UNIVERSITY RELATIONS PRSRT STD 902 PRICES FORK ROAD U.S. POSTAGE FALL 2020 PAID UNIVERSITY GATEWAY CENTER, SUITE 2100 LYNCHBURG, VA PERMIT NO. 542 BLACKSBURG, VA 24061 VOL. 43, NO. 1

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SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE A window into the world-class medical research at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC

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Get a free auto quote or connect with your local agent today. vafb.com CONTENTS FEATURES 34 SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE ADDITIONAL RESEARCH The Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC in Roanoke launched in 2010. A decade Tina Wheeler, a graduate student studying translational later, the facility, which has more than doubled in size, anticipates adding another biology, medicine, and health, works in the Lamouille 300 to 400 research faculty, staff, and students to investigate medical studies Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, that range from brain health to obesity and infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. which is led by principal investigator Samy Lamouille. 40 THE FUTURE OF WORK The Lamouille Lab, where scientists study the growth and Since the university’s founding in 1872, Virginia Tech has kept pace with changes in agriculture, spread of cancer, is just one of the research spaces ben- engineering, aerospace, and many other career fields. Today, the university is positioned efitting from a newly constructed 139,000 square-foot at the right place and right time with the right vision to play a critical role in the future, building that opened earlier this year. and advancing a more just, inclusive, and accessible environment for workers Read more about the new facility and the research tak- throughout the world. ing place in Roanoke on p. 34. DEPARTMENTS 4 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

6 AROUND THE DRILLFIELD 18 Corps 19 Athletics 21 Question 23 What's In It? 24 How Tech Ticks

52 AROUND THE HOKIE NATION 52 Alumnus Profile: Ed Baine 57 Class Notes 66 Retro 68 Family 71 STILL LIFE 76 END NOTE

ON THE COVER: As a 21st century land-grant university, Virginia Tech is uniquely qualified to prepare students for careers in a dramati- cally changing world. Cover art by: Andy Potts. Located in Roanoke, Virginia, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC supports medical research and devel- opments with the goal of improving health and saving lives. CLAYTON METZ CLAYTON EDITOR LETTERS Erica Stacy

ART DIRECTOR Shanin Glenn

SECTION EDITORS/WRITERS Mason Adams, Jenny Kincaid Boone, TO THE EDITOR Richard Lovegrove, Travis Williams, Haley Cummings (student intern), Rosie Hutchison (student intern) A ROCK-SOLID LIFE-CHANGING CONTRIBUTORS Annie McCallum, Albert Raboteau, EDUCATION MOMENTS Brian Snell, Summer Woodard Congrats for your excellent commu- UNIVERSITY RELATIONS PRSRT STD 902 PRICES FORK ROAD U.S. POSTAGE SUMMER 2020 PAID UNIVERSITY GATEWAY CENTER, SUITE 2100 LYNCHBURG, VA DIGITAL DESIGNBLACKSBURG, VA 24061 PERMIT NO. 542 VOL. 42, NO. 3 nication improvements! It is a plea-

Bruce Harper CHANGE(webmaster) SERVICE REQUESTED magazine PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE SUMMER 2020 sure to stay informed with ALL the VISUAL ASSETS Dawn Jefferies, Megan Zalecki methods in use. SETTING AN EXAMPLE: Virginia Tech President Tim Sands adheres to the PHOTOGRAPHERS There are many highlights from my Centers for Disease Control mask guidelines to slow the spread of COVID-19. Lee Friesland, Ray Meese, Dan Mirolli, SAVE time at VPI that I could share. My Erin Williams, Ryan THEYoung IN THIS DATE TOGETHER time in the Corps of Cadets, A Squad-

DIRECTOR OF DESIGNJUNE & DIGITAL 10-13 STRATEGY magazine Brad Soucy ron, Class of ’64, had a profound effect on my life and career. After a lifetime EXECUTIVE EDITORWe’re celebrating the classes of 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, Jesse Tuel 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016. of experience, I think I finally under- WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE A look back at the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic stand the complete impact of attend- PUBLISHER Reunion Weekend is an exciting new AT YOUR SERVICE Alumni answer the call of Ut Prosim tradition that alumni look forward CHANGING DIRECTION to all year long. We are planning our Tracy Vosburgh ing VPI as a cadet. Another standout largest gathering yet for 2021. Get ready for next summer! THE COUNTDOWN IS ON.

VTMAG.VT.EDU moment was meeting my future wife Just a few short months ago, no one in higher education knew combined number of underrepresented and underserved stu- CONTACTS Visit alumni.vt.edu/reunion2021 to learn more. 2020VISION exactly what to expect as campuses across the country responded dents—including low-income, first-generation, and veteran stu- STORY IDEAS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: UNWAVERING IN UNPRECEDENTED TIMES at Homecoming in 1963. We have to the COVID-19 pandemic. Virginia Tech administrators, fac- dents—makes up 39 percent of entering undergraduates, almost EMAIL: [email protected]. MAIL: VIRGINIA TECH MAGAZINE; been married now for 53 years. 902 PRICES FORK ROAD; UNIVERSITY GATEWAY CENTER, ulty, and staff planned exhaustively for a range of scenarios, reaching our 2022 milestone of 40 percent. SUITE 2100; BLACKSBURG, VA 24061. ADDRESS CHANGES: I was saddened to learn about the Keep up the good work! worked hard to implement those plans, and were prepared to EMAIL: [email protected]. PHONE: 540-231-6285 death of Dr. Donald Bloss (p. 63 Virginia Tech is educating the leaders who will drive the future. Ray Allen ’64 change direction as needed. Robust testing provided by our own BETWEEN 8 A.M. AND 5 P.M., MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY. summer 2020). I transferred to Vir- The students across our campuses today are preparing for CLASS NOTES: EMAIL: [email protected]. MAIL: Springfield, Virginia research lab, contact tracing, and modification of instructional careers with responsibilities that we can only imagine. We are CLASS NOTES, ALUMNI ASSOCIATION; HOLTZMAN ginia Tech from a college with spaces made it possible to offer a hybrid residential experience committed to instruction that brings together advancing tech- ALUMNI CENTER, VIRGINIA TECH; 901 PRICES FORK RD.; less-demanding requirements for while also protecting the most vulnerable. BLACKSBURG, VA 24061. ADVERTISING: LEARFIELD IMG geology majors. I should have already nologies and STEM education with cultural, human-based ini- COLLEGE, [email protected], 540-418-6314. had a crystallography class, but hadn't. Our strong and supportive university community stepped up tiatives—always keeping our university motto, Ut Prosim (That Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, Dr. Bloss agreed to let me do an inde- FROM THE EDITOR to protect each other by wearing masks, maintaining distance, I May Serve), at the center of our efforts. or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, pendent study class with him over and avoiding indoor gatherings when masking and distancing Research and innovation at the university have never been race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, or veteran the summer, so I could catch up to CORRECTION weren’t possible. As a result, Virginia Tech was able to weather status; or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants stronger. Sponsored project awards were up 15 percent for who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the my fellow juniors. I was honored and Joseph Michael Coppola ’85, of White an initial spike in cases and stay the course. the year ending in June, and expenditures were at an all-time compensation of other employees, or applicants; or any other basis protected by law. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination grateful. I was shocked when I learned Plains, New York, was erroneously Now, we are looking forward to another semester with cautious high. Impressive as they are, these figures don’t reflect the full policies, contact the executive director for Equity and Access at how esteemed he was in his field. I got included in the In Memoriam listing 540-231-8771 or Virginia Tech, North End Center, Suite 2300, 300 optimism and will continue to apply our existing strategies in impact of our research and engagement efforts, which are better Turner St. NW, Blacksburg, VA 24061. a hint when I saw that he had written in the summer edition. the spring. Courses may be fully online, hybrid, or fully in-per- characterized by the extraordinary public attention our prob- the textbook we were using, which son. Details and updates are available online at ready.vt.edu. lem-solving and community-engaged researchers, innovators, included a mineral named blossite. and Extension agents have earned during the pandemic. Yep, THAT Bloss. Thanks to that ever-present Hokie spirit and determination, Virginia Tech is meeting the challenges of these extraordi- Certainly the COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to challenges Wendy Hart Nielson Beckman ’80 CONTACT US nary times and making excellent progress toward our Beyond that were unexpected and unprecedented. We’ve had to do Cincinnati, Ohio Virginia Tech Magazine wel- Boundaries vision for the future. things differently and modify—temporarily—some of our most comes stories about the many treasured experiences. Yet, by the measures that matter most, ways that our readers make an Undergraduate enrollment reached 30,000 this year, a few years Virginia Tech is stronger than it has ever been. impact in communities across ahead of schedule and in contrast to national trends. Underrep- the globe through their research, Thank you, Hokies. Be committed. Be well. resented minority students now make up more than 19 percent SOMETHING TO SAY? careers, and service. Send your of our entering class, compared to 13 percent five years ago. The Tim Sands is Virginia Tech’s 16th president. Send us a message at [email protected]. ideas to [email protected].

4 | PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE RY VTMAG.VT.EDU | 5 AROUND THE DRILLFIELD 18 Corps 19 Athletics 21 Question 23 What’s In It? 24 How Tech Ticks NEWS MARCHING TO A DIFFERENT FORECAST THE MARCHING VIRGINIANS HAVE AN ADVANTAGE THAT FEW marching bands can match: their very own weather forecaster. Ben Sheppard, a senior majoring in meteorology in the College of Natural Resources and Environment’s Department of Geog- raphy, has been providing detailed weather forecasts for the Virginia Tech marching band since his freshman year. “As a first-year trumpeter and a meteorology major, all of my friends in the trumpet section would joke that it was my fault when the weather was bad,” said Sheppard, who has played the trumpet since fourth grade. “So I started using what I was learn- ing in class to write up humorous weather reports for the sec- tion and sending them out. My friends were excited to read them and very supportive of what I was doing. By my junior year, the band directors were asking me if I could send my reports to them to help their planning.” Sheppard’s initiative led to him being designated as the first-ever “Official Forecaster” of the Marching Virginians this year, a lead- ership position that recognizes his contributions to the band. With band participants taking extra steps to meet health guide- lines to prevent the spread of COVID-19, having accurate weather forecasts has taken on a greater significance. Since the Marching SUNNY WITH A CHANCE OF TRUMPET: Ben Sheppard, center, and the March- Virginians are required to practice outdoors, it is important for ing Virginians follow health and safety band leaders to know what weather is on the horizon. protocols while practicing. For videos of Ben Sheppard and the Marching Virginians, go to vtmag.vt.edu.

