Celebrating an Era of Extraordinary Leadership

Over the years, Dr. Hagerty has also transformed the physical appearance of the campus by adding Durand Park and other pocket parks and green spaces with fountains to complement pre-existing architecture and add to the historic downtown Leesburg landscape. Those close to him refer to these additions as “Hagerty projects,” representing a clear sense of pride in our community. “I think their investment in Leesburg downtown has been very beneficial for the city and the community,” said Al Minner, Leesburg city manager. “Purchasing buildings that were blighted, matching our architectural schemes; [that’s] how … you get a college campus and college atmosphere in a historic downtown community. And, and I think Dr. Hagerty is very aware of that. And everything they put forth really blends well and complements our downtown.” Still, ever the world traveler, Dr. Hagerty realized that Beacon students — like their neurotypical peers elsewhere — would benefit from experiencing the world beyond their Leesburg campus. In 2017, he launched the college’s highly regarded study abroad program, Beacon in Tuscany. The program, believed to be the first and only semester-long global education program for neurodivergent students, jets a group of Beacon students to the medieval city of Prato, Italy each fall.

Beacon in Tuscany’s coursework focuses on the Renaissance and is organized around a central theme, with instruction provided by both Beacon faculty and local educators and experts. Students also experience the uniqueness of living and studying in a medieval city, with regular trips to historic and contemporary sites. Beacon in Tuscany has become a “rite of passage” for the many students who participate.

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