Ferrum College (VA) has named David Johns, who currently serves as vice president for academic affairs at Union College in Kentucky, as its next president.  The search for a new leader began after the college released Jody Spooner from his contract on May 31. Spooner served as president for less than a year, and his sudden departure came as a surprise to alumni and the campus community.  Jennifer Braaten, who preceded Spooner, has served as interim president. Johns will take the helm Jan. 1, becoming Ferrum’s 12th president.