LF NEWS | DRILLFIELD | 7 VIRGINIA TECH MEDICAL STUDENTS HISTORIANS UNCOVER CREATE CLUB WITH FOCUS THE FACTS ABOUT MASKS ON MEDICAL DESIGN THREE STUDENTS AT THE VIRGINIA Tech Carilion School of Medicine have created a medical design club that merges medicine and innovation. Second-year students Luma Abun- imer, Katie Hardin, and Tommy To said the focus of the organization is to support the engineering and design ideas of medical students and physicians so that they can innovate A parade during the 1918 pandemic and improve medical technology, systems, and procedures. MORE THAN 100 YEARS AGO, “We felt that if we could provide during the 1918 flu pandemic, health medical students with the platform officials urged Americans to pro- and skills to creatively address the tect their country by wearing masks. many needs in the field of medicine, DOCTOR'S NOTE: Deborah Birx (right), White House Coronavirus Response coordinator especially now during the pandemic, and world-renowned medical expert, visited Virginia Tech on Sept. 16 to discuss the DANIEL SUI APPOINTED VICE PRESIDENT Flash forward to 2020 and COVID- university's management of COVID-19 with leaders, including President Tim Sands. FOR RESEARCH AND INNOVATION 19. Health experts are again encour- we would all be even more dynamic aging face coverings to protect physician thought leaders,” Abun- DANIEL SUI, AN INTERNATIONALLY extramural funding. He will also chair BIRX PRAISES VIRGINIA TECH FOR COVID-19 TESTING, against a dangerous virus. imer said. renowned researcher in the area of GIS- two boards for Virginia Tech-affiliated OPENING CAMPUS The group’s first project was a web- based spatial analysis and modeling for corporations. Three Virginia Tech researchers DURING A SEPT. 16 VISIT TO BLACKS- “It’s really critical for the community,” started the Flu Mask Project to study site that serves as a virtual repository urban, environmental, and public health burg, Deborah Birx, a world-renowned she said. “You really are in control of your Sui has been published in more than 230 for sharing computer-aided design applications, has been appointed Virginia the use of masks in 1918 as a way to files for 3D printing of materials for health official, physician, and White own destiny because of how much test- Tech’s vice president for research and inno- scholarly publications and has delivered understand how people experience a use with personal protective equip- House ambassador, praised Virginia ing you can do based on human person- vation, effective Nov. 1. approximately 70 keynote speeches and pandemic and how masks fit into a ment (PPE). Creation of the web- Tech’s work to develop its own corona- nel rather than the supply chain.” guest lectures over the past five years. broader public health response. They virus testing site and open its campuses “Following a nationwide search, I am also are evaluating the scientific evi- site was driven by the COVID-19 Birx said that Americans—including those Sui had served as the division director amid the global pandemic. delighted that Dr. Sui has joined the Vir- dence of the effectiveness of masks pandemic and the PPE shortage it on college campuses—can figure out how ginia Tech team to lead our research enter- of Social and Economic Sciences for the and lessons learned for future mask VT NEWS, RY caused. Birx, who is the U.S. special representa- to be social and safe. For example, stu- prise,” said Executive Vice President and National Science Foundation. He had also tive for global health diplomacy, discussed use, such as during COVID-19. From left, Medical Design Club dents who interact within the same small Provost Cyril Clarke. served as chair of the Department of Geog- founders Luma Abunimer, Tommy with administrators and students the ways group of friends, also called pods, should “Although a century divides these To, and Katie Hardin. raphy at the Ohio State University and was that the university is managing COVID- be able to dine together safely. A distinguished professor of geogra- two epidemics, mask hesitancy and the assistant vice president for research at 19, and she offered insight and advice. phy, Sui served as the vice chancellor for outright refusal unite them,” said During her visits, she said she concluded Texas A&M University from 2004-09. research and innovation at the Univer- Ariel Ludwig, a member of the Virginia Tech’s ability to perform its own that the universities that have been the coronavirus testing, led by Carla Finkiel- sity of Arkansas. He earned a Bachelor of Science in geog- research team who earned her Ph.D. most successful in managing COVID-19 on stein, associate professor and researcher at raphy and a Master of Science in remote in science and technology studies at campus worked hard during the summer Sui succeeds G. Don Taylor, Virginia the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Virginia Tech. to develop a plan for the fall semester. Tech’s executive vice provost, who served sensing and geographic information sys- at VTC, is extraordinary among institu- in an interim capacity. Sui will be respon- tems from Peking University in Beijing, The team includes Jessica Brabble, tions nationwide, Birx said. Only a hand- “I think that’s why you’re in a good place, sible for supporting and growing the uni- China. Sui received his doctorate in geog- a master’s student, and E. Thomas ful of universities are doing their own because you really laid a strong founda- versity’s research portfolio, which includes raphy from the University of Georgia. Ewing, a professor of history. COVID-19 testing, she said. tion,” Birx said to Virginia Tech leaders.

8 | DRILLFIELD | NEWS VT NEWS RY, NEWS | DRILLFIELD | 9 MOBILE AUTISM DESIGN TEAM CLINIC RECOGNIZED PLACES SECOND

THE VIRGINIA TECH AUTISM CLINIC AS THE RATE OF AIR TRAVEL & Center for Autism Research and increases around the globe, so does their Mobile Autism Clinic received congestion of major commercial air- national recognition as an “exemplary ports, resulting in delays, not enough flights to meet demand, and passen- program” by the Association of Public gers needing to fly to smaller satellite and Land-grant Universities. airports. These recurring problems Virginia Tech is one of four univer- will worsen in years to come. sities to receive the designation. The After a year-long effort to design a recognition is part of the W.K. Kel- high-capacity, short-range trans- logg Foundation Engagement Schol- port aircraft, a Virginia Tech cap- arship Awards program. stone design team brought home Angela Scarpa, a psychology profes- second-place honors in the 2020 sor in the College of Science, launched Undergraduate Aircraft Design Com- petition sponsored by the American the mobile clinic in 2018. Through the Institute of Aeronautics and Astro- BOUNDLESS GENEROSITY: Co-chairs Morgan Blackwood Patel, use of a modified recreational vehicle, WASTE NOT: Virginia Tech researchers Amy Pruden and Peter Vikesland collect samples nautics. Horacio Valeiras, and Lynne Doughtie at the Oct. 11, 2019, of wastewater across campus to test for the presence of COVID-19. the mobile clinic provides clinical care, launch of Boundless Impact: The Campaign for Virginia Tech. support, and therapy sessions for fam- “Our team performed exceptionally well and submitted a quality proposal, RESEARCHERS BEGIN TESTING CAMPUS WASTEWATER ilies and children. even when the bar kept moving,” said RECORD GIVING TO VIRGINIA TECH FOR COVID-19 Although COVID-19 has forced the co-faculty advisor Pradeep Raj. “They VIRGINIA TECH SUPPORTERS STEPPED In October 2019, the university announced A TEAM OF VIRGINIA TECH RESEARCH- Ph.D. candidate Ayella Maile-Moskowitz. mobile clinic to be parked tempo- each handled the sudden change in forward like never before in a year that Boundless Impact: The Campaign for Vir- ers is testing wastewater at 15 campus sites Virginia Tech’s Office of the Vice Pres- rarily, Scarpa and her team, along modality due to the global pandemic saw the university launch its most ambi- for the presence of the novel coronavirus ident for Research and Innovation and with the Department of Psycholo- very professionally.” ginia Tech, with a goal to raise $1.5 bil- tious fundraising campaign ever, but also (SARS-CoV-2), enabling the university to the Department of Civil and Environ- gy’s clinical science program, have lion and engage 100,000 Hokies by 2027. The team, known as Over the Pond, experience unprecedented disruption more rapidly identify and respond to pos- mental Engineering invested $200,000 to moved in-person therapy, diagno- The campaign’s fundraising progress was is composed of eight aerospace and due to the COVID-19 pandemic. itive tests. expand the project to 15 sampling sites on sis, and care to an online format using ocean engineering students from Vir- $657.2 million as of June 30. More than $185.4 million in new gifts The advance allows the university to the Blacksburg campus. Most of the sites HIPAA-compliant Zoom software. ginia Tech and two students from An increase in the number of alumni and commitments were made during the monitor clusters of campus buildings focus on clusters of residence halls. Hamburg University of Applied Sci- who gave was even more pronounced— 2019-20 fiscal year, which ended June 30. on a daily basis, testing for the presence ences in Hamburg, Germany. “As we saw researchers around the world The previous record was $181.9 million up nearly 22 percent to 27,775. As a result, of the virus in fecal matter. If the test- testing their wastewater for COVID, we Almost 40 university teams from in 2018-19. the university’s alumni giving percentage, ing shows positive results, the university thought it would be interesting to see if across the country competed in the a key factor in many college rankings, can then conduct targeted testing among The university received nearly $172.7 mil- we could, too, since we already examine virtual competition that included an increased from 13 percent to 15 percent. individuals in those buildings to zero in wastewater for pathogens and viruses in intense design review of their written lion in cash through donations during the “COVID-19 changed how we were able on possible infections. The idea is to more our lab,” Maile-Moskowitz said. “As it report. The undergraduate aircraft past fiscal year, topping the previous record proactively identify virus clusters, even became clear that the pandemic was not design competition offers an oppor- of $134.4 million in cash in 2017-18. to connect as Hokies by keeping us apart, when individuals may be asymptomatic. going anywhere, we saw it as an oppor- tunity for students to participate in Despite the pandemic’s impact on the physically. But it did not keep our alumni tunity to help the university in determin- and friends from showing their support The team—led by Peter Vikesland, profes- ON THE MOVE: Virginia Tech's Mobile a simulated real-world problem and economy during the latter third of the sor of civil and environmental engineer- ing where outbreaks might be occurring Autism Clinic serves Bland, Carroll, allows students to gain experience and fiscal year, the total number of Virginia for Virginia Tech,” said Charlie Phlegar, ing—includes Civil and Environmental around campus, especially as an early Grayson, Smyth, and Wythe counties, receive useful and constructive feed- Tech donors increased by more than 14 vice president for advancement. “We are as well as the City of Galax. Engineering Professor Amy Pruden and warning system.” back from technical experts. percent, to 41,524. extremely grateful to all of them.” JEFF GREENOUGH FOR VIRGINIA TECH VIRGINIA JEFF GREENOUGH FOR 10 | DRILLFIELD | NEWS VT NEWS DJ, NEWS | DRILLFIELD | 11 THE SOUND OF PLANTS DANCING

