$650,054
Amount Raised
8,894
Gifts Received
Projects
168 Projects
Pamplin College of Business Senior Class Gift Challenge
By Pamplin College of Business
Class of 2026, leave your mark on Pamplin. Your Senior Class Gift is a chance to honor your experience, support future students, and create a legacy that lasts.
Class of 2026, leave your mark on Pamplin. Your Senior Class Gift is a chance to honor your experience, support future students, and create a legacy that lasts. Pamplin College of Business <strong>Graduating seniors, this is your moment. </strong>
Before you cross that stage, have you made your Senior Class Gift?
This isn’t just a donation. It’s a chance to leave your mark on Virginia Tech. It’s about Hokie pride, giving back to the place that shaped you, and making sure future Hokies get the same unforgettable experience you did.
Your gift, no matter the size ($5–$100), is your first step as a Hokie alum. And if you give $25 or more, you’ll earn a black and gray cord to wear at commencement, plus a commemorative mug to celebrate your legacy long after graduation.
Even bigger: when our class reaches 725 gifts, we unlock a $2,600 match in honor of the Class of 2026 to support Pamplin students.
This is your class. Your legacy. Your impact.
Let’s show what Hokie pride really means.
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Support VCE Albemarle - Double Our Miles
By VCE Albemarle
Help Albemarle Cooperative Extension raise $10,000 for a second vehicle to reach more youth and communities.
Help Albemarle Cooperative Extension raise $10,000 for a second vehicle to reach more youth and communities. VCE Albemarle Albemarle Cooperative Extension is growing, especially our 4‑H Youth Program, and one six‑passenger vehicle <strong>can only take us so far</strong>. Thanks to Virginia Tech Giving Day and generous supporters, we’ve raised $30,000 of our $40,000 goal! This strong momentum reflects a shared belief in the power of research-based education and community connection. We are seeking the final <strong>$10,000 by May 1, 2026</strong>, to purchase a second state vehicle and meet this growing demand.
Albemarle 4-H Teen Leaders, 4-H Camp 2025, Appomattox, VA
This vehicle is a practical and essential investment that allows our Extension agents and staff to better serve Albemarle County and Charlottesville City. With reliable transportation, our team can reach more communities, expand opportunities for youth, and strengthen programs that rely on in-person learning and engagement. This includes our 4-H Youth Development programs, Extension Master Gardener and Extension Master Naturalist programs, and other core Extension efforts.
Every gift helps move this effort forward. Contributions support not only the purchase of the vehicle, but also our broader mission to provide trusted, research-based education in agriculture and natural resources, family and consumer sciences, well water testing, volunteer development, and youth leadership. Together, these programs help build a healthier and more resilient community.
This campaign reflects the spirit of Cooperative Extension. Neighbors coming together to invest in people and places they care about. By giving or sharing this page with others, you help ensure our team can continue showing up where learning, leadership, and stewardship are needed most.
<strong>A BIG Thank You from all of us at Albemarle Cooperative Extension!</strong>
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2026 Fauquier County Junior 4-H Camp
By VCE Fauquier County
Making meaningful learning experiences possible for every child through 4-H Camp.
Making meaningful learning experiences possible for every child through 4-H Camp. VCE Fauquier County Donations to this campaign help make 4-H Junior Camp accessible to all youth by providing camp scholarships for families in need and funding essential class materials. These resources support hands-on learning experiences in science, nature, creative arts, and outdoor skills that align with the goals of positive youth development. Through these experiences, campers build confidence, independence, leadership, and life skills while developing a sense of belonging and creating meaningful memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
4-H Junior Camp<ul><li>Builds confidence and independence</li><li>Develops leadership and teamwork skills</li><li>Encourages trying new activities in a safe, supportive environment</li><li>Fosters friendships and positive peer connections</li><li>Provides hands-on learning in science, nature, and creative arts</li><li>Creates fun, meaningful memories that last a lifetime</li></ul>
Every donation helps open the door to hands-on learning, new friendships, and life-changing experiences at 4-H Junior Camp.
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Dennis Dean Conference | 2026
By Undergraduate Research
Support the incredible research done by VT students
Support the incredible research done by VT students Undergraduate Research Research is often the centerpiece of a Virginia Tech education, helping students find their career path, leading to their first job, or an advanced degree.
Each year, our office works with thousands of students from every college on campus, culminating in the Dennis Dean Undergraduate Research and Creative Scholarship Conference.
It’s a one-day, annual event held on the Blacksburg campus where hundreds of undergraduates give poster presentations on the research they’ve done with faculty in labs, the field, studios, and archives across the Blacksburg campus.
For students who participate in the event, it can be the result of years of hard work. It’s an opportunity to share their scholarship, develop presentation skills, defend their work, and be considered for ten awards.
For the Office of Undergraduate Research, it means each year renting a venue, printing posters, buying hundreds of name tags and lanyards, a van to transport displays, and enough sandwiches, snacks, and coffee to fuel the more than 500 students who are part of this conference.
This event can be the highlight of a student’s academic career, so please help us support their work and the ground-breaking research happening on our campus.
The conference is free and open to everyone and will be held on April 24th in the multipurpose room at the Graduate Life Center. Every dollar we raise will go towards this annual event and supports the work of our incredible students. Thank you!
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From Fragile to Flourishing: Tender Care for Tough Beginnings
By VA-MD College of Vet Med
Not all newborns are born thriving. As we step in to help, your support will allow us to give them the best first-chance at life!
Not all newborns are born thriving. As we step in to help, your support will allow us to give them the best first-chance at life! VA-MD College of Vet Med <em><strong>At the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, some of our smallest patients face the biggest battles.</strong></em>
Each spring and fall, fragile newborn foals, calves, crias, piglets and more arrive needing immediate, specialized care. In those first hours of life, <strong>every minute matters</strong> — and our team is trained, prepared, and deeply committed to giving them the strongest possible start.
Excellence in neonatal care depends not only on skill, but on having the right tools ready at a moment’s notice. As foaling season approaches and case complexity increases, we are investing in updated and expanded equipment to ensure every newborn receives the highest standard of support from the very beginning.
<strong>Your support helps us strengthen what we already do well</strong> — keeping us ready, responsive, and fully equipped when the next life comes through our doors. <strong>Because it will.</strong><strong> </strong>
If you’d like to make an impact on the next generation of these remarkable animals, please consider supporting one of our donation tiers.<strong> </strong>Even the<strong> </strong><strong>smallest</strong><strong> </strong>gift makes a <strong>BIG</strong><strong><strong> </strong></strong>difference in those critical first hours of life.
<a href="https://vth.vetmed.vt.edu/large-animal-services.html">Click here to learn more about our Large Animal Clinical Services!</a>
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The Virginia Gray Fox Project
By Victoria Monette
Help our team finish this statewide trail camera survey of gray foxes and other wildlife in Virginia!
Help our team finish this statewide trail camera survey of gray foxes and other wildlife in Virginia! Victoria Monette The Virginia Gray Fox Project (VGFP) is an ambitious statewide camera survey with the primary goals of determining the current distribution of gray foxes in VA and identifying how habitat, prey availability, and competitors impact gray fox landscape use. <strong><strong>Limitations in our current knowledge of the gray fox in VA hampers conservation and management efforts for the species. </strong></strong>
<strong><em>An adult gray fox in Craig County.</em></strong>
This project seeks to fill the knowledge gap regarding gray foxes in VA and to develop a gray fox management plan in collaboration with VA Department of Wildlife Resources.<strong> </strong><strong>While gray foxes are the focal species of this project, the images we are collecting contain valuable data for other species of interest in Virginia</strong>, including but not limited to black bear, coyote, bobcat, elk, eastern spotted skunk, ruffed grouse, bobwhite quail, and nine banded armadillo.
<strong>We are seeking additional funding to allow the VGFP team the opportunity to complete data collection and successfully adhere to timelines.</strong>
<em>An adult black bear in Bedford County.</em>
In 2024 and 2025, the VGFP team placed trail cameras at 915 locations across the mountain and Piedmont regions of VA, covering 25,000 square miles. In 2026, our team hopes to complete the statewide survey by placing cameras at ~400 additional locations in Virginia’s southern Piedmont and Coastal Plain.<strong> <strong>A camera survey of this magnitude and time frame has not been conducted before! </strong></strong>
<em>Between 2024 and 2025, the VGFP team placed trail cameras at 915 locations across the counties in purple. In 2026, the team will set up cameras at ~400 more locations in the orange counties comprising the southeastern Piedmont and Coastal Plain.</em>
<strong><strong>Follow the Virginia Gray Fox Project on </strong></strong><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/virginiagrayfoxproject/">Facebook</a></strong><strong> </strong><strong>and </strong><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/virginiagrayfoxproject/">Instagram</a></strong><strong><strong> </strong></strong><strong><strong>for project updates and educational content about the species we capture on camera!</strong></strong>
Anyone, anywhere in VA is invited to participate in the project! Next year the VGFP team will be working in the southeastern Piedmont and the Coastal Plain. Community collaborators can give the VGFP team permission to set project cameras on their property, or can contribute data from personal trail cameras to help us to fill in gaps! If interested, please fill out the <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/sjjHfdUp2i"><strong>contact form</strong></a>.
<strong>Your help is greatly appreciated as we plan for our final field season! </strong>
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Geosciences Student Research Symposium 2026
By GSRS at Virginia Tech
GSRS Provides students with a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department.
GSRS Provides students with a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS at Virginia Tech The Geosciences Research Symposium (GSRS) is a long-standing tradition in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech. This year, the 31st annual GSRS will be held on <strong>March 19th and 20th</strong>! This event spans two days of research presentations from graduate and undergraduate students, providing a platform to communicate their science across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS promotes growth for promising geoscientists in a collegial environment by providing peer and faculty feedback on their research and presentation skills. Conversations during this event also foster a greater sense of community in the department and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development.
GSRS is entirely<strong> student</strong>-led, student-organized, and supported by gifts from folks like you. <strong>Your contribution will allow students to focus on developing their research communication abilities, providing an opportunity to sharpen the leadership, mentorship, and team-building skills it takes to organize an event like GSRS.</strong>
<em>"It's fun to see the camaraderie that GSRS fosters, the togetherness, and the support amongst each other." - Erika Goldsmith</em>
This will be the ninth year of the pre-GSRS Workshop Series. The workshops provide monthly graduate-student-led tutorials on navigating professional conferences and future career paths for both graduate and undergraduate students planning to attend the symposium. Topics range from formatting a talk for a professional conference to hands-on science communication activities. The workshops facilitate skill development that our students can put into practice during GSRS and employ for years to come.
<em>"Participating in the GSArtS workshop last year was an awesome opportunity to present my research through a creative medium, rather than traditional writing." - Carly Bauer</em>
<em></em>
Many of our undergraduate students have hands-on experience conducting original research under the supervision of an advisor. The poster session allows undergraduates to present in front of a supportive community, giving them the confidence to present at larger national conferences. With the help of your donations, we will cover the cost of printing for each student.
GSRS concludes with the ever-popular banquet on Friday evening. This gathering celebrates another successful GSRS with a delicious spread of food and drinks. Because we appreciate your contributions, we are offering our top donors the opportunity to name an award to honor a loved one, which will be given at the banquet ceremony to the best student presenters. We invite and encourage all who can attend to join us for this annual rendezvous of alumni, faculty, students, and friends of Geosciences.
<em>"The entire department comes together to celebrate the end of GSRS!" - Kristin Chilton</em>
GSRS is a free, public event. We'd love to see friends and alumni of Geosciences in<strong> Kelly Hall March 19th </strong><strong>and</strong><strong> 20th </strong><strong>for the</strong><strong><strong> </strong>31st annual GSRS! Please consider donating and sharing to help us hold another successful GSRS!</strong>
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Doodle Calendar and Puzzle
By Virginia Tech
Color your year with Hokie Spirit: Get a 2026 doodle calendar and puzzle!
Color your year with Hokie Spirit: Get a 2026 doodle calendar and puzzle! Virginia Tech What’s bright, bold, and full of Hokie Spirit? The limited-edition Virginia Tech doodle calendar and puzzle!
Here’s how to get doodle-y with us:
Make a gift of $15 to receive a 2026 Virginia Tech doodle calendar, or give $100 to receive both the calendar and an exclusive 500-piece doodle puzzle.
Every gift fuels scholarships, learning experiences, and opportunities for Virginia Tech students.
<strong>About the Doodles</strong>
Each month of the calendar features favorite Virginia Tech doodles from the doodler himself, Steven White ’92, and a special submission from our 2024 doodle contest winner, Erem Memisyazici.
That’s 15 months of colorful, creative designs that celebrate Hokie pride. The matching 500-piece (50 x 70 cm) puzzle brings an exclusive design to life in a new way, making it a fun gift for the Hokies in your life (yourself included!).
<strong>Shipping Info</strong>
<ul><li>Each gift transaction reserves either one calendar OR one calendar and one puzzle, or you can select no perk.</li><li>Is your shipping address different from your billing address? Please email <a href="mailto:annualgiving@vt.edu">annualgiving@vt.edu</a> with the correct shipping information. </li><li>Items are expected to ship in early January.</li></ul>
Thank you for getting doodle-y and supporting Hokies!
If you have any questions about this giving form, or need assistance in making your gift, please contact Virginia Tech Gift Accounting at 800-533-1144 or <a href="mailto:givetovt@vt.edu">givetovt@vt.edu</a>.
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Cheesy Nights 2025 Fall
By University Libraries
Keep students fueled during finals.
Keep students fueled during finals. University Libraries Since 2011, University Libraries has hosted a beloved Virginia Tech finals week tradition – Cheesy Nights! What started 14 years ago with just 267 sandwiches has grown into more than 9,000 gooey, golden grilled cheeses served each semester. It’s become a campus favorite and a comforting source of stress relief during exams.
There’s nothing better than smiles when students see Hokie volunteers serving up their favorite sandwiches – a simple but powerful reminder.
Be a part of this Virginia Tech tradition by helping us buy food supplies – including cheese, margarine, bread, fruit, snacks, and drinks – for this event. All ingredients are purchased with gifts from caring Hokies like you. We can't do it without you.
<strong>Cheesy Nights is a special way to support students during one of the most stressful times of the semester. Help keep them fueled for success by giving today!</strong><strong> </strong>
Thank you for your support!
Have a hankering for a grilled cheese sandwich? Make your own and tag @VTLibraries in your photo on social media!
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The Big Event 2026
By The Big Event
Support the student volunteers of Virginia Tech to help them give back to residents of Blacksburg and the New River Valley.
Support the student volunteers of Virginia Tech to help them give back to residents of Blacksburg and the New River Valley. The Big Event Since 2002, The Big Event at Virginia Tech has completed tens of thousands of service projects and has sent even more student volunteers to homeowners all across Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and the New River Valley. The Big Event follows the famous Virginia Tech saying, "Ut Prosim" as its calling to serve our local surrounding community and is how the organization made its saying, <strong>"One big day. One big thanks. One big event."</strong>
All smiles from the volunteers after a great day of hard work and giving back!
The funds from this campaign will all go towards day of operations for The Big Event which includes the t-shirts given to the volunteers, the stage for our opening ceremonies, and food for our staff. The t-shirts are the most important, as they allow homeowners to distinguish the volunteers from other Blacksburg residents and/or Virginia Tech students, helping to ensure The Big Event is safe for both our volunteers and homeowners.
Staff giving out shirts to the volunteers
A BIG thanks from our team for your support! See you on April 11th, 2026!
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Access to Opportunities & Mentoring in Science (ATOMS) Program
By College of Science
Support our first-generation college students and their peer mentors
Support our first-generation college students and their peer mentors College of Science Support first-generation college students as they navigate academic life, find community, and reach their goals. Your gift will directly support resources and programs that help first generation college students build confidence and feel connected, from individual peer mentoring to academic workshops.
In partnership with Public Health, <strong>ATOMS (Access to Opportunities & Mentoring in Science) Program</strong> is our flagship peer mentoring experience, pairing incoming students with upper-level science majors to help guide them through their first year at Virginia Tech. These small mentoring pods meet weekly and connect students to the people, tools, and advice they need to succeed. We target our program towards first-generation college students to support their transition to college. Since starting in 2022, we have supported over 350 first year students through ATOMS. <strong>Our goal is to raise </strong><strong>$7,500</strong><strong> to support these efforts and expand access to mentoring, research opportunities, and student support services.</strong>
We host engaging weekly events throughout the semester from office hours and workshops to social mixers and research panels. These events help students build community, confidence, and a strong academic network for first generation college students.
Your gift will directly support resources and programs that help first generation college students build confidence, connect with mentors, and thrive from the ATOMS peer mentoring program to academic workshops and study nights. Whether you’re sponsoring a coffee chat, a student-led event, or a full mentoring pod, your contribution helps first-generation students feel supported and seen. <strong>Join us in building a stronger, more connected science community one step at a time. </strong>
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VT Student Musicians Perform at VMEA Conference
By Music at Virginia Tech
Student music ensembles have received the honor of being invited to perform for music educators from all across Virginia.
Student music ensembles have received the honor of being invited to perform for music educators from all across Virginia. Music at Virginia Tech The Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble and Chamber Singers have been awarded the distinguished honor of an invitation to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association Conference in Norfolk, Virginia, on November 21, 2025. The selection of both the Wind Ensemble and the Chamber Singers in the same year is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to the talent, dedication, and artistry of our students and faculty.
Our ensembles are diligently preparing programs that will represent the excellence of Virginia Tech on this important statewide stage. This opportunity not only highlights the caliber of our student musicians but also positions Virginia Tech as a leader in music in the Commonwealth. We are eager to showcase the extraordinary work of our students, but we cannot do so without the generosity of our supporters. Philanthropic contributions will enable our students to travel and perform at this prestigious event. Your partnership will ensure that Virginia Tech’s musical excellence is shared with educators, students, and audiences across Virginia.
The Chamber Singers and Wind Ensemble have performed at Carnegie Hall together (2017); the Chamber Singers has performed throughout Italy, Ireland, and Spain; and Wind Ensemble performed at the CBDNA Southern Division conference (the foremost professional organization for collegiate band directors) – a true honor. Our performance at VMEA is a significant opportunity to showcase the important work of Virginia Tech's music department – this top-tier university is an amazing place to earn music degrees that support successful careers, and we are excited to showcase this for Virginia's music educators!
These ensembles include many music majors as well as many students in other majors who are passionate about music performance in their lives.
<em>VT Wind Ensemble and Choirs perform in Carnegie Hall, April 2017</em>
<strong>Please help us showcase the incredible music being made at Virginia Tech </strong><strong>by making a donation today!</strong>
<em>VT Chamber Singers perform in Squires Recital Salon</em>
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Hokies Helping Hokies: Connecting in the first year
By CNRE
Be the reason a student stays, grows, and thrives at Virginia Tech.
Be the reason a student stays, grows, and thrives at Virginia Tech. CNRE At the College of Natural Resources and Environment (CNRE), we believe student success starts with strong, consistent support. From their first steps on campus to their final job interviews, our students benefit from a network of guidance that spans academic advising, career planning, and peer mentoring.
The Advising and Career Center serves as the heart of this network. Staffed by five experienced advisors, the center helps students with everything from course selection to overcoming academic challenges. But one of its most impactful initiatives is the CNRE Academic Mentor Program (CAMP).
CAMP connects first-year students with a group of 11 trained upperclassmen who serve as peer mentors. These mentors build relationships with new students before they even arrive on campus—offering support through summer outreach, welcome events, and workshops focused on academic and career success.
<strong>Why it matters:</strong><ul><li>First-year students with a peer mentor are <strong>10% more likely to stay enrolled</strong> through their second term.</li><li>They experience an average <strong>0.4 GPA boost</strong> in their first semester.</li><li>Mentorship promotes a deeper sense of belonging, one of the top predictors of student retention and success.</li></ul>
CAMP not only supports first-year students but also helps mentors grow. Participants report significant gains in professional competencies like critical thinking and leadership—skills that will serve them well beyond graduation.
Your gift to the CNRE CAMP program helps ensure every student has the tools, confidence, and community they need to succeed.
Give today and be the reason a student stays, grows, and thrives at Virginia Tech.
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Make a Gift in Memory of Steve Galligan '81
By By Corinne Galligan
Make a Gift in Memory of Steve Galligan '81
Make a Gift in Memory of Steve Galligan '81 By Corinne Galligan Steve Galligan (BS '81, MBA '83) was a proud technician and truck driver for the New Virginians from 1979 to 1984. Before his passing in October 2024, he reminisced about his time with the group as being some of his best memories throughout his 66 years. He participated in multiple other musical ensembles while at Virginia Tech, including the Choral Union and the Studio Singers. Steve was able to travel all over Virginia and beyond thanks to his involvement in music.
Steve's love for travel continued after graduation. After a few years in food service management, he remembered how much he enjoyed driving a truck for the New Virginians and went into long-haul trucking, working for Schneider for 36 years.
Steve lived his life in service of others. "'Ut Prosim - That I May Serve,'" he texted his wife and daughters after the New Virginians' 50th anniversary celebration in 2022. "That’s Virginia Tech’s motto. I guess that’s kind of how I try to live my life. Saw it in the stonework in several places on campus today and was reminded of it."
While on campus for the celebration, Steve and his fellow New Virginians alumni got to explore the Center for the Arts. Steve loved being back on campus, and he was very impressed by the new performing arts facilities. The New Virginians and Virginia Tech gave a lot to Steve, and he wanted to give back to them. His family is raising money in his memory to name a seat in the Center for the Arts after him, and we would love your assistance in making this happen. Music was Steve's happy place, especially music at Tech, and having a seat in the auditorium would give him a place to forever enjoy it.
Thank you for the music, thanks for the memories, and we appreciate your help in honoring Steve.
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4-H Summer Camp- York County/Poquoson
By York/Poquoson VCE
The York/Poquoson 4-H Jr. Summer Camp provides hands-on educational and leadership experiences for youth ages 9-18.
The York/Poquoson 4-H Jr. Summer Camp provides hands-on educational and leadership experiences for youth ages 9-18. York/Poquoson VCE Did you have a life-changing camp experience as a child? Support those experiences for the youth of York County and Poquoson!
This year's summer camp is August 4- 8th, 2025 at the Jamestown 4-H Center. The York County and Poquoson 4-H Camp serves approximately 170 campers ages 9-13 giving them a chance to meet new friends and build skills all during an overnight camp week unplugged from technology.
Another 15-20 youth, ages 14-18, gain valuable leadership experience either as teen counselors or counselors in training. Many come back as either adult volunteers or to serve as camp staff at the 4-H Center and continue to give back to the community.
<strong>Camp may only be one week of the year but the impacts can last a lifetime!</strong>
Your gifts will be used to support a number of camp-related expenses and experiences for the youth in York County and Poquoson. From t-shirts and training, to camp scholarships, your gift makes a difference.
<strong>Some of our teen counselors had this to say about their camp experiences:</strong>
I wanted to become a counselor because:
<em>"I enjoy helping others and wanted to share the joy of camp "</em>- Ian, 4th year counselor
<em>"Originally, I was forced into going to camp, and I thought I would HATE it. I left camp begging to go back." </em>- Kamilla, 2nd year counselor
<strong>New to 4-H?</strong>
4-H is a youth program through Virginia Cooperative Extension focused on hands-on education and positive youth development. Youth have opportunities to explore a variety of interests, participate at county, state and national level events and learn leadership skills. Community Service and good character are highlights of the program as they continue to build skills year after year.
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Ag Awareness Day
By Southern Piedmont AREC
Cultivate the future: Support STEM and agriculture programs to inspire and educate young minds
Cultivate the future: Support STEM and agriculture programs to inspire and educate young minds Southern Piedmont AREC Agriculture Awareness Day offers free, one-day programs for third and fifth graders, focusing on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) through agriculture. <strong>These interactive sessions align with Virginia state education standards and provide unique learning experiences at no cost to schools or students.</strong> By sparking an early interest in science, the program motivates students to discover opportunities in STEM and agriculture.
Third-grade students visit 15 interactive stations where they:<ul><li>Take home a tree to plant</li><li>Make paper from wood pulp</li><li>Learn about renewable resources</li><li>Understand soil erosion</li><li>Explore simple machines</li><li>Study force and motion</li><li>Practice measuring</li><li>Discover vermicomposting</li><li>Learn about wildlife</li><li>Investigate local vegetables and crops</li><li>Crawl through a soil tunnel</li><li>Make a water cycle bracelet</li><li>Interact with cows, sheep, and poultry</li></ul>
Fifth-grade students:<ul><li>Make an animal cell model in a zip-lock bag</li><li>Learn about polymers by playing with Oobleck</li><li>Study Earth’s resources by dissecting an apple</li><li>Extract DNA from strawberries</li><li>Participate in the Bake for Good program conducted by King Arthur Baking Company</li></ul>
When you give to this program and share it with others, you are helping the Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center inspire and educate over 1,200 students from six rural counties. Our mission is to bridge the gap in experiential STEM learning opportunities for K-12 students in these areas. <strong>Through our Ag Awareness Day programs, we focus on hands-on, inquiry-based learning activities that foster interdisciplinary understanding, inspire curiosity, and empower students to ask questions and solve real-world problems.</strong>
Today’s students are tomorrow’s decision-makers. It’s vital that they understand the importance of environmental stewardship, ecosystem health, and agriculture through programs such as Agriculture Awareness Day.
<strong>Every gift will help to inspire and educate students about these crucial topics, empowering them to become informed and responsible future leaders. Join us in making a difference!</strong>
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Dennis Dean Conference | 2025
By Undergraduate Research
Support the incredible research done by VT students
Support the incredible research done by VT students Undergraduate Research Research is often the centerpiece of a Virginia Tech education, helping students find their career path, leading to their first job, or an advanced degree.
Each year, our office works with thousands of students from every college on campus, culminating in the Dennis Dean Undergraduate Research and Creative Scholarship Conference.
It’s a one-day, annual event held on the Blacksburg campus where hundreds of undergraduates give poster presentations on the research they’ve done with faculty in labs, the field, studios, and archives across the Blacksburg campus.
For students who participate in the event, it can be the result of years of hard work. It’s an opportunity to share their scholarship, develop presentation skills, defend their work, and be considered for ten awards.
For the Office of Undergraduate Research, it means each year renting a venue, printing posters, buying hundreds of name tags and lanyards, a van to transport displays, and enough sandwiches, snacks, and coffee to fuel the more than 500 students who are part of this conference.
This event can be the highlight of a student’s academic career, so please help us support their work and the ground-breaking research happening on our campus.
The conference is free and open to everyone and will be held on April 24th in the multipurpose room at the Graduate Life Center. Every dollar we raise will go towards this annual event and supports the work of our incredible students. Thank you!
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Cheesy Nights 2025 Spring
By University Libraries
Keep students fueled during finals.
Keep students fueled during finals. University Libraries Since 2011, University Libraries has hosted a Virginia Tech finals week tradition – Cheesy Nights!
Students' eyes light up when they see volunteers from the Hokie community come together to serve up warm, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, snacks, and hot chocolate just for them.
Be a part of this Virginia Tech tradition by helping us buy food supplies – including cheese, margarine, bread, fruit, snacks, and drinks – for this event. All ingredients are purchased with gifts from caring Hokies like you.
<strong>Cheesy Nights is a special way to support students during one of the most stressful times of the semester. Help keep them fueled for success by giving today!</strong><strong> </strong>
Thank you for your support!
Have a hankering for a grilled cheese sandwich? Make your own and tag @VTLibraries in your photo on social media!
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Celebrating Skipper - Virginia Tech's Voice of Victory!
By Virginia Tech
Support Skipper Crew operations
Support Skipper Crew operations <strong>Meet Skipper Crew: </strong>
Skipper Crew is composed of approximately 25 cadets from amongst the regiment, representing all battalions and ROTC organizations. The group is divided equally amongst all four year-groups with first-year cadets being new members, freshly inducted after their spring tap. First-year cadets primarily train on the proper procedures associated with firing and maintaining Skipper, while also serving as safety officers, maintaining a safe perimeter around Skipper and keeping an eye out for any safety hazards. Sophomores and juniors take on the majority of the effort to maintain and operate Skipper, while also fulfilling various administrative and logistical functions. They are led by the Chief of Smoke, the top junior cadet on Crew. The seniors, with the exception of the Gun Captain, take on an advisory and mentor role to the underclassmen, stepping in to provide support and manpower when needed. The entire crew is led by the Gun Captain, a senior cadet held in high regard within the regiment and on Skipper Crew. This cadet is ultimately responsible for all activities related to the cannon, its operation, and the Crew’s activities.
In order to join Skipper Crew, cadets undergo a rigorous tap process consisting of public engagement development and physical fitness, academic, and practical knowledge assessments. Being a member on Crew is a tremendous honor, and the Crew very much holds their place in the long tradition of Skipper at Virginia Tech in high regard.
<strong>How can you help:</strong>
We need your help to ensure Skipper Crew has funds needed to support the operations and continue to BOOM loudly and proudly at Virginia Tech events. Expenses include:<ul><li>Regular maintenance and upkeep of Skipper cannon, truck, and trailer. </li><li>Supporting supply costs for Skipper operations</li><li>Train Skipper Crew cadets for safe handling of Skipper</li><li>Transportation of Skipper to events and activities </li></ul>
<strong>History of Skipper:</strong>
Each year, dating back to 1918, Virginia Tech (then VPI) would meet rival Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in a football game played on Thanksgiving Day. VMI had a cannon named “Little John,” which would fire every time the Keydets scored, while their cadets chanted, “Where’s your cannon?”
In the early 1960s, Homer “Sonny” Hickam ’64, Alton “Butch” Harper ’64, and George Fox ’64 tired of the smack talk and decided to fire back. Armed with a plan to “build the biggest cannon the world had ever seen,” the trio collected extra brass from cadets’ uniform items as well as shell casings from the firing range, which they would melt for the gun. Foundry owner Paul Huffman, an alumnus of the Corps of Cadets, cast the cannon at no charge.
When the cadets learned of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, this gave birth to the name Skipper, which had two meanings: first to honor the fallen president, as he had been a skipper in the U.S. Navy, and also as an inside joke for the cadets (Skipper was a nickname for senior cadet privates who had gotten in trouble). At the 1963 VMI vs. Virginia Tech game, 50 cadets hauled Skipper from underneath the bleachers and fired the gun.
The cannon suffered a blowout in 1982, so in 1984, Paul Huffman Jr. ’78, whose father had cast the original Skipper, offered to fabricate a new cannon at no charge. Skipper II is based on a Civil War cannon. Its design compares to a 3-inch ordnance cannon, which is 70 inches long and weighs about 800 pounds.
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Cheesy Nights 2024 Fall
By University Libraries
Keeping students fueled during finals.
Keeping students fueled during finals. University Libraries Since 2011, the University Libraries has hosted a Virginia Tech finals week tradition — Cheesy Nights!
Students' eyes light up when they see the dozens of volunteers each night from across campus and beyond serve up a warm and gooey grilled cheese just for them. You can be a part of this Virginia Tech tradition by giving today. All food supplies including cheese, margarine, bread, fruit, snacks, and drinks are purchased with gifts from caring Hokies and Hokie parents like you.
<strong>Cheesy Nights is an important service to students when meal plan dollars are running low and their next meal isn't top of mind while cramming for exams. Help keep students fueled for success by giving today!</strong>
Thank you for your support!
Have a hankering for a grilled cheese sandwich? Make your own and tag @VTLibraries in your photo on social media!
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Support Virginia Tech Transportation Institute| Homecoming 2024
By TJ Brooks -- VTTI
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting VTTI’s work with TJ’s platform of seatbelt safety!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting VTTI’s work with TJ’s platform of seatbelt safety! TJ Brooks -- VTTI My platform Buckle Up with Brooks promotes wearing one's seat belt by spreading and strengthening the awareness behind the importance of Buckling Up. The mission of my platform is to educate the student body on the life-saving impacts when making the 3 second decision to wear your seatbelt, for my seatbelt is the reason why I am still alive right now.
My partnering organization, the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), conducts research to save lives by advancing transportation through innovation. With an emphasis on technology development and vehicle safety, the VTTI is responsible for designing and idealizing transportation safety solutions that create positive results on our roads.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting my partnering department VTTI, making a difference in the experience of students involved.
Thank you for your gift!
