, Ruth served on numerous economic development, soil and water conservation, and education committees. She was a beloved member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church and adored by her husband, John, and son, Matthew.
“John and Matthew were her whole world, as was Bluefield College, now University. She always smiled and was willing to help in any way she could,” Dixon added.
To honor her life and impact, Bluefield University is establishing a memorial scholarship fund. Contributions may be submitted at bluefield.edu/giving or mailed to the Mary Ruth Blankenship Memorial Scholarship, Bluefield University, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA, 24605.
We offer our deepest condolences to her family during this time. May her memory bring solace and strength to all who were touched by her.