IMAGINE PUTTING ON A PAIR OF headphones and being able to deter- mine the health of plants across the INNOVATIVE COHORT: Lance Collins, Innovation Campus vice president and executive globe based purely on what you hear. director, arrived at the campus, along with the first class of students. You’d be able to make remote adjust- ments to soil, water, or fertilizer. INNOVATION CAMPUS LAUNCHES INAUGURAL CLASS, TACKLING COVID-19: Mark Begonia, director of testing for the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, tests a football helmet fitted with a Bingyu Zhao, associate professor in WELCOMES NEW LEADER double visor. the College of Agriculture and Life THE VIRGINIA TECH INNOVATION The first Innovation Campus cohort Sciences’ School of Plant and Environ- CUSTOM FACE SHIELDS AIM TO PROTECT FOOTBALL PLAYERS FROM COVID-19 Campus reached several milestones this includes 26 students enrolled in Virginia mental Sciences, leads a team study- semester with the arrival of Vice President Tech’s new Master of Engineering in com- ing the microscopic movements and THIS FOOTBALL SEASON, THE HOKIES Ultimately, the design that met their crite- As football players wear the visors, they and Executive Director Lance Collins and puter science program—the first degree sounds plants grown in a hydroponic are wearing custom face shields designed ria of efficacy, wearability, and ease of pro- are offering feedback that the researchers the launch of its inaugural class of students. designed specifically for the Innovation environment make based on the nutri- to protect them from COVID-19 that duction was a deceptively simple solution: are using to fine-tune the design. ents they have—or lack—from water. were created by the same Virginia Tech a shield pieced together from two visors. It also announced an advisory board of 10 Campus. The other three Innovation Duma hopes work on the face shield can global business and industry leaders. Campus degree programs are the Master of research team that rates helmets for safety. The upper half is a commercially available The work could impact the global have an impact far beyond the Virginia Science in computer science, Master of Sci- visor; in fact, many players already wear Collins started at Virginia Tech just a few food source by increasing the sheer The team includes Stefan Duma, the Tech gridiron. He has already shared the ence in computer engineering, and Master one for eye protection. A second visor, days before the first Innovation Campus number of food-producing farms in Harry Wyatt Professor of Engineering design with the NFL and the ACC and is of Engineering in computer engineering. turned upside down and trimmed to fit the class—79 students pursuing master’s challenging growing locations, such and the founding director of the Virginia considering how to help make visors for Tech Helmet Lab; Mike Goforth, the helmet, sits directly below the first one degrees in computer science and computer Innovation Campus classes are online this as urban environments. players at other schools. associate athletics director for sports med- and covers the lower half of the face. engineering—began the fall semester. semester because of the pandemic, and fac- Plants move during the day and, as they icine; and Mark Rogers, the chief medical ulty offices and course instruction for stu- The research team was particularly inter- “These students will help build the foun- grow, create their own movement pat- officer for Virginia Tech Athletics. dents will be in Virginia Tech’s existing ested in droplets smaller than 300 nanome- dation of the Innovation Campus as we terns. That dance creates a sound that location in Falls Church while the new With only a couple months before foot- ters, the standard that’s used to certify the expand programs and develop a new cur- changes based on sun, soil quality, and campus is being built in Alexandria. ball practice was set to begin in August, N95 masks used by frontline workers. The riculum,” Collins said. “I look forward nutrients. In a collaboration with Ivica the team worked its way through mul- dual-visor shield blocked more than 99 EXTRA, EXTRA! to working with them to create a new The university expects to break ground Ico Bukvic, an associate professor in tiple designs, putting in long hours and percent of them. Meanwhile, impact tests READ ALL ABOUT IT. type of graduate program with a strong on the campus’ first academic building in the School of Performing Arts, this weekends to compress months of work in the helmet lab verified that the visors emphasis on engagement with compa- 2021 and welcome students, faculty, and movement is captured using high-res- For additional details, images, and into weeks. Football players came in could withstand the forces that regularly videos related to the stories featured nies and federal agencies.” staff in fall 2024. olution cameras. every day to test out prototypes. pummel players’ helmets on the field. in Drillfield, go to vtmag.vt.edu. RM 12 | DRILLFIELD | NEWS VT NEWS EW, NEWS | DRILLFIELD | 13 NEWS REEL tion at large. But students are actually far more likely to be food insecure than the general public. The Sanghanis were inspired to give, in part, by a Virginia Tech study released last year that showed VIRGINIA TECH VIDEOGRAPHERS HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK CAPTURING THE 29 percent of undergraduates and 35 per- cent of graduate students having low or UNIVERSITY’S NEWS AND EVENTS. CHECK OUT THIS SAMPLING AND MANY OTHERS very low food security. AT VIDEO.VT.EDU. “Food insecurity often hides in the shad-

ows,” Hema Sanghani said. “The univer- RETHINKING TEACHING DURING A PANDEMIC sity’s research on food insecurity opened Christopher Pritchett, foundation program our eyes to an issue that is often over- chair at the School of Architecture + Design, looked or unknown: food insecurity has found it refreshing to be pushed out of his exists on college campuses nationwide, comfort zone, as the pandemic has forced him including Virginia Tech.” to rethink how he teaches. The Sanghanis live in Vienna, Virginia, and both grew up close to the univer- sity they would attend. Hema Sanghani, from Lynchburg, is a member of the Class of 1999 and earned her bachelor’s ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DEVELOPS NEW in finance. Mehul Sanghani is a native COVID-19 KEY DESIGN of Blacksburg and a member of the Class Ryan Pieper, associate professor at the Wash- of 1998 who earned separate bachelor’s ington-Alexandria Architecture Center, cre- degrees in industrial and systems engi- ated a contactless way to open doors and touch neering and in psychology. other common objects to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in public spaces. “One of the greatest feelings in the world is knowing that we—as individ- GIFT FROM ALUMNI HEMA AND MEHUL SANGHANI MAKES INNOVATIVE NEW PROGRAM POSSIBLE uals—could make a difference on such an impactful and pervasive issue for stu- BLACKSBURG DELIVERS PARTNERSHIP BRINGS dents,” Mehul Sanghani said. “Food inse- LOCAL DINING OPTIONS TO CAMPUS curity on college campuses is an issue With Blacksburg Delivers—a partnership WHEN HEMA AND MEHUL SANGHANI “I spent my first two years of college made even more pronounced by the between the town of Blacksburg, local busi- hungry,” one student recently wrote learned how many Virginia Tech stu- pandemic. We were compelled to do our nesses, and Virginia Tech—faculty, staff, and while sharing feedback on what a dif- dents were struggling to have enough part and proposed a partnership with our students can order food from local restaurants ference the program has made for her. healthy and nutritious meals, they felt alma mater on a meaningful solution. for campus delivery. “The mental toll of chronic hunger is compelled to act. We’re elated to partner with Virginia that you gain a sort of existential cyni- Tech to make our vision for The Market Supported by a $1.5 million donation by cism towards life. You could be doing a reality and serve our fellow Hokies.” the alumni couple, the university in Sep- everything you possibly could, and you’d INTRO TO DANCE TECHNIQUES CLASS TAKES tember launched an innovative program still feel miserable inside and out. I am DANCE OUTSIDE to enhance food access for today’s Hokies. so appreciative of the fact that someone Rachel Rugh, adjunct instructor, adapted to This initiative, called The Market of Vir- noticed this largely invisible issue and HOW TO HELP COVID-19 by taking her students into the cared enough to help.” open air. VIRGINIA GROWN: A generous gift from ginia Tech, provides up to 75 students at To join in and support Hokie students Hema and Mehul Sanghani made possi- a time with enough fresh ingredients for Many people may assume college stu- who face food insecurity, please visit ble The Market of Virginia Tech. seven days of meals each week. dents are better off than the popula- give.vt.edu/themarket.

14 | DRILLFIELD | NEWS CHUCK KENNEDY RY, NEWS REEL | DRILLFIELD | 15 Want to get some of these special HOKIE SOCKS? In honor of Giving Tuesday, we’ll send a pair to anyone who makes a gift of $10 or more between November 30 SOCKSSOCKS and December 2! ARE BACK! November 30 - December 2

give.vt.edu/socksvt WINNER SOCK IT TO ME!

MAROON AND WHITE LINES CRISS- that led her to Virginia Tech’s Department fect match for my interests and my abili- “Sunrise on the Drillfield” cross over an orange background on of Apparel, Housing, and Resource Man- ties,” she said. “Someday, I would love to by Jiale Man, design student new, limited-edition Hokie socks. agement. “I’ve always been interested in be doing costume design for the theater.” The design, titled “Sunrise on the Drill- costumes and character design, and I love Socks bearing Man’s winning design are field,” was created by senior fashion mer- the idea of being able to see the things chandising and design student Jiale Man. I draw become real,” she said. currently in production and are expected It was chosen by the Hokie community Originally from Qingdao, a coastal city to be ready in early December. In honor as the winner of a three-way vote to in China’s Shandong province, Man said of Giving Tuesday, these limited-edition determine which design would be made Virginia Tech provides an ideal college socks will be available only for a short into limited-edition Hokie footwear. time as a reward for Virginia Tech sup- experience for her. “The campus is beauti- LIMITED TIME ONLY! “I wanted to use the school colors to ful,” she said. “The weather in Blacksburg porters who make a gift to the university As comfortable as they are stylish, these create something that is really represen- is actually quite similar to the weather in between Nov. 30 and Dec. 2. tative of Virginia Tech,” Man said about Qingdao, which helped me feel comfort- student-designed socks are great for any the inspiration for her design. “Plaid is a able and at home here when I arrived.” “I hope these socks create a sense of occasion and make the perfect gift for warmth and passion,” said Man, antic- pattern that a wide audience can appre- Now in her senior year, Man hopes to go the enthusiastic Hokie in your life. ciate, and you can wear it in a variety of on to graduate school to continue honing ipating seeing her design brought to life. different settings.” her craft and developing new ideas. “I hope they transmit the Hokie Spirit and It was Man’s interest in costumes and fash- “Working on my portfolio helped me a sense of pride in being part of Virginia ion, combined with her talent as an artist, realize that costume design is really a per- Tech.” BS

1616 || DRILLFIELDHOKIE NATION | SOCK | IMPACT IT TO OFME! GIVING BUILDING THE FUTURE: ATHLETICS A digital rendering of the Corps Leadership and Mil- CORPS OF CADETS itary Science Buildings. YOU CAN’T KEEP A HOKIE FAN DOWN

ADAM WARD AND ALLEN BOWMAN placed in a stadium seat, was just one of Prior to the game, hundreds of Hokies rarely missed a Hokie football game. the ways Virginia Tech Athletics helped from around the globe chimed in during keep traditions alive and students, fans, a virtual roll call and viewed the Hokies’ As elementary school students, the Roa- and alumni engaged during the pandem- Walk Through on Facebook Live, while noke area natives attended games with ic-shortened season. more than 9,000 used one or more of the their families. Their intense fandom grew features available on the Hokie Sports during their days as Virginia Tech stu- Football typically pulses as the heartbeat mobile app between 7 and 8 p.m. dents, apartment mates, and then as alumni of the Hokie Nation, bringing tens of following their 2011 graduation. thousands of fans together. But the 2020 The Highty-Tighties and Color Guard season opened with Lane Stadium lim- performed the national anthem and “Tech In August 2015, Ward, a videographer ited to no more than 1,000 spectators to Triumph” via video recordings. Skipper for WDBJ7 in Roanoke, and reporter help fight the spread of COVID-19. was fired at the end of each quarter and for Alison Parker were killed by a former every Hokie score. The Marching Virgin- About 1,000 cutouts, all crafted from co-worker during a live television broad- ians, Virginia Tech Spirit Squads, and the a weatherproof PVC plastic material, occu- cast at Smith Mountain Lake. Their HokieBird live-streamed performances. deaths made national news. pied seats when Virginia Tech notched a 45-24 victory over North Carolina State Fans were also connected to Lane Stadium But when the Hokies kicked off the 2020 in the home opener. The images featured through Virginia Tech’s Virtual Sellout football season on Sept. 26, Ward and adults, babies, and pets, with a few celeb- campaign, which offered the opportunity Bowman were once again side-by-side rities sprinkled in, such as alumna Hoda to purchase a virtual seat, receive a variety NEW FOUNDATIONS in the West Stands, thanks to the Lane Kotb and members of the band Metallica. of commemorative items, and the chance Stadium Fan Cutout program. Orders came from across the country and to win a VIP experience during the 2021 “I love the idea of them being together,” football season. Like the cutouts, all pro- THIS FALL, THE 374 MEMBERS OF THE “Completing the reimagining of the ence Building, which will bring together around the world, according to Grant said Katie Bowman ’12, the wife of Allen Duncan, assistant athletics director for ceeds from the season-long effort support cadet Class of 2024 learned the teamwork Upper Quad demonstrates the tangi- corps and ROTC programs now dis- Bowman, who purchased the cutouts. annual fundraising at the university. Virginia Tech student-athletes and help and attention to detail essential to being ble commitment of the university to the persed across several buildings. It will “Anything to keep Adam’s memory alive. mitigate the budget deficit expected to part of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. growth and evolution of the Corps of “We knew our fans would love it,” Duncan also be a hub for the university’s Inte- His family and friends have worked so result from COVID-19. JKB/TW Cadets,” Fullhart said. said. “There are Hokies everywhere. It’s During the spring semester, these first- grated Security Education and Research hard to do that since his death. We miss an opportunity for someone to be in Lane year cadets will prepare to take on the The new residence hall will be the third Center, a new facility designed to blend him so much.” [Stadium] who might have been in Lane FAN-TASTIC: (below) Allen Bowman and responsibilities of being upperclass cadets home for cadets. Pearson Hall East science, technology, policy, and ethics The program, which allows fans to have [in the past] or has never been able to visit Adam Ward (front row from left) were and develop the grit needed to be leaders opened in 2015, and Pearson Hall West featured in cutouts in Lane Stadium. across homeland security, national secu- a life-size photo of themselves or others Lane because of where they live.” of character in their chosen careers in the (formerly New Cadet Hall) followed in rity, and cybersecurity domains. military, business, and government sec- 2017. The new building will house about tors, and in their communities. 300 cadets and continue the attention to Planning and design work are underway detail evident both inside and outside the on both buildings. These cadets are the reason that work on two current residence halls. For exam- a new corps residence hall and the Corps Alumni can leave their marks on the Corps ple, medallions on the building’s exterior Leadership and Military Science Building Leadership and Military Science Building will represent corps organizations, such couldn’t come at a better time, according with a brick plaque. as Skipper Crew, the Gregory Guard, the to Maj. Gen. Randal Fullhart, comman- Color Guard, and more. Learn more at vtcc.vt.edu/bricks. dant of cadets. With a total enrollment of 1,182, the corps continues on a path to The residence hall will be next door to Shay Barnhart is the Corps of Cadets’ grow to 1,400 cadets in the next five years. the Corps Leadership and Military Sci- communications director. RM 18 | DRILLFIELD | CORPS OF CADETS CLARK NEXSEN OF COURTESY | 19 Cameron Buck QUESTION

MOMENT ONE HUNDRED YEARS LATER IN THE HOT ZONE WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?

