The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind Board of Visitors has announced the appointment of Charity Reedy Warigon as interim superintendent, effective June 1, 2025.
The current superintendent, Pat Trice, recently announced her retirement.
"Warigon brings extensive educational leadership experience, specializing in youth transition planning and statewide outreach for students with disabilities," the board of visitors said in a press release. "Her professional background encompasses strategic enrollment management, accessibility initiatives, and preparing students for postsecondary success in education, employment, and independent living."
Warigon’s previous roles include serving as chief enrollment management officer at Gallaudet University, where she led comprehensive efforts in admissions, retention, financial aid, and outreach while advancing institutional accessibility.
She has also held leadership positions in both nonprofit and governmental sectors, with a focus on disability advocacy, education, and community engagement. She authored an accessible online pre-employment transition services curriculum for students with disabilities, which has been adopted by educational and vocational rehabilitation agencies across multiple states.
A native of Singers Glen, Warigon maintains deep personal connections to VSDB. Multiple family members attended and graduated from the school, including her grandfather, who was deaf and helped construct the iconic Main Hall stairway that remains a symbol of the institution's enduring legacy.
As a hard of hearing individual who became deaf at age 13 and now experiences progressive vision loss, Warigon brings firsthand understanding of the challenges facing VSDB students, per the release. This personal experience, combined with her professional expertise, reinforces her commitment to inclusive practices supporting diverse learner needs.
"We are honored to welcome Charity Reedy Warigon to VSDB," said Chris Head, chair of the board of visitors. "Her leadership experience, deep understanding of our community's needs, and personal connection to our mission position her well to guide the school during this transitional period."
Warigon's appointment reflects the board's confidence in her ability to unite the VSDB community while maintaining the institution's commitment to excellence in serving Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Blind, and DeafBlind students.
"Returning to VSDB represents both professional opportunity and personal homecoming," Warigon said in the release. "Having experienced the transformative power of inclusive education firsthand, I'm committed to ensuring every student here develops the skills and confidence needed to thrive in their chosen paths."