A message to alumni from Virginia Tech President Tim Sands

Dear Alumni,

In times of need, Hokie Nation knows the value of coming together to strengthen and support our community. Many of you, especially those of my generation, remember supporting each other during national emergencies by coming together as families, friends, and communities. COVID-19 is different, because gathering in person is not an option right now. But our spirit and commitment to support and serve our community are stronger than ever.

I’m asking you and Hokies everywhere to take care of yourselves, each other, and your communities. Practicing social distancing is a selfless act, protecting the vulnerable among us and helping to ensure that our health care system has the capacity to care for those who need it. This is Ut Prosim at its finest.

Here on campus, we’re following guidance from state and national health officials and the governor’s office, adapting and updating our plan as needed. Our students are completing their courses online, and we are working diligently to ensure they continue to make progress toward their degree in a virtual VT environment. This pandemic may accelerate our progress in employing technology to mimic, augment, and enhance the in-person experience, allowing students, faculty, and staff the flexibility to experience Virginia Tech wherever they are in the world – a generational aspiration of our Beyond Boundaries vision.

If there are fellow alums in your community or students who are completing their semester at home, give them a virtual nod, or flash a “VT” sign and make eye contact when you see someone wearing our colors, acknowledging that we are in this together for the greater good.

Finally, when this has passed and we can once again safely assemble, I hope you make plans to come home and visit us here on campus. What better way to recover from a period of “social distancing” than to spend time with your Hokie family. We look forward to seeing you soon.

In the spirit of Ut Prosim,

Tim Sands