Virginia State University Hosts Governor Abigail Spanberger To Grow A Greater Future

Governor Spanberger toured Randolph Farm and engaged with students during her campus visit.

Virginia State University welcomed Governor Abigail Spanberger to campus on Thursday, February 12, 2026. The Governor, who was sworn in earlier this year as Virginia’s first female governor, visited to learn more about the University’s College of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension programs, research initiatives, and student engagement efforts.

Governor Spanberger, accompanied by Secretary of Agriculture & Forestry Katie Frazier, began her visit with a presentation from former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and current Interim Dean of the College of Agriculture, Dr. Jewel H. Bronaugh, who highlighted key initiatives and student accomplishments. The Governor then toured Randolph Farm, VSU’s 416-acre agricultural learning center, where University leaders showcased agricultural innovation, workforce development efforts, and the institution’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness.

“Virginia State University has always welcomed me, from my time in Congress to today,” said Governor Spanberger. “Having served on the House Agriculture Committee and having watched Dr. Bronaugh do incredible work at USDA, I know you have extraordinary people here who are focused on the success of students. It is wonderful to see her back home in the Commonwealth and here at VSU.”

During her time on campus, Governor Spanberger also addressed students at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center, emphasizing the importance of education, leadership, and public service. Following her remarks, she spent time engaging with students and taking photos. Watch a video recap of the visit.

“It is always an honor to be on a college campus and to be with students who are planning their next steps,” she said. “Being here at Virginia State University, a place where students come to excel and pursue their futures, is especially meaningful. Secretary Frazier and I were just at Randolph Farm learning more about the important research taking place at this extraordinary and historic University.”

“It was an honor to welcome Governor Spanberger to Virginia State University,” said Eldon Burton, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations. “Her visit reflects the importance of strong partnerships between higher education and state leadership. We appreciate the opportunity to showcase the transformative work happening across our campus and to engage in meaningful dialogue with our students about leadership, service, and the future of the Commonwealth.”

Virginia State University was proud to host Governor Spanberger and appreciates her continued support of the University’s goal to promote academic excellence, research innovation, and meaningful community engagement. The visit provided an opportunity to foster open dialogue with state leadership while highlighting the University’s commitment to preparing students for a Greater future.