SO, ESPECIALLY WHEN THINGS CAMERON BUCK WAS ABLE TO BREAK Buck said his father, Jason Buck, an emer- to disenfranchise people of color. Some of SUCKED, AND WE WERE LOSING his nail-biting habit this summer. gency room nurse, inspired his volunteer- these laws also effectively disenfranchised ism and his plan to attend medical school. poor southern white women and men. ONE PATIENT AFTER ANOTHER, But while learning to embrace the pre- Buck also credited his dad with motivating I’M JUST REMINDED BY IT caution of not bringing his hands to his the decision to travel to Texas. Jason Buck How did the ratification of the OF WHY I’M DOING THIS. IT face, the Virginia Tech senior added a had volunteered with COVID patients in 19th Amendment change U.S. REMINDS ME OF WHY I’M HERE more painful practice to his routine. New York and was heading to Texas. society as a whole? AND THAT I HAVE THE SUPPORT “I was just not used to putting people in OF VIRGINIA TECH AS A WHOLE “I really didn’t know what to expect, hon- Mollin: The 19th Amendment did more body bags, but it’s become more habit- than just admit women into the voting BECAUSE THAT [UT PROSIM] estly,” Buck said. “I don’t think anybody ual just because of how bad this all is,” booth. By the early 1900s, women had IS WHAT WE GO BY.” truly understands how crazy this virus is said Buck from a hotel room in McAl- until you see patients go from sitting up already been moving into the public Cameron Buck len, Texas, where he spent a month vol- and talking to you with a mild cough and sphere, into the world of business, com- unteering to help COVID-19 patients in a little difficulty speaking to being fully merce, education, and labor. Politics a hospital ICU. ventilated and sedated the next day.” remained what I call a “no-women’s-land.” ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO, U.S. Did the 19th Amendment guar- While on the frontline of the global pan- Hurricane Hanna’s July 25 landfall added Politics, because it was limited to men, women gained a political voice—they antee that all women could vote? demic, Buck, a systems biology major in was a place that men used to define their to the challenge. Buck worked more than were granted the right to vote. the College of Science, focused on the uni- 22 hours that day. Mollin: The amendment applied to all masculinity. So what did that mean when versity motto. He even wore a scrub cap The Aug. 18, 1920, ratification of the women who were American citizens. women could be political, too? It was a “I just remember [once the shift ended] adorned with the “flying VT” every day. 19th Amendment was a historic achieve- In practice, that meant that women of very clear statement that the entirety my hotel’s power was out, and I was ment that followed a more-than-70- different races and classes had different of the public sphere was now open to “So, especially when things sucked, and eating a Pop-Tart almost in tears because year fight by women’s suffrage activists. access to the vote, access that mirrored women; it was not just a male space any- we were losing one patient after another, I was so tired,” Buck said. These women, dubbed suffragettes, that held by men of their same social more. And it meant that women could I’m just reminded by it of why I’m doing Still, the physical toll was far from the went to great lengths to secure the right location and status. now be treated as full citizens, with all of this,” Buck said. “It reminds me of why most difficult part of the experience. to vote, from picketing in front of the the rights that citizenship entails. I’m here and that I have the support of White House to lobbying in political White middle-class women could easily “I think the hardest part of this whole thing Virginia Tech as a whole because that [Ut settings where females were prohibted. access the ballot just like their husbands, is seeing somebody’s wife or husband have What can we learn today from Prosim] is what we go by.” Many of the activists were arrested. fathers, brothers, and sons. Women of this historic movement? to talk to them on Facetime minutes before color, however, faced numerous barriers. No stranger to volunteering, Buck they pass away,” Buck said. “That hurts, but Marian Mollin, an associate professor Mollin: One of the main lessons is about earned his EMT certificate during his it makes me try my hardest as a health care of history at Virginia Tech, studies U.S. Black women in northern states were gen- making a commitment to the long haul. senior year of high school in Richmond, provider to make sure I see my patients women’s history and social and political erally able to put their suffrage rights into We live in a time where we want imme- Virginia. He joined the Blacksburg Vol- as not just patients. They’re not just a bed movements. She offered her thoughts on practice. But those in the south, like their diate gratification. It’s hard to think that unteer Rescue Squad in 2018 and also number—they’re human beings that have the anniversary of the 19th Amendment Black male counterparts, found it almost you’re pushing for something now, and volunteers back home with the Forest people who love and care for them, just like and its significance for American society impossible to enter the voting booth due it could be 70 years before there is even a View Volunteer Rescue Squad. you and me.” TW then and now. to discriminatory Jim Crow laws intended partial solution. JKB NATIONAL ARCHIVES NATIONAL 20 | DRILLFIELD | MOMENT BUCK CAMERON COURTESY QUESTION | DRILLFIELD | 21 WHAT'S IN IT? ol·o·gy

OLOGY äləe jē

a subject of study

William Ducker COVID CRUSHERS WITH FACES CONCEALED, EYES “It’s just sort of a grassroots effort that SURFACE SHIELD shielded, and hands gloved, the students they took the ball and ran with, and it’s squirted a fragrant gel on strangers pass- doing such a great service for our com- A VIRGINIA TECH PROFESSOR HAS • Commercial polyurethane, which other viruses to guess what would kill it ing by in downtown Blacksburg. munity,” Wilson said. “They’re making found a solution to the rapid spread of is hard-wearing and easy to apply. [SARS-CoV-2].” A year ago, this act might have resembled connections with people that we would the coronavirus on common surfaces. Results show that the coating does not Ducker hopes to attract funding in order a scene from a science-fiction movie or probably never be able to reach.” In March, William Ducker, a chemi- peel off after being slashed with a razor to mass-produce the film while also felt like an offbeat prank, but in 2020, the Sharing wellness information and public cal engineering professor, developed blade. Tests also show that it retains its working on other coatings to inactivate sanitizing is a welcomed act of service. service are key components of the Virgin- a surface coating that, when painted ability to inactivate the virus after mul- the virus. “We’ve had a great response from the ia-Maryland College of Veterinary Med- on common objects, inactivates SARS- tiple rounds of being exposed to SARS- To be sure, the film does not replace community,” said Fernanda Gutierrez, a icine’s public health program, according CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. CoV-2 and then disinfection or after other safety measures that people should second-year graduate student in the Vir- to Laura Hungerford, head of the Depart- Since April, Ducker has been work- being submerged in water for a week. take to slow the spread of the coronavi- ginia-Maryland College of Veterinary ment of Public Health Sciences. ing with Leo Poon, a professor and rus, such as handwashing, physical dis- Medicine’s public health program. “When “The idea is when the droplets land on a “Our students, faculty, and staff are researcher at the University of Hong tancing, and wearing a mask. they see we’re giving out hand sanitizer and solid object, the virus within the droplets always out working with the health dis- Kong’s School of Public Health, to test distributing masks, they’re really happy.” will be inactivated,” said Ducker, whose Even so, “people won’t have to worry as trict and communities. It’s just that we the film’s success at inactivating the research already focused on making films much about touching objects,” Ducker Gutierrez is one of a handful of Vir- always kind of did it under the radar,” virus. Their research was published in that kill bacteria. “We have to use our said. “It will be both practical and reduce ginia Tech students who routinely spend Hungerford said. “We don’t usually think July in ACS Applied Materials & Inter- chemical knowledge and experience of fear.” JKB their Friday evenings distributing per- to stop and share our public health sto- faces, a scientific journal for chemists, sonal protective equipment and related ries, but COVID has made everyone engineers, biologists, and physicists. medical information to help fight the interested in how we can work together The results of the tests have been out- COVID-19 pandemic. Embracing the to stop disease spread.” standing, Ducker said. When the coat- name “COVID Crushers,” the students ing is painted on glass or stainless steel, FILM-MAKER: Graduate assistant run a booth at the intersection of College The global pandemic has increased Saeed Behzadinasab works with the amount of virus is reduced by 99.9 Avenue and Draper Road, where they awareness of the important role the stu- a team that is developing a sub- percent in 20 to 30 minutes, compared stance to neutralize the SARS- also model wearing the recommended dents play in educating the public. to the uncoated sample. The half life of CoV-2 virus on surfaces. safety gear and host a COVID-19-related “Until you actually do something like con- the virus is about 3 to 4 minutes on the trivia contest complete with prizes. tact tracing or showing people how to coating. Ducker’s expectation is that his Gutierrez and fellow Master of Public protect themselves from COVID, it can team can inactivate the virus in minutes. Health student Teace Markwalter coor- seem overwhelming,” Hungerford said. The coating consists of two main ingre- dinate the weekly event, which was ini- “From talking to people on the street, dients: tiated by a request from Blacksburg Chief our students really understand, for exam- of Police, Anthony Wilson. Another stu- ple, why people don’t wear masks and can • Cuprous oxide, which is used as a pes- dent in the program, Laura Lang, serves ultimately better communicate in ways ticide and has proven to be effective as the group’s outreach coordinator. that might change that behavior.” TW against two other viruses.

| | RY 22 DRILLFIELD OLOGY RY WHAT'S IN IT? | DRILLFIELD | 23 Current surveillance testing is regular testing Dashboard of four categories: - high-contact employees The COVID-19 online and students. dashboard, which can be - ongoing student Testing found at ready.vt.edu, population testing. was launched to share - student-athlete testing. the reports of COVID test - prevalence testing. results administered by Schiffert Health Center. Prevalence testing is It is updated Monday random testing of a population of people through Friday. who are assumed to It monitors: be non-symptomatic in order to compare the - availability of on- number of people who campus quarantine and have the virus with the isolation space. total number of people - positivity rates, the tested. total number of cases, HOW TECH and the number of tests TICKS performed. - available hospital capacity.

