"True autonomy for Richard Bland College is now only a stroke of the governor’s pen away. 

Senate Bill 742, which sets up a board of visitors for the two-year junior college south of Petersburg, has cleared both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly and is on its way to Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s desk for his action. RBC president Dr. Debbie Sydow said Youngkin’s approval would add to his 'legacy' of supporting Petersburg and the surrounding area. 

'Governor Youngkin has demonstrated his commitment to growth and prosperity in Petersburg, and his support of RBC’s independence will add to that legacy.' Sydow said in a statement to The Progress-Index Wednesday, one day after the bill jumped its last legislative hurdle. 

William & Mary has already blessed the move, noting that Richard Bland has essentially been operating on its own for several years now. RBC leadership pushed for the separation, saying it was the next step in the college establishing its future as an academic and technological leader," reports The Progress-Index.

Photo: flathatnews.com