October 7, 2026
When a water main break affected Farmville’s drinking water on Sunday, October 4, Hampden-Sydney stepped in to provide clean water to Prince Edward County Public Schools.
When adversity strikes, community shines. After Prince Edward County Public Schools Superintendent Chip Jones received an email about a water main break in Farmville late Sunday evening, he soon learned that students could not drink from the school’s water fountains. Hampden-Sydney was quick to step in, offering support when the schools needed it most.
“I reached out to see if Hampden-Sydney was on the town’s water supply, and fortunately, we were able to work something out,” Jones says. “I met several staff members at Hampden-Sydney facilities early on Monday, October 5—around 6:30 am—to fill the available coolers and load them up for delivery to the schools. It was a tremendous team effort, and we finished by 7 am.
Jones praised the strong sense of community and partnership demonstrated throughout the process, highlighting Hampden-Sydney’s immediate response and commitment to serving as good neighbors and steadfast community partners.
“We are blessed to have such a tight-knit family here on the Hill,” says Willam Gillen, assistant director of facilities management operations. “When our local school system is in need, we don't question—we assist. Forming good men and good citizens doesn't just apply to our students.”