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Support Inclusive VT | Homecoming 2024
By Tristan Reeves- Pride Council
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Inclusive VT’s work with Tristan’s platform of supporting DEI based initiatives in higher education!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Inclusive VT’s work with Tristan’s platform of supporting DEI based initiatives in higher education! Tristan Reeves- Pride Council Triumph with Tristan is focused on supporting DEI based initiatives in higher education, which ensure there is equitable access for every member of an institution, such as students, staff, and faculty, to feel included and have the same opportunities regardless of their identities.
I am partnering with InclusiveVT, a university wide initiative that supports a multitude of DEI initiatives on and off campus. They align with Triumph with Tristan as the main goal of InclusiveVT is based on supporting DEI in higher education and ensures students from all backgrounds feel included.
Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and will go towards Inclusive VT’s work with faculty and students and will benefit the experience of all involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Financial Wellness | Homecoming 2024
By Maya Snyder- Pi Beta Phi
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Financial Wellness Program’s work with Maya on connecting students with financial literacy resources on and off campus!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Financial Wellness Program’s work with Maya on connecting students with financial literacy resources on and off campus! Maya Snyder- Pi Beta Phi Making Money with Maya is a platform aiming to raise awareness of the importance of financial literacy and the free educational resources on campus. Our finances are part of our daily lives, worries, and relationships, but we often lack basic skills and knowledge to maintain financial health.
I am excited to partner with the Financial Wellness team in the Hokie Wellness department to educate students about the free resources, workshops, and 1 on 1 advisory available. Throughout the year the Financial Wellness team has workshops on budgeting, credit, debt and more which they have for students to sign up for or request for their organizations. Additionally, they offer free one-on-one appointments to discuss any personal budgeting questions and work collaboratively to solve your financial problems.
Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and will go towards the Financial Wellness program at Hokie Wellness as they work to increase financial literacy with students.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support VT Engage | Homecoming 2024
By Charlie Sloop- The Big Event
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting VT Engage’s work with Charlie’s platform of supporting civic engagement and community service in the NRV!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting VT Engage’s work with Charlie’s platform of supporting civic engagement and community service in the NRV! Charlie Sloop- The Big Event The Channel Change with Charlie (Community Engagement Opportunities) platform seeks to gain support in putting resources toward volunteer opportunities to positively support the New River Valley and Virginia Tech community through service, community engagement, voting, and addressing food insecurity. I believe that there are multiple ways we can create a positive change for ourselves, our close friends, and our community; two out of three people volunteer to give back to the community, and four out of five people volunteer because of the cause. I strive to use this platform to open doors for service opportunities in Blacksburg, educate the value and impact each service opportunity holds, and share resources to foster positive change in the New River Valley.
I am beyond excited to be partnering with VT Engage: The Center for Leadership & Service Learning to empower my platform. VT Engage serves the Virginia Tech community by seeking to equip students to serve as change agents who make the world more equitable and just through their commitment to community and civic engagement. VT Engage is also home to The Big Event, a student-run day of service that completes nearly 1,200 community service projects throughout Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and the New River Valley with the purpose of saying Thank You!
Ever since my freshman year, I have been grateful to be a part of VT Engage where countless programs in service learning, leadership, civic engagement, and food insecurity are making a difference within and beyond Virginia Tech. Whether it's organizing local events, maintaining community spaces, or providing assistance to those in need, volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of the New River Valley. No matter what, this is home for Hokies, residents, and all. Let’s channel change to a better tomorrow. With resources through VT Engage, positive change is possible.
Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and will go towards VT Engage’s work in creating community engagement opportunities and will benefit all students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Residential Well-Being | Homecoming 2024
By Sarah Nugent- Alpha Delta Pi
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Residential Well-Being’s work with Sarah’s platform eliminating stigma and creating community for those with substance abuse!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Residential Well-Being’s work with Sarah’s platform eliminating stigma and creating community for those with substance abuse! Sarah Nugent- Alpha Delta Pi Stand Up to SUD Stigma with Sarah, was inspired by my older sister, Kate, whose substance use disorder journey began while she was a student here at Virginia Tech. She transformed a challenging situation into a source of light by starting the VT Recovery Community. My platform aims to eliminate stigma, recognize current allies, and build new ones for those in recovery. I am encouraging students to learn how to administer Narcan, the overdose reversal medication, and to promote allyship! I am partnering with Virginia Tech Residential Well-being to ensure that every student feels safe and welcome on campus; while also promoting early education of Narcan administration. This past year, ONEbox kits equipped with Narcan were installed in all residence halls. It is extremely important that students know how to properly utilize these kits if a situation were to occur. Together, my platform and Residential Well-being will protect the safety of current and future Hokies!
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Residential Well-Being’s work with establishing safe environments and education for students and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Animal Assisted Therapy Program | Homecoming 2024
By Jackie Mitchell- CLAHS
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Animal Assisted Therapy Program’s work with Jackie’s platform finding joy and positive stress management resources!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Animal Assisted Therapy Program’s work with Jackie’s platform finding joy and positive stress management resources! Jackie Mitchell- CLAHS Hi! My name is Jackie Mitchell. I am a member of the 2024 Homecoming court and the platform Finding Joy with Jackie! My goal is to find ways to increase joy in people's lives. It's incredible how studies show that performing daily micro-acts of joy can increase your emotional well-being over a week by 25%! This is a powerful reminder that we have the ability to shape our own happiness. I want to help people tap into life's moments that make them happy.
You can support me and my platform by donating to my partnering department- Virginia Tech's therapy dogs! The Therapy dogs, Josie, Derek and Epcot help bring a more positive space to students around campus through their various pop up events in home of helping to de-stigmatize the conversation around mental health.
Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and will go towards the Animal Assistance Therapy Program and will benefit all student experiences involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Schiffert Health Center | Homecoming 2024
By Sarvani Kasibhotla- ZTA
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Schiffert Health Center’s work with Sarvani’s platform of advocating for women’s health and breast cancer awareness!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Schiffert Health Center’s work with Sarvani’s platform of advocating for women’s health and breast cancer awareness! Sarvani Kasibhotla- ZTA My platform “Serving Pink with Sarvani” focuses on Breast Cancer Awareness and Education. My platform aims to expand the knowledge and support for this incredibly important cause. One in eight women are diagnosed every year. Early detection saves lives, breast cancer is highly treatable when detected early, before it has a chance to spread. Regular self-exams and mammograms can help catch breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. This issue being specific to women is also incredibly important. As someone who has had multiple women in my family affected by breast cancer, the mental toll is just as real as the physical. Without awareness, we cannot know what to look for as signs of the malady. Without awareness, it is hard to understand the struggles that these women might be going through. Without awareness, it is difficult to gain support for research.
I am working in support of the Schiffert Health Center here at Virginia Tech. I am also working closely with the Virginia Breast Cancer foundation for education and fundraising. Schiffert Health Center, our on-campus health care center, aims to provide quality health care to all students. My platform will focus on giving students the resources to be aware of their own health and to know where they can seek medical care such as providers like Schiffert.
Gifts will go towards Schiffert Health’s support on research and education and will benefit all students involved. Until one in eight is none in eight.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Virginia Tech Recovery Community | Homecoming 2024
By Lucia Fang- VT PRISM
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Recovery Community’s work with Lucia’s platform supporting friends and family of people with substance use disorders!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Recovery Community’s work with Lucia’s platform supporting friends and family of people with substance use disorders! Lucia Fang- VT PRISM Lifting Loved Ones with Lucia is about supporting the friends and family of people with substance use disorders. As loved ones struggle with substance use, the community around them struggles too. Spotlighting stories through an educational support night, this platform aims to show people that they are not alone and that there is strength in community.
I chose this platform because of my family's experience watching a loved one go through recovery. When we think about substance abuse, we often focus on the recovery and prevention aspect of it but it's also important to recognize that as a loved one struggles, their community is struggling too.
The Virginia Tech Recovery Community works to ensure that students do not have to choose between their recovery and their education. They support students inside and outside the classroom, organize events and trips, and provide space for recovery meetings.
Launching one of Virginia Tech's newest LLC's, the Roost is a dynamic Living-Learning Community for individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder, those exploring diverse recovery concepts, and students advocating for recovery. Additionally, they offer the "Loved Ones In Recovery" weekly support group because they recognize that the damage caused by a loved one’s use affects everyone that cares for that person.
Lifting Loved Ones with Lucia is partnering with the Virginia Tech Recovery Community to expand the resources on campus because all members of the family and care team deserve to heal, recover, and feel supported.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting the Recovery Community’s work with those with substance abuse disorders and their loved ones, and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Veterans at Virginia Tech | Homecoming 2024
By Siena Dellicarpini- Chi Omega
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Veterans at VT’s work with Siena’s platform of promoting a positive culture of support for veterans!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Veterans at VT’s work with Siena’s platform of promoting a positive culture of support for veterans! Siena Dellicarpini- Chi Omega My platform “Supporting Soldiers with Siena” is all about creating a positive environment and clear resources for my peers, soldiers, and veterans. I am a psychology student in Army ROTC and after active duty I hope to go back to school and get my PhD so that I can be a therapist for veterans with PTSD. At Virginia Tech I have been given the opportunity to be in the Corps as well as in a sorority and see how campus involvement comes to life, and how Hokies support each other. With my platform I would raise money and awareness for Stop Soldier Suicide, Heroic Hearts Project, and The Hope project as well as my affiliated VT department, Veterans at VT!
Veterans at VT is a student run organization for students in the Virginia Tech community that have served or are currently serving in the military. This community provides support and community for military members and dependents <strong>without </strong>being affiliated with the Corps of Cadets. With Veterans at VT, our community ensures that every military member and affiliate has a place at Virginia Tech.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Veterans at VT’s work in creating a positive community for Veterans and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Recreational Sports | Homecoming 2024
By Filip DeHaven- Sig Ep
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Recreational Sports’ work with Filip’s platform of body positivity and healthy habits!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Recreational Sports’ work with Filip’s platform of body positivity and healthy habits! Filip DeHaven- Sig Ep My platform is about body positivity because everyone deserves feel comfortable in their own skin. I chose this platform because throughout my adolescence I was bullied for being overweight, and I decided to change that my loosing 100lbs in six months. I still struggle with being overweight, but I do not want anyone to feel the way I felt when I was bullied for my weight. I believe in Feel Good with Fil because everyone deserves to be comfortable and happy in their own body.
I am partnering with Virginia Tech Rec Sports because if I am selected to Royalty, I will put on a body positivity march for people to emphasize who they are and that they are happy with themselves. Rec Sports perfectly encompasses my mission of body positivity by promoting similar values, and they will be able to help me execute a body positivity march for students. Body positivity matters a lot in the current world and Rec Sports and myself will be able to partner together and push our message of body positivity.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Rec Sports’ work with body positivity and healthy habits and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support The Women’s Center | Homecoming 2024
By Courtney Bergeron- FMDS
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Women Center’s work with Courtney’s platform of consent education and the support of sexual assault victims!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Women Center’s work with Courtney’s platform of consent education and the support of sexual assault victims! Courtney Bergeron- FMDS My platform, Consent with Courtney, emphasizes consent education and support for sexual assault victims. The goal of my platform is to spread awareness of consent culture here on the Virginia Tech campus and make resources on campus more known. My passion stems from being a sexual assault victim myself and not knowing how to find help. Sexual assault should not be a part of anyone’s college experience, however it is unfortunately a part of far too many students’ stories. Spreading awareness and getting victims the help they need is the first step in making a change.
I am excited to partner with the Women’s Center at Virginia Tech. The Women’s Center is a great resource for all students on campus. I had the opportunity to work with The Women’s Center after my assault, and I could not find a more caring environment. They work hard to provide support for all genders, ethnicities, abilities, races, and ages. They help advocate for victims and provide them with resources on how to move forward after assault. Their programs and services are rooted in principles of anti-oppression, anti-racism, inclusivity, intersectionality, feminism, trauma-informed care, and social justice. The Women’s Center at Virginia Tech see these values as a process, a practice, and a goal.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting The Women’s Center work with sexual assault victims and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Active Minds | Homecoming 2024
By Dag Attridge- Triangle Frat
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Active Minds’ work with Dag’s platform of educating others around how to navigate their mental health!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Active Minds’ work with Dag’s platform of educating others around how to navigate their mental health! Dag Attridge- Triangle Frat The Aiding Minds With Attridge platform is about promoting mindfulness and working towards destigmatizing the conversation around mental health. College is stressful and confusing, and there are no right answers when it comes to self-care. I want to use my platform to educate the community about the symptoms behind certain mental disorders and coping strategies, expose students to on-campus resources, and promote an accepting community that openly talks about mental health experiences; the good, bad, or neutral.
I am proud to be able to work on my platform with Active Minds at Virginia Tech. Active Minds works with the Virginia Tech community to raise awareness around mental health, promote mental wellness, and encourage students that are struggling to reach out and find support.
Mental health has always been important to me, and for many years I struggled. I was lucky to find support when I came to Tech, but for many others finding support is challenging. Resources such as Active Minds aim to help students find the support they need and create a community where everyone can grow.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Active Minds and their work in mental health education and will improve the experience of students that get involved.
Thank you for your donation!
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Geoscience Student Research Symposium 2025
By GSRS at Virginia Tech
GSRS provides students with a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department.
GSRS provides students with a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS at Virginia Tech The Geosciences Research Symposium (GSRS) is a long-standing tradition in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech. On <strong>March 20th and 21st</strong>, we will celebrate the <strong>30th anniversary</strong> of GSRS! This event spans two days of research presentations from graduate and undergraduate students, providing a platform to communicate their science across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS promotes growth for promising geoscientists in a collegial environment by providing peer and faculty feedback on their research and presentation skills. Conversations during this event also foster a greater sense of community in the department and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development.
GSRS is entirely<strong> student</strong>-led, student-organized, and supported by gifts from folks like you. <strong>Your contribution will allow students to focus on developing their research communication abilities, providing an opportunity to sharpen the leadership, mentorship, and team-building skills it takes to organize an event like GSRS.</strong>
<em>"It's fun to see the camaraderie that GSRS fosters, the togetherness, and the support amongst each other." - Erika Goldsmith</em>
This will be the eighth year of the pre-GSRS Workshop Series. The workshops provide monthly graduate-student-led tutorials on navigating professional conferences and future career paths for both graduate and undergraduate students planning to attend the symposium. Topics range from formatting a talk for a professional conference to hands-on science communication activities. The workshops facilitate skill development that our students can put into practice during GSRS and employ for years to come.
<em>"Participating in the GSArtS workshop last year was an awesome opportunity to present my research through a creative medium, rather than traditional writing." - Carly Bauer</em>
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Many of our undergraduate students have hands-on experience conducting original research under the supervision of an advisor. The poster session allows undergraduates to present in front of a supportive community, giving them the confidence to present at larger national conferences. With the help of your donations, we will cover the cost of printing for each student.
GSRS concludes with the ever-popular banquet on Friday evening. This gathering celebrates another successful GSRS with a delicious spread of food and drinks. Because we appreciate your contributions, we are offering our top donors the opportunity to name an award to honor a loved one, which will be given at the banquet ceremony to the best student presenters. We invite and encourage all who can attend to join us for this annual rendezvous of alumni, faculty, students, and friends of Geosciences.
<em>"The entire department comes together to celebrate the end of GSRS!" - Kristin Chilton</em>
GSRS is a free, public event. We'd love to see friends and alumni of Geosciences in<strong> Kelly Hall March 20th </strong><strong>and</strong><strong> 21st </strong><strong>for the</strong><strong><strong> </strong>30th anniversary of GSRS! Please consider donating and sharing to help us hold another successful GSRS!</strong>
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A/P Faculty The Market Fundraising Drive
By Virginia Tech
Administrative and Professional Faculty Senate philanthropic project supporting The Market of Virginia Tech.
Administrative and Professional Faculty Senate philanthropic project supporting The Market of Virginia Tech. <strong><strong>As Hokies, we give to the things we care about. </strong></strong>
In 2022, the Administrative and Professional Faculty Senate initiated a campaign to support Virginia Tech students by giving back to them. Thank you to everyone who participated in our past two campaigns by contributing $4,460. For 2024-25, we are supporting <a href="https://foodaccess.vt.edu/">The Market of Virginia Tech</a> as our philanthropic project. The Market provides food assistance to undergraduate or graduate students through three program models: Open Market Hours, The Market’s Grocery Store Model, and Pop-Up Pantries.
We are asking every A/P faculty member to help with this effort. All 2,500+ A/P faculty members making a small tax-deductible gift will go a long way to help students experiencing food insecurity.
Make a lasting impact! Make a gift today and provide regular, healthy meals to Virginia Tech students.
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The Big Event
By The Big Event
Support the student volunteers of Virginia Tech to help them give back to residents of Blacksburg and the New River Valley.
Support the student volunteers of Virginia Tech to help them give back to residents of Blacksburg and the New River Valley. The Big Event Since 2002, The Big Event at Virginia Tech has completed tens of thousands of service projects and has sent even more student volunteers to homeowners all across Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and the New River Valley. The Big Event follows the famous Virginia Tech saying, "Ut Prosim" as its calling to serve our local surrounding community and is how the organization made its saying, "One big day. One big thanks. One big event."
Volunteers overlook The Big Event
The funds from this campaign will all go towards day of operations for The Big Event which includes the t-shirts given to the volunteers, the stage for our opening ceremonies, and food for our staff. The t-shirts are the most important, as they allow homeowners to distinguish the volunteers from other Blacksburg residents and/or Virginia Tech students, helping to ensure The Big Event is safe for both our volunteers and homeowners.
Tool pickup at The Big Event
A BIG thanks from our team for your support! See you on April 5th, 2025!
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Support the School of Animal Sciences | Homecoming 2024
By Karlee Angel- VT Equestrian
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the College of Animal Science’s work with Karlee’s platform of providing shelters with necessary resources to support pets!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the College of Animal Science’s work with Karlee’s platform of providing shelters with necessary resources to support pets! Karlee Angel- VT Equestrian My platform, P.A.W.S (Pets Are Worth Saving), focuses on supporting, donating, and partnering with rescue groups and animal shelters throughout the Blacksburg community. With more than 6 million pets abandoned annually and only half being adopted, there is an urgent need for greater awareness to ensure every animal finds a caring home. Through P.A.W.S, I strive to supply shelters with the critical resources they need while also raising awareness about the many pets still waiting for adoption. Together, we can make a lasting impact and help provide these animals with the love and homes they deserve.
I’m honored to partner with the School of Animal Science to support my platform, P.A.W.S. The School is dedicated to developing future leaders in animal science, covering a wide range of disciplines and biological systems. Their mission centers on educating students, driving discovery through translational research, sharing knowledge, and applying technology within the animal industry.
Through our collaboration, I have directly partnered with the Shelter Dog Enrichment & Training independent study course, where students work directly with dogs at Montgomery County Animal Care & Adoption Center. Guided by the needs of MCACAC, this course offers two main projects for students: an enrichment program and training classes for shelter dogs. These experiences provide students with the opportunity to learn hands-on behavior skills that will improve the welfare of dogs at MCACAC as they await their forever homes.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting The School of Animal Sciences’ work with shelter pets and local adoption agencies, and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Cheesy Nights 2024 Spring
By University Libraries
Help fuel students during finals with Cheesy Nights
Help fuel students during finals with Cheesy Nights University Libraries For close to 14 years, University Libraries, university and community volunteers, alumni, and Hokie parents have cranked up the grills to provide free grilled cheese sandwiches to studying students during finals week. Each semester, volunteers serve close to 6,000 sandwiches, hundreds of pounds of fruit, thousands of snacks, and encouraging words and hugs to stressed-out Hokies while they prepare for finals and finish up projects.
Students' eyes light up when they line up on the Newman Library Plaza and see the dozens of volunteers each night from across campus and beyond serve up a warm and gooey grilled cheese just for them. You can be a part of this Virginia Tech tradition by giving today. All food supplies including cheese, margarine, bread, fruit, snacks, and drinks are purchased with gifts from caring Hokies like you.
<strong>Cheesy Nights is an important service to students when meal plan dollars are running low and their next meal isn't top of mind while cramming for exams. Help keep students fueled for success by giving today!</strong>
Thank you for your support!
Have a hankering for a grilled cheese sandwich? Make your own and tag Virginia Tech in your photo on social media!
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Campus Beautification
By Virginia Tech
Support where Hokies call home
Support where Hokies call home The picturesque scenery gracing Virginia Tech’s grounds, from lush lawns to vibrant blooms, is <strong>environmentally friendly</strong>! The Division of Campus Planning, Infrastructure, and Facilities oversees essential landscaping endeavors to maintain our beloved campus's accessibility, safety, and cleanliness. Thanks to their efforts, we relish in the natural beauty surrounding us during our time here.
Virginia Tech's green spaces and colorful blooms frame Hokie Stone buildings, creating a beautiful backdrop for Hokies to learn, grow, and call home. Our campus is iconic. Help us keep it that way for generations to come.
<strong>By contributing to the Campus Beautification Fund, you're aiding in the preservation of our campus's cleanliness, beauty, and sustainability.</strong>
Ensure our vibrant campus that has captivated generations of Hokies endures for centuries to come. Your generosity helps preserve the scenic landscape that has become an indelible part of the Virginia Tech experience.
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Geoscience Student Research Symposium 2024
By GSRS at Virginia Tech
GSRS provides students with a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department.
GSRS provides students with a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS at Virginia Tech The Geosciences Student Research Symposium (GSRS) is a long-standing tradition in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech. <strong>On</strong><strong> March 21st and 22nd, 2024,</strong> we will celebrate the 29th edition of GSRS! This event spans two days of research presentations from graduate and undergraduate students, providing a platform to communicate their science across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS promotes growth for promising geoscientists in a collegial environment by providing peer and faculty feedback on their research and presentation skills. Conversations during this event also foster a greater sense of community in the department and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development.
<em>"Since 1996, we've had close to 1300 student presentations totaling more than 13 days of talks" -Morrison Nolan</em>
GSRS is entirely <strong>student</strong>-led, student-organized, and supported by gifts from folks like you. <strong>Your contribution </strong><strong>will allow</strong><strong> students to focus on developing their research communication abilities, providing an opportunity to sharpen the leadership, mentorship, and team-building skills it takes to organize an event like GSRS.</strong>
<em>"As an undergraduate, it can be kind of scary and intimidating, but it's a great sense of relief when you're like oh, I know what I'm doing and the grad students are like yeah, you do kind of know what you're doing." -Michael Zigah</em>
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Now in its seventh year, the pre-GSRS Workshop Series provides monthly graduate-student-led tutorials on navigating professional conferences and future career paths. Topics range from formatting a talk for a professional conference to hands-on science communication activities. All students are encouraged to attend, especially undergraduates giving a presentation for the first time. The Workshop Series facilitates skill development that our students can put into practice during GSRS and employ for years to come.
<em>"Last year I participated in GSRS... It really helped my project in its early stages as a first-year graduate student. Having feedback from a large </em><em>variety</em><em> of my peers and professors is something very valuable to my work and start of my PhD." - Denise Burgett</em>
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Many of our undergraduate students have hands-on experience conducting original research under the supervision of an advisor. The poster session allows undergraduates to present in front of a supportive community, giving them the confidence to present at larger national conferences. With the help of your donations, we will cover the cost of printing for each student.
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GSRS concludes with the ever-popular banquet on Friday evening. This gathering celebrates another successful GSRS with a delicious spread of food and drinks. Because we appreciate your contributions, we are offering our top donors the opportunity to name an award to honor a loved one, which will be given at the banquet ceremony to the best student presenters. We invite and encourage all who can attend to join us for this annual rendezvous of alumni, faculty, students, and friends of Geosciences.
<em> </em><em>"The entire department comes together to celebrate the end of GSRS" -Kristin Chilton</em>
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GSRS is a free, public event. We'd love to see friends and alumni of Geosciences in Kelly Hall on March 21st and 22nd for GSRS29! <strong>Please consider donating and sharing to help us hold another successful GSRS. </strong>
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Support Campus Kitchen | Homecoming 2023
By Megan Simpson- Alpha Phi
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Campus Kitchen's work with Megan Simpson's platform of combating food insecurity in the New River Valley!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Campus Kitchen's work with Megan Simpson's platform of combating food insecurity in the New River Valley! Megan Simpson- Alpha Phi My platform, “Providing Meals with Megan,” supports expanding food access in our community, the New River Valley. My platform aims to help expand access to healthy food resources in this area where over 20,000 residents of the New River Valley community live in low-income, low-access areas where residents struggle to access affordable and nutritious food. The thought of not knowing where your new meal is coming from is a scary, stressful situation to be in, and after seeing how it affected others in the community, especially people close to me, I have been motivated towards spreading awareness about expanding food access and creating a difference for the people it affects.
I am working with Campus Kitchen at Virginia Tech which is a partnership between VT Engage and Virginia Tech Dining Services to increase food access by redistributing unserved food from on-campus dining to hunger relief agencies in the New River Valley. As of today, they have diverted over 263,000 pounds of quality, unserved food from campus to the community. My platform and Campus Kitchen connect by having mutual goals in expanding food access for our community!
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Campus Kitchen's work in fighting food insecurity and will make a difference in the experience of the students and community members involved.Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Homecoming Board | Homecoming 2023
By Homecoming Board of VT
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the student group that plans and executes student-facing programming for Homecoming week!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the student group that plans and executes student-facing programming for Homecoming week! Homecoming Board of VT The Homecoming Board consists of a group of 12 students who plan, implement, and oversee many of the activities that go on during Homecoming week. This planning begins as early as January and continues throughout the summer, all with the goal of intentionally collaborating with diverse groups and organizations in order to produce a cohesive week of programming that honors and celebrates the spirit of the various communities that make up the Hokie Nation, leaving a lasting legacy amongst the Virginia Tech and Blacksburg community that prospers for years to come.
Read more about the members of the Homecoming Board <a href="https://www.vt.edu/homecoming/board.html">here</a>.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Homecoming Board and their work for creating the student experience of the Homecoming tradition.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Schiffert Health Center | Homecoming 2023
By Rachel Unruh - VTU
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Schiffert Health Center's work with Rachel Unruh's Platform surrounding breast cancer awareness and checking early for signs!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Schiffert Health Center's work with Rachel Unruh's Platform surrounding breast cancer awareness and checking early for signs! Rachel Unruh - VTU Checking Early with Rachel is all about informing students about the importance of being proactive about their health and being knowledgeable about the signs of breast cancer. Having information is a powerful tool and something I believe is very important for students to have about their health.
My platform is partnering with Schiffert Health Center, Virginia Tech’s on-campus health care center, whose goal is to provide quality health care to students to help keep them healthy and cared for during their time at Virginia Tech. My platform focuses on giving students the tools to be proactive in their own health and to know when they need to seek medical care from providers like Schiffert.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Schiffert Health Center's work with Breast Cancer Awareness and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Beyond Boundaries Scholarships | Homecoming 2023
By Olivia Ferrare - AOE
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Beyond Boundaries' work with Olivia Ferrare's platform of providing college application support for NRV High Schoolers!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Beyond Boundaries' work with Olivia Ferrare's platform of providing college application support for NRV High Schoolers! Olivia Ferrare - AOE Opening Opportunities with Olivia is all about raising awareness about the inequality in higher education. Across Virginia, there are significantly less students attending four year institutions in the New River Valley than in other regions of the state. Olivia’s campaign will have Virginia Tech students reflect on their own academic journey and find ways to empower students of all backgrounds to find the higher education program that works best for them.
The Beyond Boundaries Scholars program, which President Sands announced in 2016, is an annually awarded scholarship supporting underrepresented students at Virginia Tech. This year’s class of recipients are First Generation College Students and are Pell Grant eligible (financial need). All money collected for Beyond Boundaries ($1M goal with $1M match from Virginia Tech) goes into one pot and then is distributed to eligible students. <a href="https://give.vt.edu/ways-to-give/beyond-boundaries-scholars.html">This website </a>shares some stories from Beyond Boundaries Scholars.
Beyond Boundaries is proud to sponsor Opening Opportunities with Olivia to help underrepresented students believe in themselves and their academic potential. Every student should have the chance to succeed in whatever field they want to pursue. For more information on Olivia’s campaign, use<strong> <a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia"></a></strong><strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia"></a><a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia">this linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia"></a></strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia"><strong>.</strong></a><a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia"></a><strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/opportunitieswolivia"></a></strong>
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Beyond Boundaries' scholars program and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Hokie Wellness | Homecoming 2023
By Mason Stanley - GERMAN Club
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Hokie Wellness' work with Mason Stanley's platform of preventing drunk driving among college students!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Hokie Wellness' work with Mason Stanley's platform of preventing drunk driving among college students! Mason Stanley - GERMAN Club My platform is drunk driving prevention and awareness with my slogan Steering Safe with Stanley. My goal is to help reinforce and educate the student body that there is always a better option than getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. I chose this as my platform because there are so many people who lose loved ones over a decision made in an instant.
My partnering organization is Hokie Wellness. Hokie Wellness is a Virginia Tech department that strives to educate and empower Hokies to take an active and engaged approach to their wellness to live their best lives possible. Hokie Wellness has a program called Party Positive, which is how Hokie Wellness aligns with my platform. Party Positive helps educate students on safe alcohol consumption and precautions they should take throughout the night.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Hokie Wellness' work with Party Positive, and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support the Women's Center at Virginia Tech | Homecoming 2023
By Kylie Arnold- Alpha Chi Omega
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Women's Center at Virginia Tech's work with Kylie Arnold's platform of domestic/relationship violence awareness!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Women's Center at Virginia Tech's work with Kylie Arnold's platform of domestic/relationship violence awareness! Kylie Arnold- Alpha Chi Omega The Love is Kind with Kylie (Domestic Violence Awareness) platform seeks to gain support for the cause that proves that violence should have no place in our treatment of others, no matter what. I believe that any form of violence within our homes and in our relationships is unacceptable, and want to use this platform to share resources, educate our community, and foster an environment that speaks out against domestic violence.
I am proud to be working with the Women’s Center at Virginia Tech to fortify my platform. The Women’s Center serves the Virginia Tech community in creating an affirming and supportive environment through advocacy and education in order to advance gender equity. The Women’s Center is also home to the CARES (Campus Advocacy, Resources and Education) program for survivors of violence.
I have learned so much about the work that the Women’s Center does in the fight against domestic violence, including these programs and many more educational/supportive programs that have been put in place to assist the campus community. Domestic violence is a hidden evil- many times we cannot tell what happens behind closed doors. But with resources such as the Women’s Center at Virginia Tech we give our community members an environment where they feel safe and understood.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting The Women's Center at Virginia Tech's work in education around domestic violence, and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support SOAR | Homecoming 2023
By Kayla Scott- Alpha Psi Omega
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting SOAR's work with Kayla Scott's platform of prioritizing the need for health resources for underserved populations!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting SOAR's work with Kayla Scott's platform of prioritizing the need for health resources for underserved populations! Kayla Scott- Alpha Psi Omega Hi, my name is Kayla Renee Scott. I am a senior at Virginia Tech studying Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience, Public Health, and General Professional Theatre.
Breaking Barriers with Kayla aims to prioritize the need for health awareness, inclusion, and equality for underserved and underrepresented communities on the Virginia Tech campus and around the New River Valley. As an underrepresented student, I have personally experienced inadequate healthcare access due to the constraining barriers I faced daily: socioeconomic status, single-parent household, and my skin color. Breaking Barriers Kayla aims to eliminate the obstacles hindering individuals from reaching optimum healthcare access. No matter the circumstances, everyone should be afforded the same opportunity to thrive.
I am grateful to partner with the Student Opportunity and Achievement Resource Program (SOAR) at Virginia Tech. SOAR's mission is a holistic support program dedicated to welcoming and retaining underrepresented minority students at Virginia Tech, promoting their success through campus collaboration. The SOAR program offers students coaching, advocacy, support, and assistance resources.
