Tracey Parker and Logan Hinnant did not know how much Bluefield University would shape their futures when they first stepped onto campus. They were football players back then with Parker on the defensive line and Hinnant a linebacker. Today, they have swapped football jerseys for Virginia State Police uniforms.
Parker, a 2018 Bluefield graduate, came to the Appalachian Mountains and, as he put it, “never left.” After graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice, Parker began his law enforcement career with the Pennington Gap Police Department, then served as a Wise County Sheriff’s deputy before earning a position with the Virginia State Police. His dedication to his home community does not stop at his job, as he is also a volunteer coach for Tazewell High School’s football team.
The impact Parker has made on his community and alma mater was recently celebrated with his induction into the BU Athletics Hall of Fame, a testament to his character both on and off the field. “Tracey was not only a force on the field, but he went above and beyond to help others. He and Logan are true examples of the kind of student-athletes we aim to turn out here at BU,” said Dewey Lusk, Football Head Coach. “We’re all incredibly proud of their accomplishments.”
Hinnant, a 2021 graduate, was drawn to a career in law enforcement by Senior Trooper Gavin Scott, BU’s Virginia State Police recruiter. Scott’s visits to BU left a lasting impression on Hinnant, who says Scott’s mentorship helped him see his own potential. Now stationed in Northern Virginia, Hinnant carries on a family tradition of public service. His passion for inspiring others, which was instilled at BU, continues in his work with the VSP.
Recently, Parker and Hinnant returned to Bluefield University with Senior Trooper Scott to attend a BU football game. “Both of these young men exemplify the mission of BU and the School of Criminal Justice and are the embodiment of successful mentorship in their service to BU and others,” said Dr. Kimberly Farmer, Dean of the School of Criminal Justice. “As I constantly share with them, I still see their faces as freshmen in my mind and then see them in uniform and my heart swells with happiness and pride,” said Farmer.
For more information about the Criminal Justice program at Bluefield University, contact Dr. Kimberly Farmer at [email protected] or 276.326.4224. Students can apply at bluefield.edu.