To the University Community,

The Virginia Tech campus is a special place, supporting the land-grant mission and service-oriented spirit that continues to propel our current and future achievements. It is important to recognize that the history of our campus extends far beyond the university’s founding in 1872. The Tutelo/Monacan people are the historical stewards of the land on which we work and live, and they have a continuing connection to the natural resources that support our endeavors.

As part of our ongoing commitment to InclusiveVT, we seek to demonstrate our respect for Tutelo/Monacan Nations and become more inclusive for all indigenous people who are part of our community. As part of this effort we established the American Indian and Indigenous Community Center in 2016.

This past spring, the Native at Virginia Tech organization made a proposal to the Virginia Tech Commission on Equal Opportunity and Diversity to honor Indigenous Peoples Day annually on the second Monday in October. I issued a Presidential Policy Memorandum designating Monday, October 8, as Indigenous Peoples Day at Virginia Tech for this year, making it possible for Indigenous Peoples Day to be observed in 2018 while also allowing time for the annual observance proposal to be considered by the appropriate governance bodies.

I encourage you to participate in Monday’s observance and learn more about the history and heritage of the land that continues to support our university’s mission and vision. Get more information about Monday’s Indigenous Peoples Day events.

 

Tim Sands,
President

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