Entering the Hokie Nation last semester, SOAR immediately welcomed me with open arms and directed me to various resources available to help my academic success. My platform and the SOAR program connect on many levels because we both strive to provide resources to underrepresented and underserved communities.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting SOAR's work with underrepresented communities and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Services for Students with Disabilities | Homecoming 2023
By Julia Burns - Chi Alpha
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Services for Students with Disabilities' work with Julia Burns' Platform of supporting access and ability for those in need!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Services for Students with Disabilities' work with Julia Burns' Platform of supporting access and ability for those in need! Julia Burns - Chi Alpha My platform is Hope to Walk, Hope Starts Here. Hope to Walk is a local, faith-based, non-profit organization that has invented a prosthetic leg that costs only $100 to make. Commercial prosthetic legs can cost $10,000 - $25,000, and Hope To Walk has been able to provide the gift of walking to over 1,000 patients. They currently make prosthetics accessible to individuals in Honduras, Guatemala, Haiti, Bahamas, Tanzania, Belize and Vietnam. They have also been training locals in the communities to create these prosthetics for empowerment and sustainability.
I chose this platform because I was first introduced to Hope to Walk in 2018, as a Junior in high school. My older sister, Allison, was on Virginia Tech's Homecoming Court and from that day on I grew a passion and hope to one day be on court. I am honored to be continuing not only her legacy but supporting the same cause. The reality is nearly every 30 seconds a limb amputation occurs somewhere worldwide, with over 35,000,000 amputees without access to prosthetic care. These amputations are a result of diabetes, landmines, death trains, and trauma. It took one man to see the need and find an innovative way to reach the need of now thousands of people. This gift of walking provides real hope to real people all around the world.
Services for Students with Disabilities' goal is to remove disability related barriers for students in the learning, living, and dining environments. They strive to maximize access and opportunity by utilizing an iterative interactive process, helping to determine accommodations tailored to the individual needs of students. The core goals SSD has for Virginia Tech Students inherently supports my platform of bringing hope through the access, ability and gift that allows people in need all around the world to walk again!
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Services for Students with Disabilities' work and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support the Student Success Center | Homecoming 2023
By Hayden Claesson- SPE
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Student Success Center's work with Hayden Claesson's platform of helping students with anxiety achieve academic success!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Student Success Center's work with Hayden Claesson's platform of helping students with anxiety achieve academic success! Hayden Claesson- SPE My platform is about helping college students with anxiety achieve academic success. As a college student who suffers from anxiety, I've lived through the difficulty of feeling that you have so much to do, that you don't know what to do. As dreadful as it sounds, I know I'm not alone in fighting this battle. Many college students struggle with completing their coursework due to anxiety and associated symptoms.
I am very proud to be partnering with the Student Success Center to accomplish this. The Student Success Center has so many resources for my peers to take advantage of. This includes tutoring, academic coaching, seminars, offering different coursework for success and so much more. These resources can help students who are struggling.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting The Student Success Center and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support The Market of Virginia Tech | Homecoming 2023
By Ellyn Anama- Kappa Alpha Theta
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting The Market of Virginia Tech's work with Ellyn Anama's platform of supporting food access for college students!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting The Market of Virginia Tech's work with Ellyn Anama's platform of supporting food access for college students! Ellyn Anama- Kappa Alpha Theta My platform is focused on raising awareness for and addressing the food insecurity present on Virginia Tech’s campus because everyone deserves food access. I had the opportunity to participate in a study abroad program focused on food insecurity present in Appalachia and Senegal. I learned about what food insecurity is, its different causes, and the potential ways to combat it. I also learned that Virginia Tech itself has a fair amount of the student population that is food insecure, specifically, 29% of undergraduate and 35% of graduate students (Hall et al., 2019). With my platform, I hope to raise awareness of what food insecurity is, what resources are available for students that are food insecure, and what other students can do to increase food access in our community. I also want to work towards changing the mindset around getting food assistance because that is one of the main barriers that prevents people from getting the help they need.
I am partnering with The Market of Virginia Tech. The Market has a food assistance program that provides nutritional and customized meals on a weekly basis to students. These students may lack nutritional, regular meals because of short-term or long-term circumstances. The Market upholds privacy and confidentiality in its services. My platform and The Market connect on their shared mission to address food insecurity on Virginia Tech’s campus. The Market is one of the main resources that Virginia Tech has to offer for students struggling with food access and my platform can help give it the spotlight it deserves because it relies on volunteers and donations from the community around it.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting The Market of Virginia Tech's efforts of addressing food insecurity amongst Hokies and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support Cook Counseling Services | Homecoming 2023
By Dominic Hanna- Triangle Frat
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Cook Counseling Services' work with Dominic Hanna's platform of de-stigmatizing men's mental health issues!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting Cook Counseling Services' work with Dominic Hanna's platform of de-stigmatizing men's mental health issues! Dominic Hanna- Triangle Frat My name is Dominic Hanna, as a member of the 2023 Homecoming Court I’m running on my platform DOMinating depression. My goal is to decrease the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and make the Virginia Tech and NRV communities a place where men feel more comfortable being vulnerable with their emotions. I chose my platform because of my own experiences with mental health and because of the ongoing crisis in men’s health. On average we’re dying 5 years earlier than women and suicide is one of the leading causes of this crisis. A man dies of suicide every minute and 69% of all suicides are men.
You can support me and my platform by donating to my partnering department Cook Counseling. We’re fortunate to have Cook Counseling as an amazing mental health resource on campus and their partnership with TimelyCare provides free 24/7 access to virtual health and well being services designed for college students.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting Cook Counseling Services and will make a difference in the experience of the students involved.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Support the Family Therapy Center | Homecoming 2023
By Autumn Canfield- Chi Omega
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Family Therapy Center's work with Autumn Canfield's platform of childhood cancer and family impact awareness!
Celebrate Homecoming by supporting the Family Therapy Center's work with Autumn Canfield's platform of childhood cancer and family impact awareness! Autumn Canfield- Chi Omega My platform, Creating Hope with Canfield, is spreading awareness about pediatric cancer. The platform's goal is to build ready bags, a bag of necessities for emergency hospital visits, for the Carilion Children's Hospital. Ever since I was little, I was able to see how I could make a difference in the community and in the lives of the family and the children who were going through this. It’s such a wonderful feeling to see how something as small as bringing the community together can create such a long-lasting impact. I want to be able to bring this feeling that I have been able to see to the Virginia Tech community.
Creating Hope with Canfield is partnering with the Family Therapy Center of Virginia Tech, a clinical & research training facility for doctoral students in Virginia Tech’s marriage and family therapy program. A child’s pediatric cancer battle can be hard not only on the child but also on the parents and other family members of the child. The Family Therapy Center provides low-cost, high-quality marriage and family therapy and mental health services to individuals, couples, and families in the New River Valley. This center can provide resources, such as therapy, to those families who need it to stay strong and together through this battle.
Gifts of any amount will go towards supporting The Family Therapy Center and will make a difference in the experience of those who use their services.
Thank you in advance for your gift!
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Virginia Tech Prison Book Project | VT Humanities Week
By CLAHS
Virginia Tech Humanities Week highlights the essential work happening in the humanities at Virginia Tech and around the world.
Virginia Tech Humanities Week highlights the essential work happening in the humanities at Virginia Tech and around the world. CLAHS The Virginia Tech Prison Book Project embodies <em>Ut Prosim</em> (That I May Serve), a motto of selfless servitude and passion for community outreach that searches for humanity in everyone.
The Virginia Tech Humanities Week keynote speaker is George Chochos, an advocate for prison education initiatives who transformed his own life through his journey from incarceration at Sing Sing Prison in New York to graduating with a Master of Divinity Degree from Yale Divinity School.
Learn more and register to attend the program on Wednesday, October 25th (in person or online): <a href="https://liberalarts.vt.edu/humanities-week.html">https://liberalarts.vt.edu/humanities-week.html</a>
<strong>What is the project?</strong>
We send books to incarcerated readers in Virginia. We believe Virginia Tech’s educational mission extends to Virginians behind bars, and we recognize the value of sharing books as a form of educational justice. We respond to letters from incarcerated persons requesting books.
<strong>Since November 2021, the Prison Book Project has mailed over 1,320 packages!</strong>
The project is more than just books: providing resources to build life skills, self-sustainability, recovery, knowledge, human understanding and empathy, and a world outside of the isolation many experience behind bars.
Read more on the <a href="https://liberalarts.vt.edu/departments-and-schools/department-of-religion-and-culture/why-study/the-virginia-tech-prison-book-project0.html">Virginia Tech Prison Book Project website</a>.
We partner with the Appalachian Prison Book Project, Blacksburg Books, VT Engage, and several student organizations. Sponsored by the Department of Religion and Culture and the Center for Humanities.
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College of Science Diversifying Science Mentor Program
By College of Science
Support the College of Science Diversifying Science Mentor program!
Support the College of Science Diversifying Science Mentor program! College of Science The College of Science’s Diversifying Science programs are a collaboration between the College of Science and university wide inclusion and diversity efforts and initiatives. Through partnership we work to coordinate a comprehensive program that advances the College of Science’s efforts to recruit, retain, and invest in students from populations who have been historically marginalized, under-served, and under-represented in science. These programs are partially funded by the generosity of donors. Your support is critical to our peer mentoring program, events, and emergency funding, which all help to enrich science through increasing diversity. <strong>Become a part of our efforts to support students by making a contribution today towards our goal of $5000.</strong>
<em>Right now, we have a special opportunity for your gift to have an even greater impact. Susan Haymore, Director of Undergraduate Advising in the College of Science, will generously donate $1,000 to Diversifying Science if 50 donors support this campaign.</em>
Learn more about how your gift makes an impact with our highlighted programs below.
<em>“I just wanted to say a quick thank you for holding events such as [the Undergraduate Research Mixer], it really helped me to actually find a research position (starting next week, very excited) that I would enjoy! I hope that you all keep holding events such as those in the future, as they are a huge benefit to those who properly take advantage of them!”</em>
Through the Diversifying Science Peer Mentoring Program, students are assigned to small pods of 3 first-year students with one upper-class mentor. The pod of students meet weekly to discuss their transition to college and how to be successful science students. <strong>A gift of $20 can sponsor the cost for a mentor to take their mentees out to dinner or coffee throughout the semester.</strong>
<em>“[My mentor] is SUPER supportive, always has information readily available or researched it if I needed it. She always made me feel super comfortable and I couldn't have been happier with our meetings! I feel like we were always productive during them, whether we were talking about something academic or personal.”</em>
Our Diversifying Science team has an event almost every week of the semester to build community and academic connections for students. We have community nights with each of our Cultural and Community Centers, workshops with the Office of Undergraduate Research, and our capstone event, the Undergraduate Research Mixer. <strong>A gift of $80 can cover the cost of a community night to build a sense of belonging among our science students. </strong>
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Hokie Club Commemorative Print
By Hokie Club
Commemorate the historic 2022 men's and women's basketball seasons with your own commemorative print!
Commemorate the historic 2022 men's and women's basketball seasons with your own commemorative print! Hokie Club The 2022 basketball season concluded undoubtedly one of the greatest seasons for Virginia Tech basketball fans. Kenny Brooks led his squad to a record breaking year in the ACC, taking down multiple ranked opponents along the way to another NCAA Tournament. On the men’s side, Coach Mike Young and the Hokies brought the ACC championship trophy home from Brooklyn, knocking down perennial favorites like Duke and North Carolina. These moments are forever etched in Hokie history. You can commemorate this season with an exclusive, 11x17” print designed by Virginia Tech’s resident “doodler,” Steven White.
Make a <strong>$15 minimum donation</strong> to the Keep Jumping Fund and support the Hokies! The Keep Jumping Fund is one of the BEST ways to support Virginia Tech Athletics, this fund provides current-use, unrestricted funds that can be allocated to best help the department continue to Reach for Excellence and serve our 600 student-athletes!
<strong>Limit one per transaction.</strong> Print does not include a frame. Prints ordered by December 16 are expected for delivery before December 25. Donations to the Keep Jumping Fund are not eligible for per-seat, tickets, parking, and/or other benefits associated with the Hokie Scholarship Fund. In order to maintain or receive benefits for Drive Year 2023, donations will need to be made to the Hokie Scholarship Fund by March 1, 2023.
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Support the Hokies: Grab your Cassell Kit!
By Hokie Club
Basketball is underway in Blacksburg! Make your donation today and support the Hokies all season long.
Basketball is underway in Blacksburg! Make your donation today and support the Hokies all season long. Hokie Club Get geared up for another exciting season in Cassell Coliseum! As we hang two NCAA banners and an ACC Championship banner, we need ALL of you bringing the energy all season long. Grab your exclusive collection of items that will have you ready for Hokie Hoops. The exclusive Cassell Kit features:<ul><li>Custom-designed, Hokie shoe box</li><li>Virginia Tech shoelaces</li><li>Sticker sheet</li><li>Two custom koozies </li><li>Rally towel </li><li>Scarf </li></ul>
Grab yours today with a minimum gift of<strong> $46</strong>, to celebrate 23 wins for both teams last year, or commemorate some special moments from last season: <ul><li><strong>$62</strong> to commemorate the men’s basketball win over Virginia last year </li><li><strong>$71</strong> for the points scored by women’s basketball over the Hoos in 2022 </li><li><strong>$82</strong> for the points scored in the ACC Tournament championship versus Duke</li></ul>
Limit one kit per transaction. Please expect at least 4-6 weeks for delivery of the Cassell Kit. Donations to the Keep Jumping Fund are not eligible for per-seat, tickets, parking, and/or other benefits associated with the Hokie Scholarship Fund. In order to maintain or receive benefits for Drive Year 2023, donations will need to be made to the Hokie Scholarship Fund by March 1, 2023.
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Cheesy Nights
By University Libraries
University Libraries' Cheesy Nights keep students fueled through finals with thousands of free grilled cheese sandwiches for Hokies to snack on while studying.
University Libraries' Cheesy Nights keep students fueled through finals with thousands of free grilled cheese sandwiches for Hokies to snack on while studying. University Libraries Since 2011, the University Libraries, volunteers from across campus, and Hokie parents have cranked up the grills to make thousands of grilled cheese sandwiches for hungry Hokies during finals week. Every semester, volunteers flip sandwiches, serve cookies and fruit, pour hot chocolate, and give encouraging hugs to stressed-out students while they finish up their final exams and projects.
Elania White, a mom of two Hokies and past volunteer, helped prepare and serve sandwiches and snacks to students studying in Newman Library. "We need to do this," said White. "A lot of kids don't have anyone here to help. Some don't have any meal plan money left and this is a hot meal for them. An encouraging word and knowing someone cares makes all the difference for students."
Cheesy Nights will begin on Thursday, May 5 and continue May 6, May 8, May 9, and May 10 on the plaza outside of Newman Library's café.
Monetary donations help make Cheesy Nights happen. All food and drinks are purchased with private funds. Help support Hokies during finals week and give to Cheesy Nights. Every dollar given to Cheesy Nights will help fill Hokie bellies and give students the encouragement they need to finish their semester strong!
<strong>Thank you for supporting Virginia Tech students!</strong>
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Helen B. Williams - 65 Years of Service
By Amherst Extension Office
Celebrate Helen B. Williams' 65 years of service with a gift to the Helen B. Williams Excellence Endowment for Amherst Extension!
Celebrate Helen B. Williams' 65 years of service with a gift to the Helen B. Williams Excellence Endowment for Amherst Extension! Amherst Extension Office Helen B. Williams is celebrating her 65th service anniversary at the Amherst County Extension Office. With no plans to retire anytime soon, she has earned the distinction of being the longest serving employee with Extension and Virginia Tech.
Those who have called or walked into the Amherst Extension office have been greeted by Helen’s warm and cheerful smile over the years. In fact, many of us have admittedly called her just to lift up our day! Her dedication and service to the only community she’s ever lived in has been her life’s work. She always says it’s all about the people and especially the children.
A Hokie at heart and Virginia Tech football fan, Helen has spent her life embodying <em>Ut Prosim</em><strong><em> </em></strong><em>(That I May Serve)</em><em>. </em>To honor her commitment, dedication and service to our land grant mission, we are establishing the Helen B. Williams Excellence Fund for Amherst Extension. <strong>Funds generated from the endowment will support camperships for 4-H youth and provide programmatic support for improving the well-being of those in the Amherst community in perpetuity</strong>.
Celebrate this extraordinary milestone anniversary and honor Helen with a gift to the Helen B. Williams Excellence Endowment for Amherst Extension. Together we are making a difference!
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Hokienauts
By Hokienauts
The Hokienauts are competing in the 2022 NASA SUITS Challenge to develop a space suit heads-up display and travel to the NASA Johnson Space Center!
The Hokienauts are competing in the 2022 NASA SUITS Challenge to develop a space suit heads-up display and travel to the NASA Johnson Space Center! Hokienauts <strong>Who Are We?</strong>
Figure 1. Your 2021-2022 Hokienauts!
We are a design team of 10 Virginia Tech students selected by NASA as one of 12 nationwide universities to participate in the 2022 <a href="https://microgravityuniversity.jsc.nasa.gov/nasasuits">NASA Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students (SUITS) Challenge</a>.
For this challenge, we are developing an augmented reality (AR) interface to assist astronauts with accomplishing tasks on the lunar surface such as terrain sensing, navigation, lunar search and rescue, and geology sampling. We aim to be selected by NASA to travel to the Johnson Space Center (JSC) in May to have our designs tested by NASA engineers.
We are developing our interface using the Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset shown below:
Figure 2. NASA SUITS Challenge participant using the Microsoft HoloLens 2 at the NASA Johnson Space Center
The development of this interface has been a multidisciplinary approach spanning science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Our graphics designers develop the menus and icons, our software engineers program those concepts to life, and our hardware engineers develop external devices to interface our HoloLens with the external lunar environment.
Our team includes students from across Virginia Tech, including members majoring in graphics design, creative technologies, computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering.
<strong>Our Mission:</strong>
By competing in the SUITS challenge, we are fostering and developing technical and teamwork skills amongst our members, all while conducting educational outreach to the K-12 students of the New River Valley, the Virginia Tech community, and the general public. By doing so, we are preparing our members for professional careers in STEAM while inspiring the next generation of students to follow in their footsteps.
Outreach:
Last semester we participated in the Virginia Tech Science Festival, where we educated approximately 50 gifted students from Salem City Schools about the SUITS challenge, AR, and NASA's mission.
This semester, we will participate in outreach events like the Student Engineer's Council Freshman Major Mixer and Hokie for a Day. We also are actively seeking new outreach opportunities!
<strong>Why SUITS?</strong>
NASA is returning to the Moon in 2024 as part of the Artemis program. The goal of Artemis is to land the first woman and person of color on the Moon, and establish a long-term lunar presence. For this program, NASA is developing a new extravehicular activity (EVA) space suit called the exploration EVA (xEMU). This suit will have a heads-up display (HUD), and NASA has developed the SUITS challenge as a way of gaining inspiration for that HUD, as well preparing the future NASA workforce and educating the public.
Figure 4. Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine with NASA's new xEMU space suit
<strong>Why We Need You:</strong>
Your support is critical to help push us over the finish line. We're counting on the generosity of Hokie Nation to give to our project so that we can continue to buy the hardware we need to build our device. We also need funds to continue outreach to the greater Virginia Tech community as well as fund the travel, lodging, and food expenses when we travel to Johnson Space Center for onsite testings. Gifts of any size will help and we hope you'll support us to make our $10,000 goal a reality!
Figure 5. The 2018-2019 Hokienauts at the NASA Johnson Space Center!
<strong>Our Timeline and Progress:</strong><ol><li><strong>Letter of Intent Submitted:</strong> 9/28/21</li><li><strong>Letter of Intent Approved by NASA:</strong> 9/29/21</li><li><strong>Proposal Submitted:</strong> 10/28/21</li><li><strong>Proposal Approved by NASA:</strong> 12/1/21</li><li><strong>Software Design Review to NASA:</strong> 4/6/22</li><li><strong>Selection by NASA for Onsite Testing at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC):</strong> 4/7/22</li><li><strong>Onsite Testing at NASA JSC:</strong> 5/19/22 - 5/24/22</li></ol>
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Expanding Opportunities in Veterinary Physical Rehabilitation
By VMCVM
Help VA-MD Vet Med improve our physical rehabilitation service with a gift today!
Help VA-MD Vet Med improve our physical rehabilitation service with a gift today! VMCVM A central component of the <a href="https://vetmed.vt.edu/make-a-gift/vth-expansion.html"><strong>Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) Expansion and Renovation</strong></a> is the relocation and enhancement of our Small Animal Physical Rehabilitation Service. A key tool in a variety of cases, physical rehabilitation can be used as routine intervention before, after, or in lieu of surgery, depending on the diagnosis. Beyond recovery from a significant injury or surgery, it is also often utilized to enhance the quality of life for senior dogs struggling with mobility issues. The plans for the VTH expansion feature the rehab service in a new suite at the front of the hospital. Not only will this new suite have more space for treatment and state-of-the-art equipment, such as our new <a href="https://youtu.be/UhZ3Whh-r9c"><strong>underwater treadmill</strong></a>, but its location at the front will be more accessible for mobility-impaired patients.
As a first step towards this goal, we ask for your help to fund new equipment and research for the rehab service. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) is a treatment method with growing interest in the veterinary field as it helps with healing, has anti-inflammatory effects, and reduces pain. Our service currently uses PEMF loops for this treatment, and while these loops provide great treatment, they have some restrictions. The required wait time between treatments is two hours and you can only treat one area of the animal at a time. This necessary delay can elongate the sessions, particularly if a patient needs treatment on more than one area, which requires an extra investment of time for our technicians, clinicians, and clients.
The PEMF loop lounge, a whole-body PEMF mat, is the solution to the restrictions of the PEMF loop. One single full-body treatment on these mats only takes 15 minutes, making visits more comfortable and less stressful for clients. The ease of use of these mats has allowed the rehab team to start a research study that integrates these mats into cat carriers to determine the effect PEMF has on arthritic pain in cats.
Your support today can aid in the purchase of these mats and fund research projects for the Small Animal Physical Rehabilitation Service, improving the quality of life of companion animals in our community.
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Center for Refugee, Migrant, and Displacement Studies
By CRMDS
Support undergraduate experiential learning opportunities through a gift to our center and the community partners interns we serve alongside.
Support undergraduate experiential learning opportunities through a gift to our center and the community partners interns we serve alongside. CRMDS The <a href="https://liberalarts.vt.edu/research-centers/center-for-refugee-migrant-and-displacement-studies.html">Center for Refugee, Migrant, and Displacement Studies</a> engages students and faculty in interdisciplinary classes, research, and community partnerships that amplify the voices and experiences of people who have been displaced. Our work aims to understand intersections of displacement caused by civil unrest, eminent domain, natural and human-made disaster, government-induced development, and climate change.
<strong><strong>With your support, we can live our motto of <em>Ut Prosim</em> (That I May Serve) and go beyond the boundaries of our classrooms to find solutions together.</strong></strong>
<strong><strong>Through storytelling and oral histories, we educate policymakers and the broader public about the lived experiences of population movement and mobility, as well as seek sustainable interventions and equitable solutions grounded in lived experience.</strong></strong>
Students work with us as interns and researchers toward these goals, collaborating with community members and bridging their academic and community-based learning. With financial support, we can enhance our internship and research programs by purchasing materials and subsidizing travel costs for students as they engage in this critical work. Students work as peer tutors with local communities and in refugee camps, interview and produce episodes for the podcast, “In Place,” and write for our blog.
Join us to celebrate the launch of the center on Friday, April 8! <a href="https://liberalarts.vt.edu/news/events/2022/03/center-for-refugee--migrant--and-displacement-studies-launch-eve.html">Learn more</a>.
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Students Cultivating Change
By Students Cultivating Change
Help us continue our professional development and send us to our national conference!
Help us continue our professional development and send us to our national conference! Students Cultivating Change <strong>Help the Students for Cultivating Change students attend the national Cultivating Change Summit to meet the members of our nation’s other chapters and participate in professional development opportunities.</strong>
We are Students for Cultivating Change at Virginia tech, a student organization who welcomes all who wish to advance LGBTQ+ issues in agriculture, natural resources, and beyond.
This year, the Cultivating Change Foundation is hosting the 6th Cultivating Change Summit, the first since 2019, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The summit brings together agriculture LGBTQ+ employees, human resources and diversity and inclusion professionals, leaders, executives and organizational leaders, allies and others who are working toward an equitable industry environment for LGBTQ+ agriculturists everywhere.
We are so excited to send our amazing students to the summit this year; however, we need funding to support students who cannot afford it by themselves. <strong>Our goal is $6,000 which would fully fund 10 students to attend this fantastic professional development opportunity. We greatly appreciate any size gift that will help provide this experience to as many students as possible!</strong>
<em>College of Agriculture and Life Sciences alumni, </em><em>Steven Critchfield ’80, has generously provided a gift matching challenge of $3,000</em><em>. Give today, double your impact, and support LGBTQ+ students.</em>
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MANRRS
By MANRRS
Support professional development for students in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences.
Support professional development for students in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences. MANRRS Each year, the Virginia Tech Chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) supports professional development activities for students and sends outstanding students to regional and national meetings. <strong><strong>We need your help to support the achievement of our students’ goals at the local, regional, and national levels.</strong></strong>
The Virginia Tech Chapter of MANRRS is part of a national organization dedicated to the advancement and achievement of people in agriculture and natural resources and related fields. While MANRRS has many members in agricultural and natural resources, it is open to students and professionals of all backgrounds and majors.
<strong>By supporting our chapter’s fundraiser, you support local chapter meetings, student engagement in professional development activities, student chapter dues, and help a student attend national and regional MANRRS meetings</strong>.
Attendance at the MANRRS national conference helps students through:<ul><li>Participation in national contests that provide recognition to our students and Virginia Tech</li><li>Developing our students’ core competencies, such as in critical thinking, teamwork, flexibility, and relationship building</li><li>Helping our students identify job and internship opportunities in agriculture and natural resources and related fields</li><li>Supporting professional networking, and in linking our students with the professionals who can help support their research</li></ul>
An investment in the Virginia Tech Chapter of MANRRS will help ensure that we can take more students to meetings at both the regional and national levels, and will expand the provision of professional development and community building activities for our students.
<strong><strong>Give today to ensure that our local chapter thrives, and to help our students receive the support they need to achieve their professional goals. </strong></strong>
<em><em>Double your impact - Maxx Performance, Inc and the Samuels Family; Winston, Marilyn, Joel and Courtney Samuels will generously match gifts up to $5000 in support of minority student experiences. </em></em>
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Help Fight Food Insecurity in Virginia
By Virginia Cooperative Extension
Help VCE fight food insecurity and hunger in Virginia!
Help VCE fight food insecurity and hunger in Virginia! Virginia Cooperative Extension The reality of not knowing where or when your family’s next meal is coming from is sadly a reality for many Virginians.
The COVID-19 pandemic increased the number of Virginians who struggle to consistently acquire enough food to feed themselves and their families. <strong>An estimated 446,000 Virginians became food insecure during the pandemic, in addition to the 850,000 Virginians who were already struggling before the pandemic and economic downturn.</strong> Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Family Nutrition Program work tirelessly to combat food insecurity across the commonwealth.
Virginia Cooperative Extension is actively addressing this public health and economic crisis across the state by supporting the growth of local food systems, and providing technical assistance to farmers markets by establishing EBT payment systems at markets. Through hands-on interactive learning lessons and education outreach efforts, Extension professionals are helping low-income participants improve access to nutritious foods, prepare healthy meals, and follow healthier eating patterns.
<strong>Research shows that every $1 spent on quality nutrition education saves as much as $10 in long-term health care costs.</strong> An investment in this Extension program will continue to help expand efforts to provide tools, resources, and education for families to prepare healthy meals.
Together, we can make a difference.
<strong>Give today to help our local communities thrive and to help ensure that all Virginians have access to a basic human need – adequate nutrition.</strong>
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Richmond Chapter Holiday Campaign
By Virginia Tech
As alumni, we believe Virginia Tech is second-to-none. We want to help the next generation of Hokies have the same experience. You can help make that happen!
As alumni, we believe Virginia Tech is second-to-none. We want to help the next generation of Hokies have the same experience. You can help make that happen! Helping others is what Hokies do -- can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Richmond area?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
Richmond alumni have helped more than 90 students by raising more $200,000 over the last 15 years.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together Richmond </strong><strong>Hokies are trying to raise $2,500. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help your community.
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
<strong>Hear from students how a scholarship made a difference to them:</strong>
"It allowed me to buy textbooks and other class materials that I would otherwise have trouble financing. It really helps in a major way, especially for low income family like myself. Every single dollars help with my family's financial situation" - Zhi Cheng Jin, Class of 2022
"Earning a chapter scholarship helped take some of the pressure off of figuring out how I was going to pay for college. It also helped me feel recognized for everything that I had done in high school to reach this point in my academic career. " - Alex Labbott, Class of 2024
"Earning the Richmond Alumni Chapter Scholarship last year greatly helped me in being able to finance my education and experience all that Virginia Tech has to offer. I am so grateful to the Richmond Alumni Chapter and the Virginia Tech Chapter Programs for allowing me the opportunity to become a proud Hokie! Through giving back to your local chapter to fund scholarships, you are allowing a future student the opportunity to come to Virginia Tech, become a Hokie, and have all of the amazing experiences that you have had throughout your time at Tech. " - Sarah Jackson, Class of 2023
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DC Hokie Scholarship Giving Campaign
By DC Hokies
Give a "Hokie Helping Hand" by supporting our local student scholarship fund!
Give a "Hokie Helping Hand" by supporting our local student scholarship fund! DC Hokies Each year, alumni chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech. Last year, the DC Hokies were able to give out 10 scholarships totaling $15,000.
Student Sarah Ramboyong said her chapter scholarship helped with financial stress, but also made her feel like she had the support of Hokie Nation.
“When I first got to Tech I felt a bit of imposters syndrome being here,” Ramboyong said, “but remembering that my chapter had invested in me and was supporting my time here at Tech gave me a lot of comfort and confidence.”
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Gifts of any size matter and help Hokies in our community.
“I wish that I could thank every single Hokie who donated to my local chapter and funded my scholarship, because it truly made a huge difference for me financially,” she said. “I would tell other Hokies who are considering donating that every single dollar they donate, whether it’s $1 or $100, it will make a huge difference and every recipient will be so incredibly grateful and humbled to have so many Hokies believe in us.”
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Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research
By VT College of Science
The VT Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research merges science with service to meet the need for accessible and affordable services for families.
The VT Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research merges science with service to meet the need for accessible and affordable services for families. VT College of Science Early access to diagnosis, intervention, and treatment of autism can help families achieve better outcomes for their child, but many remain on assessment waitlists for up to a year before getting a diagnosis.
The <a href="https://www.vtcar.science.vt.edu/">VT Autism Clinic and Center for Autism Research</a> merges science with service to help address this critical need in Southwest Virginia.
As a research and training clinic for graduate student clinicians, VTAC/CAR immerses graduate students in clinical practice as they serve families through our Blacksburg clinic, Mobile Autism Clinic that travels the region, and through telehealth appointments. This program builds needed capacity in the field of clinical science, provides a unique experience for our students, and empowers families with knowledge they can use to advocate for their child throughout their lifetime.
Your donation of any amount can help more families access these much-needed services, and right now, your generosity can have an even bigger impact. Jerry Hulick ’73 will generously donate $10,000 to the Virginia Tech Autism Clinic and Center for Autism Research if 100 donors make a gift in the month of November. Please help us reach this exciting goal and provide outstanding care throughout Southwest Virginia with your gift today!
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Design, Build, Fly at Virginia Tech
By Design, Build, Fly
Help us Design, Build, and Fly our radio controlled aircraft for the annual AIAA competition!
Help us Design, Build, and Fly our radio controlled aircraft for the annual AIAA competition! Design, Build, Fly <strong>Who are we?</strong>
<strong>Design Build Fly at Virginia Tech</strong> is a student led design team competing in the AIAA Design, Build, Fly competition. Our team is dedicated to enriching the education of both graduating seniors and underclassmen in the College of Engineering at Virginia Tech by providing dynamic, hands on experience.
Each year, our team competes in the annual Design Build Fly competition hosted by Textron Aviation and Raytheon Missile Systems. The competition consists of designing an unmanned, electric powered, radio controlled aircraft that must complete three flight missions and one ground mission with different scoring equations for each mission; the goal is a balanced design possessing good, demonstrated flight handling qualities and practical and affordable manufacturing requirements while providing a high vehicle performance.
