The foundation said the total financial donation will be given to the institution over four years.
"Southern provides an important function not only to the local students who often are current or future employees, but also to the rural communities through enrichment and cultural experiences," Arch subsidiary Mountain Laurel’s president Dave Runyon said.
According to SWVCTC president Joanne Tomblin, the funding assistance will help the school continue to provide high-quality programs and meet the education and training needs of the region.
The technical college currently offers classes including 40-hour surface apprenticeship, 80-hour underground mine training, 40hr electrical courses and instruction for EMT-M certification.
The Arch Coal Foundation was established in December 2005 with an initial endowment from Arch Coal. The foundation focuses its donations in the area of education, including contributions to schools.
