Alumni Stories

NFL star Kobie Turner, ’22, returned to campus in May to give the commencement address for 2026 graduates. Here's a bit of what he said and video of his full address.

Padel is a fast-growing global racket sport thanks in part to Richmond alumni Bill Ridenour, R’79, and Gary Bigler, ’08, whose business builds padel courts.

Once Spidey, always Spidey: a Richmond dad relives sweaty mascot glory days dodging overzealous rivals, and passes the weird, wonderful hype-man torch to his son.

Fifty years later, Richmond’s Class of 1976 recounts its legendary pranks and campus exploits at a reunion filled with laughter, nostalgia, and gin and tonics.

Near Loch Ness, Peggy Dykhuizen Robertson, B’84, trades retirement for running a cozy Scottish B&B, welcoming global travelers during her lively second act.

Seven Spiders offer their hard-won advice for focusing on what's really important with their answers to one question on the Spider Questionnaire.

Vincent Olivieri, ’98, found his calling in sound design with faculty support. He recently designed sound for a world premiere by the Crown Troupe of Africa in Nigeria.

“I think it is valuable to move around and do different jobs and take on different challenges,” says Virginia Delegate John McAuliff, ’14. “You need to have scope. You can’t do [politics] well if it’s all you’ve ever done.”

From math major to acclaimed actor, Nancy Boykin, W’72, built a life in theater bringing bold stories to stage and nurturing new playwrights behind the scenes.

Physician Gabe Hillegass, ’03, is reimagining medical records with AI-powered tools that make healthcare more accessible, human, and connected through a startup rooted in Richmond relationships.

Where policy meets care, Mark Hickman, ’07, connects health leaders and lawmakers to shape legislation while championing service, leadership, and stronger communities across Virginia.

A student newsroom, a mentor with chocolate, and curiosity that never quit — Rebecca Fradkin Barshop, ’16, built a versatile editing career driven by storytelling and leadership.