<strong>Current Competition:</strong>
This year's competition calls for a humanitarian mission of delivering vaccination components. The designed aircraft must have a maximum linear dimension of eight feet and must carry vaccination supplies. The first mission requires the aircraft to be flown for three laps within five minutes while carrying no payload as a proof of flight. Mission two then calls for the aircraft to carry as many syringes as possible for three laps within five minutes, in which the aircraft will be scored for the number of syringes and flight time. For mission three, the aircraft will be loaded with vaccine vial packages containing 5g shock sensors. The aircraft must fly one lap, land, taxi to a specified location, and deploy one vaccine vial package. From there, the aircraft taxis back to the start line to takeoff and repeat the process as many times as possible within 10 minutes. If the vaccine vial packages experience a load greater than 5g then that deployment is not considered to be successful. This mission is scored on the number of successful deployments.
<strong>How does your gift help?</strong>
Each year, we completely redesign our aircraft from scratch. This keeps every competition fresh and full of new design opportunities, but also costs us significantly more. We create between 4 to 6 aircraft each year which can easily cost more than $1,000 each. Additionally, our competition consumes <strong>half of our yearly budget </strong>to drive as many members as possible, free of charge, across the country for a week.
Your support will greatly help us to create better aircraft and push us towards earning first place. Additionally, the more funds that we raise allows us to bring additional members to competition, helping shape the leads for future years.
<strong>Previous Competitions:</strong>
For the 2017-2018 team, the competition called for a dual purpose regional and business aircraft. The team entered the competition with a flying wing design which held a single passenger to minimize the weight and span of the aircraft. Although the competition was designed to optimize the number of passengers, an in-depth scoring analysis found that decreasing the weight and span of the aircraft would result in the highest score possible. The efforts proved successful as the team placed 2nd out of a total of 96 teams. In 2015-2016, the team placed 4th overall with a plane that had to carry another smaller plane inside it. These successes set a wonderful precedence and will push the team to continue reaching for 1st place.
<strong>Follow us on Social Media!</strong>
<strong>Facebook</strong>: DBFatVirginiaTech<strong>Instagram</strong>: hokiesdbf<strong>LinkedIn</strong>: Design Build Fly at Virginia Tech (VT DBF)
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Geosciences Student Research Symposium 2022
By GSRS at Virginia Tech
GSRS provides students a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department.
GSRS provides students a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS at Virginia Tech Geosciences Student Research Symposium (GSRS) is a long-standing tradition in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech. <strong>In 2022, we will be celebrating the 27th edition of GSRS!</strong> This event spans two days of research presentations from both graduate and undergraduate students providing a platform to communicate their science across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. GSRS promotes growth for promising geoscientists in a collegial environment by providing peer and faculty feedback on their research and presentation skills. Conversations during this event also foster a greater sense of community in the department and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development.
<em>"Since 1996, we've had close to 1000 student presentations totaling more than 10 days of talks" -Morrison Nolan</em>
GSRS is entirely <strong>student</strong><strong>-led and organized</strong>. This means we are<strong> primarily funded and </strong><strong>reliant on donations from folks like you</strong>. Your contribution, in addition to funding the necessary expenses, allows students to focus on developing their research communication abilities and provides an opportunity to sharpen the leadership, mentorship, and team-building skills it takes to organize an event like GSRS.
<em> </em><em>"As an undergraduate, it can be kind of scary and intimidating, but it's a great sense of relief when you're like oh, I know what I'm doing and the grad students are like yeah, you do kind of know what you're doing." -Michael Zigah</em>
Now in its fifth year, the <strong>pre-GSRS Workshop Series</strong> provides monthly tutorials, led by graduate student volunteers, on how to navigate professional conferences. Topics range from abstract writing to poster formatting. All students are encouraged to attend, especially undergraduates giving a presentation for the first time. The Workshop Series facilitates skill development that our students can put into practice during GSRS and employ for years to come.
<em>"I participated in GSRS … and I felt that it really helped me with my public speaking skills and also on how to talk about my research in a way that the non-scientist or general public can understand" -Katie Krueger</em>
GSRS concludes with the ever-popular banquet on Friday evening. This gathering celebrates another successful GSRS, with the recognition of outstanding student presenters and a delicious spread of food and drinks. We invite and encourage all who can attend to join us for this annual rendezvous of alumni, faculty, students, and friends of Geosciences.
<em> </em><em>"The entire department comes together to celebrate the end of GSRS" -Kristin Chilton</em>
GSRS is a public event. We'd love to see friends and alumni of Geosciences at the Squires Student Center, in the Haymarket Theater and Brush Mountain rooms A & B, on <strong>March 24th & 25th</strong> respectively, for GSRS27! Please consider giving and sharing to help us hold another successful GSRS. <a href="https://gsrsvtgeos.wixsite.com/home">For more information about GSRS, please check out our website!</a>
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Help Fund 4-H Horse State Educational Teams!
By Sandy Arnold
Help us fund a much-needed endowment for the 4-H horse program educational team to compete at the Regional and National levels!
Help us fund a much-needed endowment for the 4-H horse program educational team to compete at the Regional and National levels! Sandy Arnold Longtime 4-H Horse Program Volunteer, Melissa Madagan, loved serving her club as an educator and a coach. She raised up her 4-Hers, many who never owned a horse, to enjoy the many benefits of learning about horses through the educational contests all while teaching skill sets in critical thinking, speaking skills, and leadership. Several of her club members competed in horse bowl, hippology, horse judging and the communications contests, and many often moved on to Regional and National competitions. Melissa's passion for excellence filtered into others beyond her immediate club which inspired many to be the best they can be through the 4-H program. Her hard work and tenacity in educating youth was always filled with excitement, enthusiasm, and successful fundraising to be able to meet competition goals.
<strong>This endowment, once fully funded, will be created in Melissa's name to honor her passion for the 4-H program by awarding scholarships to applicants on the Regional and National teams. Funds will be used to disburse scholarships annually to those 4-H applicants that demonstrate the same passion for excellence and the need for travel funds to these Regional and National contests.</strong>
Give today in memory of Melissa Madagan and ensure the longevity of the educational contests while providing all youth equal access to find their passion and create positive change in their lives and community.
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Conservation of historical Corps Documents
By Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets
Help preserve the original and earliest known copy of the hand-written articles of incorporation for the Student Government Association.
Help preserve the original and earliest known copy of the hand-written articles of incorporation for the Student Government Association. Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets <strong>Our goal for this campaign is to raise funds for the Corps' archival collection, spotlighting two important sets of documents.</strong>
Help us preserve the<em> <strong>original and earliest known copy of the hand-written articles of incorporation for the Student Government Association</strong>.</em> The papers outline the provisions and rules required for cadet student oversight of classmates, including the breakdown of the composition of the Honor Court still in use today. Discovered hidden within the walls of a home in eastern Maryland during a remodeling job, they were donated to the Corps Museum collection. <strong><em>The papers have been examined forensically and are determined to be written around 1908</em></strong><em>.</em>
The second document that is featured is the<em><strong> <em>original telegram sent by the War Dept. to Jimmy Monteith’s mother that informed her of his death during the D-Day Invasion</em></strong></em><em>.</em> Monteith received the Medal of Honor for his heroism and sacrifices and<strong><em> is one of eight alumni recipients of the nation’s highest honor. </em></strong>He is truly a symbol of everything the Corps stands for and achieves to emulate.
<strong>As Virginia Tech approaches its Sesquicentennial Celebration, the conservation of documents like these that are foundational in Virginia Tech's history take on a new importance. Please help the Corps of Cadets preserve our past for future generations! </strong>
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Mosaic for Earth
By Professors Bigler and Elmer
The VT Choirs and Philharmonic will perform in the premiere of Dwight Bigler's "Mosaic for Earth," which will be recorded and distributed on the Tonsehen label.
The VT Choirs and Philharmonic will perform in the premiere of Dwight Bigler's "Mosaic for Earth," which will be recorded and distributed on the Tonsehen label. Professors Bigler and Elmer The Virginia Tech Philharmonic, VT Chamber Singers, Tech Men, and VT Women's Chorus are excited to perform and record the world premiere of Dr. Dwight Bigler's <em>Mosaic for Earth</em>, on April 3, 2022, at Virginia Tech's Moss Arts Center<em>. </em>This 75-minute new work for choir and orchestra weaves together music, environmental science, visual arts, and literature to celebrate the wonders of nature and explore humanity's impact on the environment. The Virginia Tech School of Performing Arts ensembles will be joined by the Blacksburg Master Chorale and Blacksburg Children's Chorale for this event, with special guest soprano soloist and Virginia Tech alumna, Danielle Talamantes.
The 170 Virginia Tech student performers and 130 and community singers will fill the concert hall with music and a message that will be recorded and distributed worldwide by the <a href="https://www.tonsehen.com/">Tonsehen</a> recording label. Tonsehen will record, edit, mix, and master standard audio/video versions of the concert as well as in an immersive, 360º format. These recordings will be available on all of the major online music streaming platforms.
<strong>We Need Your Help</strong>
<strong>Your support to help us raise $8,000 is critical to our successful partnership with Tonsehen. During their residency, they will mentor our VT music technology majors as they complete each step of the recording process:</strong><ul><li>Multichannel Audio Recording</li><li>Multicamera Video Recording</li><li>Edit, mix, master, print, and distribute the recordings internationally: limited print of CD/DVDs and extensive distribution on digital streaming services (iTunes, Amazon, Google, Spotify, HDTracks, etc.)</li></ul>
This campaign will help to fund approximately 1/3 of the recording cost.
<strong>Showcase a VT Arts and Science Collaboration on an International Stage</strong>
The VT Choirs and Philharmonic highlight the well-rounded and extremely talented students at Virginia Tech. The ensembles include students from every College at Virginia Tech: Agriculture and Life Sciences, Architecture and Urban Studies, Business, Engineering, Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, Natural Resources and Environment, and Science. Representing over 55 majors, these students are the flagship of Virginia Tech as they pursue excellence in carrying out Virginia Tech's motto, <em>Ut prosim</em> (That I May Serve).
<strong>Your support of this project will help us showcase Virginia Tech's talented students, faculty, alumni, and community, but will provide a foundation for future research projects and serve as a model for future performances of </strong><em><strong>Mosaic for Earth. </strong></em>
Bigler is collaborating with faculty in the VT's Myers-Lawson School of Construction and Environmental Sciences to present community outreach events leading up to the concert and recording. The Department of English will bring one of the authors of the text being sung in <em>Mosaic </em>to campus to engage students in creative conversations.
During the concert, digital images will be projected on large screens to enhance the performance and recording. Designed by VT's David Franusich, the projections will feature David's engaging visual content created here in the Blue Ridge Mountains and New York City artist Barbara Wolff's stunning illuminations,<em> </em><a href="http://www.artofbarbarawolff.com/projects.php?psalm"><em>Psalm 104: You renew the face of the earth</em></a><em>.</em>
The Blacksburg Master Chorale is a key collaborator on this project. In addition to supporting the creation of the piece itself, they have committed significant funds towards this recording project and will be singing with the VT student musicians in the premiere.
For more details about <em>Mosaic for Earth</em>, visit <a href="https://www.dwightbigler.com/the-music">www.mosaicforearth.com</a>.
<a href="https://liberalarts.vt.edu/departments-and-schools/school-of-performing-arts.html">VT School of Performing Arts</a>
<a href="https://www.blacksburgmasterchorale.org/">Blacksburg Master Chorale</a>
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Tracking the last white sharks in the Mediterranean Sea
By Francesco Ferretti
Support an unprecedented expedition to help save the Mediterranean great white shark.
Support an unprecedented expedition to help save the Mediterranean great white shark. Great white sharks are one of the most widespread, well-known, and charismatic predators in the ocean. Due to their size, speed, and impressive array of teeth, they seem absolutely invincible.
However, coastal, recreational, and industrial fishing have impacted many white shark populations around the world. In the Mediterranean Sea, they are now considered critically endangered, the highest level of concern according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.
<strong>A team of researchers, led by Virginia Tech’s Francesco Ferretti, is launching an unprecedented expedition this month to help save the Mediterranean white shark. </strong>
The White Shark Chase will take place June 8-24. If successful, the researchers will film and — for the first time ever —tag Mediterranean white sharks while collecting critical biological and ecological data from live individuals. Gaining knowledge about the status of the population and the life history of the individuals tagged will be the first steps in developing conservation and recovery plans.
<strong>You can have a direct impact on the success of the White Shark Chase by funding the cost of renting time on the boat that will take the researchers to the sharks.</strong>
Ferretti, assistant professor of wildlife conservation in the College of Natural Resources and Environment (bottom right in the photo below), will be joined by an international team of researchers, including two Virginia Tech graduate students. They will use cutting-edge marine technology, statistical modeling, and crowdsourced information from local communities to survey, track, and tag what may be the last sharks in the Mediterranean.
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Name-A-Duck
By Virginia Tech
Make and impact and name a duck on the iconic Duck Pond!
Make and impact and name a duck on the iconic Duck Pond! Virginia Tech Virginia Tech’s iconic Duck Pond is home to a wide variety of feathered friends, each with their own unique personality. Seeing them swim, fly, and waddle around campus is as much a part of the Hokie experience as jumping in Lane Stadium and hurrying across the Drillfield to make it to class on time.
Now, you have a chance to give one of our feathered friends a name that really fits. <strong>With a gift of $5 or more to the Student Scholarship Fund, you’ll receive a digital certificate commemorating the new moniker you’ve chosen for a resident of the Duck Pond.</strong>
Plus, your gift will have a positive impact on current and future Hokies by helping them receive a life-changing Virginia Tech education! It’s a fun way to make a difference, so don’t wait — make a gift and name a duck today!
<em>Duck naming is symbolic and does not denote adoption or ownership of any animal.</em>
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Southeastern Michigan Chapter Scholarship
By Southeastern Michigan Hokies
Southeastern Michigan Hokies want to make a difference in the lives of local students. Help show your support by donating to our scholarship.
Southeastern Michigan Hokies want to make a difference in the lives of local students. Help show your support by donating to our scholarship. Southeastern Michigan Hokies For first year student Joseph Ciemniecki a chapter scholarship helped with his out-of-state tuition.
Coming to Virginia Tech not only gave him access to a top engineering education, but he said, helped him grow and learn from others.
“Coming from out of state I have had the ability to expand my personality and develop as a person by learning more about people’s different experiences,” Ciemniecki said.
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies like Ciemniecki.
SE Michigan area alumni helped 1 students last year by raising $2,300.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together SE Michigan Hokies are trying to raise $1,000. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and help Hokies in your community.Those that donate through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
“Thank you to everyone who has donated in the past and I hope everyone continues to donate because you have helped people like me personally felt the positive effects of your donations,” Ciemniecki said.
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Tampa Bay Chapter Scholarship
By Tampa Bay Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Tampa Bay Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Tampa Bay area?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together Tampa Hokies are trying to raise $500. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help your community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!</em>
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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DC Metro Area Chapter Scholarship
By DC Hokies
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund.
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund. DC Hokies Student Sarah Ramboyong said her chapter scholarship helped with financial stress, but also made her feel like she had the support of Hokie Nation.
“When I first got to Tech I felt a bit of imposters syndrome being here,” Ramboyong said, “but remembering that my chapter had invested in me and was supporting my time here at Tech gave me a lot of comfort and confidence.”
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, like Ramboyong.
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together D.C. Hokies are trying to raise $3,500. Chapters all over are challenging local alumni to contribute.
Gifts of any size matter and help Hokies in our community.
Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Ramboyong, a first year student from the D.C. area, is studying computation modeling and data analytics and is grateful for the Hokies who have helped her.
“I wish that I could thank every single Hokie who donated to my local chapter and funded my scholarship, because it truly made a huge difference for me financially,” she said. “I would tell other Hokies who are considering donating that every single dollar they donate, whether it’s $1 or $100, it will make a huge difference and every recipient will be so incredibly grateful and humbled to have so many Hokies believe in us.”
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First State Chapter Scholarship
By First State Hokies
Help us support the next generation of Hokies as they head to Blacksburg this Fall.
Help us support the next generation of Hokies as they head to Blacksburg this Fall. First State Hokies Without a chapter scholarship junior Ryan Wheatley would have attended an in-state school that didn’t offer his degree program.
His chapter scholarship made it possible to afford out-of-state tuition and study dairy science. Wheatley, who will graduate in 2022, said Virginia Tech is the right place for him.
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies like Wheatley.
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together First State Hokies are trying to raise $2,000. Chapters all over are challenging local alumni to contribute.
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help Hokies in our community.
Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
“I have grown so much during my time at VT, both as an individual and in dairy science,” said Wheatley. “I know that when I complete my time at VT, my future possibilities are limitless.”
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Richmond Chapter Scholarship
By Richmond Hokies
As alumni, we believe Virginia Tech is second-to-none. We want to help the next generation of Hokies have the same experience. You can help make that happen!
As alumni, we believe Virginia Tech is second-to-none. We want to help the next generation of Hokies have the same experience. You can help make that happen! Richmond Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do -- can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Richmond area?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
Richmond alumni have helped more than 90 students by raising more $200,000 over the last 15 years.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together Richmond </strong><strong>Hokies are trying to raise $2,500. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help your community. Those that donate through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
<strong>Hear from students how a scholarship made a difference to them:</strong>
"It allowed me to buy textbooks and other class materials that I would otherwise have trouble financing. It really helps in a major way, especially for low income family like myself. Every single dollars help with my family's financial situation" - Zhi Cheng Jin, Class of 2022
"Earning a chapter scholarship helped take some of the pressure off of figuring out how I was going to pay for college. It also helped me feel recognized for everything that I had done in high school to reach this point in my academic career. " - Alex Labbott, Class of 2024
"Earning the Richmond Alumni Chapter Scholarship last year greatly helped me in being able to finance my education and experience all that Virginia Tech has to offer. I am so grateful to the Richmond Alumni Chapter and the Virginia Tech Chapter Programs for allowing me the opportunity to become a proud Hokie! Through giving back to your local chapter to fund scholarships, you are allowing a future student the opportunity to come to Virginia Tech, become a Hokie, and have all of the amazing experiences that you have had throughout your time at Tech. " - Sarah Jackson, Class of 2023
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Williamsburg Chapter Scholarship
By Williamsburg Hokies
Williamsburg Hokies are here to support new students! Help us make a difference in the lives of local Hokies.
Williamsburg Hokies are here to support new students! Help us make a difference in the lives of local Hokies. Williamsburg Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from Williamsburg?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
Williamsburg alumni helped 1 student last year by raising $1000.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together Williamsburg Hokies are trying to raise $1,000. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help your community.Those that donate through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Triangle Chapter Scholarship
By Triangle Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Triangle Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Triangle area?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
During the pandemic, our ability to gather and raise funds has been severely limited. This campaign allows us the opportunity to rally around local students. You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign today! Don't forget to take advantage of any matching contributions that your employer may offer.
The Triangle Chapter would like to recognize two of our many awesome students who are embracing the spirit of Ut Prosim both on campus and here in the Raleigh-Durham area helping the local chapter.
The first is <strong>Madeline Musaus</strong>, a senior graduating in a few weeks majoring in Clinical Neuroscience with minors in Medicine and Society and Psychology. She is a 2017 graduate of Ravenscroft and lives in North Raleigh. She has been an active student on campus and in the local community volunteering as a medical scribe at the Bradly Free Clinic in Roanoke and a Hospice volunteer throughout Montgomery County. She was President of the MEDLIFE Club and a Student Ambassador for the School of Neuroscience.
Madeline took an active role in managing a number of local Triangle chapter functions over the last few years, including the annual Freshmen student send-off picnic and speaking to local high school students on her VT experience at VT Admission’s hosted events. She also created a strategic document outlining the concept of how the chapter could be more meaningful to more local alums if it targeted events based on an alum’s life-cycle stage (recent graduates, alums with young kids, emptynesters, etc.).
Madeline was recently awarded the 2021 College of Science Undergraduate Researcher of the Year based on the strength of her research in the Ubiquitin-Proteasome system and the regulation of DNA methylation in the hippocampus and amygdala during memory formation. This resulted in seven academic research publications, including two as lead author in the Journal of Neuroscience and Neurobiology of Learning and Memory.
Madeline’s thoughts: “I was drawn to Tech for its school spirit, sense of community, the beautiful campus, pregame tailgates, and the School of Neuroscience. The University has given me every opportunity to grow as a student, researcher, and a person. The Triangle chapter has played a pivotal role for me with helping to me to understand the importance of Ut Prosim. If you are not in a position to give a gift of money for a donation to the scholarship fund, maybe you will consider the gift of giving a couple of hours of your time to the chapter this year.”
The second student the Triangle Hokies would like to recognize is <strong>Shannon Aikens</strong>, a sophomore who is majoring in Computational Modeling and Data Analytics. She is a graduate of Sanderson High School and was the winner of the 2019 Chapter Scholarship Award. She has volunteered to become our newest Student Representative to the Chapter leadership team.
Shannon was one of just forty Freshman students that was admitted into the Calhoun Discovery Program, an Honors College experiential learning program that focuses on technological innovation for societal impact. She has had the honor of working on real-world problems with companies like Boeing, Caterpillar, and General Electric. She has worked on a team that created a virtual reality training program for manufacturing workers and her team was featured in the Wall Street Journal last fall. This year, she has been working on automating the supply chain process of large companies so they can track and distribute their parts using real-time data.Shannon has also spent considerable time with her undergraduate research as part of the DataBridge Lab. Her research involves looking into the resources and funds that support online learning to determine if it is sustainable in the long-term. She was recently honored with induction to the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society for being in the top 7.5% of her class.
Your donations are going to scholarship money for local students like Madeline and Shannon
<strong>Together Triangle Hokies are trying to raise $1,000. Will you help? </strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help your community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!</em>
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Tidewater Chapter Scholarship
By Tidewater Hokies
Join the Tidewater Hokies in supporting local students through scholarships.
Join the Tidewater Hokies in supporting local students through scholarships. Tidewater Hokies Junior Sophia Phillips calls her chapter scholarship a blessing.
“Coming from a single parent household, any and every scholarship helps to make college possible,” she said. “Without scholarships, I don't think I'd be where I am today or feel as set up for graduate school as I do now.”
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies like Phillips.
Tidewater alumni helped 4 students last year by raising $6,500.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Chapters all over are challenging local alumni to contribute.
<strong>Together Tidewater Hokies are trying to raise $2,000. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help Hokies in your community. Those that donate through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Phillips said her undergraduate research helped her discover a passion for helping athletes recover from concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
“Virginia Tech has made a tremendous impact on my life,” she said. “The Hokie community really is unlike any other because of its emphasis on academic support, service, and spirit.”
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Palmetto Chapter Scholarship
By Palmetto Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Palmetto Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Palmetto area?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together Palmetto Hokies are trying to raise $1,000. Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience.</em>
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Orange County Chapter Scholarship
By Orange County Hokies
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund.
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund. Orange County Hokies Without a chapter scholarship, junior Grace Hare would not have been able to participate in groundbreaking research. “This scholarship allowed me to spend more time in my research lab studying how different food types affect muscle composition in horses,” Hare said.
Each year alumni chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies like Hare.
Orange County alumni helped two OC students last year by raising $2,000.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together Orange Hokies are trying to raise $1,000.</strong>
Chapters all over are challenging local alumni to contribute.
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help Hokies in your community. Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
"Scholarships can change the entire path that a student chooses to take . . . After receiving my scholarship, I was able to add a double major and spend even more hours in my research lab,” Hare said. “Virginia Tech has really shown me life away from home and outside of the 'Orange County bubble.' It has opened my eyes to people from completely different backgrounds from me and taught me so much independence. I really value this time here as a Virginia Tech student, and look forward to what the future holds.”
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New River Valley Chapter Scholarship
By New River Valley Hokies
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund.
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund. New River Valley Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do -- can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the New River Valley?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. New River Valley alumni have been making a difference every year for our local Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong><strong>Togeth</strong><strong>er, New River Valley Hokies are trying to raise $1,000 - </strong></strong><strong><strong>will you help?</strong></strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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New England Chapter Scholarship
By New England Hokies
Join the New England Hokies as we work to raise money for our annual student scholarship.
Join the New England Hokies as we work to raise money for our annual student scholarship. New England Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from New England?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
New England alumni helped three students last year by raising $2,250.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign.
<strong>Together New England Hokies aim to raise $1,000. </strong><strong>Will you help?</strong>
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community.
Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Eastern Shore Chapter Scholarship
By Eastern Shore Hokies
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund.
Give a “Hokie Helping Hand” by supporting our local student scholarship fund. Eastern Shore Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do -- can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Eastern Shore?
With the loss of our annual Oyster Roast in 2020 and 2021, it's important for us to rally together to raise the funds needed for our local students. Our scholarships make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
Eastern Shore alumni helped four students last year by raising $3500.
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together Eastern Shore Hokies are trying to raise $1500.
Will you help?
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Denver Chapter Scholarship
By Denver Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Denver Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from Denver?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together, Denver Hokies are trying to raise $1,000.
Will you help?
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!</em>
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter Scholarship
By Dallas/Fort Worth Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Dallas/Fort Worth Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do -- can you step up to help an incoming first year student from DFW?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books and tuition. Without our customary fundraising at Watch Parties and Speaker Events, we have decided to use a Crowdfunding approach and ask you to support our scholarships.
We are SO PROUD of our DFW area applicants! This year DOUBLE the number of applicants from our area were offered admission to Virginia Tech’s Class of 2025. In keeping with that trend, we would like to offer a second or third scholarship to keep up with this growing interest in attending our Alma Mater!
You can support one of these new Hokies from the area by making a gift to the chapter’s scholarship campaign. Together, DFW Hokies are trying to raise $2,500.
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!</em>
Don’t miss your chance to help a local student.
Get to know our past Dallas/Fort Worth scholarship award winners below!
<strong>Nicholas Thompson</strong> is a 2020 All Saints’ Episcopal School graduate from Aledo, Texas. In addition to his academic achievements, Thompson is an active leader in his school and community. He participated in the Young Men’s Service League, competed in cross country and wrestling for four years, and has worked with youth wrestlers as a tournament referee. He is double majoring in agribusiness and real estate.
<strong>Nathaniel Tompkins</strong> is 2020 Prosper High School graduate who is studying electrical engineering at Virginia Tech. Tompkins was involved with his school’s student newspaper, Eagle Nation News for four years and was both an anchor and a technical staff member. He is a two-time recipient of the National Broadcast Pacemaker award.
<strong>Kensey Wishon</strong> is a 2019 Prosper High School graduate from Celina, Texas. In addition to her academic achievements, Wishon is an active leader in her school and community. She was a member of the robotics team, solar car team, choir and worked at her local library. Additionally, Wishon’s participation in her school’s solar car team inspired her to study how robotics can be used to help people.
<strong>Alden Ouzts</strong> is a 2018 Carroll Senior High School graduate from Southlake, Texas. In addition to his academic performance, Ouzts is an active leader in the community. He has gained leadership experience with the Civil Air Patrol, North Georgia Senior Military Academy, and Boys’ State Ouzts is a member of the Corps of Cadets and is studying political science with a minor in leadership and international affairs. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in the military.
<strong>Emily Courson</strong> is also a 2018 Carroll Senior High School graduate from Southlake, Texas. In addition to her academic achievements, she has been active in athletics including girls lacrosse and cross country. Courson was also was recognized with membership in several honor societies and has been an active community volunteer. She is studying biology and plans to attend medical school.
See more of our bright and talented past scholarship winners here: <a href="https://dfw.vt.alumnispaces.com/scholarship/">https://dfw.vt.alumnispaces.com/scholarship/</a>
Check us out online and join the fun!
<a href="https://dfw.vt.alumnispaces.com">https://dfw.vt.alumnispaces.com</a>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dfwhokies/">https://www.facebook.com/dfwhokies/</a>
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/dfwhokies/">https://www.instagram.com/dfwhokies/</a>
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Central Florida Chapter Scholarship
By Central Florida Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Central Florida Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from Central Florida?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together Central Florida Hokies are trying to raise $1,000.
Will you help?
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!</em>
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Atlanta Chapter Scholarship
By Atlanta Hokies
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech!
Please help local students attend Virginia Tech! Atlanta Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do — can you step up to help an incoming first year student from Atlanta?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together Atlanta Hokies are trying to raise $1,000.
Will you help? Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help our community. <em>Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech alumni sticker so you can let everyone know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!</em>
<em></em>Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Annapolis Chapter Scholarship
By Annapolis Hokies
Support local Hokies through our annual student scholarship fund.
Support local Hokies through our annual student scholarship fund. Annapolis Hokies For Sophomore Hailey Boyd a chapter scholarship is helping her pursue her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher.
The Annapolis Hokie said the scholarship she received from her local chapter allowed her to afford out-of-state tuition.
“I would encourage Hokies who have the ability to give back to do so. These scholarships can be the difference between someone being able to go to VT or not, and they give people the opportunity to be a part of the Hokie community,” Boyd said.
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships to help Hokies in their neighborhood. The scholarships make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, like Boyd.
Annapolis alumni help at least one student each year with $1,000.
You can support a new Hokie from the area by making a gift to the chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together Annapolis Hokies are trying to raise $2,000.
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help Hokies in your community.
Donors to our scholarship fund through this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
“Virginia Tech has helped me find a community of people who have the same interests and goals as me,” said Boyd. “It has supported me throughout my education and continued learning. Virginia Tech has a great system of students and professors who genuinely care for you and your success.”
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Alleghany Highlands Chapter Scholarship
By Alleghany Highlands Hokies
Help Alleghany Highlands alumni support the next generation of Hokies
Help Alleghany Highlands alumni support the next generation of Hokies Alleghany Highlands Hokies Helping others is what Hokies do -- can you step up to help an incoming first year student from the Alleghany Highlands?
Each year chapters around the world rally together to raise money for student scholarships. They make a difference for Hokies just starting their journey at Virginia Tech, helping to offset the costs of books, tuition, even travel to and from campus.
Alleghany Highlands alumni helped 3 students last year by raising $2,000.
You can support a new Hokie from our area by making a gift to our chapter’s crowdfunding campaign. Together Alleghany Highlands Hokies are trying to raise $2,000.
Will you help?
Gifts of any size matter and it's a chance to help your community. Those that donate from this page will be thanked with a special Virginia Tech Alumni sticker so you can let the community know that you care about supporting the Hokie experience!
Plus, chapters from all over are challenging Hokies in their neighborhood to raise money for students from their own backyard. Who will be the first chapter to meet their goal?
Don’t miss your chance!
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Diggeridoos at Virginia Tech
By the Diggeridoos
We are The Diggeridoos at Virginia Tech, one of twelve teams worldwide selected to compete in the Not-a-Boring Competition, hosted by the Boring Company.
We are The Diggeridoos at Virginia Tech, one of twelve teams worldwide selected to compete in the Not-a-Boring Competition, hosted by the Boring Company. the Diggeridoos <strong>Our Mission: </strong>
<strong>The Diggeridoos are developing a revolutionary way of reinventing travel infrastructure through the design, analysis, and manufacturing of an innovative micro tunneling machine. Tunneling machines have hit a stagnation point in their development over the years, but the Diggeridoos have set a goal to revitalize innovation in the industry by making micro tunneling faster, cheaper, and more efficient. Our team strives to help reaffirm Virginia Tech as a trailblazer in engineering and entrepreneurship on the global stage. </strong>
<strong>Who we are: </strong>
We are a team of Virginia Tech students chosen as 1 of 12 internationally selected teams out of over 390 applicants to compete in the 2021 Not-a-Boring Competition hosted by <a href="https://www.boringcompany.com/competition">The Boring Company</a>. We emerged from the 2021 competition as one of five award-winning teams, and we were selected to participate again at the 2022 Not-a-Boring Competition. The Boring Company is a company founded by Elon Musk with the long term goal of solving the problem of traffic by building 3-dimensional transportation infrastructure.
We have designed and will soon be building a tunnel boring machine to dig a tunnel 100 meters in length and 0.5 meters in diameter. While this is an exciting challenge, we cannot do this alone. We need your help finding the resources to complete this challenge. This project is very time consuming and very financially intensive. We do not have nearly as many resources that some of our competitors do, which is why we are looking all across the nation for people to help us achieve our goal. That being said, we are looking to you for your help.
