Retired Circuit Court Judge Richard Blanton, left, was awarded the prestigious William Henry Ruffner Award from Longwood University. Making the presentation was LU president W. Taylor Reveley IV, right. Blanton, of Cumberland and a 1975 Longwood graduate, retired in 2011 after 16 years as judge. Prior to being appointed to the bench, Blanton served as Commonwealth’s Attorney for Cumberland, County Attorney for Cumberland and had a private law practice. The Ruffner Award recognizes those who have achieved outstanding success and national distinction in their personal and professional lives. (Provided photo)