Laurel Ridge Community College

STEM Fair - Middletown Campus
2026-04-21 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | VA
Featuring:

4-year university STEM representatives

EMS Program & demonstration

Police Department display (Jay Roy)

Laurel Ridge department displays

Industry & nonprofit partners

Shenandoah Astronomical Society

Drone demo

STEM Club table

Passport Card door prize game

Noon-1 p.m. –Pizza courtesy of Student Life

That's Hot! 2000's Online Trivia! (StressLESS Weeks!)
2026-04-21 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE via Zoom
Join Student Life for an online themed Trivia Session! Players have a chance to win a gift card! Join Here!

Ice Cream Social - Sponsored by Shimadzu
2026-04-21 13:30 - 14:00 | VA
Join us on the Middletown Campus, Science & Health Professions Building, Student Lounge (1st floor) for a FREE Ice Cream Social.

“PFAS: Forever Chemicals” - A presentation by Shimadzu
2026-04-21 14:00 - 15:00 | Middletown Campus Science and Health Professions Building, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, Virginia, 22645
Middletown Campus, Science and Health Professions Building Room 136 and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/gSUR44Y_Q8mVqm_AXw5naw#/registration

Brad NoltSpecialist at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments

Brad Nolt is an LCMS Sales Specialist with Shimadzu Scientific Instruments in Columbia, MD. His background is organic chemistry and pharmaceutical drug discovery. He is a graduate of JMU and Temple University.

Smoke and Mirrors: Airborne Research at NASA by Ray Rogers
2026-04-21 15:00 - 16:00 | Middletown Campus Science and Health Professions Building, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, Virginia, 22645
Dr. Rogers will discuss his research at NASA Langley prior to joining Laurel Ridge. Attendees going into a career in science will have the change to learn what the day in the life of a research scientist might look like.

Middletown Campus, Science and Health Professions Building, Room 138 and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/R2w8CoHXRAqzfowbmLs6qQ#/registration

Middletown Campus, Science and Health Professions Building, Room 138 and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/R2w8CoHXRAqzfowbmLs6qQ#/registration

April Mystery Bus! (StressLESS Weeks!)
2026-04-21 15:30 - 23:00 | Off Campus, VA, United States
Join Student Life for the Final Mystery Bus of the Semester! Where are we going? Join Us to find out! Leaving MC around 3:30pm and FC around 4:15pm. Mystery Bus Sign Up!

What can you do with a STEM Degree? A presentation by Nina Parker
2026-04-21 16:00 - 17:00 | Middletown Campus Science and Health Professions Building, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, Virginia, 22645
Middletown Campus, Science and Health Professions Building, Room 138 and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/yDc88YdjSEa5NXi7k2QVUg#/registration

Dr. Nina T. Parker has her BS and MS from the University of Michigan, PhD in Immunology from Ohio University and certification in medical laboratory sciences from the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Her areas of specialization include infectious disease, immunology, microbial pathogenesis, medical microbiology, and medical and science history.

STEM Trivia Game - Hosted by Brian Wilcox
2026-04-21 18:00 - 19:00 | Fauquier Campus, 6480 College St., Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Fauquier Campus, Wolk Hall Room 207 and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/YqEn73LuQEC3YSe94-RSAw#/registration

Pavement Engineering with Dr. Iker Boz from VDOT
2026-04-22 09:00 - 10:00 | VA
Attend on Zoom: https://vccs.zoom.us/j/86700137926?pwd=[REDACTED]

STEM Week YOGA with Jeff Hollar
2026-04-22 10:00 - 11:00 | VA
Middletown Campus, Student Union Building Room 217 and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/fcWmV62ER02GVVddO0oMyA#/registration

The Hatha Yoga practice is designed for a broad spectrum of students, beginning to intermediate, and some advanced level depending on the student’s ability and comfort level. Practice incorporates asana (postures), deep relaxation, breathing focus, and meditation. Practice can be modified based on the student’s physical ability and will help maintain your natural condition: a body of optimum health, strength and flexibility, a clear and calm mind, and a life filled with peace and joy. The instructor may offer physical adjustments as needed to assist moving more fully into a given asana (posture). Bring your yoga mat if you have one. If not, one can be provided. Supporting props such as a bolster, yoga blocks, yoga bricks, and straps are provided as needed. Please wear comfortable clothing

Decision Day - For Graduates Transferring to a 4-Year College or University
2026-04-22 11:00 - 13:00 | VA
Wednesday, April 22 – Middletown Campus, Cornerstone Hall Back Patio or Room 402

Thursday, April 23 – Fauquier Campus, courtyard or Wolk Hall front entrance

Stop by for free donuts and swag from James Madison University, George Mason University, Shenandoah University, , Virginia Teach and more.

