Left to right, Jim Gott, Bob Colyer and Chancellor Prior

Colyer, a Wise County businessman, graduated from the College in 1957 and has been giving eagerly of his time and financial resources ever since.   Colyer is a former member of the UVa-Wise Board and a member of the Poor Farm Society Board of Managers, the UVa-Wise Foundation Board, the Annual Fund Class Council, and the Highland Cavalier Club. A long-time supporter of the Alumni Association, Colyer has assisted in fund raising for the Miners' Family Scholarship, the Cavalier Alumni $elebration, and the Super Raffle.   In addition, he was among the College's early scholarship donors with the establishment of a scholarship in memory of his parents.

 Colyer was honored during the College's annual Benefactors Celebration.   Jim Gott, chair of the UVa-Wise Board and the 2004 Volunteer of the Year, presented Colyer with 2005 award.

"While Bob Colyer has been involved in countless College projects and activities over the years, his true passion is for the Highland Cavaliers Football," Gott said during the award presentation.   "He is a mentor and more.   He carefully and thoughtfully inspires players, and coaches as well, taking a warm and personal interest in each one.   Our volunteer is the epitome of a true, selfless person and we are fortunate to have him on our side.

Colyer founded Colgard Mine Products in Norton in 1978.   He retired eight years ago but continues to be active in the business now known as Colgard Outdoor Sports.   A devoted family man, Colyer has been married to his wife, Margie for 49 years.   His sons, Rob and Rod, and their wives, Elva and Valeri, are all alumni of UVa-Wise.

Previous recipients of the Volunteer of the Year Award include: James M. Gott, Roger and Beverly Viers, George Hunnicutt, Jr., Don M. Green, Michael Abbott, Don R. Pippin, Emmet F. Low, Jr., Joseph C. Smiddy, Dawneda F. Williams, Jane W. Knox, Gary C. Rakes, Glenda Ewing, Roy L. Wells, Jr., Rhonda M. Perkins, William J. Sturgill, and Phyllis Hatcher.