<strong>Why dig tunnels: </strong>
The current market valuation for the tunnel boring industry is approximately $3.3 Billion USD, with an estimated growth to $4.7 Billion USD by 2027. Exploring the development of tunnel boring machines is a step in the right direction that will help our team at Virginia Tech contribute towards the reinventing of transportation infrastructure as we see it today.
<strong>How you can help: </strong>
We need your help in funding the purchase of materials and components that will be directly implemented in the build of our designs we have spent months refining. Additionally, your gracious contributions will help to facilitate equipment transportation to the competition as well.
Expenses include but are not limited to:<ul><li>Cost of materials for the boring machine</li><li>Acquisition of lab space to work in / construct machine</li><li>Transportation costs of team members and materials to and from competition</li><li>Additional fees / expenses</li></ul>
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RockSat-X
By RockSat-X at Virginia Tech
Bringing student payloads beyond the edge of space.
Bringing student payloads beyond the edge of space. RockSat-X at Virginia Tech <strong>RockSat-X @ VT: Our Mission:</strong>
The RockSat-X program is an initiative by the Colorado Space Grant Consortium in conjunction with NASA’s Sounding Rocket Program Office (SRPO) to provide low-cost access to space for university student design teams. Teams are allotted a modular payload space on a sounding rocket which is launched every August from NASA Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. The Virginia Tech team has participated in the program since 2014 and has successfully completed a variety of experiments. Our overarching mission is to demonstrate and advance space-based technology for the benefit of the public. <strong>Your gift to our project will ensure we have the resources we need to continue providing our fellow Hokies with valuable real-world experiences and conduct innovative research on the national stage.</strong>
<strong>Current and Previous Projects:</strong>
<strong>2022: Electric Field Sensor Development:</strong><em>Advancing ionospheric science and space weather instrumentation to benefit researchers in this area.</em>
With the Direction Finding mission about 80% complete at the start of the 2021-2022 school year, the team was looking for an additional experiment to fly in August 2022. Through this school year, about 2/3rds of the team is focused on developing a new electric field sensor for use on sounding rockets. The team will work with experts from Space@VT to advance research in the field of ionospheric science and space weather, and the mission will also serve as a platform for over many new Freshman and Sophomore members to learn about space mission design and have an entry point to what this team is all about.
<strong>2021-2022:</strong> <strong>Direction Finding of ADS-B Signals:</strong><em>Demonstrating radio frequency and signal processing capabilities in space</em>
<em></em>
Started in the 2020-2021 school year, this payload will focus on the development and implementation of a direction-finding system that will receive and record aircraft position packet (ADS-B) signals using a 4 element antenna array deployed from the payload deck out the side of the rocket body. The signals received from the antenna array will be fed into two Software Defined Radios for processing, storage, and data downlinking. A suite of sensors monitoring payload temperature, acceleration, rotation rate and other variables, as well as an on-board camera, will allow the team to monitor flight variables and payload functionality. Deployment of the antenna array will be accomplished through the implementation of a telescoping deployment mechanism.
<strong>2020: CubeSat Form-Factor Deployable Solar Array:</strong><em></em><em>Improving</em><em> power generation for future CubeSat missions allowing them to accomplish more with more power.</em>
<em></em>
Launched in August 2021, our team has developed a CubeSat form factor deployable solar array in order to demonstrate a potential avenue for enhanced power generation on CubeSat missions. This deployable allows for missions to compensate for solar power generation area lost to instrumentation on other faces of the CubeSat and can enable the use of technology with high power requirements.
<strong>2018: ThinSat Deployment:</strong><em>Carrying high school students' experiments to space to inspire younger students to pursue careers in science & engineering.</em>
The team developed a platform to utilize the RockSat-X sounding rocket launch opportunity to support STEM education and outreach at local high-schools, where they could learn valuable engineering and design experience. In 2018, three teams from two classes at Blacksburg High School (BHS) designed, developed, and built experiments for thin satellites that would be deployed in space, gathering critical scientific information, and transmitting it for post-mission analysis.
<em>For more information about the RockSat-X program and to see all previous missions from all schools, please visit: </em><a href="https://spacegrant.colorado.edu/national-programs/rs-x-home">https://spacegrant.colorado.edu/national-programs/rs-x-home</a>
<strong>Our Team:</strong>
Our team consists of 30+ Virginia Tech undergraduate students of all class years and multiple majors, including mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering, computer science, and materials science and engineering. We also enlist the help of 7 subject matter experts and advisors from Virginia Tech, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing. Each Fall we create a conceptual design and participate in several design reviews with subject matter experts from the Virginia Tech community, our industry partners, and the RockSat-X program staff. In the Spring, our design is manufactured and tested. In the summer our payload is integrated and is launched from NASA Wallops Flight Facility. By participating in VT RockSat-X, members gain skills and knowledge to be used in real world engineering, including CAD, electrical design, manufacturing, and test planning.
Previous members have gone on to apply these skills at companies and organizations such as NASA, SpaceX, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin. Several alumni have continued their studies by earning master’s degrees and PhDs in fields related to space mission design. A few of our alumni are even responsible for co-founding their own space mission design software startup based out of the Washington, DC area.
<strong>How You Can Help:</strong>
We rely on funding from multiple sources including private donors to make our projects possible. Each year, our team must cover expenses such as:<ul><li>program participation fees ($24,000 for the 2021-2022 year)</li><li>parts and supplies for payload manufacturing (typically $6,000 - $10,000)</li><li>lab and testing equipment</li><li>transportation of the payload to the launch site and lodging costs for summer testing</li></ul>
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Bear’s Eye View: Support VT’s Bear Camera Collar Research
By Marcella Kelly
A Bear’s Eye View: Using Camera Collars to Study American Black Bear Behavior and Foraging Ecology in the Appalachian Mountains
A Bear’s Eye View: Using Camera Collars to Study American Black Bear Behavior and Foraging Ecology in the Appalachian Mountains Marcella Kelly The Wildlife Habitat and Population Analysis (WHAPA) Lab in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech uses innovative technology to study elusive, difficult-to-track wildlife species. In Virginia, a shift in the carnivore community since the late 1970s has occurred as coyotes have expanded in range and bobcats and black bears have increased in numbers. Since these shifts have occurred, we do not know much about what these species eat.
In 2018, the WHAPA Lab conducted a pilot study placing ten cameras on bear collars to record video data. Cameras recorded 20-second videos every 20 minutes during daylight hours for a total of 17.5 hours per bear over two to four months. Eight more bears were fitted with video camera collars in 2019. The fantastic video footage reveals the daily lives of black bears (see example <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1uLNAb6e22fFpkU2t4PVgQZP_sEUTBR91">here</a>). With this video data, we can now more accurately determine the exact species of plants, animals, fungi, and even human-related foods that bears consume. We have already documented a wide variety of food items that change seasonally. Our study is important because the standard method of analyzing bear diet (dissecting scats or feces) can potentially be highly inaccurate since soft matter disintegrates in scats.
This pilot study was initially a side project. However, moving the camera collar project forward will require funding to enter collected data and conduct large-scale analyses to better understand black bear foraging ecology. These results will fill critical knowledge gaps in bear feeding ecology, especially immediately post hibernation in spring, and is highly relevant to predator and deer management programs in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia.
Little is known about whether bears emerge quickly from hibernation and begin feeding immediately or whether the process occurs more slowly with multiple returns to dens. Our camera collars also take locational readings, which we can use to find bear dens, and set up trail cameras to monitor bear behavior upon emergence in spring (usually in May).
<strong>Your help is needed so we can continue to conduct critical work in the WHAPA Lab during the spring and summer of 2022.</strong> <strong>In order for this work to proceed, we need to hire one full-time undergraduate technician who will be working with Brogan Holcombe, the lead graduate student researcher on the project.</strong> In addition, this undergraduate will also gain hands-on experience as a student researcher by learning about and being a part of the data entry and analysis processes that are essential parts of the project.
Please consider supporting the WHAPA Lab and student research at Virginia Tech! If you have any questions about the project or about black bears and wildlife, feel free to email Brogan Holcombe at <a href="mailto:brogan@vt.edu">brogan@vt.edu</a>.
To see more awesome videos check out <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23bearseyeview&src=hashtag_click">#bearseyeview on Twitter</a>!
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Capturing Confidence with Kate
By Virginia Tech
My platform aims help college students instill skill-based confidence and embrace their strengths.
My platform aims help college students instill skill-based confidence and embrace their strengths. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Kate Revels and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Kappa Delta. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform, Capturing Confidence with Kate. My platform aims help college students instill skill-based confidence and embrace their strengths. It is important to be able to highlight confidence in our strengths rather than constantly harping on our weaknesses, which can be detrimental to our health. As college students, we only have a short time to focus on truly grasping our strengths and encouraging growth in confidence before we transition again into the real world of graduate school, employment or wherever life may take you next. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, Capturing Confidence with Kate helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How Your Support Helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of my platform’s, Capturing Confidence with Kate, most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for educational handouts and booth materials</li>
<li>Guest speakers to attend our “Night of Confidence” event</li>
<li>Venue rental, material and refreshments for the event</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at krevels@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Everything Under the Rainbow with Motherway
By Virginia Tech
Support the most widespread event at Virginia Tech for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies to celebrate our freedom to be who we are!
Support the most widespread event at Virginia Tech for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies to celebrate our freedom to be who we are! Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Brandon Motherway and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Delta Psi Nu. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards Everything Under the Rainbow, a concert featuring queer performers and speakers in attempt to host the most widespread event at Virginia Tech for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies to celebrate our freedom to be who we are! As of the 2016 statistic, about 2,000 students at Tech identify with the community, and I hope to bring awareness to that number! Personal contributions and concert proceeds will go to Diversity Richmond, an LGBT youth homeless shelter.
How Your Support Helps
Your gifts will be used to help cover the costs of Everything Under the Rainbow’s most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with hosting benefit concert</li>
<li>Help provide Everything Under the Rainbow promotional items to be sold at concert</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at mbrand8@vt.edu .
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Steady Strides with Sal
By Virginia Tech
The goal of my platform is to help educate the community about what Parkinson’s Disease is and how it affects the individual suffering from the disease.
The goal of my platform is to help educate the community about what Parkinson’s Disease is and how it affects the individual suffering from the disease. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Sal Parente and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Delta Chi. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform “Steady Strides with Sal.” The goal of my platform is to help educate the community about what Parkinson’s Disease is and how it affects the individual suffering from the disease. Throughout the process I hope to raise money to donate to the Michael J Fox Foundation to help fund research towards finding a cure to this terrible disease. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, Steady Strides with Sal helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How Your Support Helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of Steady Strides with Sal most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with our yearly charity event</li>
<li>Transportation to the 5k walk/run</li>
<li>Any equipment needed to run the event</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at steadystrideswithsal@gmail.com or salp1998@vt.edu .
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Boost Accessibility with Blankinship
By Virginia Tech
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards Boost Accessibility with Blankinship.
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards Boost Accessibility with Blankinship. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Tyler Blankinship and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, the Virginia Tech Union. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards Boost Accessibility with Blankinship. After a leg injury in the fall, I had some first hand experience with how inaccessible parts of our campus can be, so I want to raise awareness and funds to help make Virginia Tech more accessible for all future Hokies! Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, Boost Accessibility with Blankinship helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How Your Support Helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of “Boost Accessibility with Blankinship” most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with our Spring benefit event/outreach platform implementation.</li>
<li>Provide educational materials about accessibility on campus.</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about Boost Accessibility with Blankinship, please feel free to contact me at tblankin@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign! Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Education Strong With Tam Hoang
By Virginia Tech
Raise awareness for the educational discrepancies children with disabilities, in rural minorities, and in single family homes are facing everyday in Vietnam.
Raise awareness for the educational discrepancies children with disabilities, in rural minorities, and in single family homes are facing everyday in Vietnam. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Tam Hoang and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA). I want to take this incredible opportunity to share my campaign that brings awareness to the educational discrepancies children with disabilities, in rural minorities, and in single family homes are facing everyday in Vietnam. I’ve partnered up with a grassroots, non-profit organization called Children of Vietnam who works to build school facilities, regulate clean drinking water stations, provide school supplies, give university scholarships, hold academic tutoring workshops, and more. My platform strives to directly improve the educational quality of these vulnerable children and to provide them the future that they deserve.
We are fortunate at Virginia Tech to award a homecoming fund to a cause of the student body’s choice. I want to use these funds to help other people in need through my campaign, Education Strong With Tam Hoang. The support goes a long way, especially in countries where learning is not free, school facilities are not funded or taken care of and the people are living in poverty. Every child deserves to have the same amount of opportunities, with education being a fundamental component to shaping their future.
As Hokies, we begin by focusing our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, but we now have the resources and ability to extend Virginia Tech’s global footprint and make a tangible and direct impact on the Vietnamese community. Education Strong With Tam Hoang, in partnership with Children of Vietnam, helps each Hokie live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How Your Support Helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of my platform and Children of Vietnam’s, most immediate needs. These funds will be used to host a street festival embracing Vietnamese Culture with various native food vendors and performances. The funds will also be used to:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for vendors for the cultural involvement in the festival</li>
<li>Providing amenities and renting the space needed</li>
<li>Providing equipment and materials necessary for cultural performances</li>
<li>Providing potential transportation needs to the event</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at htam@vt.edu
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Spotting the Signs with Sam Dickerson
By Virginia Tech
My goal is to provide mental health resources to local Blacksburg and Montgomery County youth prior to their transition to college.
My goal is to provide mental health resources to local Blacksburg and Montgomery County youth prior to their transition to college. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Sam Dickerson and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, The G.E.R.M.A.N. Club of Virginia Tech. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards “Spotting the Signs with Sam Dickerson” and its goal of providing mental health resources to local Blacksburg and Montgomery County youth, particularly upperclassmen in high school, prior to their transition to college. By informing them of the signs of mental health disorders and instilling confidence, I hope to help the next generation of high school graduates enter a college environment equipped to face mental health issues. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, “Spotting the Signs with Sam Dickerson” helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How Your Support Helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of “Spotting the Signs with Sam Dickerson’s” most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for the cost of creating a professional mental health workshop program</li>
<li>Pay for transportation to and from workshop locations</li>
<li>Provide increased funding for Cook Counseling and Montgomery County School’s Student Intervention Services.</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at samd97@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Together We are ABLE with Rachael Donnelly
By Virginia Tech
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards making an impact in the New River Valley community.
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards making an impact in the New River Valley community. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Rachael Donnelly and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Alpha Chi Omega. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards making an impact in the New River Valley community. “Together We are ABLE,” with Rachael Donnelly, positively highlights individuals with differing abilities by including those who fall under the umbrellas of Special Needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder in society. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, “Together We are ABLE” helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How your support helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of my platform, “Together We are ABLE,” with its most immediate needs as we work towards inclusion for all. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with hosting an inclusion field day for the New River Valley</li>
<li>Pay for the potential needed handicap transportation to the field day for inclusion event.</li>
<li>Provide extra amenities/upgrades needed for accessibility for all to attend this field day</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at rachad9@vt.edu .
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Leading Outdoors with Ligon
By Virginia Tech
Focusing on outdoor recreation accessibility in the Greater Virginia Tech community.
Focusing on outdoor recreation accessibility in the Greater Virginia Tech community. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Rouselle Ligon and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Virginia Tech Men’s Rugby. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards platform, Leading Outdoors With Ligon, which focus on outdoor recreation accessibility in the Greater Virginia Tech community. Often, particular outdoor recreation (OR) activities like kayaking or camping and outdoor education (OE) are inaccessible to children that belong to lower socioeconomic groups or minorities. OR and OE play an integral role in development as they expose children to new challenges and allow them to become more in touch with their environment. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, Leading Outdoors With Ligon, helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How your support helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of Leading Outdoors With Ligon most immediate needs.
Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with my on-campus event, Outdoor Expo, which showcases activities on the drillfield</li>
<li>Pay for transportation to and from Claytor Lake for an afternoon of paddle boarding and outdoor education enrichment around the park</li>
<li>Fund the purchase of outdoor recreation gear that will be used in a raffle for participants who come to the park.</li>
</ul>
* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at rous15@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Orange and Maroon Supporting Red, White, and Blue with Morris
By Virginia Tech
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards the struggles that military veterans and military families that have suffered a loss face.
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards the struggles that military veterans and military families that have suffered a loss face. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Julia Morris and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Alpha Phi. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards the struggles that military veterans and military families that have suffered a loss face. Disabled veterans and families like my own who have suffered the irreplaceable loss of a loved one in the military often suffer in silence and are unaware of the countless resources that they have access to in order to help cope with their losses. My goal with this platform is to create awareness around these struggles that those affected face and provide them with the tools and resources to stand on their feet again. With the help of the Hokie Community, I hope to donate money to philanthropic organizations that help these veterans and families during their time of need. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, Orange and Maroon Supporting Red, White, and Blue helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How your support helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of Orange and Maroon Supporting Red, White, and Blue’s most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Your donations would assist in reserving time and space for my obstacle course event in the Spring of 2020.</li>
<li>Provide snacks and beverages to those participating in my event.</li>
<li>Provide transportation and accommodations for guest speakers who are willing to share their stories at my event</li>
</ul>
* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at juliam9@vt.edu
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Give Safety a Thought, Vote Hendershot
By Virginia Tech
My platform is focused on the education and promotion of the Safe Ride program that we currently have here at Virginia Tech.
My platform is focused on the education and promotion of the Safe Ride program that we currently have here at Virginia Tech. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Leah Hendershot and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Delta Delta Delta. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform Give Safety a Thought, Vote Hendershot. My platform is focused on the education and promotion of the Safe Ride program that we currently have here at Virginia Tech. Ensuring that everyone in an unsafe and uncomfortable situation has a safe option home, having No Hokie Left Behind. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities Give Safety a Thought, Vote Hendershot helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How your support helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of Give Safety a Thought, Vote Hendershot most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated the community outreach day aimed to educate the Virginia Tech student body about safe options for getting home</li>
<li>Working with the town towards to install ride share zone signs in popular locations</li>
<li>Rental materials, refreshments, and other costs associated with hosting an event for the Virginia Tech student body</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at leah1997@vt.edu
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Trust Your Gut with Harry Diamond
By Virginia Tech
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform, “Trust Your Gut with Harry Diamond.”
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform, “Trust Your Gut with Harry Diamond.” Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Harry Diamond and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Delta Sigma Phi. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform, “Trust Your Gut with Harry Diamond”. Supporting the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation's Spin 4 Crohn’s and Colitis event, my campaign aims to shed more light on these diseases and bring us one step closer to a cure. These diseases attack the digestive tract in an inflammatory manner and affect more than 3 million Americans every year. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, “won’t stop until we achieve our vision - a future free from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.” Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, “Trust Your Gut with Harry Diamond” helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How your support helps
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of Trust Your Gut with Harry Diamond’s most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with our charity event - Spin 4 Crohn’s and Colitis - An indoor cycling event that serves to raise money for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation</li>
<li>Provide help for any amenities/upgrades needed to run the event</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at harry97@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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End the Addiction with Ryan Gahman
By Virginia Tech
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform “End the Addiction”.
I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform “End the Addiction”. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Ryan Gahma and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Chi Alpha. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform “End the Addiction”. It has been proven through rigorous study and personal testimony that pornography has harmful individual and societal effects. Pornography affects a user’s brain much like an addictive drug causing a dependency cycle. It also devalues people, objectifies sex and prevents us from understanding the intricacies of sacrificial and compassionate relationships. And finally, pornography has direct links toward stimulating human trafficking by creating demand and through the content itself. The aim of the platform is to bring awareness to these harmful effects and give students the resources to stop consuming pornography altogether.
Why I am crowdfunding
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of End the Addiction’s most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used to:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with providing resources for students to stop watching porn such as informational flyers, books and small groups</li>
<li>Help pay for a free concert where students can come listen to fun music as well as hear a cohesive message on the harmful effects of pornography from a professional</li>
</ul>
* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $5 will make a difference! If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at rg9816@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
Facebook: End the Addiction: VT Homecoming 2019
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I'll See you Tomorrow with Diego Sabugo
By Virginia Tech
This campaign’s goal is to prevent suicide by stimulating the mental health conversation focusing on mindfulness and resilience.
This campaign’s goal is to prevent suicide by stimulating the mental health conversation focusing on mindfulness and resilience. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Diego Sabugo and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Sigma Phi Epsilon. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards I’ll See You Tomorrow. This campaign’s goal is to prevent suicide by stimulating the mental health conversation focusing on mindfulness and resilience. It invites people to find awareness of their own mental health and how it affects their everyday lives. I wanted to do this because I believe that college students are thrusted a lot of responsibility after leaving home that it may be hard for them to adjust. This time in our lives is a crucial point of development and is a time where we need to audit our own mental health before heading off to life after college. I wish to be the light in someone’s dark place and I urge others to also be that same light for their friends and loved ones. We need to be reminded that we are stronger than we think and that any pain we endure, we will grow from it. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, I’ll See You Tomorrow helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
Why I am crowdfunding...
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of I’ll See You Tomorrow most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Promote and market the “You Are Not Alone” walk
<ul>
<li>Pay for flyers, posters, availability of the therapy dog</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Promotion of Suicide Prevention Workshops; carrying the conversation of mental health</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at dsab20@vt.edu
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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Rally Against Racism with Alexi Henderson
By Virginia Tech
Rally Against Racism is an effort to start a conversation on campus about the realities of racism within our community and elsewhere.
Rally Against Racism is an effort to start a conversation on campus about the realities of racism within our community and elsewhere. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Alexi Henderson and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Chi Delta Alpha. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards my platform, Rally Against Racism. Rally Against Racism is an effort to start a conversation on campus about the realities of racism within our community and elsewhere. I hope to both amplify the voices of people of color and emphasize the importance of every Hokie being dedicated to anti-racism. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, Rally Against Racism helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of Rally Against Racism’s most immediate needs. Examples
of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for costs associated with hosting a rally on Henderson lawn including:
<ul>
<li>Purchasing a permit from Blacksburg PD</li>
<li>Reserving/buying technical equipment such as speakers, microphones, etc.</li>
<li>Creating flyers to spread the word about the rally</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at alexij98@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign!
Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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The Big Plant with Desiree Velez
By Virginia Tech
My campaign's first priority is to educate the student body on the importance and influence one can have by being environmentally aware.
My campaign's first priority is to educate the student body on the importance and influence one can have by being environmentally aware. Welcome to My Crowdfunding Page!
My name is Desiree Velez and I am honored to be a part of the 2019 Homecoming Court with my sponsoring organization, Latin Link. I want to take this incredible opportunity to raise awareness towards Although many of us are blessed enough to not be experiencing the destruction that is being created by the changes in our environment, we are not free of responsibility of taking care of our Earth. Being from the Caribbean, I have seen the effects of human consumption and waste affect the island that I have called my second home for all my life, Puerto Rico. After seeing my motherland ripped apart as a result of the devastating effect humankind has on our environment, I came to the realization that something needs to change. We cannot hope to enact real change and counter environmental shifts without first educating our community on the reality of this topic. As our LatinX community says, “Mientras más aprendemos más caridad tenemos y con más caridad viene el cambio.” With knowing comes caring and with caring comes change. Through our efforts to aid the Virginia Tech campus communities, being environmentally aware helps each member live out the Virginia Tech mission statement daily by serving others.
How Your Support Helps
My campaigns first priority is to educate the student body on the importance and influence one can have by being environmentally aware. I believe this issue effects more people on campus than many realize. Our LatinX community as well as other organizations consist of students who consider a different country their home. More often than not, those countries are being more affected by the changes in climate than the United States. Even though we are not facing the direct effects in Blacksburg, we can still make a difference. I hope to put on an event to conclude Earth Week in the spring that brings together multicultural communities as well our environmentally aware organizations to appreciate our mother nature. The event is not only to celebrate the culture and land that earth has provided for us but to also educate and promote being environmentally aware even to those not taking direct impact. Additionally, I hope to promote “The Big Plant” which is put together by Environmental coalition, a student organization on campus, which began last year when they planted 6,000 trees in the new river valley. Hopefully we can help them plant 10,000 more this upcoming spring. One tree at a time.
Your gift will be used to help cover the costs of promoting environmental awareness throughout Virginia Tech’s campus most immediate needs. Examples of how these funds may be used:
<ul>
<li>Help pay for tree buds, shovels, gloves and supplies for volunteers during the Big Plant</li>
<li>Educational tools and activities for an Environmental Awareness Events</li>
<li>Booth set up and decorations for different organizations to promote their efforts to promote environmental awareness</li>
</ul>
<em>* Use of all donations are subject to approval by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Life</em>
Please Donate Today!
It would mean so much to me to see alumnae, family and friends from around the world donate and support my platform. Even a donation of $10 will make a difference! If you have any questions about please feel free to contact me at avdesi6@vt.edu.
Help Spread the Word of Our Campaign! Once you’ve made your gifts, please promote my crowdfunding page on your social media channels to help spread the word of our campaign!
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CEED Computers and Technology at Virginia Tech (C-Tech^2)
By CEED
C-Tech^2 provides an opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to come to Virginia Tech and explore the College of Engineering in a fun and exciting way.
C-Tech^2 provides an opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to come to Virginia Tech and explore the College of Engineering in a fun and exciting way. CEED Computers and Technology at Virginia Tech (CTech^2) is two-week immersive experience for junior and senior females to explore applications of engineering in a fun and exciting way. CTech^2 offers the opportunity to learn about college life—from residence halls to classrooms and everything in-between! It provides access to information and technology necessary to best prepare you for your future.
CTech^2 campers get a first-hand look of what it is like to be a Hokie and help determine if Virginia Tech Engineering is indeed in their future. Campers will tour many of the engineering labs on campus, attend seminars to help prepare for the college application process, complete an engineering design project with corporate sponsors, and interact with other aspiring female engineers interested in pursuing careers in STEM related fields. Campers will get to know current Virginia Tech engineering students and faculty, and will walk away with an in-depth introduction to life as a Virginia Tech Hokie and create new memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
“I wanted to thank the C-Tech^2 staff, coordinators, and professors for providing me with an invaluable experience I will remember for the rest of my life. Attending this camp helped my love for math, science, and engineering flourish through a shared interest with other females. I discovered what I love about both engineering and Virginia Tech and made so many amazing friends during my time at camp.”
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Help students present research at NCUR 2020
By Office of Undergraduate Research
Enable students from any major to present research at national conference in 2020
Enable students from any major to present research at national conference in 2020 The National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) is the largest conference on undergraduate research in the country. Each year, approximately 4,000 undergraduates from all over the country present their scholarship as posters, oral presentations, performances, and works of art. Montana State University will host NCUR2020 from March 25-28, 2020.
Presenting results of a research project are an important part of a student's overall research journey because it provides students with the opportunity to defend their work, exchange ideas, and even be inspired for future research. This conference provides students with the chance to network with peers, meet with graduate program representatives from across the country, develop effective communication skills, gain self-confidence as an emergent expert in their field, and increase general awareness of other areas of research.
The estimated cost for participation at NCUR2020 is $1,100 per student, which includes registration, transportation, and accommodation. This can be a barrier to many and one that the OUR believes it can and should remove. Over the past ten years, the OUR has covered all expenses for students. Acceptance rates have steadily climbed over the past several years, with 9 students presenting their work in 2019 and 14 in 2018, up from a norm of only two or three pre-dating 2014. The OUR wants to make participation in this event a possibility for all interested students. Due to the conference's location and anticipated participation level, we are seeking financial assistance. Full support of this crowdfunding project will enable the OUR to cover expenses for student presenters, from any major and academic rank.
Please help us to provide students with this amazing opportunity. Every dollar counts towards getting a student to NCUR 2020 to present their research. Thank you for your support!
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Kids Connect Through Jazz
By Virginia Tech
The Moss Arts Center is bringing JazzReach to the New River Valley to help students explore differences and see the value of creative collaboration.
The Moss Arts Center is bringing JazzReach to the New River Valley to help students explore differences and see the value of creative collaboration. Your gift will have TWICE the impact!
<strong>Thanks to the generous support of Dr. Mark and Connie Froggatt, every donation will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $6,000! </strong>
The Moss Arts Center is dedicated to providing meaningful experiences that spark interest in the arts and the creative process for students of all ages and backgrounds. Since the center opened in the fall of 2013, more than 23,000 children have enjoyed these kinds of opportunities free of charge--that means no cost to the schools or the students.
This February the Moss Arts Center is bringing JazzReach, an organization committed to the promotion, performance, creation, and teaching of jazz music, back to the New River Valley for a second time to present a series of creative experiences for area students that includes master classes and workshops, as well as special performances.
When you give to this campaign and share it with others, you are helping the center bring JazzReach’s comprehensive experience to over 1,300 area students—elementary, middle, high school, and college-aged. These students will learn about the power of jazz as a unifying force that bridges cultural, religious, ethnic, and economic differences.
<strong>Every gift will help make a life-changing impact on a student.</strong>
JazzReach’s critically acclaimed resident ensemble, Metta Quintet, will work closely with an area high school jazz ensemble during a series of workshops and master classes, and the ensemble will participate in several combined rehearsals with the quintet. The jazz ensemble will also have the opportunity to perform onstage alongside the award-winning quintet during a free joint concert that will be open to the public.
The quintet will visit a Virginia Tech music class during its visit to Blacksburg and will present an immersive, globally-themed multimedia school-day matinee performance for area third through sixth graders. <em>Big Drum/Small World</em> aims to promote the value of creative collaboration and the unique way jazz can help us explore our differences, share ideas, and discover common ground. The matinee will feature performances of all new commissions by prominent, internationally recognized jazz composers hailing from areas as diverse as West Africa, Israel, Cuba, Puerto Rico, India, and the United States.
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Help youth in Dinwiddie County attend 4-H Camp
By Hannah Bishop
The purpose of this project is to raise funds for youth in Dinwiddie County to attend Junior 4-H Camp held at the Airfield 4-H Conference Center.
The purpose of this project is to raise funds for youth in Dinwiddie County to attend Junior 4-H Camp held at the Airfield 4-H Conference Center. 4-H programs are grounded in the belief that youth learn best by doing. Kids complete hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture and civic engagement, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Youth can concentrate on one focus area or they can try a variety of programs throughout their 4-H experience.
The 4-H Summer Camps provide youth between the ages of 9 and 13 with programming designed to learn through experiential education and character development. 4-H camping is cooperative group living in a natural environment which focuses on the individual's social, spiritual, mental, and physical development for both boys and girls. Since 4-H camping is educationally focused, it is recognized as a method by which to deliver 4-H programming. These camps involve trained professional staff, as well as highly skilled adult and teen volunteers in working with and supervising all campers.
We have educational programs to address whatever interests our campers have. The camp experience provides an introduction into the club and educational programs that are also provided in the local 4-H programs.
In Dinwiddie, we had 229 participants in our Dinwiddie 4-H Junior camp for the year 2020, and the cost of camp steadily rises and becomes too expensive for some families. Many families are also sending multiple youth to camp and making payment plans or seeking sponsorship. We want camp to be as affordable and accessible as possible for everyone that we can because we believe that 4-H camp changes lives. 4-H camp empowers youth and gives them a voice. 4-H camp provides a safe place for kids to be themselves and just be a kid. So join us in supporting 4-H camping in Dinwiddie County because thousands of youth have already benefited, and we want to reach thousands more.
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2020 Geosciences Student Research Symposium
By Virginia Tech
GSRS provides students a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department.
GSRS provides students a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. Geosciences Student Research Symposium (GSRS) is a long-standing tradition in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech. This event spans two days of student research presentations, including both graduate and undergraduate students. GSRS provides students a platform to communicate their research across the far-reaching disciplines of our department. This promotes student growth as scientists in a collegial environment. <strong>In 2020, we will be celebrating the quadranscentennial of GSRS - GSRS25! </strong>
GSRS is entirely <strong>student-led.</strong> Fundraising and logistics are organized by a committee of graduate students. In addition to developing communication skills, event preparation fosters leadership, mentorship, and team-building experiences.
Now in its third year, the <strong>pre-GSRS Workshop Series</strong> provides monthly tutorials, led by graduate student volunteers, on how to navigate professional conferences. Topics range from abstract writing to poster formatting. All students are encouraged to attend, especially undergraduates tackling a presentation for the first time. The pre-GSRS Workshop Series delivers skills to our students that they can apply to GSRS and carry with them for years to come.