Attend for a chance to win prizes

Sign-Up to Attend at https://forms.office.com/r/63tDBGSVBj.

Preparing the Pollinator Garden with Jan McLaughlin
2026-04-22 11:00 - 14:00 | Middletown Campus, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, Virginia, 22645
Middletown Campus, pollinator garden next to the pond

STEM Trivia Game (Virtual) Hosted by Kerry Kilpatrick
2026-04-22 14:00 - 15:00 | VA
Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/GWAP3zlRTeO88R-MvreHBg#/registration

Spring 2026 Volleyball Tournament (StressLESS Week!)
2026-04-22 15:30 - 17:30 | Middletown Campus: SUB Lawn, VA, United States
Join Student Life as we host a Spring Volleyball Tournament! Join us for the game, snacks, and a fun freebie! 4/22 3:30pm-5:30pm on the SUB Lawn (or Cornerstone Back Lawn). All Students and Play Levels welcome!

Engineering Beyond the Classroom: Lessons from the Automotive Industry - A presentation by Deepesh Giri
2026-04-22 16:00 - 17:00 | VA
Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/KvOmSdwnRJiTS3_WW-wjkg#/registration

Dr. Deepesh Giri holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Mississippi State University. He has professional experience in the automotive industry, postdoctoral research, and higher education. He has previously served as an Assistant Professor at Long Island University, teaching undergraduate and graduate students and applying AI-driven tools in interdisciplinary research. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor of Engineering at Laurel Ridge Community College, where he is committed to supporting student learning and career development in engineering.

Careers in Information Technology
2026-04-22 17:00 - 18:00 | Middletown Campus: Science & Health Professions Building, Room 136
A presentation by Jon Levi

Science & Health Professions Building, Room 136 and virtual at https://vccs.zoom.us/j/84774955007?pwd=[REDACTED]

Jon Levi is the IT Manager at Melnor Inc. in Winchester, Virginia, with a career spanning business, accounting, and information technology. He graduated from the College of William & Mary in 1986 with a BBA in Accounting and a minor in Computer Science, funding 65% of his education through multiple part-time and seasonal jobs. Jon began his career at Reznick Fedder & Silverman (now CohnReznick), where he supported diverse management consulting engagements during the Savings & Loan Crisis and earned his CPA license in Maryland. He later held senior IT leadership roles at several high-growth and industry-leading commercial real estate firms, including JLL, The Mills Corporation (now Simon Property Group), and Cassidy & Pinkard. In 2014, Jon returned to consulting as an interim and project CTO, contributing to major developments such as The Wharf DC and Avalon in Alpharetta, while helping transform TecFac into a Managed Services and Security Services Provider. His career focus has consistently been on leveraging technology and process improvement to drive efficiency, scalability, and data-driven decision-making.

Engineering Career Panel
2026-04-22 18:00 - 19:00 | Middletown Campus: Corron Community Development Center, Thompson Conference Center, VA, United States
Engineers from multiple companies share insights into entering and advancing in engineering fields.

Middletown Campus, Corron Community Development Center and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/FWO_Bx91RMObcjEXWK4suQ#/registration

Meet the Engineers

Kelly HenshawCity of Winchester, VADeputy Public Services Director and City Engineer

Kelly Henshaw, PE, CFM, is the Deputy Public Services Director and City Engineer for the City of Winchester. She has worked for the city for more than 21 years, where her job consists of leading the engineering team in development review, capital project management, and administration of stormwater and floodplain management programs and well as helping to manage high level operations across the City’s five other Public Services Divisions. Kelly is a proud graduate of Virginia Tech, with a degree in Civil Engineering.

Jason S. MarshallPainter-Lewis, PLCProject Manager

Jason graduated from Laurel Ridge in 2002 with an Associate’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology before earning his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Virginia Tech in 2005, with an emphasis in Structural Engineering. He began his career at Painter‑Lewis in 2006 as a staff structural engineer, obtained his Virginia licensure in 2011, and continues with the firm today as a Project Manager in the structural division.

Josh Turner, PERacey EngineeringEngineering Development Manager

Mr. Turner is the Engineering Development Manager for Racey Engineering which focuses on Client and Contract Management for Municipal and Private development projects. He is a 2001 graduate of Virginia Military Institute and has over 22 years of experience. His experience includes recreational, commercial, utility and transportation projects throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia working with municipalities through a variety of Term Contracts and individual projects.

