Bluefield University honored alumni and friends for volunteerism, Christian service, and professional excellence at the annual Alumni Awards Luncheon on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
President Morgan Lloyd and Vice President Scott Polhamus of the Alumni Association Board of Directors joined University President Steve Peterson and Director of Alumni Relations Sherelle Morgan to present the alumni awards.
“Bluefield University is honored to celebrate the achievements and service of our exceptional alumni,” Morgan said. “These honorees exemplify the principles of servant leadership through their community involvement.”
Dr. Bryan & Mindy Zimmerman, Volunteers of the Year
Dr. Bryan Zimmerman and Mindy Zimmerman were named Volunteers of the Year for being dedicated supporters of Bluefield University’s Men’s Soccer program. Over the past three years, Dr. and Mrs. Zimmerman have volunteered extensively, sponsoring and organizing concessions, assisting with senior night and alumni events, and fundraising thousands of dollars to support the team’s goals on and off the field. They have also hosted players for a summer tournament in Virginia Beach, providing student-athletes with meaningful experiences and opportunities to represent Bluefield. In addition to her involvement with the soccer program, Mindy manages the BU Men’s Soccer Team Supporters Facebook group, keeping families and friends informed about their players and fostering a strong sense of community. She also enjoys cooking for team members whenever they are in town.
Dr. Valerie Burrell ’09, Primitivo Delgado Christian Service Award Recipient
Dr. Valerie Burrell ‘09 received the Primitivo Delgado Christian Service Award for her ongoing work as a licensed clinical pastoral counselor, author, empowerment coach, and speaker. Known affectionately as “Momma Val,” she serves as Character Coach for both Bluefield University and Bluefield State University basketball teams. A tireless advocate for mental health and domestic violence awareness, Dr. Burrell has led community seminars and workshops designed to empower others. Additionally, she owns EmpowerMe Coaching and Counseling, providing trauma-informed counseling for individuals, couples, and groups. Her professional reach extends internationally with multiple mission trips to Africa, where she spreads the gospel and offers empowerment training.
Dr. Marshall and Linda Flowers, Honorary Alumni
Dr. Marshall Flowers and Linda Flowers were named Honorary Alumni. While Dr. Flowers served as the university’s Provost from 2015 to 2022, he and his wife were well known for supporting and building relationships with BU students. They describe themselves as “Rams Fans of all student-generated activities in academics, athletics, performing arts, spiritual formation, and life accomplishments.” Evidenced by their time as Christian educators, Dr. and Mrs. Flowers view their relationships with God and others as their life calling. During his tenure, Dr. Flowers established BU’s academic governance structure and was instrumental in launching new graduate degree programs. Mrs. Flowers led and performed with the Flute Chamber Ensemble on campus and in area high schools.
Yaro Hnatusko ’20, Distinguished Young Alumnus of the Year
Yaroslav “Yaro” Hnatusko ‘20 was named Young Alumnus of the Year for his dedication to service, leadership, and his community. While enrolled at Bluefield University, Hnatusko distinguished himself as a driven and dedicated student, interning with nine different organizations across the country and earning the Outstanding Business Graduate Award. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in helping the BU tennis team reach the NCCAA Nationals for the first time in school history. A native of Ukraine, he co-founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing humanitarian aid to Ukrainians affected by the war while continuing to excel academically as an East Tennessee State University graduate student. He graduated from ETSU with the Outstanding MBA Student Award while raising over $2 million in funds for crisis relief and rehabilitation projects. His efforts directly impacted the lives of 50,000 Ukrainians living in frontline communities.
Seth White ’02, Alumnus of the Year
Seth White ‘02 received the Alumnus of the Year Award, honoring his service and commitment to the people of Southwest Virginia. While a student, he received the Frank S. Easley Award, recognizing him as the Outstanding Business Graduate. Over the last 20 years, he has developed and restored the downtown area of Richlands, Virginia, with his greatest accomplishment being the Richlands Professional Building. This revitalized structure is now home to CNX Resources Southern Headquarters, which brought 75 jobs into downtown Richlands. White is the Branch Manager and Loan Officer for Movement Mortgage, where he finds great satisfaction in helping people purchase their first or next home. Additionally, he has served as Chairman of the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors, Cumberland Plateau Planning Commission, and the Virginia Coalfield Coalition. He is a former appointee to the Richlands Town Council and an active member of City on a Hill Church.
Dr. Bill Tuck ’55, Hall of Distinguished Graduates Inductee
Dr. William “Bill” Tuck ’55 was inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Graduates. Prior to his retirement, Dr. Tuck worked as a pastor, seminary professor, author, editor, and guest lecturer. He has served as a President and Trustee for numerous community and faith-based organizations. He has been featured in Who’s Who in Religion, International Who’s Who in Community Service, The International Directory of Distinguished Leadership, and Who’s Who of Executives and Professionals. Dr. Tuck was awarded the Man and Boy Award from the Bristol Boys Club, a Doctor of Divinity degree from the University of Richmond, and was made a Walter Pope Binns Fellow by William Jewell College. He received the 1997 Parish Pastor of the Year Award from the Academy of Parish Clergy and the Wayne Oates Award from the Oates Institute in Louisville, KY, in 2016.
Bluefield University established the Alumni Awards to honor distinguished alumni for their professional and personal accomplishments as well as their service to the community. The Alumni Association Board of Directors accepts nominations through the university’s website and appoints a committee annually to select award recipients.