TESTING 1, 2, 3 Lab The Virginia Tech IT AMAZES ME; IT IS A INSTRUCTORS ACROSS CAMPUS dents, and administrators developed a Schiffert Health Center TRUE TEAM EFFORT. OUR employ various types of examinations way to provide testing for the region and Molecular Diagnostics UNIVERSITY DECIDED TO INVEST to assess progress and ensure that each for the Virginia Tech community. Laboratory began analyzing COVID-19 member of their class successfully grasps INTELLECTUAL AND FINANCIAL By April, Virginia Tech biomedical Process test samples on April RESOURCES TO DO SOMETHING course content. But with the fall 2020 researchers customized their own method 20, working through FOR OUR COMMUNITY. I AM semester, testing took on a whole new to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which 1. Testing kits are assembled Department or Schiffert Health an application for a by Virginia Tech’s Molecular Center for sample collection PROUD THAT WE WERE ONE OF meaning at Virginia Tech. causes COVID-19, in samples provided by U.S. Food and Drug Diagnostics Laboratory team. from patients. Administration-issued ONLY A HANDFUL TO DO THAT." health providers in coordination with the In preparation for the return of faculty, Emergency Use Virginia Department of Health. 2. The kits which contain a 3. The samples are then returned staff, and students to campus during the Authorization. Carla Finkielstein, collection tube with media and to the Molecular Diagnostics scientific director of the Virginia Tech pandemic, the university developed a com- Using a redesigned version of a real- a nasal swab, or for collection Lab for analysis. The testing lab is Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory at prehensive testing, tracing, and case man- time, quantitative polymerase chain reac- of saliva samples, a saliva located at the Fralin the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute tion (RT-qPCR) protocol, Virginia Tech at VTC agement plan as part of its broader effort to collection tube, are coded 4. Test results are usually Biomedical Research mitigate the spread of COVID-19. made improvements to search for not just a and de-identified before they reported back within 24 Institute at VTC. single genetic sequence of the virus, which are transported to the Health to 48 hours. In March 2020, with hospitals chal- could compromise the quality of report- It can analyze up lenged by shortages of critical resources ing results, but for three unique gene to 1,000 individual VIRAL RESPONSE to provide care for COVID-19 patients sequences in the virus. In that way, the samples per day, and can process up to 1,600 For videos, links to the most and diagnostic labs overwhelmed with test was more accurate and functional with when using an approved up-to-date COVID 19 information, patient samples, a campus-wide group of DID YOU KNOW? and further details about the custom-designed chemicals and reagents, sample pooling method. university’s response to the Virginia Tech faculty researchers, post- avoiding many of the supply problems that Between Aug. 3 and Oct. 21, 2020, Virginia Tech processed 24,843 tests pandemic, visit vtmag.vt.edu. doctoral fellows, lab technicians, stu- thwarted early testing in the nation. TW of students and employees. These tests revealed 1,345 positives. ISTOCK 24 | DRILLFIELD | HOW TECH TICKS METZ CLAYTON ISTOCK, HOW TECH TICKS | DRILLFIELD | 25 GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES Danah Alnajidi

Najd Alnajidi

KABYL OXIKBAYEV: DANAH AND NAJD ALNAJIDI: LEADING ACROSS THE WORLD CREATIVITY FLOURISHES AT NIGHT

THE TIME IS 10 P.M. IN KAZAKHSTAN, MIKUN ADEWOLE: Not only is Kabyl Oxikbayev juggling his Sisters Danah and Najd Alnajidi didn’t want The sisters retrofitted a study and living to leave Northern Virginia to return home area in their home and convinced their fam- and Kabyl Oxikbayev’s classes are just A SEMESTER DISRUPTED senior year of classes, he also is leading an starting for the day. international student organization virtually. to Saudi Arabia last spring. But when the ily to upgrade the house’s WiFi so that they Mikun Adewole was staying with family In June, Oxikbayev became president of the coronavirus pandemic began, their family could better access their classes online. For the next seven hours, the senior civil members in Maryland when he learned the Council of International Student Organiza- was worried for their safety. Their classes begin at 8:30 p.m. and end by engineering major will listen to live lec- university was extending spring break as a tions, a group that represents and advocates The sisters are graduate students studying 5 a.m. They sleep during the day, waking up tures, participate in meetings, and even result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fearing for international students at Virginia Tech. architecture at the Washington-Alexandria in time for dinner and other activities with catch up with friends in Blacksburg. His travel to Nigeria, where his immediate Generally, Oxikbayev meets with the council’s Architecture Center, a Virginia Tech campus their family. family lives, would soon become difficult, days end at 5 a.m. 10-member board every two weeks, and many in Alexandria, Virginia. his mother quickly arranged for him to fly Danah Alnajidi, who is in her first year of join virtually from other countries, including I WOULD TELL PEOPLE, DON’T “My philosophy is that I am up during home to Lagos, the country’s largest city. “It was the most stressful thing,” said Najd the architecture program, said she’s looking China, India, and the U.S. BE IN SUCH A RUSH TO LEAVE business hours,” said Oxikbayev, who in Alnajidi, explaining that they had to pack forward to having a daytime class schedule “The day after I got back [to Nigeria], the up their Alexandria apartment, move their YOUR FAMILY. I GUESS I REALLY May left Blacksburg for his home country “Even though it’s been a challenge, it does once they are able to return to the U.S. airport closed, and it’s still closed,” said the belongings to storage, and leave their two DIDN’T REALIZE HOW MUCH in Central Asia, which is in a time zone that give me a certain level of experience and junior chemical engineering student. cats with a friend. “I don’t mind being on Zoom classes, but valuable insight that I feel like I would not TIME I’D SPENT AWAY FROM is 10 hours ahead of the U.S. I would rather be in Alexandria,” said Danah. In the months that followed, Adewole found have gotten had everything been the same THEM, AND I FEEL LIKE PEOPLE Oxikbayev isn’t the only Hokie who has Once they arrived in Saudi Arabia, they had himself navigating his online courses, as well or normal,” said Oxikbayev. to quarantine for 14 days in a city that was on Another challenge this semester for Najd is SHOULD CHERISH THAT TIME taken on a completely new schedule this as adjusting to a five-hour time difference. lockdown. No one could leave their houses not being able to take some of the hands-on TOGETHER.” Oxikbayev is on a completely opposite semester. Other students who returned to except to go to the grocery store. classes. She said she also misses being able schedule than his parents. He goes to bed their home countries are taking courses Adewole, who did secure safe transport to print large architectural drawings. Mikun Adewole from different time zones and pulling back to the U.S. this summer, says it is a when they wake up in the mornings. They eat All along, the sisters knew that it would be relief to be back in Blacksburg, but he also dinner together before his classes begin. Luckily, both sisters have enjoyed staying alI-nighters to remain enrolled as active impossible for them to return to the U.S. for is grateful for the time he had in Nigeria. their fall semester, because no air travel was up late in the past and that has worked in students. Some, like Mikun Adewole, “Staying up late at night to not only do as- allowed. They were determined not to fall their favor with their new class schedule. “I would tell people, don’t be in such a rush signments but to be mentally and physically experienced this reality when the pandemic behind in their classes. began last spring. to leave your family,” he said. “I guess I really present for a lecture, it’s a bit of a struggle,” “We get so invested in ideas that we don’t didn’t realize how much time I’d spent away he said. “But I’m just thinking of it in a way “I would have to take a whole semester off,” want to go to sleep,” said Najd. “We know Hokies around the world are striving to from them, and I feel like people should that in 10 years I’ll be looking back, and, said Najd, who is in her second year of the that once we sleep, the next day that idea make the best of a challenging year. cherish that time together.” hopefully, I’ll be laughing about it.” architecture program. won’t be there.” TW/JKB

26 | DRILLFIELD | GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES AND NAJD ALNAJIDI DANAH COURTESY KABYL OXIKBAYEV, COURTESY Fish 182 mountain red-bellied dace Number of bird species observed at the Duck Pond. margined madtom river chub creek chub white sucker sculpin bluegill largemouth bass Reptiles turtle (various) garter snake water snake Amphibians American toad long-tailed salamander two-lined salamander red-backed salamander bullfrog spring peeper

ON THE WILD SIDE DM

ANY HOKIE WHO HAS SPENT TIME ON affairs. “Now it’s a nice riparian strip— the Blacksburg campus has experienced the result of student actions on campus.” its wildlife in some way: a songbird’s Kevin Hamed, assistant professor in the Wildlife dawn reveille, a squirrel dashing across Mammals Department of Fish and Wildlife Con- mink the Drillfield, Otter Sandman fishing in servation, has conducted wildlife sur- Hotspots river otter the Duck Pond, or even the occasional veys along the creek, as well as recording Duck Pond muskrat appearance of a black bear. online classes at the site after the pandemic short-tailed shrew (the only Animal species have become more forced faculty to shift to remote instruction Pond between Southgate venomous mammal) Drive and Virginia-Maryland cottontail rabbit prevalent on and near campus, both during the spring 2020 semester. College of Veterinary white-footed mouse because they’re adapting to an increas- Stroubles Creek is accessible by an exten- Medicine deer mouse ingly urbanized landscape and because sion from the Huckleberry Trail and has deer Forested area between of efforts to restore places like Stroubles become a hotspot for birders and wildlife the Grove and Duck Pond Creek downstream from the Duck Pond watchers. MA and Plantation Road. Virginia regula- Center Woods (forested Birds red-winged blackbird tors found that stretch of Stroubles to be area on southwestern side song sparrow of Huckleberry Trail between impaired by pollution in 2002, prompt- white eyed vireo campus and Prices Fork exits) ing student and faculty efforts through northern oriole the American Fisheries Society to restore Green area around War blue jay a wildlife-friendly riparian corridor Memorial Gymnasium gold finch around the creek by tree-planting and robin fencing out livestock. woodpecker (various) kingfisher “The stretch had been grazed by sheep great blue heron down to the waters edge,” said Dean Staf- green heron fuer, professor in the College of Natural ANIMAL ATTRACTION great egret Resources and Environment and associ- coopers hawk For more photos and information about red-tailed hawk 123 ate department head for undergraduate campus wildlife, visit vtmag.vt.edu. barn owl Number of bird species observed along Stroubles Creek.

28 | DRILLFIELD | INFOGRAPHIC MOROZOV IVAN KRIS TIMNEY, INFOGRAPHIC | DRILLFIELD | 29 Speak louder, shout if you have to—that’s how Kristin Rice has “WE HAVE TO SLOW DOWN OUR been communicating with others, particularly while outdoors SPEECH. WE HAVE TO ARTICULATE with half of her face covered by a mask. MORE CLEARLY AND USE MORE “In a crowded area, you are shouting to be heard, to be as loud PITCH VARIETY. I HAVE TO REMEMBER as possible while social distancing,” said the Virginia Tech fresh- THAT THEY CAN'T SEE THAT REALLY man, who plays the alto saxophone with the Marching Virgin- ians. “It’s a struggle.” EFFECTIVE PART OF MY FACE. I HAVE TO LET MYSELF EXAGGERATE.” Along with other band members, Rice cut a hole in her mask in order to play her instrument. Patty Raun, Meanwhile, Michael Dashiell, a Virginia Tech sophomore, has a professor in the School of Performing Arts figured out a trick to prevent his glasses from fogging up while he’s wearing a face mask. He pushes his glasses further down on his nose, so that they rest on top of his mask. ing Science. “We need to overcompensate for the most expres- sive part of the face.” Face coverings now are a part of our daily apparel. Just like people put on clothes every day before venturing out in public, For example, on a recent trip to a local restaurant to pick up a masks are a part of the recommended dress code to slow the to-go food order, Raun said she found herself exaggerating her spread of COVID-19. Throughout the commonwealth and signals with the staff. She spoke slowly and pointed to items across Virginia Tech’s campuses, face coverings are required on the menu, all while her eyebrows were rising up and down. indoors and outdoors when physical distancing isn’t possible. That’s because her mask covered her nose and mouth, forcing But with only the eyes and forehead visible behind a face cover- her to figure out how to give her order without using her typi- ing, communication can be tricky. cal facial expressions. “It [communicating] requires a lot more consciousness of our “We have to slow down our speech. We have to articulate bodies and our eyes when we are out in public wearing a mask,” more clearly and use more pitch variety,” said Raun. “I have to said Patty Raun, a professor in the School of Performing Arts remember that they can’t see that really effective part of my face. at Virginia Tech and director of the Center for Communicat- I have to let myself exaggerate.” WHAT DID YOU SAY? TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH MASKS ON