Erin Turner, P.E.Staunton District Location & DesignVirginia Department of TransportationSr. Project Manager

Erin is a Marine Corps Veteran and graduate of The Ohio State University. She has over 20 years of civil and mechanical experience in design and construction and has worked on a variety of projects in healthcare, education, transportation, industrial, and commercial markets. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Woodstock and Past Board Member of Associated General Contractors of Virginia.

R.J. Strother II, P.E.TriadShenandoah Valley Regional Manager

R.J. has spent his entire geotechnical consulting career with Triad. He was attracted to the construction and engineering industry while observing the large scale growth of the Shenandoah Valley. R.J. earned an associate degree in business administration from Laurel Ridge Community College in the early 2000’s. He then went on to graduate from West Virginia University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 2006. R.J. was born and raised in Winchester and has been working in Triad’s Winchester office since he was recruited. However, he has performed or assisted with geotechnical and geophysical explorations for each of Triad’s offices over the years. R.J. began his engineering career as a Staff Engineer in 2007, progressed to Senior Engineer and then Geotechnical Practice Leader in 2015. Mr. Strother serves on the Board of Directors and now serves as Regional Manager of our Virginia offices. He is passionate about building and fostering strong client relationships that will continue to contribute to the positive growth of his community and finds great satisfaction in being directly involved with the strategic planning for Triad’s future and mentoring new staff members.

Research Experiences for Community College Students – Starting Your Science CareerA presentation by Ian Hare
2026-04-23 11:00 - 12:00 | Middletown Campus Science and Health Professions Building, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, Virginia, 22645
Middletown Campus, Science and Health Professions Building, Room 143 and Virtual– https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/gyNkOMS8Ry2CDItPFF13Xw#/registration

Pursuing a career in the sciences? Many undergraduate students are unaware that extracurricular research experiences are often critical for landing their first job or entering their desired graduate program after earning a BS degree. Join us for a seminar discussing how this relates to community college students. We will outline the challenges, but more importantly, the advantages of pursuing extracurricular research opportunities as a community college student. Resources will be shared to find opportunities based on your interests, and to help you plan for your next steps.

Dr. Hare is an associate professor of Biology at Laurel Ridge Community College, teaching General Biology and Microbiology. After graduating from Laurel Ridge Community College, he studied Biology and Statistics at James Madison University followed by graduate training West Virginia University in Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis, investigating immune cell regeneration in patients following high dose chemotherapy/radiation regimens administered prior to bone marrow transplantation.

Throwback Thursday! (StressLESS Week!)
2026-04-23 15:30 - 17:30 | Middletown Campus: SUB Lounge and Fauquier Campus: The Loeb, United States
Join Student Life for our StressLESS Week party event, Throwback Thursday! Enjoy 90’s/00’s snacks and music, play themed card and trivia games, paint canvas bags, and snap pics with our themed photobooth props! MC in the SUB Lounge & FC in the Loeb from 3:30pm-5:30pm on Thursday 4/23.

STEM Fair - Fauquier Campus
2026-04-23 16:00 - 18:00 | Fauquier Campus, Hazel Hall Lobby
Featuring:

Pizza courtesy of Student Life

4-year university STEM representatives

EMS Program & demonstration

Police Department (Jay Roy)

Laurel Ridge department displays

Industry & nonprofit partners

Student project showcase

Passport Card door prize game

STEM Careers Panel - Fauquier Campus, Barkman Conference Center, Hazel Hall
2026-04-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Fauquier Campus, Hazel Hall Barkman Conference Center, 6480 College Street, Warrenton, VA, United States
This panel brings together professionals from a range of STEM fields to share their unique career journeys and perspectives, spanning areas from biotechnology to healthcare and beyond. Designed for community college students and members of the local community, the discussion highlights the many pathways into STEM careers

6-7 p.m.

Fauquier Campus, Barkman Family Conference Center and Virtual – https://vccs.zoom.us/meeting/register/muSXh7l9SyeDKiOVU7jRZw#/registration

Meet the Panelists

Sayed MosaviCeres Nanosciences, IncSenior Scientist and Lab Manager

Sayed Mosavi is a Senior Scientist and Lab Manager at Ceres Nanosciences, Inc., specializing in the development of reagents and methods for pathogen detection. After earning an M.S. in Chemistry and teaching at the college level, Sayed transitioned into the U.S. biotech sector through the NVCC Biotech Certificate Program. He now oversees service labs that provide critical wastewater testing for public health monitoring. Sayed is passionate about the intersection of chemistry and biology and its power to solve real-world community health challenges. What motivates him most is knowing his work directly benefits the public and brings tangible value to society every day.

