Dean of Helms School of Government to serve as chair of Virginia Early Childhood Foundation

Liberty University’s Helms School of Government Dean Robert Hurt has been appointed as chair of the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation (VECF), a two-year commitment during which he will arrange quarterly meetings and implement long-term objectives for the organization.

VECF is an entity that bridges families to public and private sector resources, ensuring that pre-school children have everything necessary to flourish in health, education, social services, and more. The VECF seeks and receives funding to deploy throughout the Commonwealth, in both rural and urban cities and communities.

“VECF is grateful for Robert Hurt’s commitment to serve as our board chair for the coming two years, especially because of his valuable areas of expertise and commitment to public service, combined with his integrity and principled leadership,” VECF President Kathy Glazer said. “Like Liberty University, the Foundation has a vision that every individual will have access to the opportunities to reach their fullest potential. I look forward to working with Robert in service to this mission.”

Hurt was active in the organization prior to his appointment as chair, serving as a regular board member from 2017-19, and as vice chair from 2019-21. Hurt said that VECF’s mission is intertwined with those of Liberty University and the Helms School of Government.

“The VECF has become a leading voice for advocating for early childhood development,” Hurt said. “The mission is in line with our mission here at Liberty University. … At the Helms School, we are deeply committed to making sure that our graduates leave here fully prepared to fulfill their calling and meet the demands and challenges of the world. Similarly, the Early Childhood Foundation seeks to support everybody across the board, so I am honored to serve the Foundation in this capacity.”