GSRS closes with the ever-popular banquet, hosted in the Museum of Geosciences, on Friday evening. This gathering celebrates another successful GSRS, and is highlighted by a diverse spread of hors d’ouevres and cash bar. Here, awards are presented to outstanding student presenters. We invite and encourage all who can attend to join us for this annual rendezvous of alumni, faculty, students, and friends of Geosciences.
GSRS is a public event. We'd love to see friends and alumni of Geosciences in Kelly Hall, <strong>February 13-14, 2020</strong>, for GSRS25! More information may be found on our official website, at: <a href="https://gsrsvtgeos.wixsite.com/home">https://gsrsvtgeos.wixsite.com/home</a>
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Help Hokies Compete at the ASC Competition
By Virginia Tech
Students from the Myers-Lawson School of Construction (MLSoC) will compete against 14 other universities in October in Peachtree City Georgia.
Students from the Myers-Lawson School of Construction (MLSoC) will compete against 14 other universities in October in Peachtree City Georgia. What is the ASC Competition?
The competition is hosted by the Associated Schools of Construction (ASC), a professional association of construction educators and industry practitioners working together for the development and advancement of construction education.
The actual competition is a two-day event. However, the competition is preceded by a travel day, check-in, reception dinner and career fair on Tuesday, October 22nd. Wednesday, October 23rd is referred to as “Game Day”, which begins with a hardy, early morning breakfast followed by a pre-proposal meeting with the division sponsor. The sponsoring company gives each team a Request-for-Proposal (RFP) for one of their current or completed projects. Each team consists of six students. The teams are required to prepare bids, develop schedules, consider value-engineering options, assess risk, prepare site/project-specific safety plan, develop quality and cost control procedures, respond to addenda and analyze quotes from fictitious subcontractors/vendors. The competition simulates a real-world bid development and construction management proposal. The written proposals must be submitted to the sponsors by the prescribed time at the end of Game Day.
Thursday, October 24th is “Presentation Day” during which teams are required to deliver an oral presentation to the judges from the sponsoring company. The Teams defend their bids, schedules, logistics and means and methods they propose to use on the project, site-specific safety plans, and essentially attempt to ‘sell’ their construction services to the sponsoring firm. Each student on the Team is expected to contribute to proposal development and the oral presentation. The presentation is followed by a question and answer session during which the judges will ask detailed and often challenging questions. The winners are determined and an awards ceremony is held at a banquet later that evening. However prior to the banquet after all of the oral presentations have been made, the project managers from the sponsoring firms conduct a “debriefing” to inform the students how the actual project was constructed. The debriefing also includes a question and answer period where students ask the questions. Finally, the place winners are announced at the banquet during the awards ceremony. The Hokie Teams will return to Blacksburg on Friday, October 25th and arrive home before dinner.
The teams are seeking assistance to cover the housing costs during this competition.
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National Graduate Research Polymer Conference
By NGRPC2020 Organizing Committee
NGRPC celebrates graduate students in polymer science and engineering across the country. Our aim is to provide meals for all the students attending NGRPC2020.
NGRPC celebrates graduate students in polymer science and engineering across the country. Our aim is to provide meals for all the students attending NGRPC2020. NGRPC2020 Organizing Committee Virginia Tech has received the honor to host the 2020 National Graduate Research Polymer Conference (NGRPC) – an American Chemical Society POLY Division-hosted event held every other year. The conference is hosted by graduate students, for graduate students highlighting polymer science and engineering with renown speakers from around the country/world with diverse research backgrounds. The conference will be held July 13-15th, 2020 with events at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Moss Arts Center.
We are expecting up to 300 conference attendees that we will house, cater, and entertain with an abundance of exceptional research for three days. Our goal is to provide meals over the course of the entire conference for all of the students in attendance.
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NASA S.U.I.T.S. Augmented Reality Challenge
By HokieNauts
Virginia Tech is sending a team to compete at the NASA S.U.I.T.S. Competition (Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students) at the Houston Space Station.
Virginia Tech is sending a team to compete at the NASA S.U.I.T.S. Competition (Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students) at the Houston Space Station. HokieNauts This project has ended, but you can still make your gift by visiting <a href="https://give.vt.edu/">give.vt.edu</a> or by calling 800-533-1144.
The NASA SUITS (Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students) Design Challenge is for student teams to design and create space suit information displays within an augmented reality (AR) environment. These display and audio environments are intended to aid astronauts in performing spacewalk tasks.
In fall, universities competed across the country, and 12 teams were selected to move on to the final challenge, which takes place April 15-19, 2019 at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Virginia Tech was one of the lucky finalists, and we need to send our team to the competition. In addition, we want to share our project and findings with workshops with K-12 audiences.
More information about the competition can be found here:
<a href="https://microgravityuniversity.jsc.nasa.gov/nasasuits.cfm">https://microgravityuniversity.jsc.nasa.gov/nasasuits.cfm</a>
Our team is comprised of faculty and students from computer science, creative technologies, and graphic design. Meet our team here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wbVOZJwkTM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wbVOZJwkTM</a>
Check out our website here: <a href="http://hokienauts.com">http://hokienauts.com</a>
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Preserving our Past for the Future
By The Corps of Cadets
The one of a kind uniform to be restored belonged to Col. John Samuel Adolphus Johnson, an 1898 graduate who later became the Commandant of Cadets
The one of a kind uniform to be restored belonged to Col. John Samuel Adolphus Johnson, an 1898 graduate who later became the Commandant of Cadets The Corps of Cadets The uniform was produced in 1897 and worn by Col. John Samuel Adolphus Johnson, an 1898 graduate who went on to become the Commandant of Cadets and Chair of the University’s Mechanical Arts Department for more than 25 years. It is an important piece of University history because it marked the University’s name change to Virginia Polytechnic Institute from Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College in 1897. It carries the letters “VPI” in embroidered script on the collar — a design that has never been repeated on the iconic blue dress uniform still worn by cadets today. Once restored to its former glory, the uniform will have a prominent space in the new Corps Museum planned for the future Corps Leadership and Military Sciences Building on Upper Quad.
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4-H Horse Program Educational Teams
By Virginia 4-H Horse Program
Support the winning state 4-H Horse Program educational teams compete successfully at Regional and National contests!
Support the winning state 4-H Horse Program educational teams compete successfully at Regional and National contests! Virginia 4-H Horse Program <em><strong>Please Join Us</strong></em> in our campaign to fund raise for our Virginia state educational <a href="https://ext.vt.edu/4h-youth/horse.html">4-H Horse Program</a> teams - Hippology, Horse Bowl, Horse Judging, Individual Presentations, Team Presentations and Public Speaking! You're invited to give to a program that has been the conduit to many leaders and professionals in our equine community today!
Winning teams at <a href="https://ext.vt.edu/4h-youth/horse/events/equismartz.html">EquiSmartz</a> are studying hard in preparation for Southern Regionals and Eastern National! With the representation of approximately 34 top youth from all six contests at these interstate competitions, expenses add up, much at the burden of the competitors, coaches and parents.
We need your help today! Join us in taking part of supporting these youth, with any amount you can give, to help fund their travel, hotel, meals, study retreat, and entries for these once-in-a-lifetime experiences!
Help us continue our success!! Virginia holds the title for the National 4-H Horse Judging Team now for two years and last year our Hippology Team won Reserve Champion at Nationals!!
<strong>Minimum Costs for Teams</strong>
<strong>Southern Regionals - Perry, Georgia</strong>
$160/team - Entry Fees
$100/hotel room - minimum 3 nights = $300
$200 travel/meals = $200
<strong>Total = $660/team</strong>
<strong>All American Quarter Horse Congress - Columbus, Ohio</strong>
$200/team - Entry Fees
$150/hotel room - minimum 3 nights = $450
$500 - travel/meals = $500
<strong>Total = $1,150/team</strong>
<strong>Eastern National 4-H Horse Round Up - Louisville, Kentucky</strong>
$300/team - Entry Fees
$175/hotel room - minimum 2 nights = $350
$300 - misc fees (food, travel, supplies) = $300
<strong>Total = $950/team</strong>
Total <strong><em>MINIMUM </em></strong>cost to send all educational teams to regional and national contests = <strong>$20,520</strong>
*does not include practice sessions throughout the year or coaches travel
<em><strong>We thank you for partnering with us to "Make the Best Better" in the 4-H Horse Program! </strong></em>
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Civil War Museum Exhibit
By Paul Quigley
We invite you to help VT history students make a difference by sharing their research with the public and Virginia schoolchildren.
We invite you to help VT history students make a difference by sharing their research with the public and Virginia schoolchildren. This project has ended, but you can still make your gift by visiting <a href="https://give.vt.edu/">give.vt.edu</a> or by calling 800-533-1144.
We invite you to help VT history students make a difference by sharing their research with the public and Virginia schoolchildren. We are a team of faculty and students, from Virginia Tech's <a href="https://www.civilwar.vt.edu/wordpress/">Virginia Center for Civil War Studies</a>, creating an exhibit for the American Civil War Museum in Appomattox.
The exhibit, “Enacting Freedom: Black Virginians in the Age of Emancipation,” will be on display from April 2019 through April 2020. It begins with a question: what did freedom mean to African Americans after the end of slavery? Freedom to do what? Freedom from what? Politics and voting were important, but they were never the whole story. Instead, former slaves fought to make freedom meaningful by securing an education for their children, by claiming new economic opportunities, by reuniting families torn apart by slavery.
Our exhibit will combine original artifacts, innovative visuals, and rigorously-researched interpretation to tell the incredible stories of black Virginians who struggled, survived, and thrived through the tumultuous Civil War and Reconstruction years.
And it’s all based on the hard work of VT history students.
Your donation will help in one of two ways: allowing us to build the highest-quality exhibit possible; and enabling us to share our research with Virginia schoolchildren by offering funded field trips.
Through its elementary school outreach program, the <a href="https://www.civilwar.vt.edu/wordpress/traveling-trunk-of-civil-war-history/">Traveling Trunk of Civil War History</a> (right), the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies knows well how much the younger crowd appreciates hand-on history. By facilitating elementary school visits, including those from under-resourced school districts, subsidized field trips will ensure that our exhibit has a deeper and more lasting impact.
Thank you for your support!
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Solar Decathlon Design Competition
By Solar Decathalon Team
Virginia Tech will be sending two teams to the Solar Decathlon Design Competition in Golden, Colorado, and we need your help to get us there!
Virginia Tech will be sending two teams to the Solar Decathlon Design Competition in Golden, Colorado, and we need your help to get us there! Solar Decathalon Team This project has ended, but you can still make your gift by visiting <a href="https://give.vt.edu/">give.vt.edu</a> or by calling 800-533-1144.
For the first time ever, Virginia Tech will be sending two teams to the Solar Decathlon Design Competition (formally known as Race to Zero) in Golden, Colorado, and we need your help to get us there! We have two finalist teams competing: one is TreeHAUS and the other is ECO-Graphi0, and we are trying to raise $6500 to help support student air travel and accommodation as well as other project expenses. We want as many team members as possible to be able to participate in valuable networking opportunities with leading industry professionals in construction, energy and green building industries.
Virginia Tech has a long history of success in the Solar Decathlon, the U.S. Department of Energy's most popular student competition in sustainable design and architecture. We are looking to continue this legacy! Both LumenHAUS and FutureHAUS have previously won international acclaim in the design-build version of the event, and this is the first year the DOE has opened things up to include the design of larger residential buildings, mixed-use developments, and commercial office buildings. This has allowed both of our teams to DREAM BIG without the constraint of immediate construction! See below for some additional information on each of Virginia Tech's two finalist teams.
The TreeHAUS is a net-positive, regenerative attached housing project inspired by the way trees collect and distribute resources in the forest. The goal of the project is to strengthen the surrounding environment and Blacksburg municipality by imagining the house as a cooperative constituent of its contextual ecology. The TreeHAUS will harness energy from the sun, harvest water from the rain, and cycle resources and information throughout its community in the same way that plants and trees do in nature. Our design will be the first residential building in a proposed Live/Work/Learn village at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center.
ECO-Graphi0 is the envisioned office building that will be part of Virginia Tech’s Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) office park, located in close proximity to campus and future student housing that will be developed as a smart village. The project will become a living-learning experience for researchers in residency applying building science concepts in a larger development plan, providing opportunities to integrate energy and load management strategies across different building types within a community. More specifically, this project will be developed in coordination with Virginia Tech’s entry in the Attached Housing division, demonstrating how building occupancy diversity and load management can contribute to further energy savings across a microgrid.
Thank you again for helping to support our project, and especially our students, in travelling to Colorado for the finals of the Solar Decathlon Design Competition. We are trying to raise $6500 by April 25th, so please pledge anything you can to help the cause!
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Equestrian Helmet Research
By VT Helmet Lab
The VT Helmet Lab is actively pursuing research and testing in the Equestrian helmet industry.
The VT Helmet Lab is actively pursuing research and testing in the Equestrian helmet industry. VT Helmet Lab This project has ended, but you can still make your gift by visiting <a href="https://give.vt.edu/">give.vt.edu</a> or by calling 800-533-1144.
Fill in Fund Number 875399 - Helmet Lab.
The VT Helmet Lab is known for Helmet Ratings for Varsity Football, Hockey, Cycling, and Soccer. We also test soft headgear for Soccer and Flag Football. Youth Football Helmet Ratings were just released and we are now actively pursuing research and testing in the Equestrian helmet industry. Please help us by spreading the word and contributing to our research agenda!
With your support we will purchase equestrian helmets and test them in our Helmet Lab. We will use the impact tests to develop a STAR rating for each equestrian helmet and post them on our web page: <a href="http://www.vt.edu/helmet">www.vt.edu/helmet</a>. The testing should take approximately 6 months, and you will be able to use these findings to inform your decision when buying your next equestrian helmet.
Educationally, VT Helmet Lab Team
Go Hokies!
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Sigma Phi Epsilon - Muhannah Hossain
By Sigma Phi Epsilon
Holding Hands with Hossain
Holding Hands with Hossain Sigma Phi Epsilon Hi my name is Muhannah Hossain and I am incredibly privileged to be on the Homecoming Court this fall. My platform, Holding Hands with Hossain, is an anti-bullying campaign which centers around building community and promoting positivity in elementary schools. I am patterning with the COR foundation to host a clinic for college students to learn about common bullying themes. And then, as part of a two-day event, we will be going to an elementary school in the area and spending a few hours with those students, teaching them those same bullying themes. The money raised will go towards various costs incurred by hosting the clinic along with transportation costs to the elementary schools in the area. The idea is, that by teaching them these themes so early on in their lives we can affect them at a young age. And as they grow older they will hopefully leave behind their previous ideals. Together, we can begin to end the problem before it even begins.
**Make your Senior Class Gift of $20.19 or more to commemorate your graduation year, and begin your legacy of alumni engagement and giving. We are acknowledging all of our donors of $20.19 or more with a black and gray cord to be worn at graduation in recognition of your support for Virginia Tech and its traditions.
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CEED Peer Mentoring
By CEED
CEED Peer Mentoring connects first-year engineering students to an upper-class mentor in order to ensure their Hokie experience is successful and enjoyable.
CEED Peer Mentoring connects first-year engineering students to an upper-class mentor in order to ensure their Hokie experience is successful and enjoyable. CEED One of the great things about being a new Hokie in engineering is the amount of support you can receive from your upper-class peers who genuinely want to do whatever they can to help you have the best first semester possible.
Through the CEED Peer Mentoring Program, you will be assigned to a small group of about 10 freshmen and one upper-class mentor. You will get together and talk about typical first-year issues – finding campus resources, connecting with faculty, exploring undergraduate research, and asking any questions you have about getting connected on campus. Through our mentor groups and large social events, you will meet study partners and make lasting friendships. This is a great way to start your first semester as a Hokie!
You may select which mentoring group you would like to join:
<ul>
<li>
AHORA <em>(Academic Hispanic OutReach Alliance)</em>
</li>
<li>
BEST <em>(Black Engineering Support Teams)</em>
</li>
<li>
GUEST <em>(General Undergraduate Engineering Support Teams)</em>
</li>
<li>
WEST <em>(Women in Engineering Support Teams)</em>
</li>
</ul>
The weekend before classes begin, you will be invited to attend a welcome event with your mentor. This will be a great chance to meet the mentors and other mentees in the program and hit the ground running, making connections on campus. Your small group will determine when you would like to meet based on your schedules for the first 10 weeks of the fall semester. Some meetings will be on campus while others will be off campus. The off-campus meetings will be a great chance for your mentor to help you get to know the community around campus and take you to a meal compliments of CEED!
At the heart of all this activity and planning are engineering students who genuinely care about helping you have an excellent experience as a new Hokie.
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VT Choir Performs in Spain
By Dr. Dwight Bigler, conductor
The Virginia Tech Chamber Singers are excitedly preparing to perform multiple concerts throughout central Spain in May 2019.
The Virginia Tech Chamber Singers are excitedly preparing to perform multiple concerts throughout central Spain in May 2019. Dr. Dwight Bigler, conductor The Virginia Tech Chamber Singers are hoping to travel to Spain in May 2019 to perform concerts and learn about the culture and history of this diverse region of Europe.
VT Chamber Singers performing outside of Dublin, Ireland, 2015
With invitations from the Lord Mayor of Madrid and Music Celebrations International, they will sing as part of the 2019 American Celebration of Music in Spain with concerts in Madrid, Toledo, Seville, and Granada. We need your help to get there! Your contributions will help to support the students' travel expenses including airfare, coach bus, and lodging. We want every student in the choir to be able to experience this amazing opportunity! Your help is critical to making that happen.
VT Chamber Singers in Ireland, 2015
In addition to performing in historic venues, the students will experience the rich culture and arts in the region, including visits to the Prado Museum, El Escorial Monastery, The Mosque in Cordoba, and multiple historic plazas, palaces, and cathedrals.
Post-concert celebration in Ireland, 2015
VT Chamber Singers at the Vatican, 2012
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Beyond Blacksburg: Removing Barriers to Study Abroad
By Global Education Office
Help send Hokies abroad by supporting Global Education scholarships for underrepresented students.
Help send Hokies abroad by supporting Global Education scholarships for underrepresented students. Global Education Office <strong>Help Virginia Tech students connect with the world and support their development into globally competent citizens.</strong>
This crowdfunding effort raises scholarship funds to support Virginia Tech students in accessing study abroad opportunities, specifically for underrepresented students (students of color, first generation, low socioeconomic status, students with disabilities, LGBTQ+, veterans, student athletes, and STEM majors). Your contribution may mean the difference in whether a student is able to study abroad.
While diversity in study abroad participation has increased in recent years, minority students are still greatly underrepresented. At Virginia Tech less than 10 percent of the overall study abroad participation is comprised of students who identify as Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino(a), or Native American or Alaskan Native. In a recent conversation with student at the Black Cultural Center at Virginia Tech, she explained that many of her peers viewed studying abroad as "not for them or not possible."
Reported data* from other underrepresented groups who studied abroad during Academic Year 2017-2018 reflect participation numbers as:<ul><li>Veteran or military status: 44</li><li>Student Athletes: 24</li><li>Disability (learning, mental, or physical): 40</li></ul>
* Students are not required to report or self-identify as belonging to an underrepresented group. The numbers reflect what has been reported.
The Global Education Office is putting forth efforts to increase outreach to underrepresented groups in hopes of encouraging greater participation and dispel common myths about study abroad.
By allocating scholarship funds for underrepresented students, our hope is to encourage interest and access to study abroad opportunities among diverse populations of students.
Thank you for your support,
<strong>Global Education Office at Virginia Tech</strong>
Student/Alumni Testimonials
“I wanted to go somewhere else. I wanted to see how much I could continue growing as a person. I loved the connections I made…I usually try to go into study abroad without any expectations because what do you really know about the place. No matter what you hear in the media or see on Twitter or Instagram, the people are what really make a place.”<em><strong> - Katherine Louis from Chesapeake, VA, a junior honors student majoring in Spanish</strong></em>
<em>Katherine Louis studied abroad twice, the first time at the University of Oviedo in Spain and her second experience was to Oman.</em>
"Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I made at Virginia Tech. It allowed me to view parts of the world and meet a variety of people that would not have been possible if I simply visited a city. Being immersed in another part of the world gave me the opportunity to learn and experience other cultures and perspectives on topics that are not discussed in the United States. Once we graduate and start working, most likely there will not be another time in our lives that would allow us to be abroad for an extended period of time. All of my friends who studied abroad agree that it was an amazing decision, and the ones who didn't study abroad regret not going."<em><strong> - Alex Bahrami from Great Falls, VA, a masters student in business administration</strong></em>
<em>Alex Bahrami studied abroad through a third-party program at the American Farm School (Perrotis College) in Greece.</em>
<strong><em>Study Abroad Alumni</em></strong><ul><li>"I believe my international experience helped to "break the walls", the imaginary walls we feel between people, cultures and countries. I feel comfortable speaking and relating to nearly anyone, even if they have an important position or are from a completely different culture. And I can communicate fluently in English, which is not my first language." - Javiera Bahamond, Class of 2013 </li><li>"[Studying abroad taught me] empathy for a wide range of perspectives; patience to deal with challenging situations; multicultural understanding to help navigate new situations with grace and kindness; critical thinking capacity from lots of diverse challenges..." - Christopher St. Clair, Class of 2014 </li></ul>
Benefits of studying abroad:
Students who return from a study abroad experience often say that they gained so much from the experience. We rarely hear a student express regret for going on a program. Apart from student feedback, research also shows that studying abroad allows opportunities to develop valuable skills and competencies that benefit students not only academically or professionally, but personally, too.<ul><li>Academic benefits:<ul><li>17.8% higher 4-year graduation rate than those who did not study abroad (University System Georgia)</li><li>Of students who studied abroad, 90% of respondents got into their first or second choice graduate or professional school (IES Abroad)</li></ul></li><li>Career or professional benefits:<ul><li>Studies have shown study abroad as having “substantial long-term impact on individuals’ career paths and global engagement,” (SAGE Research Project) </li><li>84% of study abroad students say the experience helped develop key job skills such as “adaptability, global understanding and tolerance, leadership, and independence,” (IES Abroad)</li><li>Starting salaries were $7,000 higher for those who studied abroad (IES Abroad)</li><li>Employers report seeing study abroad as a positive quality on a resume (AIM Overseas)</li><li>90% of study abroad alumni found their first job within six months of graduation (IES Abroad)</li><li>A survey of 10,0000 hiring managers and CEOs in 116 nations, found that 60% of respondents said they “value an international study experience” (2011 QS Global employer survey)</li></ul></li><li>Personal benefits:<ul><li>Study abroad alumni attributed study abroad to increased maturity, self-confidence, and ability to tolerate ambiguity (IES Abroad)</li><li>
Students who studied abroad showed improvements in five core traits compared to their peers who did not study abroad: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness and emotional stability (Friedrich Schiller University, Germany)</li></ul></li></ul>
Barriers to Studying Abroad
The reasons to study abroad are clear and abundant, but only about 1,400 students of the 34,440 total population at Virginia Tech participated on study abroad programs last year. So why aren't more students taking their education abroad?
One of the most cited barriers to study abroad is costs. While there are cost effective programs, many view study abroad as a guaranteed way to add to already high costs of higher education. Last March, the Global Education Office was notified about a loss of scholarship funding totaling $100,000 that would take affect during Academic Year 2018-2019. The office is now currently exploring other sources for generating scholarship funds such as this crowdfunding effort.
Apart from financial matters, other barriers include academic rigidity, fear, lack of awareness and diversity (NAFSA, <a href="https://www.nafsa.org/Professional_Resources/Browse_by_Interest/Education_Abroad/Network_Resources/Education_Abroad/Managing_Education_Abroad__How_to_Overcome_Key_Barriers_to_Education_Abroad/">Managing Education Abroad: How to Overcome Key Barriers</a>). The Global Education Office has spent the last year identifying the barriers that can stop students from taking part in study abroad programs and has taken steps to address those concerns. Last year, study abroad participation at Virginia Tech had an almost 15% increase.
More information on Virginia Tech's efforts to increase and diversify student study abroad participation <ul><li>
<a href="https://vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2018/02/outreach-generationstudyabroad.html">Virginia Tech pledges to increase study abroad participation by 2020</a></li></ul>
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Virginia Tech Design Insights with Bill Green
By VTID
Design Insights is a video initiative to create and share videos made by Virginia Tech Industrial Design students.
Design Insights is a video initiative to create and share videos made by Virginia Tech Industrial Design students. VTID Design Insights is a video initiative to create and share videos made by Virginia Tech Industrial Design. We are raising money to create paid student positions to continue to create these videos. Students are learning how to shoot, edit and socialize these videos and share our love of Design.
In today's video Bill talks about the Braun radio:
The beautiful translucent plastic lid gave this combination its nickname "Snow White's Coffin". Braun products were appreciated for their technical quality and for their severe aesthetic appeal, which was defined by the visionary designer Dieter Rams and Hans Gugelot (Bauhaus / Ulmer Schule HFG aka "Ulm College of Design") whose design credo was ‘back to purity, back to simplicity’. Rationalisation and upper mounting of operational elements, combination of radio and phono functions, restriction of form to express the technical means of its production - legible particularly in the radiused edges of bent steel and perspex sheeting, an insistence upon flatness appropriate to the use of sheet materials and, more negatively, a rejection of the then ruling requirement that domestic audio equipment be sunk into a piece of heavy wooden furniture, all of these cement the truly iconic status of Rams' and Gugelot's SK series design.
#DesignInsights #HistoryofDesign #BillGreen
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2019 Geosciences Student Research Symposium
By GSRS Team
None
GSRS Team Geosciences Student Research Symposium (GSRS) is a 24-year-old tradition in the Department of Geosciences. This two-day conference in February provides both undergraduate and graduate students a platform to present their research. GSRS allows students to <em><strong>develop effective scientific communication skills</strong></em> through the preparation of an oral or poster presentation while receiving feedback from faculty and their peers on their work. This promotes student growth as scientists in a collegial environment. Our research spans the areas of: hazards and resources (earthquakes & tsunamis), the evolution of our planet (mountain ranges, volcanoes, & sedimentary rocks), the environment (environmental nanoscience & hydrology), and much more!
<strong><em>GSRS is entirely organized by graduate students,</em></strong> helping students gain leadership, team building, and mentoring skills by serving on the GSRS Committee.
<strong><em>The GSRS Workshop Series,</em></strong> now in its second year, is a series of monthly lectures and Q&A sessions leading up to GSRS where faculty, postdocs, and senior graduate students offer advice on abstract writing, scientific presentations, and poster making. This ensures that undergraduate and graduate students are prepared to present their work at a scientific conference.
GSRS is open to the general public and is attended by other departments and intellectuals. In this manner, GSRS can be the jumping off point for interdisciplinary research collaborations in the department and in the wider university. Ultimately, GSRS helps prepare students for geoscience careers in today’s society by teaching students to effectively communicate technical results and their significance to a broad audience.
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CNRE Leadership Institute Trip to D.C. and Richmond
By CNRE Leadership Institute
Help fund the week-long trip to meet with top policymakers, which is one of the program's capstone activities.
Help fund the week-long trip to meet with top policymakers, which is one of the program's capstone activities. CNRE Leadership Institute Support our future leaders in natural resources
The Leadership Institute
Each year, 12 juniors and seniors in the College of Natural Resources and Environment apply for and are selected to take on the challenge of the CNRE Leadership Institute. This program is a unique experience that helps students learn and grow by complementing their technical know-how with the critical “people” skills needed to excel as future leaders and policymakers. Now in its ninth year, the program is a model for hands-on, minds-on education and for producing leaders who have the skills and passion to make an impact.
Growing our future leaders
Students who participate in the Leadership Institute work hard—in the classroom, on team projects, and on their own self-awareness. Once accepted, they embark on a journey of leadership development and practice that includes taking a three-credit course in both the fall and spring semesters, participating in an off-campus retreat, managing a capstone team project, and interacting with leaders from government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private industries. They learn how to leverage their personality type, effectively deal with change and conflict, lead a team, and manage their personal leadership journeys.
Networking in Washington, D.C. and Richmond
In January, before the start of the spring semester, the Leadership Institute students, their instructors/ mentors (Brian Bond and Steve McMullin), and Dean Paul M. Winistorfer take a weeklong trip to Richmond, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., to engage with leaders and policymakers in natural resources. The trip also gives students a chance to learn about different leadership styles, see classroom concepts in action, and further develop their professional etiquette. In 2018, the group met with individuals from the Virginia Department of Forestry, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Smithfield Foods, Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program, U.S. Forest Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. Geological Survey.
How you can help
You can ensure that this program continues to serve students in the college who are stepping up to manage our planet’s resources and preserve our natural heritage for future generations. Our students report that this program is the “cornerstone” of their achievements and that “I have learned more about myself and my leadership potential in the last several months than I have in the last several years.” Your support will go toward making the annual trip to Richmond and Washington possible. Please consider making an impact through one of the giving levels on the right. Thank you for helping the Leadership Institute continue!
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Men's Club Lacrosse to Nationals
By VT Men's Club Lacrosse
The Virginia Tech men's club lacrosse team is headed to play in the national championship tournament. These Hokies need your help to get there!
The Virginia Tech men's club lacrosse team is headed to play in the national championship tournament. These Hokies need your help to get there! VT Men's Club Lacrosse The Virginia Tech Men's Club Lacrosse team is headed to the national championship tournament and these Hokies need your help to get there. The team is coming off of an impressive run, defeating three nationally ranked opponents on their way to winning their conference championship and securing their ticket to the national tournament in Salt Lake City, Utah. This team is a student-run organization that relies heavily on membership dues and fundraisers to pay for all operational costs, including travel. Please join our fundraising campaign to help offset all expenses related to the tournament. Let's get these Hokies to Utah!
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Bills for Brazil
By Virginia 4-H
Character education for youth in Brazil.
Character education for youth in Brazil. Virginia 4-H For more than a decade, Virginia 4-H has been working in Brazil to bring character education and training to educators, students, and families. With the CHARACTER COUNTS! program, more than 65 schools have been impacted, improving student behavior, reducing violence, and increasing family involvement.
“CHARACTER COUNTS! changed the whole classroom routine. There are less fights at recess, and we study harder and ask for help when we need it now,” said a 13 year old student on the impact the program made in her school.
This week, Virginia 4-H is beginning the “Bills for Brazil” campaign to gather donations through Virginia Tech’s JUMP crowdfunding platform. Their goal is $4,999 to grow the program and reach more educators and students in Brazil.
Sponsors will be directly supporting training for teachers, principals, judges, and all community leaders who affect the lives of children in Brazil. A $20 donation provides 20 CHARACTER COUNTS! posters for one school, while a $50 donation gives a full scholarship for CHARACTER COUNTS! advanced training. A $120 donation pays for a substitute teacher so educators can participate in the two-day training.
CHARACTER COUNTS! is designed to address the character development challenges youth face today. The program emphasizes the importance of teaching ethics and good character in the classroom and the home. Children across Virginia and now Brazil have learned some of their earliest ethical behavior from the six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.
Virginia 4-H representative Glenda Snyder first went to Brazil in 2004 to build partnerships and begin the work of bringing CHARACTER COUNTS! to Brazil’s youth. By 2006, the pilot program became a training held in Joinville, Santa Catarina. More than 250 school faculty and judges working with troubled youth attended, addressing violence prevention and growing a stronger community to support children.
Each year the program has grown, reaching 1,700 teachers, principals, judges, and community leaders in Santa Catarina, Minas Gerais, and Rio Grande Do Norte. Virginia 4-H has impacted over 65 schools and the 70,000 students who have gone through them over the years.
As of 2018, the trainings offered have expanded to include conflict management, learning styles, and classroom management. Teachers can participate in the initial two-day basic CHARACTER COUNTS! training, or the more recent advanced training designed for teachers returning to the program. More than 350 educators participated.
In 2018, Virginia 4-H also visited Joinville, the site of the earliest CHARACTER COUNTS! training in Brazil, to see their work in action in the schools. The teachers and the school administration reported decreased violence, improved classroom behavior, and an increase in parents being active in the school.
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Whole-hearted Help for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
By The Cardio Team
Improving outcomes for Cavaliers with mitral valve disease.
