College announces memorial scholarship in honor of well-known paramedic Bill Akers

RICHLANDS, Va. (WJHL) — Southwest Virginia Community College’s Education Foundation is establishing a scholarship in honor of a well-known local paramedic who recently passed away.

On Monday, the college announced the William “Bill” Akers, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, which will be dedicated to supporting emergency medical services (EMS) students.

Akers, a long-time faculty member and director of the college’s EMS programs, died on Thursday .

The college said the new scholarship will celebrate Akers’ contributions to EMS in Southwest Virginia.

Dr. Bob Mueller, a friend and former colleague of Akers, contributed initial funding of $5,000 for the scholarship.

“Bill Akers epitomized a dedication to improving emergency medical care throughout Southwest Virginia by elevating the training and skill levels of pre-hospital providers,” Mueller said in a release. “He will be greatly missed. This scholarship will ensure his passion endures.”

The college is seeking additional donors to match Mueller’s gift, with the goal of endowing the scholarship with a minimum of $10,000. Donations can be made through the SWCC Education Foundation.

“Every contribution will help the college reach its goal, support more students, and ensure that this scholarship remains available to students for years to come,” the college said in a release.

Those interested in donating are encouraged to contact Dr. Susan Lowe at 276-964-7304, visit sw.edu/foundation , or email susan.lowe@sw.edu .

Akers served in many roles during his career, including being a chemistry teacher at St. Paul High School, a flight parademic with Virginia State Police’s Med-Flight program, and captain of the Lebanon Lifesaving Crew. He also mentored paramedic programs across the Commonwealth.

In 2023, Akers was awarded the Governor’s EMS Award for Excellence in EMS by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

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