Jeremy WigentonMelnor, Inc.Network & System Administrator

Jeremy is a dedicated IT professional with a strong foundation in technical support, systems administration, and cloud technologies. Holding certifications including CompTIA A+, ITF+, Network+, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, and ITIL, he has steadily advanced in his career—from help desk roles to IT Technician I and II, and now serves as a Network and System Administrator at Melnor, Inc. A recent graduate of Northern Virginia Community College and a current cloud computing student at Western Governors University, he continues to expand his expertise and passion for innovative, reliable IT solutions. In his free time, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, visiting the local farmer’s market on Saturdays, and playing with his dog, Lulu.

Joye GibsonShimadzuStrategic Customer Advocate and Sales Professional

Joey is an experienced Analytical Scientist with a demonstrated history of applying analytical skill set in various industries including toxicology, food science, and sales. He is skilled in method development, troubleshooting analytical instrumentation, and bridging the gap between technical solutions and customer needs.

Sean MurphyFiraxis GamesStrategic Lead Content Producer

Sean Murphy is a graduate of the University of Virginia (B.A. Studio Arts) and entered the Video Game Development industry in 1991. He weathered countless trends, experienced numerous upheavals in the form of studio closures and layoffs, and worked diligently to stay current with the latest tools and techniques. After almost 18 years as a production artist, including 2D and 3D work, Sean transitioned into Outsource Management in 2009 and spent the remainder of his career managing complex relationships between client Game Studios and overseas Service Providers.

Nawa AdhikariMaxar TechnologiesSoftware Engineer

Nawa Adhikari is a Senior Manager of Software Development at Vantor, where he leads a team of over 20 engineers building advanced technology solutions. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Dickinson State University and later completed a Masters in Computer Information Systems while serving in the US Army. After six years of military service, Nawa transitioned back into the tech industry and joined Maxar (now, Vantor) as a Software Engineer in 2019.

Ben YeagerGeneral Dynamics Mission SystemsMechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineering BS from University of TN in 2010. US Army Infantry Officer 2010-2015, Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger. Lumicor Inc 2015-2016, Supported manufacture of and installation of polymer paneling for architectural and design applications. Veraxx Enginering 2017-2026, Designed and manufactured full mission simulators for the US Marines and US Special Forces aviation, including the MH60, MH6/AH6, MH47, V22, UH1Y and AH1Z aircraft. General Dynamics Mission Systems 2026-Present, Mechanical Engineer, designing and manufacturing unique and specialized solutions in support of a US Government customer.

Casino Night 2026!
2026-04-24 18:00 - 21:00 | Fauquier Campus: Hazel Hall, Barkman Conference Center, VA, United States
Join Student Life and Student Government Association as we host Casino Night 2026! Enjoy Snacks, Play Games, and Win Prizes! Play Casino Games like Poker, BlackJack, and High/Low all with Special Rules to make it easier to WIN! Prize Options include LEGOs, Gift Cards, Movie Tickets, and SO MUCH MORE! The event is FREE and Open to All Students, Faculty/Staff, Community Members, and their Families! In addition to the FREE Games and Snacks, we will have a small Kids Area with Coloring Pages, and Kids Games as well as Raffles, both FREE and Paid! Proceeds of the Paid Raffle are set to benefit both Students and SGA! Please email engage@laurelridge.edu or Stop by The Student Life House Offices (MC – SUB 122 or FC – Wolk Hall 108) for questions. Remember, at Laurel Ridge Community College Casino Night is Where You Can Win, Win, and WIN!

Capture The Flag
2026-04-25 09:00 - 15:00 | Fauquier Campus: The Cyber Room, Wolk Hall RM 105, United States
Join Students as they face off in an online Capture the Flag event! Chat with Tech Enthusiasts, Enjoy Refreshments, Review a Tech Talk with CACI, and WIN Prizes! Register Now!

April 25 9am-3pm (Talk Tech from 10am-11am) in The Cyber Room, Fauquier, Wolk Hall RM 105

Hurry! Registration ends April 10!Register Here!