Improving outcomes for Cavaliers with mitral valve disease. <p><span>[[Amount Raised]]</span> by <span>[[Gifts Received]]</span> donors</p> The Cardio Team The Cardiac Service at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine is in the business of mending broken hearts, and it breaks our hearts when we see a cardiac case we just can’t fix. Your financial support will make it possible for us to answer one of veterinary medicine’s biggest canine conundrums— why do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get valvular heart disease at an earlier age than other breeds, and why does their heart disease progress more quickly? Our project aims to find ways to predict early onset of the disease so we can provide better care for those dogs at higher risk, i.e. extend the quantity and quality of life of dogs with this condition.
Mitral valve disease is the most common form of canine heart disease, affecting up to 75% of older dogs with cardiac disease. It is a major cause of illness and death in all dogs, but hits certain breeds, like Cavaliers, the hardest. The disease shares many features with the human form of mitral valve disease, but there are far fewer good treatment options for the canine form. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have an unusually high incidence of mitral valve disease. Mitral valve disease symptoms can range from mild to severe, with the most serious cases leading to congestive heart failure and even death. Although this disease is common in many breeds of dog, Cavaliers are predisposed to an earlier and more severe form of mitral valve disease.
So far, our research has shown that, compared to healthy dogs from other breeds, some healthy Cavaliers have significant differences in the shape of the mitral valve. In other words, these dogs seem to be born with a valve that makes them more likely to get the disease and, once they have it, more likely to suffer a more rapid and severe form of it than other affected dogs.
Your contributions will be used to map the hearts of the Cavaliers using specialized software and 3-D echocardiogram — a noninvasive type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to assess heart function. We are one of the few veterinary institutions with this capability. If we reach our funding goal, we’ll be able follow the enrolled dogs over several years to see how the shape of their mitral valve impacts their long-term health outcomes. That will help us predict which of our patients is likely to need more aggressive, early intervention to manage their disease. It will also help us design future studies to target specific therapies for affected dogs.
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Cube Fest 2018, Leading Immersive Sound Technology
By ICAT
Help lead a revolution in sound. Support gathering a collaborative community around spatial music, immersive aural experiences, and 3D audio technology.
Help lead a revolution in sound. Support gathering a collaborative community around spatial music, immersive aural experiences, and 3D audio technology. ICAT Help Virginia Tech lead a revolution in sound
Faculty, staff, and students working in Virginia Tech’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology (ICAT) are on the front line leading a revolution in sound. They are charging forward through the field of immersive sound with a unique resource at their fingertips—the Cube in the Moss Arts Center. A four-story, high-tech venue and laboratory, the Cube is outfitted with 149 multichannel audio speakers, a robust motion capture system, and a two-story-tall, 360-degree immersive projection screen called the cyclorama, making it the only facility of its kind in the world. Artists, musicians, scientists, and researchers from around the globe visit the Cube to be part of this revolution.
Cube Fest, this year on August 9-12, is a spatial music festival with performances for the public and a VIP package of hands-on, behind-the-scenes, and creative opportunities for fellow revolutionists. Cube Fest will bring together a group of 20 international audio technology experts, computer engineers, music technology experts, musicians, and composers who will present performances of original compositions created for the Cube and preexisting works, including music by the late David Bowie.
The goal of Cube Fest is to gather a collaborative community around spatial music, immersive aural experiences, and 3D audio technology. On an international scale, Cube Fest is a unique program. While similar spatial music festivals exist in national and international university settings, they exist as an academic exploration of spatial music and audio technology. Cube Fest represents a one-of-a-kind festival designed for general audiences, as well.
Cube Fest 2018 guest artists (l-r): Takako Minekawa and Dustin Wong, Anna & Elizabeth, and Christopher Willits
This $5,000 will support this year’s featured guest artists, Christopher Willits, Dustin Wong & Takako Minekawa, and Anna & Elizabeth, who each will bring wildly diverse styles and sounds to amp up this year’s fest.
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Create Freely Available Textbooks & Learning Resources
By University Libraries
Raising awareness and funds for creation/adaptation of freely available, broadly shared, and Creative Commons- licensed open educational resources (OER).
Raising awareness and funds for creation/adaptation of freely available, broadly shared, and Creative Commons- licensed open educational resources (OER). University Libraries The University Libraries at Virginia Tech provide new ways to discover, access, create, sustain, and share information. We are so passionate about this mission and our commitment to learning, teaching, research, and service that we fund creation and worldwide sharing of learning resources at no cost to students. We do this because many students struggle to afford (or ethically access) required course materials <a href="https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/openvt/2015/03/23/university-libraries-host-open-education-week-2015/">[1]</a>, and because some faculty have asked for solutions and support.
We developed a faculty grant program that engages faculty in adapting or creating and openly sharing high quality legally remixable learning resources called open educational resources (OER).
<em>Open Educational Resources (OER) are </em><em>teaching, learning, and research resources that reside in the public domain or have been released under an intellectual property license that permits their free use and re-purposing by others. Open educational resources include full courses, course materials, modules, textbooks, streaming videos, tests, software, and any other tools, materials, or techniques used to support access to knowledge. (Hewlett Foundation)</em>
Our <a href="https://guides.lib.vt.edu/oer/grants">Open Education Faculty Initiative Grants</a> support faculty engagement in creating no cost alternatives to traditional textbooks and homework software access codes. We provide infrastructure, project management, technical expertise, introductions to potential collaborators, and we use <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/">Creative Commons licenses</a> to further allow customization of these materials.
Our first book, <em><a href="https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/openvt/2016/08/25/fundamentals-of-business-virginia-techs-new-open-textbook/">Fundamentals of Business</a></em>, a collaboration with the Pamplin College of Business is used by over 700 students at Virginia Tech each year. It has been adopted by at least 11 other colleges and universities. It has also been downloaded over 80,000 times worldwide since publication in August 2016.
A Beta version of our second book <em><a href="https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/openvt/2018/01/18/electromagnetics-volume-1-beta-virginia-techs-newest-open-textbook/">Electromagnetics</a> Vol 1</em> was peer reviewed in Fall 2017 and is being field tested this semester. It will be revised and released worldwide as a first edition in Summer 2018.
A <a href="http://hdl.handle.net/10919/78748">video series</a> demonstrates methods for examining a canine and a virtual reality canine model for use in teaching is also in development.
Your financial support will provide funds for larger projects and year-round support for creation of open educational resources (OER).
Faculty who want to adapt, create, and share resources for teaching and learning with their students and beyond the University are encouraged to explore the program <a href="https://guides.lib.vt.edu/oer/grants">here</a>. Team and collaborative projects are especially encouraged. Pre-application consultations are also encouraged. Questions or comments? Please contact <a href="mailto:arwalz@vt.edu?subject=Jump%20feedback%2Fquestions">Anita Walz</a>.
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Cover credit for <em>Fundamentals of Business</em>: Trevor Finney. Image attributions <em>“<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hong_Kong_Skyscrapers.jpg">Hong Kong Skyscrapers</a>” by Estial, cropped and modified by Trevor Finney <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>; “<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paris_vue_d%27ensemble_tour_Eiffel.jpg">Paris vue d’ensemble tour Eiffel</a>” by Taxiarchos228, cropped and modified by Poke2001 and Trevor Finney <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/">CC BY 3.0</a></em>
[1] In 2015, the Virginia Tech Student Government Association hosted a student forum and subsequent panel discussion. Students articulated a variety of observations about their own and others' experiences. <a href="https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/openvt/2015/03/23/university-libraries-host-open-education-week-2015/">View the blog post here</a>.
The project owners wish to thank graduating seniors in COMM 4304 Public Relations Campaigns for their collaboration and development of the project video.
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VTCAR Annual Autism Conference
By VT Autism Research Center
Hear the latest developments & updates in autism research for educators, clinicians, researchers, and families at our 6th annual conference!
Hear the latest developments & updates in autism research for educators, clinicians, researchers, and families at our 6th annual conference! VT Autism Research Center The Virginia Tech Center for Autism Research was established in the College of Science to promote collaborative research on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and related conditions from multiple disciplinary perspectives. The VT Center for Autism Research builds upon basic research and clinical resources already available at Virginia Tech and works closely with the Virginia Tech Autism Clinic and other autism service providers to provide outreach on research findings, conduct research, and recruit participants.
The VT Center for Autism Research has a mission of merging science and service. We incorporate the Virginia Tech motto of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) by serving the rural Appalachian community around us. Our autism research incorporates an implementation science framework to ensure that evidence-based autism treatments are employed where possible. The Virginia Tech Center for Autism Research hosts an annual autism research conference every spring to share our research with the larger community. If you are interested in our research science or our services, please feel free to <a href="http://vtcar.science.vt.edu/contact.html">contact us</a>.
The Virginia Tech Center for Autism Research partners closely with the <a href="https://www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/autism">Virginia Tech Autism Clinic</a>. Our autism research informs the clinical work at the Autism Clinic, and the clinic helps keep our focus on implementation science and our service mission.
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Allen Bachelder Trumpet Scholarship
By School of Performing Arts
The Allen Bachelder Trumpet Scholarship supports the work of talented trumpet students at Virginia Tech.
The Allen Bachelder Trumpet Scholarship supports the work of talented trumpet students at Virginia Tech. School of Performing Arts The Allen Bachelder Trumpet Scholarship supports the work of talented trumpet students at Virginia Tech. Past graduates of the Virginia Tech trumpet studio hold positions in professional performing ensembles, teach at major universities, excel as public schools teachers, or in a variety of careers in music and beyond. Bachelder scholarships are given each year to both incoming and returning students to both reward and attract top musical talent. Your gift will go directly towards supporting a young person as they pursue their musical goals.
The Bachelder Trumpet Scholarship is named in honor of Dr. Allen Bachelder (pictured below with scholarship winner Elizabeth Kania), Professor of Trumpet at Virginia Tech from 1977-2006. In his nearly 30 years on campus Prof. Bachelder mentored countless young musicians, the Bachelder Scholarship was established not only to honor his work but to sustain his legacy.
Your gift will go directly towards supporting the education of a young musician. While scholarship dollars are applied to tuition, these awards often free up funds to allow students to purchase new instruments, attend summer festivals, and travel to auditions. In this way receiving a Bachelder Scholarship can truly be a life-changing event for a student.
You can contribute to the scholarship fund in several ways:
1. Make a tax deductible gift via the links on the right hand side of your screen.
2. Share a link to this page on social media, invite your fiends to invest in the next generation of Hokies.
3. Attend the Virginia Tech Trumpet Festival. This year's event will be held in Blacksburg on September 28-29 and will feature Allen Vizzutti! Contact Dr. Crafton (JCrafton@vt.edu) for more details.
No matter how you choose to support this campaign, please accept our sincere thanks. By investing in the future of the arts at Virginia Tech you're helping to ensure the future of our university and the legacy of Dr. Allen Bachelder. Your gift, no matter how big or small, will make a difference.
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SAFE (Supporting Autism Friendly Environments)
By SAFE
SAFE (Supporting Autism Friendly Environments) is an outreach program increasing community access for individuals with autism and their families and friends.
SAFE (Supporting Autism Friendly Environments) is an outreach program increasing community access for individuals with autism and their families and friends. SAFE Do you know or love someone with autism? If yes, please consider donating to this special program which works to positively affect the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum.
Support <strong>SAFE (Supporting Autism Friendly Environments)! </strong>
<a href="https://vtcar.science.vt.edu/outreach/SAFE.html">SAFE (Supporting Autism Friendly Environments)</a> is an outreach program partnering with organizations, local businesses, venues, and others to implement low or no cost interventions designed to increase community access for individuals with autism and their families and friends. The SAFE program began a few years ago with the support of the <a href="https://www.vtcar.science.vt.edu/">Virginia Tech Center for Autism Research (VTCAR)</a> to serve local families. SAFE has two primary goals: to provide everyday access to venues and community events for individuals with autism; and to encourage a culture of awareness and acceptance in our community.
SAFE has built community partnerships resulting in autism friendly movies at <a href="http://www.thelyric.com/event/safe-supporting-autism-friendly-environments-special-screening-of-kung-fu-panda-3/">The Lyric</a>, SAFE bowling, a SAFE Santa, and SAFE campus events - such as an autism friendly Hokie BugFest and VT Science Festival where we had trained volunteers and vendors as well as quiet spaces for children and families. We have made a lot of progress in the last few years, but the SAFE project relies solely on volunteers and has been operating without a budget. We know we can do so much more with your help!
Let's make Virginia Tech and its surrounding area the most inclusive community in the country!
Watch a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1Ys2VNxXvI">TEDxVirginiaTech talk</a> to learn more about autism, VTCAR, and SAFE.
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Interpretive Signage for Hahn Horticulture Garden
By Hahn Horticulture Garden Staff
Help the Hahn Horticulture Garden on campus at Virginia Tech raise funds to buy interpretive signs to be placed through out the garden.
Help the Hahn Horticulture Garden on campus at Virginia Tech raise funds to buy interpretive signs to be placed through out the garden. Hahn Horticulture Garden Staff The Hahn Horticulture Garden encompasses nearly six acres of teaching and display gardens on the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. The garden serves undergraduate students and the local community as a learning resource for plant material, landscaping concepts, and environmental awareness. We provide a variety of free lectures and programs that are open to the community at large. The garden is also free and open to the public to enjoy year around. Our small but passionate staff does a lot with a little, as we do not receive university funding for general garden operations or improvements.
The funds raised through this campaign will be utilized to design, manufacture, and install a collection of six interpretive sign panels throughout the garden. These signs will further the garden’s mission of educating and enriching the lives of all garden guests, young and old. The sign panels, made of long-lasting, durable materials, will be approximately 18”x24” and mounted on posts adjacent to existing walkways. Examples of sign locations include the edible, spectrum, meadow, shade and xeriscape gardens. The signs will provide visitors with a variety of information, including details on specific plants, the design intent of spaces like the trident maple allee, environmental benefits, and other pertinent information.
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Support the 4-H Horse Program State Educational Teams
By Virginia 4-H Horse Program
Help support the winning state 4-H Horse Program educational teams compete successfully at Regional and National contests!
Help support the winning state 4-H Horse Program educational teams compete successfully at Regional and National contests! Virginia 4-H Horse Program For the first time ever, we are able to campaign and fund raise for our Virginia state educational <a href="https://ext.vt.edu/4h-youth/horse.html">4-H Horse Program</a> teams - Hippology, Horse Bowl, Horse Judging, Individual Presentations, Team Presentations and Public Speaking! We hope you will join us in this exciting way to give back to a program that has been the conduit to many leaders and professionals in our equine community today!
The 4-Hers have worked very hard this year and now the winning teams at <a href="https://ext.vt.edu/4h-youth/horse/events/equismartz.html">EquiSmartz</a> have earned their way to Southern Regionals 4-H Horse Championships and Eastern National 4-H Roundup! With the representation of approximately 34 top youth from all six contests at these interstate competitions, expenses add up, much at the burden of the competitors, coaches and parents.
With this campaign opportunity, we are now able to honor a way for individuals and businesses to financially support the dreams and goals of 4-Hers. We are fortunate as a land grant university to have funding for staff, however programming expenses are not covered. This is why we need your help! We are asking for you to take part in supporting these youth, in whatever amount you can give, to help fund their travel, hotel, meals and entries for these prestigious, once-in-a-lifetime contests and specialized study sessions.
Our supporters are family to us and we appreciate greatly, the special relationship we have developed over many successful years. We believe our alumni, friends and volunteers are ready and willing to support this cause. Please help us reach our goal for our top Virginia 4-H youth teams!
<strong>Minimum Costs for Educational Teams</strong>
<strong>Southern Regionals - Perry, Georgia</strong>
$160/team - Entry Fees
$100/hotel room - minimum 3 nights = $300
$200 travel/meals = $200
<strong>Total = $660/team</strong>
<strong>All American Quarter Horse Congress - Columbus, Ohio</strong>
$200/team - Entry Fees
$150/hotel room - minimum 3 nights = $450
$500 - travel/meals = $500
<strong>Total = $1,150/team</strong>
<strong>Eastern National 4-H Horse Round Up - Louisville, Kentucky</strong>
$300/team - Entry Fees
$175/hotel room - minimum 2 nights = $350
$300 - misc fees (food, travel, supplies) = $300
<strong>Total = $950/team</strong>
Total <strong><em>MINIMUM </em></strong>cost to send all educational teams to regional and national contests = <strong>$20,520</strong>
*does not include practice sessions throughout the year or coaches travel
<em><strong>We thank you for partnering with us to "Make the Best Better" in the 4-H Horse Program! </strong></em>
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Virginia Tech Community Cultural Immersion Trip
By Black Male Excellence Network
Help us provide a cultural immersion experience for VT students to study Afro- Cuban culture in Havana, Matanzas and Viñales, Cuba, from June 8-15, 2018.
Help us provide a cultural immersion experience for VT students to study Afro- Cuban culture in Havana, Matanzas and Viñales, Cuba, from June 8-15, 2018. Black Male Excellence Network BMEN with President Sands
The Black Male Excellence Network (BMEN) is hosting a cultural immersion trip to study Afro- Cuban culture in Havana, Matanzas and Viñales, Cuba, from June 8-15, 2018. More information about VT BMEN can be found here <a href="https://vtbmen.com/">https://vtbmen.com/</a>.
<strong>Why support this campaign</strong>
Our program offers a unique opportunity to study a fascinating portion of the African diaspora. The focus of the trip is provide Virginia Tech students with a transformative cultural experience. All donations will go towards the costs of Virginia Tech students to attend.
If you are interested in attending the trip or would like to know any additional details, please contact Tommy Amal at tamal2@vt.edu
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Design-Build 2018: New River Train Observatory
By Architecture + Design
Graduate architecture students will design & build a train-viewing structure using cross-laminated timber, a sustainable material made of small diameter trees.
Graduate architecture students will design & build a train-viewing structure using cross-laminated timber, a sustainable material made of small diameter trees. Architecture + Design How can a diverse group of architecture and natural resources students hailing from Iran, China, Syria, Texas and Virginia help a small town in Virginia develop their tourism potential, gain valuable professional experience, and demonstrate a sustainable building material all at the same time? The School of Architecture + Design at Virginia Tech is looking forward to collaborating with the town of Radford and the Department of Sustainable Biomaterials at Virginia Tech to build a train-viewing platform at the Glencoe Mansion near Bissett Park and the New River. The project will assist the town in developing its railroad history as a potential tourist attraction and also serve to demonstrate the use of Cross-Laminated Timber, a sustainable building material that has been used for many years in Europe and Canada but not as much in the United States. The Bauhaus teacher and architect Walter Gropius urged young architects to become involved in their communities. Community design-build projects such as this provide a wonderful way to act on Gropius’s advice.
The experience will assist students in achieving a deeper understanding of materials and construction. With the pervasive use of computers for design and representation, student architects become proficient in those techniques and sometimes forget about physical reality, about the behavior and resistance of materials, and about the response of the constructed building to natural phenomena—heat, cold, moisture and movement. Architects must not only design well but they must know the pragmatic requirements of building. Students will have the unique opportunity to see the material outcome of what they have proposed digitally and on paper. In addition to better understanding materials and construction, students will gain an understanding of the collaborative nature of architecture. In practice, we deal with multiple professions and areas of expertise. Having students engage in a design-build project gives them valuable experience collaborating with other disciplines. They will also learn how to engage a community through design and through the community’s particular history.
Engaging town residents and making the general public aware of what we can do is an added advantage of a community design-build project.
Photo courtesy Radford Heritage Foundation and Glencoe Mansion
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Hybrid Electric Vehicle Team (HEVT)
By HEVT
The Hybrid Electric Vehicle Team of Virginia Tech (HEVT) Has been competing in Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions (AVTCs) for nearly 23 years now.
The Hybrid Electric Vehicle Team of Virginia Tech (HEVT) Has been competing in Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions (AVTCs) for nearly 23 years now. HEVT During EcoCAR 3 Year 3 competition in May, the team suffered a center bearing failure on the driveshaft. Although HEVT confronted many obstacles, we were able to secure 6th place overall. HEVT is gearing up for the Year 4 competition, where teams will be judged on a fully reliable hybrid vehicle where handling and performance will present an important role. As the only team with a V8 engine, we are confident to create a powerful yet an innovative vehicle.
Your donation will be used for solutions to finalize the design of the hybrid vehicle:
1) Reinforce the floor pan to secure the motor
2) New mount design for our custom motor to reduce vibration
3) New vehicle suspension to improve ride and handling
We strongly believe even a small donation will make a difference in the result of the project. As we move into the last year of the EcoCAR 3 competition, we are aiming to exceed our expectations to improve the experience of students in the team.
The Hybrid Electric Vehicle Team (HEVT) at Virginia Tech has been an avid competitor in Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions (AVTCs) for upwards of two decades. Under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Douglas Nelson, guidance of General Motors (GM), the United States Department of Energy (DOE) and continued support of all local sponsors, HEVT has accentuated the academic engineering experience of over 700 Virginia Tech students. Currently, HEVT competes in EcoCAR 3, a four-year competition that challenges teams to re-engineer a Chevrolet Camaro into a fully functional hybrid vehicle with the goals of reducing petroleum energy use and greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining safety, performance, and consumer appeal. HEVT is committed to challenging its students to apply knowledge in unique ways in order to create cost-effective and innovative solutions to sustainable transportation issues.
Thank you so much for considering HEVT for a donation, as we try to make EcoCAR V8 Again!
If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at hevt@vt.edu
Follow us!
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/vtHEVT">@vtHEVT</a>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vtHEVT/">https://www.facebook.com/vtHEVT/</a>
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Send Hyperloop at Virginia Tech to Competition III
By Virginia Tech
Hyperloop at Virginia Tech is a student-led design team competing in the SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition. Join us in inventing the future of transportation!
Hyperloop at Virginia Tech is a student-led design team competing in the SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition. Join us in inventing the future of transportation! <strong>Hyperloop at Virginia Tech</strong> is a student-led design team competing in the SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition.
We are an interdisciplinary team composed of students from the College of Engineering, Myers-Lawson School of Construction and Pamplin College of Business.
Hyperloop is a transportation concept proposed by Elon Musk in which a levitating pod will travel at transonic speeds in near-vacuum pressure. This would allow for trips from New York to Washington, D.C. in as little as <strong>30 minutes</strong>.
Building off of our previous 2 Hyperloop pods, we have seen the successes and identified key areas of improvement. Now, more than ever, we need your help to continue transforming this concept into a reality.
Join us in creating the V-18 pod and be a part of the future of transportation!
<strong>Previous Pods</strong>
VHyper: The First Prototype Design
V-17: The First Fully Functional Pod, Designed For Competition I
<strong>How do your Contributions help?</strong>
After placing Fourth and Seventh in Competition I and Competition II respectively, we are overhauling our pod. Previously we used cold gas propulsion, coupled with electronic braking, sensors, a carbon fiber shell, and custom suspension. Not only are we redesigning all of that, but we are also going all electric! After in-depth analysis and testing, we decided to use an electric motor to power the majority of our pod to achieve our target speed.
Through your generosity and the pride that stems from the Hokie community, we can maintain our status as a top player in the future of engineering.
For more information about our team visit our website! <strong><a href="http://www.vthyperloop.com/">www.vthyperloop.com</a> </strong>
Follow us on social media to stay in the loop! <strong>#RidethePod</strong>
<strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/VTHyperloop/">Facebook: VTHyperloop</a></strong>
<strong><a href="https://twitter.com/vthyperloop">Twitter: @vthyperloop</a> </strong>
<strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vthyperloop/">Instagram: @vthyperloop</a></strong>
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Promoting Leadership through Pamplin
By Leadership Development Team
Students polish their leadership skills by learning from industry leaders and in return, learn about career and internship opportunities.
Students polish their leadership skills by learning from industry leaders and in return, learn about career and internship opportunities. Leadership Development Team The 19th Annual Leadership Conference provides 100 students with the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills through experiential learning led by industry leaders. Networking time allows company professionals a chance to interact with top students, and in return, these students learn about career and internship opportunities. Students also hear from a distinguished keynote speaker. With numerous learning opportunities, the Leadership Conference promotes a strategy of lifelong learning and leadership development.
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International Humanitarian Capstone Design
By Mech Engrg, OIRED
We seek travel funds for students enrolled in the International Humanitarian Project Option of Mechanical Engineering Senior Design.
We seek travel funds for students enrolled in the International Humanitarian Project Option of Mechanical Engineering Senior Design. Mech Engrg, OIRED Help Virginia Tech students bring their creativity and talent to communities in developing countries that need it. For years, the International Humanitarian Capstone Design program has brought undergraduates in mechanical engineering and other fields to countries in Africa and Latin America. Students have designed well-pumping systems, neonatal incubators, and other community-driven projects capable of being sustainably built and maintained locally for years to come. Call it Virginia Tech’s not-so-secret formula–through transformative research and teaching opportunities, Hokies can be a force for positive change in communities around the world while opening up new possibilities and capabilities within themselves.
None of this is possible, however, if they can’t travel to the communities that need them, and that’s where you come in. Next semester, a new team of undergraduates and faculty are planning to travel to Malawi to improve pediatric care and provide clean water; to Peru to help improve healthcare for women and newborns, and to Rwanda to help communities there safely manage their waste. Help the team raise $10,000 to expand Hokies’ horizons and improve the quality of life in communities around the world.
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Bowl Fest
By Reynolds Homestead
"Bowl Fest" is a series of community bowl making events with a goal to make at least 600 bowls for our Empty Bowls project.
"Bowl Fest" is a series of community bowl making events with a goal to make at least 600 bowls for our Empty Bowls project. Reynolds Homestead Hunger is always an issue in rural counties, and Patrick is no exception. In 2014 the Reynolds Homestead helped sponsor an Empty Bowls event which raised over $6,000 to benefit the Patrick County Food Bank, which serves an average of 425 families each month. In 2018, we plan to host another event, but first we need your help!
<strong>"Bowl Fest"</strong> is a series of community bowl making events which will happen November through January. Our goal is to make at least 600 bowls that will then be used to raise money for our Empty Bowls event. To host these events, we need to raise $2,500 for clay and other materials, as well as a coordinator for the events, who will also instruct the classes and fire the bowls in our kiln.
Even the smallest donation will help us reach our <strong>very moderate goal of $2,500</strong>! Please take time today to contribute to Bowl Fest.
“<strong>Empty Bowls</strong>” is an international project to fight hunger, personalized on a community level. “Empty Bowls” allows participants to create and donate bowls, then serve a simple meal. On the day of the event, guests choose a bowl to use that day and to keep as a reminder of all the empty bowls in the world. In exchange for the meal, and the bowl, guests contribute a suggested minimum donation. One hundred percent of each meal's proceeds are devoted to local hunger-fighting organizations; in our case, the Patrick County Food Bank.
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Undergraduate Science Policy Fellowships in D.C.
By Dr. Bill Hopkins
An undergraduate fellowship program for science and engineering students to work on challenging science policy issues.
An undergraduate fellowship program for science and engineering students to work on challenging science policy issues. Dr. Bill Hopkins Policy decisions are based on a delicate balance of many factors including societal norms and values, economics, science, and of course- politics. Unfortunately, the best available scientific and technological information is not always weighed effectively in policy decisions. Well trained scientists and engineers occupying positions of influence can help bridge this critical divide, informing better decisions on everything from human rights and health to water quality and endangered species.
Lauren Buttling and Austin Berrier at the EPA
Now more than ever, we need our best and brightest science and engineering students to pursue career opportunities at various levels of government and in the National Capital Region. The Global Change Center at Virginia Tech seeks to inspire the next generation of scientists by providing Science Policy Fellowships for students to spend the summer fully immersed in Washington, DC. We are transforming career paths one student at a time.
Please help us send a Hokie to Capitol Hill, and ensure that science maintains its important place in public policy deliberations. One Science Policy Fellowship (<strong>$7,000</strong>) fully funds tuition, living expenses, transit and a stipend for a Virginia Tech student to intern in our nation’s capital.
Please choose a giving level on the right or simply click the <strong>DONATE NOW</strong> button at the top of the page to enter your amount. Together, we <em>can</em> make a difference.
<strong>FOR EVERY DOLLAR YOU GIVE, THE GLOBAL CHANGE CENTER WILL MATCH YOUR DONATION!</strong>
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Washington Semester 2016 interns met with Virginia Congressman Don Beyer, 8th District
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More about Undergraduate Science Policy Fellowships:
This fellowship program offers a unique 11-week immersion for science and engineering students to work on challenging science policy issues that shape communities locally and nationally while obtaining academic credit. All fellowship recipients will participate in the Science-Policy Track of the Washington Semester program, which is administered by the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA). Students will be placed in an internship within a public, private, or non-profit organization for a minimum of 30 hours per week. Examples of placement agencies include USFWS, USAID, USEPA, USDA, The Nature Conservancy, American Red Cross, Human Rights Watch, etc. Final placements are based on each student’s interests and professional goals. For more information about the program, please visit <strong><a href="http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/spf/">http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/spf/</a>.</strong>
The GCC currently funds this initiative and handles advertising and recruitment, interviews and fellow selection, and participates in activities in Washington D.C. In addition to administering the program, SPIA works with fellows to identify optimal internship placements and provides professional development opportunities, for which students earn six hours of graded course credit.
Please help us sustain this innovative program! Thank you!
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
2017 Fellowship Recipients
<strong>Steven Hall, Mechanical Engineering:</strong>
<blockquote>
<em>I have developed a new awareness of politics and events in our nation as a result of working at the EPA in Washington, DC. The atmosphere in D.C. is contagious and it made me want to be more politically aware because I now understand the significance of all kinds of legislation, not just environmental law.</em>
<em>I learned a great deal from my Washington Semester experience. It made me realize how much of an impact I can make through my career and how I can become a change-agent for society.</em>
</blockquote>
<strong>Kallie Peurifoy, Environmental Science</strong>
<blockquote>
<em>I experienced a lot of personal growth in D.C., including the discovery of my true passions. The biggest driver was the high-stakes atmosphere in our Nation’s Capital, which drastically elevated my desire to succeed. Meeting new people that were more experienced opened my mind to careers I had never considered. All these interactions increased my understanding of policy, law and government.</em>
<em>My experience in the National Capital Region made me more confident in taking the next step: I plan to apply to graduate school to pursue a career in environmental engineering focused on renewable energy and climate. I hope that one day I will return to the federal government in a position that allows me to protect the Earth and to serve the American people. </em>
</blockquote>
2016 Fellowship Recipients
<strong>Lauren Buttling, Environmental Policy and Planning:</strong>
<blockquote>
<em>After receiving a Science Policy Fellowship through the Global Change Center, I interned at the Environmental Protection Agency for the summer. My experience at the EPA revealed the sheer complexity of environmental policy. Through this program, I saw firsthand the controversies, innovations, and contraints that impact the ability of science to shape public policy in the United States. </em>
</blockquote>
<strong>Austin Berrier, Engineering Science & Mechanics:</strong>
<blockquote>
<em>The Science Policy Fellowship Program allowed me to explore my career interests before graduation while gaining valuable experience at a federal agency. </em>
<em>As a result of my summer in the Washington Semester program, I am now focused on previously unexplored career options and have a new interest in combining my engineering background with my public policy interests.</em>
</blockquote>
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The Big Event 2018
By The Big Event
We need to raise $2,018 in order to buy supplies such as rakes, shovels, and gloves for The Big Event. By raising this money more projects can be completed!
We need to raise $2,018 in order to buy supplies such as rakes, shovels, and gloves for The Big Event. By raising this money more projects can be completed! The Big Event The Big Event at Virginia Tech is a student-run community service event that is the second largest Big Event in the nation. Each year students, faculty and staff come together to complete community service projects around the New River Valley. A goal of The Big Event is to thank the residents for opening up their homes to us and to strengthen the relationship between the university and the surrounding community.
We need to raise $2,018 in order to buy supplies for the event. These supplies range from rakes, shovels, and gloves. By raising this amount of money for necessary supplies we will be able to complete more projects this year!
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Student-powered hunger relief with the Campus Kitchen
By VT Engage
A VT Engage program, we combat hunger and food waste by reclaiming unserved, quality food from Dining Services and redirect it to area hunger relief agencies.