Patty Raun

30 | FEATURE | WHAT DID YOU SAY? RM WHAT DID YOU SAY? | FEATURE | 31 Aside from speaking, nonverbal body language is just as import- Another challenge is showing genuine friendliness behind a She said she particularly likes the masks that have a smile ant in communicating with others, and movement of the torso mask. Raun said she wants people in public to know that she is printed on them. is key, said Greg Justice, an associate professor in the School smiling at them, even though they can’t see her mouth. Look- Making eye contact is especially critical while wearing a face of Performing Arts at Virginia Tech. That includes everything ing at someone’s eyes and their forehead can give clues as to covering, as well as changing the tone and pitch of one’s voice whether they are smiling or frowning, she said. To show anger, from posture to orientation of the body. to convey a message, said Robin Panneton, an associate pro- the eyes typically are lowered or pinched together. fessor of psychology at Virginia Tech. Her research focuses on After all, 50 percent of effective communication happens But the skin around the eyes moves when someone is genuinely infants’ and toddlers’ attention to and perceptions of language. through body language and nonverbal methods, he said. Mean- smiling. Look for crow’s feet at the corner of people’s eyes or “We might need to be more mindful of how important the body while, 40 percent of communication is vocal, and only about 10 squinting to see a smile, she said. is in how we convey our enthusiasm and our skepticism,” Pan- percent happens with words. “Joy is very clear in the eyes,” said Raun, explaining that she uses neton said. “We can lie like crazy with our face, but we can’t lie with our eye and mind exercises for students in her acting classes. “You But masks aren’t the only obstacle affecting our current commu- torso,” Justice said. can see so much from that little two inches.” nications with co-workers, family, and friends. There’s another challenge created by the pandemic—communicat- ing behind screens. This applies to Zoom and other web platforms that people now use regularly for office meetings, group events, and even social gatherings in order to maintain physical distance. For onscreen communication, people should remember that the camera is their friend, said Justice. HOW TO COMMUNICATE For instance, when talking with others online, we often want to look at the people on the screen, rather than directly at the BEST BEHIND A FACE MASK: camera. But Justice advises people to look at the camera,which is typically located at the top of the display; otherwise, they appear to be looking down at the others on the screen. • ENUNCIATE YOUR WORDS. “The speaker must behave like that glass is actually the person(s) they are talking to,” said Justice, who suggests attaching a sticky • SPEAK LOUDER. note just above the camera that states “Look here” in order to train the eyes. • USE HAND SIGNALS. To be sure, communicating with others well right now takes more effort, intense attention, and some creativity, Raun said, • EXAGGERATE. calling it a “paradox of the times.” “When we are on Zoom or video communication, our nonver- • BE AWARE OF BODY LANGUAGE. bals are limited to head and shoulders,” she said. “We’ve got one kind of limitation through part of our day, then we go out in public and we have the opposite problem.” • MAKE EYE CONTACT. Even more so in public, “we need to be very intentional about remembering that there is a human being behind that mask, • STUDY THE EYES. that there’s a person with a lot of life things going on,” Raun said. JKB • CHANGE THE PITCH OF YOUR VOICE. RM 32 | FEATURE | WHAT DID YOU SAY? RM The ability to respond rapidly to a national and community crisis reflects, in part, the university’s deci- WITH THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC BEARING DOWN, CRUCIAL CAPACITY sion in 2008, in partnership with Car- TO TEST FOR THE VIRUS WAS IN SHORT SUPPLY. ilion Clinic, to add to its biomedical research infrastructure, embodied over the past decade by the Fralin Biomedical Research RESEARCH SCIENTISTS AT THE FRALIN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH Institute. INSTITUTE AT VTC AND COLLEAGUES ON THE BLACKSBURG VIRGINIA The institute launched in 2010 with its first fac- TECH CAMPUS PIVOTED FROM THEIR USUAL SCIENCE TO EMBRACE ulty member and executive director—Friedlander— and $2 million in extramural research funding from the BY MATT CHITTUM BY MATT AN EMERGENT NEW ROLE. National Institutes of Health. Today, 33 research team lead- ers with the support of more than 300 students and staff con- WORKING THROUGH THE OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR duct research with $135 million in active grant awards. HEALTH SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY, VIRGINIA TECH EARNED Over the summer, the first of what will eventually be an RAPID APPROVAL FROM STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS TO additional 20 to 25 teams of researchers moved into a new ANALYZE COVID-19 TESTING SAMPLES AND, IN A MATTER OF WEEKS, 139,000-square-foot building on the Virginia Tech Carilion Health Sciences and Technology campus in Roanoke, more LAUNCHED LABORATORIES THAT DRAMATICALLY EXPANDED THIS than doubling the institute’s space and adding what will be IMPORTANT RESOURCE IN SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA. THE WAIT TIME another 300 to 400 research faculty, staff, and students. FOR VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TEST RESULTS IN THE They’ll investigate new frontiers in biomaterials/body-device THERE IS NOT ANOTHER PLACE IN REGION PLUMMETED FROM A WEEK TO AS LITTLE AS A DAY OR TWO. interfaces, brain health and disorders, cancer therapeutics, car- “SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA THAT HAS THE diovascular science, obesity and metabolism, and immunity and infectious diseases, including the novel coronavirus. TECHNOLOGICAL SOPHISTICATION,

“THERE IS NOT ANOTHER PLACE IN SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA THAT HAS

Investigators will use a highly secure Biosafety Level 3 lab to INSTRUMENTATION, AND SCIENTIFIC THE TECHNOLOGICAL SOPHISTICATION, INSTRUMENTATION, AND EXPERTISE TO RUN THESE TESTS. I DON’T gauge the effects of COVID-19 on multiple bodily processes, “ SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE TO RUN THESE TESTS. I DON’T KNOW WHERE including cardiovascular function. The Virginia-Maryland Col- KNOW WHERE ELSE IT WOULD HAVE ELSE IT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED,” SAID MICHAEL FRIEDLANDER, lege of Veterinary Medicine’s Animal Cancer Care and Research HAPPENED.

SCIENTIFIC Center and the College of Science’s Center for Biostatistics and EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE FRALIN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH Health Data Science are also located in the new research insti-

INSTITUTE AND VIRGINIA TECH’S VICE PRESIDENT FOR HEALTH tute addition and will contribute to the overall interdisciplin- MICHAEL FRIEDLANDER, RELEVANCE SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY. ary research enterprise. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE FRALIN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE AND Given the achievements of the first decade, the next may be VIRGINIA TECH’S VICE PRESIDENT FOR TEN YEARS AGO, IT COULDN’T HAVE HAPPENED. even more dramatic. HEALTH SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY

34 | FEATURE | FRALIN TITLE TK METZ CLAYTON SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE | FEATURE | 35 For example, state-of-the-art imaging equipment manufacturer The power of the institute is its people—from pioneering fac- Its most dramatic impact in Roanoke has been primarily economic. Bruker selected the institute to partner in using its newest tech- ulty research team leaders to dedicated staff and talented stu- “In 10 years, the community narrative in Roanoke has changed nology that allows for unprecedented high-resolution visualiza- dents, he stressed. from an old railroad town to an active outdoor community with tion of structures and biological processes inside the living brain Scientists at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute are lead- a strong innovation space,” said Beth Doughty, executive director and heart. Also, pharmaceutical company Indivior chose the ers in using new ways to study a human’s brain during tasks to of the Roanoke Regional Economic Development Partnership. institute to collaborate on a large-scale follow-up study aimed at HIGH RESOLUTION: CANCER RESEARCHER JENNY learn more about the neural activity that underpins actions and MUNSON (RIGHT) STANDS BESIDE A BRAND NEW developing long-term treatment management of people trying The institute anchors the city’s Innovation Corridor, an economic decisions, including after brain injuries and when such disorders MICRO POSITRON EMISSION TOPOGRAPHY (PET) to recover from opioid addiction. development initiative where start-up businesses that spin out of SYSTEM, WHICH IS USED TO VISUALIZE TUMORS as major depression or neurodegeneration occur. institute research take root and grow the local economy. Inves- WITH HIGH PRECISION AND RESOLUTION. And the institute’s full potential is still being realized. Investigators are changing views of damage to the heart from tigators at the institute have already developed five new start- “There’s not a full understanding yet of just how impactful the heart attack, arrhythmia, and viral infection and developing ups, three of which are currently carrying forward innovative ways to diagnose and prevent alcohol addiction, treat aggressive SETTING STANDARDS FOR Fralin Biomedical Research Institute can be,” said Heywood new insights and approaches for heart-healing. Fralin, who with his wife, Cynthia, and the trustees of the Horace forms of brain and breast cancer, and prevent cardiac injury after WORLDWIDE SCIENCE The institute is home to a world-leading program for rehabili- G. Fralin Charitable Trust, donated $50 million to the institute a heart attack. tation of the brains of children who had strokes as infants. The The Fralin Biomedical Research Institute’s job is to create new in 2018. “There’s nothing that’s going to help the community and institute’s Neuromotor Research Clinic develops new approaches “It really is kind of a paradigm shift,” said Roanoke City Man- knowledge. Its scientists have tallied over 700 publications, accrued the citizens more than this.” ager Bob Cowell. “The Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, 35 patents, and are behind numerous important discoveries. to pediatric rehabilitation for children affected by stroke, cere- The institute is more than fulfilling its promise of scientific rel- bral palsy, and brain injury and shares them with other clinicians. right alongside Carilion Clinic, really is setting the new foun- dation for this community’s economic future.” In a neurosurgical suite at Wake Forest University Medical evance and economic power, and it’s poised to reach beyond “It’s a bit intimidating to think that people come halfway across Center, surgeons implanted tiny electronic leads into the brain the region and the state. Children’s National Hospital in Wash- The institute is only gaining momentum and building critical the world for us to help them here in Roanoke,” said Stephanie of a Parkinson’s patient, who was awake during the procedure, ington, D.C., sought out the institute as a key founding part- mass, Doughty said. “The opening of the new building is perhaps DeLuca, director of the clinic. “But it is truly one of the biggest to implant a deep brain stimulator. ner for its new innovation campus, where the institute will as significant as the original creation of the research institute.” honors of my career that people put their trust and the trust for begin expanding Virginia Tech’s research operations in pediat- Led by Read Montague, the Virginia Tech Carilion Vernon their children’s development in us and let us be a part of that.” “The Fralin Biomedical Research Institute is far more powerful Mountcastle Research Professor, a group of scientists adapted ric brain cancer treatments next summer. than the railroad would ever be,” Fralin said. “This has far more equipment to be inserted surgically into willing patients’ brains “The science at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute has become Sharon Landesman Ramey and her husband, Craig Ramey, both potential. It ought to be one of the priorities of major philan- and developed a high-speed scanning procedure to identify an area of celebration and pride and recognition for the univer- research professors and distinguished research scholars, were thropists in the area.” serotonin fluctuations while the waking patients played a risk- sity,” Friedlander said. “But it’s also a magnet that draws in other among the first scientists to join the institute. They were on the and-reward game. academics—faculty, students, and staff—to participate in collab- brink of retiring when they answered Friedlander’s call. The orative research.” The researchers were the first in the world to take such mea- institute’s initial focus on the brain and nervous system rapidly surements directly in humans, and they documented the first and organically broadened into study of the heart, cancer, neu- In 2019, institute investigators formed the new campus-wide Vir- clear evidence that serotonin helps people contend emotionally romotor disabilities, addiction, and other areas. ginia Tech Cancer Research Alliance with colleagues in Blacks- when events don’t go as they expect. burg, a cohort of more than 25 research teams seeking new ways With a relatively modest initial investment compared to larger to prevent, quickly diagnose, and treat brain, breast, colon, lung, Research at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute is sup- institutes, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute has over- liver, and bone cancers in humans and animals. ported mostly through federal grants, 90 percent of which come achieved. from the National Institutes of Health. Industry partners also The institute, along with the Virginia Tech Carilion School of “We’re just a bunch of hard-charging people who love our work,” support the institute, inspired in part by the institute’s modern Medicine, was born of a partnership between Virginia Tech Landesman Ramey said. “That’s who we are in the research and innovative approach to translational research, innovation, and Carilion Clinic, when the university sought to increase its HANDLE WITH CARE: A world. In less than a decade, we made it to the national and inter- LABORATORY TECHNICIAN and entrepreneurship. research capacity and the health care system desired an academic national scenes.” PERFORMS COVID-19 SAMPLE association that would help attract more world-class physicians ANALYSIS IN THE VIRGINIA TECH “We’re really setting standards for worldwide science,” Fried- to the region, enhance its level of care, and train future physi- MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS lander said. cians to serve citizens of the commonwealth. LABORATORY, LOCATED AT THE FRALIN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE. CLAYTON METZ CLAYTON 36 | FEATURE | SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE METZ CLAYTON | 37 CHILDREN'S NATIONAL RESEARCH & INNOVATION CAMPUS

