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Blocker Foundation Continues Legacy

Grant funds new classrooms at Tidewater Collegiate Academy

University News | June 15, 2023

The late Frank Blocker was deeply involved in the growth of Â鶹´«Ã½rtb from 1986 until his passing in 2020. He served on the Board of Trustees from 1990 until he was named Trustee Emeritus in 2007. He also served as board chair for the Norfolk YMCA and later became the chairman of the Endowment program. 

Therefore, it is fitting that during his lifetime, Mr. Blocker brought Virginia Wesleyan and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads together to build the Frank Blocker Youth Center on the VWU campus in 2017. Since its construction, this facility has been a hub of activity for campus, housing Tidewater Collegiate Academy during the academic year and YMCA Camp Red Feather during the summer.  

The University is pleased to announce that the Blocker Foundation has continued Mr. Blocker's legacy by funding a two-classroom addition to the Blocker Youth Center. With the new addition, the Center will be able to accommodate even more students and provide a safe and supportive environment for them to learn and grow. His vision and the Foundation's generosity have had a profound impact on the lives of over 1,500 students who experienced the Center during the most recent academic year, and it will undoubtedly continue to do so for years to come. Construction for the addition will begin in September.