Recently, he paused to reflect upon how his education at BSC and his life experiences provided the foundation upon which he has established his career in public administration. “I received my first degree (Applied Science) from Bluefield State in 1989, then went to work in a family business because I didn’t want to leave the area,” he recounted. “I was elected to the Glen Lyn (VA) Town Council in 1988 and served for three terms. During that time, I went back to BSC to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering Technology. I was also the town’s waste water operator and I juggled the responsibilities of my jobs and my studies at the same time.”

Returning to Bluefield State, Spencer took a student interest test that identified careers compatible with his love for outdoor activities and the environment. I talked to BSC Professors Frank Hart and Alvin Lester and they discussed academic options consistent with my interests,” Spencer continued.

“I really liked Bluefield State for several reasons,” he added. “I graduated from a small high school and I received the same type of individual attention at BSC. Most of my engineering technology classes had fewer than 20 students and there were several outstanding teachers. The late John Duffy (former Department Head of Civil Engineering Technology) was particularly memorable to me because of his commitment to teaching and the high standards he held for his students. The division faculty have “real world” knowledge, and they are able to communicate both theory and the practical application of that theory.”

As Tazewell County Administrator, Spencer interacts with the County school system, tourism/economic development office, Industrial Development Authority, Public Service Authority, recreation office, Sheriff’s officers, County landfull, special police, County garage and, as he noted, “I have a hand in all aspects of the County’s government.”

With his responsibilities as an administrator changing almost daily, Spencer often reflects upon a bit of advice he received from a former faculty member. “Frank Hart told me once that, before you can hit home runs, you have to learn to strike out,” he said. “You must realize that, because you don’t know everything, you have to constantly push yourself to learn.”

Spencer and his alma mater maintain regular contact. “Alvin (Lester) has brought several groups of students to tour one of the County’s water plant, and we’ve discussed the possibility of BSC students doing some GIS work with us,” he said. Noting that BSC engineering technology graduates hold supervisory positions with Tazewell County’s Emergency Services unit, and as Richlands (VA) and Bluefield (WV) municipal engineers, Spencer commended the quality of the institution’s academic division. “Bluefield State keeps abreast of the changes in technology. Their students get a practical, ‘hands on’ education.”

September 18, 2001