07/31/2026
When Nicole graduated from Floyd County High School in 1998, she wasn't exactly sure what career she wanted to pursue. She simply knew she wanted to attend college and take classes related to computers. That decision led her to a career that has spanned more than 25 years at Virginia Western.
Nicole enrolled at Virginia Western in the fall of 1998 and graduated in May 2001 with an Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology.
Her Virginia Western journey began while she was still a student. She worked in Printing Services as a Financial Aid student worker, and because Printing Services was part of IET at the time, she learned about an opening at the Help Desk. She applied, got the job, and never looked back.
Nicole continued working at the Help Desk part time until accepting a full-time position in July 2003. Since then, her role has evolved from Help Desk Technician to Security Administrator, where she helps manage and secure many of the VCCS systems used across campus.
Although she has built her career in Roanoke, Nicole has always called Floyd County home. Staying close to family was important to her, and working in the Roanoke Valley allowed her to enjoy meaningful career opportunities while remaining rooted in the community she loves.
Over the years, one of Nicole's greatest joys has been growing alongside Virginia Western. As technology, the college, and her department have evolved, so has her career. Along the way, her coworkers have become more like family than colleagues.
Nicole's story is a reminder that it's okay not to have everything figured out from the start. Sometimes all it takes is curiosity, a willingness to learn, and saying yes to the opportunities that come your way.
Thanks to Nicole Bell for sharing her Virginia Western Alumni Story. If you are interested in sharing yours, please reach out to Syreeta at [email protected].
