Buzz Bucks: Connecting Campus and Community

Image by Randolph-Macon College from move-in day 2024

The Town of Ashland is excited to announce the launch of Buzz Bucks, a year-round discount program designed in collaboration with Randolph-Macon College to connect the RMC community with the best deals at Ashland's restaurants, shops, and service providers.

Through Buzz Bucks, RMC students, faculty, and staff have a single, convenient source for exclusive local offers. By showing an RMC ID at participating businesses, members of the college community can enjoy savings throughout the year—encouraging them to explore downtown, discover new favorites, and support the businesses that define Ashland’s character.

Homemades by Suzanne in historic downtown Ashland

“Ashland takes pride in being a college town,” said Mayor Steve Trivett. “Buzz Bucks is a year-round welcome mat for Yellow Jackets, and an invitation to be part of our community’s daily life.”

Participating businesses display a Buzz Bucks window cling, making them easy to identify. Discounts are set by each business and may change throughout the year, creating fresh reasons for the RMC community to return.

“Living and working in the Town of Ashland is even better because of its local businesses,” said Beth Campbell, Vice President of Marketing at Randolph-Macon College.  “We’re grateful that this program will help make it easier for students, faculty, and staff to find—and keep supporting—these wonderful places to eat, shop, and get services just steps from campus.”

“This program is all about connection,” said Kelly Franke, Marketing & Events Coordinator for the Town of Ashland. “We want students to feel at home in Ashland, and we want our businesses to benefit from the energy, curiosity, and loyalty the Yellow Jacket community brings year-round.”

About Buzz Bucks:

  • Who: RMC students, faculty, and staff

  • What: Show an RMC ID at participating businesses to receive discounts

  • Where: Look for “Buzz Bucks” window clings on storefronts

  • Find Deals: visitashlandva.com/buzzzbucks

Whether it’s the start of the academic year or the middle of summer break, Buzz Bucks provides the RMC community with a year-round passport to local flavor, friendly faces, and a vibrant college-town atmosphere.