Public invited to Founder’s Day, preview screening of ‘Papa Joe’ documentary at UVa-Wise April 9

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise will mark the birthday of Thomas Jefferson, the founder of the University of Virginia, and will preview an upcoming documentary featuring Chancellor Emeritus Joseph C. Smiddy during Founder’s Day activities on Wednesday, April 9.

Founder’s Day is a celebration of the 265th birthday of Thomas Jefferson, who was born April 13, 1743, at Shadwell.

The event also will celebrate Joseph C. “Papa Joe” Smiddy’s lifetime of service to the College, where he served first as director and then as the first chancellor of what was then Clinch Valley College of the University of Virginia.

Guests will be treated to a special sneak preview of the College’s upcoming documentary DVD collection that features Smiddy’s reflections on his life and the history of the College, plus special musical performances. The four-disc collection will be released later this spring.

Smiddy also will take the stage at the Founder’s Day event to reflect on the first day of classes at the College. Brian Wills, the Kenneth Asbury professor of history at UVa-Wise, will discuss Thomas Jefferson’s contributions to education.

The event begins at 1 p.m. in the Fred B. Greear Gymnasium. Founder’s Day activities are free and open to the public. UVa-Wise students may receive cultural activities credit for attending.

For more information, contact the Office of College Relations at 276-328-0130.

Posted April 1, 2008