SALEM, Va. – Roanoke College has partnered with New River Community College (NRCC) to expand the Rapid Maroons transfer program, providing a clear and seamless pathway for students seeking a four-year degree.
The agreement, signed by Roanoke College President Frank Shushok Jr. and NRCC President Robert Brandon, marks NRCC as the second community college to join the program, which initially launched in September 2024 with Virginia Western Community College.
Rapid Maroons allows NRCC students to access joint advising, student activities, and an easier application process, saving them time while ensuring they stay on track academically. NRCC students enrolled in the program will be encouraged to complete their associate degree before transferring to Roanoke, where they will have already established relationships with faculty and students.
“This vital partnership is about more than just simplifying the transfer process,” Shushok said. “It’s about making a promise to students that their education matters, and we’re here to help them keep moving forward without battling unnecessary hurdles.”
With the Rapid Maroons program expanding, Roanoke College is strengthening its ties with Virginia’s community colleges to create a more seamless path toward a four-year degree. WFIR’s Ian Price reports.
The program provides Rapid Maroons students access to Roanoke College’s clubs, intramural sports, campus facilities, and cultural events while still enrolled at NRCC. Additionally, students who complete a transfer-oriented associate degree with at least a 2.0 GPA will be eligible to directly enroll in Roanoke College courses without reapplying.
Roanoke College continues to build strategic partnerships to create direct educational pathways for students, ensuring affordability and efficiency in higher education. Other initiatives include Direct to Tech, a partnership with Deloitte for student career training, and pre-professional programs offering guaranteed interviews and admissions slots at medical, nursing, and physical therapy schools.
For details on eligibility and program benefits, visit Roanoke College’s Rapid Maroons Page.