CHILDREN'S NATIONAL RESEARCH & INNOVATION BUILDING WORLD-CLASS RESEARCH (PHASE TWO) In a decade, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute has expanded from a single researcher with CHILDREN'S NATIONAL a few million dollars in grant funding to 33 research teams performing groundbreaking research “The Fralin Biomedical RESEARCH & INNOVATION BUILDING Research Institute at VTC (PHASE ONE: OPENING DEC. 2020 across a wide range of areas. For a full list of the research institute's primary faculty members, has been transformational for please visit fbri.vtc.vt.edu. Here are some highlights of recent research and discoveries by primary FUTURE HOME OF THE VIRGINIA investigators and their teams at the institute: the region, the university, and our TECH RESEARCH LABORATORIES communities,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “In addition to the significant economic impact and ground- breaking research, the research institute is WARREN BICKEL’S team identified JAMES SMYTH, initially trained in addressing key societal issues, such as child- brain processes as therapeutic targets molecular virology, now uses those tools hood development, addiction, and community for changing a person’s behavior to study connections between heart health. The rapid transition to COVID-19 testing from seeking unhealthy, short-term muscle cells and how heart disease demonstrates the university’s capacity to address issues gratification to more-deliberate planning affects them. He is also taking on the of immediate concern.” for the future. This work gives hope problem of how viral infections, such as to those addicted to opiates, alcohol, COVID-19, attack the heart and blood “Ten years ago, the partnership between Carilion Clinic tobacco, and smoking. Bickel’s team is vessels. and Virginia Tech offered a lot of promise,” said Nancy extending this approach to other health Howell Agee, president and CEO of Carilion Clinic. “The hard behaviors, including those that lead to MICHAEL FOX has tracked the develop- work and commitment of many have left an indelible mark on diabetes and obesity. ing brain’s guidepost signals for more the region and the scientific and health care communities. The than a decade. Recently, he and his team original promise of a decade ago has turned into concrete out- ROBERT GOURDIE’S interest in heart made major discoveries illuminating comes that go far beyond economics and bricks and mortar. The development and repair led him to molecular cues that help create func- institute’s success has exceeded what I could have imagined 10 discover new molecular therapies tional circuits in the fetal brain. Fox’s and delivery approaches to aid and work shines new light on the assembly years ago, and I can’t wait to see what the future will bring.” “It really felt like a dream team,” said Kurt Newman, president and accelerate wound healing and tissue of these connections, and also on how CEO of Children’s National Hospital. “For a hospital like ours, In 2021, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute will expand repair in scarring, diabetic ulcers, and disruption of these processes may be there’s nothing like having a first-class research university as a part- beyond Virginia, into Washington, D.C., when it opens a heart repair after a heart attack. He’s implicated in neuropsychiatric and devel- ner. You never quite know where the breakthrough is going to 12,000-square-foot research facility on the Children’s National moved his work from bench science opmental disorders. come from or where the smart graduate student, really enthusiastic Research & Innovation Campus on the site of the former Walter to starting multiple companies that undergrad, or medical student is going to have the big idea. Having Reed Army Hospital. translate his discoveries to the clinic to STEPHANIE ROBEL seeks to understand access to that pipeline of intellectual talent, it’s just priceless.” heal patients. how brain injuries can lead to seizures. Leaders at Children’s National Hospital knew Friedlander, the Her recent work has shown the first institute, and Virginia Tech’s reputation, and sought the uni- The Fralin Biomedical Research Institute will join a campus already home to JLABS @ Washington, D.C., a collaboration SHARON SWANGER is fascinated with direct cellular evidence for how the glial versity out as a founding partner for their new project, in part between Children’s National and Johnson & Johnson LLC. how receptors located on individual cells in the brain create hyperexcitable because of shared interest in brain tumor research. nerve cells in the brain contribute to the networks that can trigger seizures “How can you miss with a world-class children’s hospital, a Children’s National is a top 10 children’s hospital in the U.S., as behavior of large-scale circuits formed subsequent to a traumatic brain injury. world-class university, and a location in Washington, D.C., ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Its neonatal program is to produce perception, integration with access to the National Institutes of Health, the Food and SAMY LAMOUILLE is developing new ranked first in the country and its neurology and neurosurgery of information, and behavior. Her Drug Administration, and all of the other government research therapeutics to treat brain, breast, colon, services ranked third. work focuses on how changes in these pieces?” Newman asked. “We may even be thinking too small.” molecules can cause circuits to undergo and other cancers. His work is aimed at the cells that rekindle abnormal cell “The partnership with Children’s National is another great abnormal patterns of activity, leading to such disorders as epilepsy. growth and proliferation after tumors nexus for us,” Friedlander said, explaining the institute is ready- are removed. Lamouille’s research is the ing itself with the right people, rich facilities, and strong part- basis of a new company that has received nerships to accelerate into the next decade. support from the National Institutes of Health through the small business technology transfer program. CLAYTON METZ CLAYTON 38 | FEATURE | SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE ARCHITECTS ELKUS MANFREDI THE FUTURE OF

HOW VIRGINIA TECH IS PREPARING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW, TODAY WORKWRITTEN BY MASON ADAMS | ART BY ANDY POTTS

VIRGINIA TECH’S SERVICE MISSION AND TECHNICAL EXPERTISE HAVE EVER PLACED IT ON THE FUTURE’S LEADING EDGE. HOKIES HAVE PLAYED KEY ROLES IN SHAPING THE WORLD AND THE WAY THAT WE WORK FOR NEARLY 150 YEARS. AND THEY WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO IN THE FUTURE.

THE UNIVERSITY’S 1872 CREATION ARRIVED ON THE TAIL END OF THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION. VIRGINIA TECH’S FORMATIVE FIRST DECADES PLAYED OUT AMID MASSIVE SOCIETAL CHANGES THAT COMPLETELY DISRUPTED HOW PEOPLE CONSIDERED WORK. THE PROGRESSIVE MOVEMENT OF THE EARLY 1900S SHAPED AMERICA’S CONCEPTION OF JOBS AND GAVE WORKERS IMPORTANT NEW RIGHTS, EVEN WHILE TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES LED TO RAPID MECHANIZATION BY INDUSTRY. VIRGINIA TECH KEPT PACE, CONTRIBUTING TO LEAPS FORWARD IN AGRICULTURE, ENGINEERING, AEROSPACE, COMPUTER SCIENCE, AND MANY OTHER FIELDS.

NOW, IN 2020, THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC HAS ACCELERATED THE DEVELOPMENT OF TELEWORK AND WORKPLACE SAFETY PRACTICES. AND VIRGINIA TECH IS POSITIONED AT THE RIGHT PLACE AND RIGHT TIME WITH THE RIGHT VISION TO PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN ADVANCING THE FUTURE OF WORK WHILE ALSO MAKING IT MORE JUST, INCLUSIVE, AND ACCESSIBLE FOR WORKERS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.

40 | FEATURE | THE FUTURE OF WORK ments, and industries. A 2019 report by McKinsey Global But Virginia Tech isn’t just training workers; it’s developing The pandemic of 2020 unexpectedly introduced a steeper tilt THE AGE OF AUTOMATION Institute, “The future of work in America,” found that trends are tomorrow’s leaders. toward remote work and new ways of delivering services, accel- Founded in 1872 on the cusp of the Industrial Revolution, the accelerating inequalities, not just between workers but between In Arlington, the university holds a leadership role in the Com- erating shifts that were already underway. university’s land-grant mission and technical expertise have geographic areas. monwealth Cyber Initiative, a partnership that brings together “While technological transformations and their effects on kept it squarely placed at the forefront of science and technol- colleges and universities across Virginia. The initiative serves the future of work are inevitable, it looks like COVID-19 has ogy—from robotics and automated farming to brain science and “Without bold, well-targeted interventions, automation could as a catalyst to advance technologies at the intersection of secu- already expedited the transition,” said Navid Ghaffarzadegan, space flight. further concentrate growth and opportunity,” the report con- cludes. “But these trends are not set in stone. It is possible to rity, autonomy, and data—foundational elements that are nec- associate professor in the Grado Department of Industrial and Virginia Tech President Tim Sands’ Beyond Boundaries vision turn this period of technological change into an occasion to essary glue for the systems that are driving the future of work. Systems Engineering. “Many workplaces have changed substan- was five years old when COVID-19 rocked the world. In ret- tially, limiting their physical capacities and letting people work create more rewarding jobs and build better learning systems In the mid-1960s, Intel co-founder Gordon Moore noticed rospect, that half-decade turned out to be an essential period of remotely. We are moving from ‘push’ environments, where and career pathways.” how rapidly computer science was developing. He posited what preparation that uniquely positioned the university for a global technologies were mainly advocated by technology developers, became known as Moore’s Law: that the number of compo- leadership role just when the world needs it most. Virginia Tech to ‘pull’ environments, where technology is demand-driven.” has always endeavored to serve, and now it is responding—not nents on a circuit would double every year or two. The predic- just to the crisis of the moment, but to the lasting changes the SHAPING THE FUTURE tion largely has held up: computing power has rapidly increased The pandemic’s tilt to telework has made for a more fluid bound- while its size has simultaneously decreased. That evolution, ary between work and home life for many people, complicating pandemic will leave in its wake. Virginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), demands which put powerful smartphones into the pockets of 81 per- efforts to find a satisfying balance. Charles Calderwood, assistant that the university meet this moment, and indeed, it is growing “Our strategies, preparation, and hard work make a difference cent of Americans, revolutionized how we integrate comput- professor in the Department of Psychology, said that dynamic and create real-time results for the commonwealth and the to play a bolder role in the world, expanding programs that will ers into our daily lives. may persist beyond the pandemic, because organizations are real- world,” Sands said. “We face the same imperative that ener- support and direct the progression toward the future. izing a cost savings from reduced office space, and individuals gized our predecessors throughout the university’s history—the As a society, we’re still sorting out exactly what this means for The university is building relationships with an array of public prefer to curtail time spent commuting. However, many employ- imperative to grow, evolve, and make the world a better place how we live. and private partners to wrestle complex problems, develop ees in direct customer service settings, such as hospitals or restau- for everyone. Today, more than ever, Virginia Tech finds itself innovative solutions, and benefit people everywhere. rants, have not seen significant changes in their workplaces, even engaged and ready to honor our motto Ut Prosim (That I May as they face a greater risk of exposure to the virus. Serve), with momentum, energy, and opportunity on our side.” In Roanoke, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC AN UNEXPECTED SHIFT and Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine train leaders “These potentially diverging paths for employees working in dif- The surge in automation that transformed the mass production “Big technological advances don’t initially improve productivity for the health care industry—a rapidly growing arena that McK- ferent types of jobs have a strong potential to magnify disparities of goods during the late 1800s and early 1900s only accelerated dramatically—firms operate the same way, using new technol- insey projects will continue to expand well into the future. and inequities in work-life balance, which already tend to favor in the 21st century, disrupting and transforming almost every ogy,” said Melinda Miller, assistant professor in the Department higher-salary and higher-status workers,” Calderwood said. “We business sector around the world. The distillation of computing In the greater Washington, D.C., metro area, Virginia Tech is of Economics. “It’s only once production can be reimagined that also need to be sharply concerned about occupational health dis- power transformed technology that once occupied entire build- building on its existing facilities with the development of the the great productivity improvements occur. A classic example is parities that may set in or be magnified for employees who are at ings into smartphones that fit into pockets, and has profoundly Innovation Campus in Alexandria. Through this new initative, factories, which were initially vertically oriented to take advan- greater risk for serious illness from COVID-19. Many employees changed not only how we work, but how we think. the university will prepare tens of thousands of graduates for tage of a single power source, like water or steam, but then are struggling to balance working at home while their children Such innovations affect businesses and members of the work- roles in computer science, engineering, and other fields whose became horizontal with the advent of electricity, resulting in are learning virtually, often with little guidance or support from force across national boundaries, social classes, political align- needs are outstripping the currently available workforce. the typical assembly line set-up we’re familiar with today.” organizations in how to balance these demands.”

