Bethel High simulation lab is dedicated in memory of Sheriff B. J. Roberts

The simulation lab at Bethel High School was dedicated in memory of Sheriff B. J. Roberts at a ceremony on April 30, 2025. Special guests included Hampton School Board Chair Dr. Richard Mason, Hampton School Board Vice Chair Stephanie Jackson Afonja, Hampton School Board members Dr. Tina Banks-Gray, Ann Cherry, Jason Samuels, Hampton City Schools Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes, division leadership members, HCS staff, Delegate A. C. Cordoza, Hampton Mayor Jimmy Gray, Hampton Vice Mayor Steve Brown, Hampton City Council members Randy Bowman, Carolyn Campbell, Michelle Ferebee, Hope Harper, Martha Mugler, Hampton Sheriff Karen Bowden, Hampton Fire Chief Jason Monk, former Hampton University President William Harvey, former Hampton Commissioner of Revenue Ross Mugler, members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., as well as family and friends.

The Sheriff B. J. Roberts Simulation Lab at Bethel High School is a groundbreaking, state-of-the-art facility that enhances hands-on learning for students in the Academy of Law and Public Safety and the Governor’s Health Sciences Academy. This cutting-edge lab integrates an emergency management center, ambulance simulation, and 911 dispatch training, providing students with an immersive, real-world experience in crisis response and public safety. 

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Bethel executive principal, Dr. Tanya Howard, followed by a respectful presentation of colors by the Bethel High School JROTC. School Board Chair Dr. Richard Mason delivered the opening remarks, setting the stage for a meaningful celebration. School Board member Ann Cherry shared several personal stories and the process for the dedication to Sheriff Roberts. The program included touching reflections from Ross Mugler and Sheriff Karen Bowden, who shared their perspectives on service, perseverance, and community impact of Sheriff Roberts, for whom the simulation lab was named, honoring his legacy of leadership and commitment to youth empowerment. The ceremony was further enriched by inspiring words from student speakers Dominick Barham and Hannah Jones, whose reflections captured the spirit and promise of the next generation.

“Sheriff B. J. Roberts was committed to not only his community but also committed to empowering our youth to reach their highest potential. Having the simulation lab named in his honor is a fitting tribute to his legacy,” said School Board member Ann Cherry.

Former Sheriff B. J. Roberts attended the Thomas Nelson Regional Police Academy in 1972 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management from Hampton University in 1986. Roberts began his law enforcement career as a patrolman on the Newport News Police Force. He then launched a 19-year career with Hampton University's Campus Police, where he moved through the ranks to become the Director of Police and Public Safety until 1992, at which time he was elected the first African-American constitutional officer and Sheriff for the City of Hampton. Because of his experience and expertise in the criminal justice field, Sheriff Roberts was elected or appointed to serve on numerous corrections/criminal justice related boards. Sheriff Roberts passed away on December 26, 2020.

 

Through realistic scenario-based training, students develop critical thinking, communication, and rapid decision-making skills essential for careers in emergency services, law enforcement, and healthcare. This innovative learning environment bridges the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application, fostering career readiness and workforce development.