A Conversation with Virginia Gamba - An internationally recognized leader in disarmament, peace, and human security. Joining Live from Argentina!
2026-04-27 13:00 - 14:00 | Laurel Ridge Community College 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA 22645, United States
Attend In-Person at Laurel Ridge Community College, Middletown Campus in the Corron Community Development Center or Virtually

Event Interest and Registration Form

Watch the Live Stream (April 27, 2026 at 1 p.m.)

Laurel Ridge Community College is honored to welcome Virginia Gamba, who will join the college live from Argentina for a special hybrid event.

An internationally recognized leader in disarmament, peace, and human security, Virginia Gamba brings decades of experience in international diplomacy and global conflict prevention, including leadership in United Nations initiatives connected to efforts recognized by the Nobel Peace Prize.

She will participate in a thought‑provoking conversation focused on global leadership, strategies for conflict prevention, and the evolving future of international cooperation.

Please complete the form below to register your interest in this upcoming event. By submitting this form, you will receive event updates, including the virtual link, as details become available.

Event Interest & Registration Form

About Virginia Gamba

Virginia Gamba brings more than 30 years of global leadership experience in disarmament, peacebuilding, and human security.

She has served the United Nations in several senior roles, including:

Fourth Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict

Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

Director and Deputy to the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs

In 1995, Ms. Gamba was awarded a shared Nobel Peace Prize for her work on nuclear disarmament with the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs.

As a candidate for Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Gamba will reflect on her experiences growing up in Argentina, her work on nuclear disarmament, her time at the United Nations, and her vision for global leadership and peace.

Tentative Program Agenda

Welcome and Introduction

Ms. Gamba’s Background and Career Path

Nobel Peace Prize Work on Nuclear Disarmament

United Nations Efforts on:

Children in Armed Conflict

Prevention of Genocide

Moderated Q&A

The agenda will be updated as details are finalized.

Special Acknowledgment

This unique opportunity was made possible with the support of Laurel Ridge alumnus Jason Hatch, whose efforts were instrumental in connecting Ms. Gamba with the college.

Questions?

For additional information, please contact:Larry Friedenberg, Assistant Professor Sociology and Human Services at lfriedenberg@laurelridge.edu.

Thunderbolts* Movie Showing! (StressLESS Week!)
2026-04-27 18:00 - 21:30 | MIddletown Campus: SHP, Room 145, VA, United States
Join Student Life and Warren Coalition as we show The Thunderbolts* and have a friendly and informative discussion about the movie’s mental health and wellness themes. Monday, 4/27 from 6pm-9:30pm in SHP 145.

Lola The Mini Horse - Therapy Horse (StressLESS Weeks!)
2026-04-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Fauquier Campus: Wolk & Hazel Halls, VA, United States
Say Hello to Lola as she roams the Wolk and Hazel Halls on 4/28 from 11am-12pm. (Date and Time may change!)

2000's Hit Movie Showings! (StressLESS Weeks!)
2026-04-28 15:00 - 17:30 | Middletown Campus: Cornerstone Hall, Room 601 & Fauquier Campus: The Barn, United States
Student Life is hosting a Mystery Movie showing of a Classic 2000’s Hit! Join us for the movie, eat classic snacks, play classic games, paint canvas bags, listen to 90’s/00’s music, and take photos w/ our themed props! FC – 4/28 in The Barn and MC – 4/29 Cornerstone Hall RM 601 both from 3pm-5:30pm.

Denim Day! (The FCDVSAAP Visit)
2026-04-29 09:00 - 13:30 | Fauquier Campus: Wolk Hall, Lobby, VA, United States
The Fauquier County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocacy Program will be on campus and will offer resources, support, and awareness for the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Survivors and Victims. Check out their Table in the Wolk Hall Lobby from 9am-1:30pm. They will also be on Campus for the Pawsitive Wellness Spring Picnic, April 20!

Trades Job Fair
2026-05-07 17:00 - 19:00 | Fauquier Campus, 6480 College St., Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States

Family Event: Commencement Cap Decorating, Crafts and Pizza
2026-05-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Laurel Ridge Community College Middletown Campus, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, Virginia, 22645
Celebrate your graduation with the ones who cheer you on the most!Laurel Ridge graduates are invited to bring their little ones for a fun, family‑friendly evening of cap decorating, crafts, and pizza.

The college will provide kid‑friendly crafting supplies, mini caps sized for young children (best fit for approximately ages 2–10), and pizza and refreshments. This event is designed to give Parent Scholars and their children a fun way to celebrate this milestone together.

This event is FREE and open to all Laurel Ridge graduates!

Hosted by the Parent Scholars Committee