A VT Engage program, we combat hunger and food waste by reclaiming unserved, quality food from Dining Services and redirect it to area hunger relief agencies. VT Engage One in eight people in the United States struggle with food insecurity, meaning they lack regular access to enough quality, nutritious food to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But while people across our country go to bed hungry, 40% of all food goes to waste in the United States. Here's where the Campus Kitchen at Virginia Tech comes in: we are a student-run VT Engage program that combats hunger and food waste by redirecting quality, unused food from Virginia Tech Dining Services to area hunger relief agencies.
Our dedicated student volunteers make Campus Kitchen happen each day. These volunteers provide leadership in each part of the process, divert food in dining centers, deliver the food to community partners, participate in cooking shifts to create side dishes for our partners, and more. Our dream goal is to someday have a kitchen space of our own on campus. But until then, we use several spaces on campus to store food and equipment.
Since launching in fall 2015, more than 350 volunteers have served 8,500+ hours with Campus Kitchen, diverting 42,624 pounds of unused food from six dining centers for food insecure populations, but there is still more to do! As we work to expand into more dining centers and find new community partners, our resources to support our operations are being stretched. We need your help ensure we can continue to fulfill our mission to reduce food waste and reach more people in our community.
Your support will help us increase our operating funds for the 2017-18 academic year, enabling us to get more food to more people, purchase new equipment and supplies, develop new programs and partnerships, expand operations, send student leaders to conferences and trainings, and more. For as little as $5, you can help us live out Virginia Tech's motto <em>Ut Prosim</em> (That I May Serve.)
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LGBTQ+ Student Leadership Development Scholarship
By LGBTQ+ Resource Center
This scholarship fund will provide LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to attend leadership development conferences or trainings.
This scholarship fund will provide LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to attend leadership development conferences or trainings. LGBTQ+ Resource Center One of the central goals of the LGBTQ+ Resource Center is to advance Virginia Tech's promise and commitment to diversity and inclusion as found in the mission of inclusiveVT. A part of this work is the retention, academic success, and professional development of LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students at Virginia Tech. With this in mind, the LGBTQ+ Student Leadership Development Scholarship will work to provide LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students with leadership development funds to attend conference through financial assistance towards conference travel, and/or lodging. The goal is to make conference attendance, leadership development, and professional development affordable and accessible.
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Geosciences Student Research Symposium 2018
By VT Geosciences Students
With your support, GSRS allows Earth Science students develop their scientific presentation skills, gain experience in networking, teambuilding and mentoring.
With your support, GSRS allows Earth Science students develop their scientific presentation skills, gain experience in networking, teambuilding and mentoring. VT Geosciences Students The mission of the Geosciences Department is to “<strong>discover and share knowledge of Earth processes, systems, and history</strong>.” We pride ourselves in pursuing challenging and important geoscience problems that have broad implications for society. Major areas of research include <strong>hazards</strong> (earthquakes, volcanoes, storms, tsunamis, water contamination),<strong> materials</strong> (nanoscience, biomineralization), <strong>resources (</strong>sustainability, resource management), and much more!
The effective communication of the results and significance of scientific research is critical in today’s society. It is imperative that scientists develop communication skills to engage various population groups in order to work towards solutions for various geoscience-related issues we face today. One way the Geosciences Department is working towards this goal is through GSRS.
<strong>What is GSRS?</strong>
Geosciences Student Research Symposium (GSRS) is a 23-year old tradition in the Department of Geosciences that is organized and <strong><em>run</em> </strong><em><strong>entirely by graduate students</strong> </em>with the goal of communicating our science to our peers in the department. GSRS helps students at all levels to develop <strong>scientific presentation skills</strong> through the preparation and presentation of both oral and poster presentations on their ongoing research to the entire department and the broad community. Additionally, each student receives <strong>feedback</strong> on their research and presentation skills from both fellow students and faculty members. This is a unique aspect of GSRS that helps students to grow and develop as effective researchers and communicators.
GSRS also promotes <strong>interdisciplinary collaboration </strong>and <strong>networking</strong>, and allows students to gain experience in <strong>leadership, team building and mentoring</strong>. Conversations between students and faculty members - during oral and poster sessions, over a coffee break, and at the end of GSRS banquet, foster greater collaboration and development of research.
<strong>What’s new with GSRS?</strong>
Last year, GSRS moved to Kelly Hall in order to promote greater visibility on campus. We saw a wonderful turnout last year and we hope to see you again this year! The dates for GSRS are set to be 22-23 February, 2018.
This year we've introduced a new series called the “<strong>Pre-GSRS Series</strong>," a set of monthly talks led by faculty, post docs, graduate students and external advisory panel members aimed at preparing students to tackle the research world with confidence. Topics covered include: how to conduct effective research, how to make an attractive and captivating presentation and/or poster, how to effectively communicate science, how to use social media to communicate science, gearing up for jobs and internships, and more.
The success of the symposium depends in large part on donations because <strong>GSRS receives no funds from the department or university</strong>. Consider donating to GSRS!
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Engineers Without Borders
By Engineers Without Borders
We are a nonprofit organization that supports sustainable development projects in disadvantaged communities.
We are a nonprofit organization that supports sustainable development projects in disadvantaged communities. Engineers Without Borders The Virginia Tech chapter of Engineers without Borders needs money to allow our project teams to purchase materials and subsidize travel costs for students so they can connect with underdeveloped communities and design engineering solutions.
Over the next few weeks, we will be crowdfunding to help fund our current projects to continue solving problems and putting our ideas to work!
Our current projects include a wastewater treatment project in Guatemala, a solar energy project in Uganda, and an irrigation and seed storage project in Nicaragua.
The Virginia Tech chapter of Engineers without Borders is a service organization that works to connect engineers with communities that need our help, all over the world.
Our mission is to partner with disadvantaged areas to improve their quality of life through the implementation of environmentally, equitably, and economically sustainable engineering projects while developing internationally responsible engineers and engineering students through education, encouragement, and experience.
We engage in international projects, local service projects, and community outreach.
All money donated will go to directly to our organization, helping us to fulfill our mission and live out Virginia Tech's motto <em>Ut Prosim </em>(That I May Serve)!
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Energy Harvesting with smART Field
By smART Field Project
Help us redesign the Drillfield pathways to make them more intelligent and more self-sustainable.
Help us redesign the Drillfield pathways to make them more intelligent and more self-sustainable. smART Field Project Is there any Hokie who don’t know THE Drillfield? Definitely not! Drillfield has been the heart of the campus for decades. The engineers from Energy Harvesting and Mechatronics Research Laboratory are collaborating with the designers from School of Architecture and Design to redesign the Drillfield pathways. Our goal is to make it more modern in both function and shape while keeping its traditional style—we are designing the smART field.
Imagine now if you can generate electricity while walking on the pathways of Drillfield. The energy harvested from pedestrian walking is 100% environmentally-friendly and will be used to charge your cellphone, power ambient lighting fixtures, sense field activities, monitor structure health, etc.
With the amount of people walking across Drillfield everyday, we will be able to raise public awareness of the concept of energy harvesting and energy sustainability. This may be a small step to just power few light fixtures and sensors, however, this can also be a huge step towards a more sustainable future. <strong>B</strong><strong>ut we need your help to make this come true! </strong>
<em><strong>Thank you for your support!</strong></em>
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Reducing Bird Fatalities From Window Collisions
By Conservation Management Inst.
One billion birds die in window collisions in the US every year. One. Billion. We want to help students lead the way to finding solutions. You can help us.
One billion birds die in window collisions in the US every year. One. Billion. We want to help students lead the way to finding solutions. You can help us. Conservation Management Inst. An estimated 1 billion birds die in window collisions in the U.S. every year. <em>One</em>. <em>Billion</em>. We want to find ways to reduce the number of collisions and do it by working with undergraduate research students. Our goal is to identify solutions to this problem while providing an opportunity for students to actively participate in field research and gain experience to complement their academic work.
<em>Eastern Kingbird</em>
Our students will work with professionals from the <a href="http://cmi.vt.edu/">Conservation Management Institute</a> at Virginia Tech to monitor bird-window collisions in business and residential settings. Undergraduate researchers will work with other volunteer students to gather data and use it to answer questions about the factors contributing to bird-window collisions. Follow-up projects will use experimental designs to test methods for reducing the rate of window collisions.
This project provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to actively participate in field research, analysis, and presentation of results. The funds raised will support undergraduate researchers who will organize volunteers, manage data collection, develop research proposals and plans, complete analysis, and present research findings. This experience will equip them with the skills they need for success after college as young professionals.
<em>Ruby-throated Hummingbird</em>
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Creating Exceptional Leadership for Natural Resource Conservation
By Virginia Master Naturalists
Help us provide training and resources to increase the capacity of local Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer leaders.
Help us provide training and resources to increase the capacity of local Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer leaders. Virginia Master Naturalists <strong>About Us </strong>
<strong>The Virginia Master Naturalist (VMN) program is a corps of 29 local chapters with more than 1,800 trained volunteers engaged in natural resource education, citizen science, and stewardship.</strong>
<strong>Virginia Master Naturalist volunteers make a difference by teaching people about nature, collecting data as citizen scientists, & improving habitat through land stewardship. </strong><em>Photo credits, top left: VMN-Historic Rivers Chapter, top right: Carol Hammer (VMN-Northern Neck Chapter), bottom: VMN-Pocahontas Chapter</em>
Essentially all program activities at the local level are conducted by volunteers, from recruiting new participants and providing training to organizing service projects and tracking volunteer hours. The volunteer chapter leaders in each region of the state are the linchpins of the VMN program and are critical to the success achievement of our conservation mission.
<strong>Our Need</strong>
Having these 300+ volunteer leaders run all local aspects of a large, statewide program such as ours is challenging. As our chapters grow and evolve, we find there is an increasing need to train and support those local leaders so that we have a strong supply of volunteers who are confident and prepared to take on the leadership roles. High-quality local leaders increase the overall impact of our chapters, so that they can recruit and retain more volunteers, accomplish more impactful service projects, and ultimately make more significant contributions to natural resource conservation in the Commonwealth.
<strong>Virginia Master Naturalist volunteers serving in local leadership roles contribute more than 30,000 hours a year keeping the program running, and we need your help so that we can support them! </strong><em>Photo credit: Terri Keffert, VMN-Rivanna Chapter</em>
<strong>The Impacts You Can Make With Your Gift</strong>
The purpose of our project is to provide training and resources to increase the capacity of our local volunteer leaders. We will hold four regional Leadership Days at which we will provide training on effective management of VMN chapters, strategies for decision-making and conflict resolution, and plans for creating and organizing impactful service projects. In addition, we will create online resources (e.g., webinars, manuals, templates) that our volunteer leaders, especially those new to their roles, will use.
In the short term, our project will increase volunteers’ willingness to take on and stay in leadership roles, and it will increase their efficacy in those roles. In the long term, our project will result in more robust Virginia Master Naturalist chapters that are better at recruiting, retaining, and managing volunteers and partnerships so that they have more positive impacts on Virginia’s woods, wildlife, and waters.
<strong>While we do receive monetary support from our agency partners, it does not cover all of our baseline budget. Philanthropy is critical for helping us sustain and grow the Virginia Master Naturalist program. </strong><em>Photo credits, left to right: Captain Debbie Ritter (VMN-Eastern Shore Chapter), Patty Maloney (VMN-Historic Rivers Chapter)</em>
<blockquote>
<strong>For as little as $5, you can help us support our volunteers so that they can do more for Virginia's environment!</strong>
</blockquote>
Please note that, since the VMN program is part of Virginia Tech and Virginia Cooperative Extension, your gift will go to the Virginia Tech Foundation. It will be earmarked for the VMN program, and you'll receive acknowledgement of your gift from Virginia Tech.
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Send the VT Wind Ensemble to Their First-Ever National Conference
By Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble
Support the Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble's performance at the 2018 College Band Directors National Association Southern Division Conference in Tampa, FL.
Support the Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble's performance at the 2018 College Band Directors National Association Southern Division Conference in Tampa, FL. Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble The Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble has the chance of a lifetime to perform in Tampa, Florida at the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) Southern Division conference: the single most prestigious performance opportunity ever offered to a Virginia Tech ensemble. <strong>But we need your help to get there!</strong>
This invitation was made possible by the Wind Ensemble’s incredible performance at Carnegie Hall last March. CBDNA represents thousands of college band directors across the United States and is the foremost professional organization for collegiate band directors. An invitation to perform for the CBDNA membership is one of the highest honors a college band can receive. This will be the first time a Virginia Tech ensemble has performed at a CBDNA conference.
For just $11, you can help make this unprecedented performance opportunity a reality for our students. Together, let’s show the nation some of the incredible music being made at Virginia Tech!
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Studio Collective
By Virginia Tech
Studio Collective is the official design journal of the School of Architecture + Design at Virginia Tech.
Studio Collective is the official design journal of the School of Architecture + Design at Virginia Tech. About Us
Studio Collective is the official design journal of the School of Architecture and Design at Virginia Tech. We produce a journal every semester to display student work, alumni experiences, and current interests within the design community.
How can you help
Your donation will help us print this semester's journal which will be released December 11th. Our goal is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/allison.trittschuh#">$2,500</a> by November 28th. Thank you for your interest and support.
Follow Us
<a href="http://www.studiocollective.org/">http://www.studiocollective.org/</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/studiocollectivevt/">@studiocollectivevt</a>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/studiocollectivevt/">@studiocollectivevt</a>
Just For Fun
We are a team of dedicated and wonderful students whom together create a journal but also have fun in the process. Here are some photos of us working and having some fun.
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Virginia Tech FutureHAUS Dubai
By FutureHAUS Dubai Team
Help out FutureHAUS Dubai team power hour home during the 2018 Solar Decathlon Middle East competition.
Help out FutureHAUS Dubai team power hour home during the 2018 Solar Decathlon Middle East competition. FutureHAUS Dubai Team <strong>About Us</strong>
We are FutureHAUS Dubai. We are representing Virginia Tech and the United States of America in the inaugural Solar Decathlon Middle East competition. In Dubai, the team will compete against 21 international universities. Created by the United States Department of Energy in 2002, the Solar Decathlon is an international biennial competition aimed at sustainability, innovation, and research.
The competition has ten contests: Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Energy Management, Energy Efficiency, Comfort Conditions, House Functioning, Sustainable Transportation, Sustainability, Communication, and Innovation. Designing for Dubai challenges the team to implement concepts of portability, notions of privacy, and sustainable living in an extreme environment.
We are an interdisciplinary team featuring students and faculty advisors from leading colleges, such as the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, the College of Engineering, College of Science, and the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech.
We aim to create a net-positive energy home that demonstrates the future of modular, affordable, and smart housing. We are researching concepts of ageing in place, flexible space, and Internet of Things.
<strong>Support Us</strong>
In Fall 2017, the team will finalize the design and engineering of the house and begin construction of the kitchen and bathroom. In Spring of 2018, the team will finish construction of the house and in Summer of 2018 the team will test house functioning and electrical systems. In November of 2018, the team of faculty and students will travel to Dubai to assemble the house and compete in the competition.
To power the home during the ten day competition, an estimated 6,000 kilowatts of energy will need to be produced from solar panels. The competition requires houses to use solar energy as the only energy source and employ technologies that permit maximum energy efficiency. An array of 40 SunPower solar panels will be employed, costing an estimated $60,000.
Help fund the purchase of solar panels, and directly support the essential functions of the home kilowatt by kilowatt. Help Virginia Tech make the world’s best net-positive energy home.
<strong>Follow Us</strong>
Website: <a href="http://dubai.futurehaus.tech">http://dubai.futurehaus.tech</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/futurehausdubai/">@futurehausdubai</a>
Facebook: <a href="http://https://www.facebook.com/FutureHAUSdubai/">@FutureHAUSdubai</a>
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/FutureHAUSdubai?lang=en">@FutureHAUSdubai</a>
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Virginia 4-H Grows True Leaders
By Virginia 4-H
Provide funding to send youth to Virginia 4-H State Congress, the premier statewide annual, 4-H event for outstanding 4-H teens & adult volunteer leaders.
Provide funding to send youth to Virginia 4-H State Congress, the premier statewide annual, 4-H event for outstanding 4-H teens & adult volunteer leaders. Virginia 4-H <strong>Virginia 4-H State Congress</strong>
Virginia 4-H State Congress is the premier, annual statewide 4-H event for outstanding 4-H teens and adult volunteer leaders. This opportunity, held on the campus of Virginia Tech, allows youth and adults from across the commonwealth to develop leadership and life skills through hands-on educational workshops and competitions. Beginning October 2 and for the following 30 days, Virginia 4-H is raising $10,000 to support 4-H members and volunteer leaders to attend State 4-H Congress. Your contribution can help to provide transportation, workshop materials, partial scholarships and more.
<strong>Goals of Virginia 4-H State Congress</strong>
<ol>
<li>Provide a high-quality educational experience for 4-H youth ages 14-18.</li>
<li>Promote 4-H as a major statewide educational youth program; </li>
<li>Provide educational, recreational and social experiences for youth that are not normally available at the unit or district level;
</li>
<li>Enhance skill development through all 4-H Congress activities including the Great Summer Showcase workshops, service learning, & competitions;
</li>
<li>Recognize all competition and award winners in front of their peers at a statewide event;</li>
<li>Recognize the contributions of 4-H adult volunteer leaders that support 4-H Congress;
</li>
<li>Promote an understanding of the value of diversity among Congress participants;
</li>
<li>Enhance each delegate’s sense of personal and social responsibility through an environment that fosters independence, accountability, decision-making and time management.</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>Click to see the 2017 Virginia 4-H Congress Promo Video <a href="https://youtu.be/geFuNFp-pAY"> https://youtu.be/geFuNFp-pAY</a></li>
</ul>
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The ITCHY Project
By The Jelesko Lab at VT
This project supports poison ivy research aimed at better understanding this noxious weed, and to develop sustainable ways to control it in managed landscapes.
This project supports poison ivy research aimed at better understanding this noxious weed, and to develop sustainable ways to control it in managed landscapes. The Jelesko Lab at VT <strong>If You Have Suffered From Poison Ivy/Oak Rash</strong>, then you understand why I want to find new environmentally sustainable ways to combat poison ivy in managed landscapes. This goal is imperative because previous research by others (Mohan, 2006, PNAS) showed that expected increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels will cause poison ivy to: 1) grow faster, 2) get bigger, and 3) become even more noxious than it is now!
My lab is the only one in the world entirely dedicated to poison ivy/oak research. Working together with collaborators, I want to understand the fundamentals of poison ivy ecology and metabolism to find its Achille’s Heel(s) and then exploit those vulnerabilities to develop environmentally sustainable ways to control poison ivy.
<strong>Scientific Research Supported By This Crowd Funding:</strong>
1) Additional research into a native <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXcfFiYtoqk">fungus that kills poison ivy</a> seedlings.
2) Further develop the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=77-SdTp4j1g">ITCHY cell phone app</a> to enable citizen scientists to collect and share poison ivy data with the Jelesko lab.
3) Complete the DNA sequencing of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_BdjpxdN6o">poison ivy genome</a> (i.e. complete “genetic blueprint”).
<strong>For High Level Donors (at or above the $43 level): there will be opportunities to receive information and/or samples of over the counter treatment for poison ivy/oak rash from leading firms such as Zanfel</strong>
<strong>VT Poison Ivy Science Inspires Art:</strong> My poison ivy research program recently inspired the creation of a <strong>fictitious cartoon character</strong> named “<a href="https://vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2017/02/cals-comic.html"><strong>Prof. J.J. Burkman</strong></a>” who aids the far more courageous<strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepartners5">Partners 5</a></strong> super heroes to fight the megalomaniac personification of evil poison ivy, named “Heart Root”.
<strong>Be a Genuine Hero!</strong> Donate to The ITCHY Project and advance poison ivy science. Everyone who donates will receive a “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQ9oJlGYMpk"><strong>Poison Ivy League</strong></a>” decal.
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Saddling-up with Conrad Cavalry
By Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets
We want to be able to provide scholarships and gear for any cadet interested in joining Conrad Cavalry. We believe money should not be a barrier to compete!
We want to be able to provide scholarships and gear for any cadet interested in joining Conrad Cavalry. We believe money should not be a barrier to compete! Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Conrad Cavalry begin in 1972 as an equestrian unit of the Corps of Cadets. Initially the unit was founded for people who love horses and wanted to bring their love of horses to the Corps. Recreational riding is what the unit was formed for and there it stayed for many years. In Spring of 2017 the current troop embarked on a mission to re-create the cavalry with a larger purpose.
This mission has two objectives. The first is to actively promote the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets in the public sphere as good-will ambassadors. The second is to individually explore how our partnership with horses and with one another can strengthen our resilience, our focus, and our leadership skills.
From our present troop size, it is our goal to grow our membership by one-hundred percent in Academic year 2017-2018 so that we may reach our target of twenty riding members. This number will ensure that we have enough membership to pursue our mission fully, enabling us to work to become a cavalry unit worth representing the Corps of Cadets and Virginia Tech.
As such, with the funds raised we would like to offer supplemental need based scholarships to members. Additionally, these funds would be used to purchase much needed gear for riders and horses and allow members to compete and represent the University and the Corps at an elite level.
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Fighting Breast Cancer in Appalachia With Mobile Mammograms
By Dr. Carla Finkielstein
With your support, we can bring breast cancer screening services directly to the communities that need them most.
With your support, we can bring breast cancer screening services directly to the communities that need them most. Dr. Carla Finkielstein <strong>In the fight against breast cancer we can’t settle for “below average.”</strong>
The Virginia Tech community has always been on the cutting edge. In science, technology, and public service, we’re doing things the rest of the world can only dream of.
But when it comes to women’s health, our region is falling behind. Nearly half the new breast cancer cases in our area aren’t being diagnosed until they’ve reached late-stage development—that means our early detection rate is <em>44% below the national average.</em>
Yearly mammograms are our first line of defense against breast cancer. Recent studies show that early diagnosis can <em>triple</em> cancer survival rates. But many women in the New River Valley simply don’t have access to screening services—no nearby hospitals, no reliable means of transportation, no insurance to cover their expenses.
<strong>Your gift brings breast cancer screening services to communities in need.</strong>
Every woman deserves to enjoy good health. Living in a rural area, having neither the time nor the resources to get regular check-ups—these should not be the deciding factors in our fight against breast cancer.
With your support, we can turn the tides back in our community’s favor by bringing breast cancer screening services directly to the people who need them most. By funding this project, you’ll be helping us send a mobile mammography unit to 5 Virginia counties. The more money we raise, the more time we can spend in each area, the more women who can be screened, and the more lives we can potentially save.
<strong>Join our team—help more women beat breast cancer!</strong>
When you support this project, you’re joining a team with a proven track record of success: Virginia Tech Biologist and Breast Cancer Advocate Carla Finkielstein, Susan G. Komen Foundation Blue Ridge, and a host of Hokie volunteers who are passionate about improving the state of women’s health in our region.
Whatever you can give to help us reach our fundraising goal will make a huge difference. Thank you for your support and for sharing our message with the people you care about.
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Support a New Generation of STEM Superstars at KTU
By Dr. Kristy Collins
Help us build a better STEM program, one that reaches kids when they need it most, one that "speaks their language"—Kids' Tech University.
Help us build a better STEM program, one that reaches kids when they need it most, one that "speaks their language"—Kids' Tech University. <strong>We <em>need</em> to get our kids excited about science, a way to build on their classroom experiences.</strong>
Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are some of the fastest-growing job sectors in the world. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates there will be 1.4 million job openings for computer specialists by 2020. Unfortunately, American universities are only expected to produce enough qualified graduates to fill 29% of those jobs.
Your average middle or high schooler probably isn't thinking about the future of the economy, but they are making important discoveries about what interests them and what they want to be when they grow up. If our standard STEM curriculum isn't convincing them to see themselves as future scientists, a more fun, hands-on approach could be just what's needed to expand their imagination.
<strong>Your gift will set a student on the path to scientific discovery and <em>long-term success</em>. </strong>
We need you to help us build a better STEM program, one that reaches kids when they need it most, one that "speaks their language," one that gives them access to resources and expertise that can only be found at Virginia Tech: <strong>Kids' Tech University- The Graduate School Edition</strong>.
Whatever you can afford to give will make a huge difference. Kids' Tech University (KTU) is an all-in-one program that covers everything from lab supplies to on-campus meals for our aspiring scientists. Your gift gives us the tools we need to make this happen.
<strong>You are supporting a new approach to STEM education with a <em>proven track record</em> of success.</strong>
Over the past decade, faculty at the Biocomplexity Institute of Virginia Tech have been developing KTU as a program for 9-12 year olds throughout Virginia. Offered in partnership with Virginia 4-H, KTU's impact has been remarkable: thousands of children reached, hundreds of Virginia Tech faculty and students volunteering to help pass on their love of science. With your help, we can expand on this success and reach a whole new group.
<strong>Thank you for being part of the KTU team!</strong>
KTU is a fun, hands-on intro to real STEM skills—something no other classroom experience can touch. We need your support to make this program a reality for a new generation of students.
We appreciate whatever you can give to help us reach our fundraising goal. Thank you for your support and for sharing our message with the science-lovers in your life.
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iSupport Virginia Tech Student Giving Campaign
By Virginia Tech
The beginning of a new tradition. As VT students, we were driven to empower students to give back in a new way. In our first year, we are funding a scholarship.
The beginning of a new tradition. As VT students, we were driven to empower students to give back in a new way. In our first year, we are funding a scholarship. What are we doing?
We are beginning a new tradition. As VT students, we were driven to empower students to give back in a new way. We aim to create a tradition of supporting future Hokies through a philanthropy campaign each year. The first of its kind in 10 years. This will be entirely student-driven.
Why?
Football games, Relay for Life, Ring Dance, and the hundreds of other traditions make Blacksburg and Virginia Tech one-of-a-kind. We want everyone to take part, and add, to these experiences, but many can’t due to financial difficulties. In our first year, we are funding a scholarship to support a low-income and underrepresented student attending Virginia Tech. Next year, you can choose who and what to support.
How?
Venmo, Tilt, Kickstarter and so many more online platforms to give and support others. Using the Virginia Tech’s new crowdfunding platform, students can actively support things we believe in regardless of place or time. It empowers us all to create movements beyond a booth on the Drillfield. It empowers to unite virtually as a community. Our campaign will also have a physical presence on campus.
Where is the money going?
President Sands recently established the <a href="https://vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2016/11/development-beyondboundariesscholars.html">Beyond Boundaries Scholars program</a>, a one-to-one match for current-use gifts to Virginia Tech to create operating scholarships for high-achieving students and students from underrepresented groups. This will double the impact of our scholarship through one-to-one matching. But, more importantly, it will provide immediate support for our efforts to lower barriers to highly qualified and underrepresented applicants.
Opportunities for Students:
Become an Ambassador!
What is an ambassador?
Ambassadors can join the team, becoming relays as we reach out to every student. This includes sharing information about the campaign on social media and coming to the booths and working with other students to talk with students. Also, we will be looking for interested students to run next year's campaign!
To become an ambassador, please fill out this <a href="https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_41SttLUDobBf8Pj">survey</a>!
You can also contact Grey Weissend (<a href="mailto:pgww@vt.edu">pgww@vt.edu</a>) or Jack Crockett (<a href="mailto:jack3045@vt.edu">jack3045@vt.edu</a>) to join the iSupport team.
Enjoy unique experiences as a way to say "Thanks!"
In appreciation for your support of this important, student-driven initiative, we will randomly select representatives to receive several special <em>Thank You</em> experiences including:
<ul>
<li>Fire off Skipper at Hokie Village before the Spring Football Game on Apr. 22</li>
<li>Be close to the action on the sideline during the Spring Football Game, which kicks off Virginia Tech football's 125th anniversary season</li>
<li>Be a guest of President Tim Sands on May 3 at the Grove, the historic President's House at Virginia Tech</li>
<li>Be eligible to use F/S parking for a week during the weeks of April 28-May 3</li>
</ul>
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Youth access the arts with the Moss Arts Center
By Ruth Waalkes
Keep the arts alive, and give more children new and much needed avenues to explore the arts and creative process.
Keep the arts alive, and give more children new and much needed avenues to explore the arts and creative process. Some of our region’s public schools have had to cut their arts programs entirely. Others have had to scale way back on what they offer. National funding for the arts may be on the chopping block. Now more than ever entities such as the Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech must step up efforts to fill some of these gaps for the benefit of our children’s future, for all of our futures.
Exposure to the arts is known to inspire children to think and solve problems more creatively. It nourishes the ability to empathize and understand the world in a larger context. It helps them make connections between abstract concepts and their own lives. Engagement with the Moss Arts Center levels the playing field for all children of our region, ensuring that each child has the same chance to become a well-rounded individual.
We ask schoolchildren for their feedback after Moss Arts Center engagements. Time and again some tell us how we provided the first opportunity for them to see and hear a musical instrument, how they felt the power of live music making the hairs on their head “stand up,” how excited they were to see their own artwork displayed prominently in a professionally mounted exhibition for all to see. A child carries these experiences of joy and pride with them for the rest of their lives.
The performances, artist residencies in schools, youth gallery exhibitions, and other opportunities we offer youth in kindergarten through twelfth grades in schools throughout our region are all provided at no cost to the children. Since the Moss Arts Center opened in fall of 2013, more than 12,000 children have enjoyed these opportunities. Your support will help us grow our school programs for the benefit of many more children in Southwest Virginia and our neighboring communities. For as little as $6, you can make a life-changing impact on a child.
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VT Relay Productions Fund
By Virginia Tech Relay for Life
2017 Virginia Tech Relay for Life: This 12-hour event raises money for the American Cancer Society, and the organizers need your help to put on the big show!
2017 Virginia Tech Relay for Life: This 12-hour event raises money for the American Cancer Society, and the organizers need your help to put on the big show! Being home to the World’s largest collegiate Relay For Life is not an easy task. As the years have passed our event has only gotten bigger and with that comes larger operating expenses.
We have joined this crowdfunding campaign to attain funds to help cover the costs of these productions. Through various sponsorships and university funding opportunities we are able to create the event VT Relay is known as. We are asking for donations to help cover this operational side of our event because we see it as a crucial investment. We fundraise all year long to help fund a cure to cancer and the night of our event our Hokie community prides itself on what Relay For Life has become and we are seeking support in continuing the tradition of a larger than life Relay event!
About VT Relay
Virginia Tech is home to the world’s largest collegiate Relay For Life in the world. Our mission is to live out our university motto of “Ut Prosim” meaning that I may serve, by raising money to help fund a cure to cancer. We involve over 7,000 students and community members each year throughout the year leading up to our big 12-hour event on the Drillfield which will be April 21 this year. Our event takes a lot of hard work but our student volunteers give so much of their time to make sure we are building a better world and serving our community the best we can.
Follow Us
<strong>Twitter:</strong> <a href="https://twitter.com/VTRelay">@VTRelay</a>
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VTRelay/">VTRelay</a>
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Preventing head injuries in youth soccer
By Virginia Tech
When it comes to soccer’s protective gear, how do you know if you’re really keeping kids safe? We’re going to find out, and you can help us do that.
When it comes to soccer’s protective gear, how do you know if you’re really keeping kids safe? We’re going to find out, and you can help us do that. Football gets a lot of attention when it comes to concussion risk, but head injuries can happen in any sport. Virginia Tech, with the world’s largest injury biomechanics program, is leading research that will help protect players.
The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, led by Stefan Duma and Steve Rowson, has made groundbreaking strides in preventing sports-related brain injury by evaluating protective gear. Using data from Virginia Tech athletes and simulated impacts recreated in the lab, Duma and Rowson have created a rating system that ranks adult football helmets on a five-star scale based on how well they reduce concussion risk.
This publicly-accessible information gives players the tools to make informed choices and drives innovation in the industry: When the team released the first ratings in 2011, only one helmet got five stars. Today, 16 do.
<strong>Now, the team behind those studies is embarking on a new project: testing protective headbands worn by youth soccer players.</strong>
Soccer is hugely popular around the world; there are millions of registered youth players in the U.S. alone. Knowing which bands offer the best protection will help parents and coaches be more confident that these players are safe on the field.
Your donation will help purchase headbands for the team to test in the lab. That research will yield unbiased, independent ratings slated for release later this year, and benefit soccer players worldwide.
Thank you for your support!
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