42 | FEATURE | THE FUTURE OF WORK THE FUTURE OF WORK | FEATURE | 43 “One of the greatest concerns of a lot of the high-tech com- We’re not training workers for panies in construction is that they don’t have enough people

trained to implement these sensors,” Akanmu said. “And it costs “construction; we’re training managers money to send workers to companies to be trained.” and leaders of construction projects Bulbul, an associate professor, uses sensors to model, design, and construction processes. What they “ and monitor replicas of buildings in ways that allow developers to plan, maintain, and evolve structures to optimize efficiency. manage will be some combination of “Construction never ends,” Bulbul said. “There’s always construc- technology and people. tion on hospitals, in airports. For these kinds of structures and infrastructure projects, you need a model, or what we now call a BRIAN KLEINER digital twin. You start with design and keep adding information, THE BOGLE PROFESSOR OF ENGINEERING AND DIRECTOR OF THE MYERS-LAWSON SCHOOL and the physical building and digital twin eventually can interact. OF CONSTRUCTION They can exchange information and be used to update each other.” Akanmu and Bulbul are bringing this necessary approach to their research and teaching, balancing a deep knowledge in their respective fields with collaborators who possess different back- grounds, expertise, and skills. Smart construction requires a team-based approach. The chal- lenge facing companies is how to approach a changing industry that requires specialized knowledge not just in building, but in com- puter science, design, and other fields that vary by projects. Virginia Tech doesn’t teach to specific technology, but instead One of the greatest concerns of a lot of BUILDING A BETTER equips students with the skills to adjust, adapt to, and ultimately the high-tech companies in construction direct technological changes in an ever-changing world.

“ WORKPLACE “We’re not training workers for construction; we’re training man- is that they don’t have enough people Many Virginia Tech researchers are developing new technol- agers and leaders of construction projects and construction pro- trained to implement these sensors. “ ogies for fields where on-demand knowledge is vital for effi- cesses,” said Brian Kleiner, the Bogle Professor of Engineering and ciency and safety. director of the Myers-Lawson School of Construction. “What they And it costs money to send workers to Abiola Akanmu and Tanyel Bulbul both work with digital mod- manage will be some combination of technology and people. We companies to be trained. eling in the Myers-Lawson School of Construction, though in try to instill that in them and at the same time expose them to the different ways. principles behind the trends driving the future, knowing that spe- ABIOLA AKANMU cific technologies may change. As a result, they graduate as leaders.” Construction sites increasingly use sensors that can track the loca- ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF PRACTICE IN THE In some cases, leadership may involve deciding where automa- MYERS-LAWSON SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION tion of supplies and equipment, monitor the flow of people and materials, and analyze the physical movements of individual work- tion is needed—but also where it is not. ers to facilitate improved ergonomics. Akanmu, an assistant profes- “We put people first—how technology and automation can sor, uses that data to create teachable virtual construction scenarios support the human endeavor and not the other way around,” that engage students’ hands and minds through augmented reality Kleiner said. “We need to be really careful that we’re serving and holograms. And her work can be adapted for use in the private people in societies. It’s a different philosophical approach com- sector, allowing companies to better and more efficiently train their pared to tech-based universities that are driving technological workers while providing a safer environment. development for its own sake.”

44 | FEATURE | THE FUTURE OF WORK THE FUTURE OF WORK | FEATURE | 45 and College of Engineering to reimagine the hospital work- applications for more than 70 patents and three new varieties spaces. The team interviewed and observed real-life emergency of plants, with more than 50 patents awarded. LAUNCH initi- procedures and workflows in multiple Carilion Clinic hospitals ated a new Proof-of-Concept grant program to provide much to get better information to clinicians and doctors when and needed funding to technologies with potential for real-world where they need it. application. The ICAT team drew inspiration from unexpected places: The team targets the kinds of high-demand fields where Vir- ginia Tech thrives, such as autonomy, digital techology, cyber- • Technology used by rideshare apps, which allows clinicians to see security, satellite technologies, transportation, biomedicine, the arrival time of location of ambulances and EMTs. devices and robotics, and agriculture. Not coincidentally, those • Way-finding Bluetooth technology that allows clinicians to see fields show up in McKinsey’s future of work report as high- what’s happening throughout the unit, even when they’re not phys- growth sectors in coming decades. ically present. “We’re finding more and better ways to engage with compapa- • Cockpit-style monitors that show each patient’s vital signs and a nies and move new discoveries made at Virginia Tech into the camera feed from the hospital room, as well as specialized displays marketplace,” said Associate Vice President for Innovation and outside each room that allow clinicians to view important informa- Partnerships Brandy Salmon. “That process extends their bene- tion from the hallway. fit to more people in the world and helps fulfill an imperative of our service ethic and mission as a land-grant university.” Because of Virginia Tech’s close partnership with Carilion Clinic, its researchers are grounded in the day-to-day reality of what works and what doesn’t in a real-world setting. “We worked closely with Steelcase to look at what are the work- flows and how can workflows change as we provide more tech- nology to the environment,” said Tom Martin, ICAT’s deputy We’re finding more and better ways to executive director and a professor of electrical and computer THE FUTURE OF HEALTH CARE engineering. “We want to provide more situational aware- engage with companies and move new For an example of how Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) undergirds ness for the team—who’s in the room, who needs to be in the “ room. Particularly in emergency situations, rooms can get very discoveries made at Virginia Tech into Virginia Tech’s approach to the future, consider how an array of colleges, institutes, and programs all are working to improve crowded, and it’s hard to figure out who should be in the room the marketplace. That process extends the design of medical facilities. and who shouldn’t.”

their benefit to more people in the Industrial design faculty in the School of Architecture + Design The team’s work is a critical first step that will inform the design

are partnering with faculty in the Fralin Biomedical Research of products that will be used in hospitals but may also be applied world and helps fulfill an imperative “ Institute and Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine on to other areas of work. of our service ethic and mission as a projects ranging from working with wounded veterans to The university supports the flow of research and ideas into address their unmet health care needs to partnering with the the public and private spheres through Virginia Tech’s LINK land-grant university. health care industry to redesign hospital treatment rooms in + LICENSE + LAUNCH, a one-stop shop for companies and BRANDY SALMON ways that offer more-efficient tools for doctors while improv- entrepreneurs that builds partnerships; actively engages with ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR INNOVATION ing the patient experience. Since the pandemic, that effort has AND PARTNERSHIPS the market; and makes connections for alumni, corporate part- increasingly grown to include telemedicine advances as well. ners, and federal and state partners. LINK supports strategic The Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology (ICAT) part- partnerships across the university, and now, efforts associated nered with Steelcase, a workspace design company, and built with the Innovation Campus. Last year, LICENSE supported a team that included members from the Fralin Biomedical 20 new intellectual property licenses, six tech startups, and 148 Research Institute, College of Architecture and Urban Studies, invention disclosures from the Tech community. It supported

46 | FEATURE | THE FUTURE OF WORK THE FUTURE OF WORK | FEATURE | 47 LIFELONG LEARNING IN AN A COMMITMENT We’ve created a global knowledge EVER-CHANGING WORLD TO INNOVATION “economy, but only a small percentage The graduates of today—especially those whose experience Virginia Tech continues to innovate. In January 2019, the Cal- of the population is fully participating. has been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic—will become houn Center for Higher Education Innovation at Virginia Tech Land-grants of the 21st century should tomorrow’s leaders. That may sound cliche, but as Moore’s Law launched a multiyear project designed to explore the connec- drives us toward even faster technological advancement, it’s a tions between adaptation and inclusiveness in learning. The be tackling these hard questions head

truth that’s foundational to Virginia Tech’s mission. project dives into how the entire educational system, includ- on. That’s why we were created. We

The university’s model of experiential learning offers students ing K-12, can better prepare tomorrow’s learners to succeed a competitive advantage, combining disciplinary depth with throughout their working lives. The center recently released a weren’t created to just keep on doing “ opportunities to build leadership, teamwork, communication, report marked by a full-fledged commitment to adaptive learn- what we did in the 19th century or the critical thinking, problem-solving, and other key skills. ing. Published by Virginia Tech Publishing, the report is just one step in the process toward shifting traditional educational 20th century. The qualities required for career successes in the economy of practices into new, more innovative and effective directions, today, much less tomorrow, are rapidly changing. That’s why those involved say. The group is already engaged in a next step THANASSIS RIKAKIS Virginia Tech approaches education not just from an under- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CALHOUN CENTER graduate or even graduate perspective, but with the under- for the project: recruiting teams to put the report’s recommen- standing that its students and alumni will embrace a lifetime dations into practice on as wide a scale as possible. of learning as they adapt to new situations and environments. “We’re all trying to predict a future job market that is increas- Lifelong learning is a fundamental part of the university’s mis- ingly unpredictable,” said Daniel Kjellsson, managing director sion and history. of the Future Talent Council, a global membership organization of talent leaders from the educational, corporate, and govern- Its Cooperative Extension agents provide training for Virginians mental sectors. “What we do understand, however, is that talent at locations throughout the commonwealth. development will most likely happen throughout one’s profes- Outreach and International Affairs (OIA) offers job retrain- sional life—and looking at that timeline right now we see gaps.” ing and workforce development through continuing and pro- Land-grant universities were developed to expand the number fessional education, including Virginia Tech Bootcamps—live, of higher education institutions preparing people with prac- online courses that address the tech industry’s increasing skills tical, technical skills as a response to the industrial revolution gap. Targeting early-career or experienced professionals, the new part-time, 26-week bootcamps teach skills that qualify par- and changing social dynamics. While that mission has evolved, ticipants for high-paying, in-demand coding and cybersecurity and broadened, it does mean that Virginia Tech has a special jobs in the greater Washington, D.C., metro area and beyond. responsibility to adapt to society’s changing needs, Thanassis Rikakis, executive director of the Calhoun Center said. “The growth of high-paying, in-demand jobs can be realized only if workers are able to receive the necessary education and “Land-grants of the 21st century should be tackling these hard skills,” said Shelly Jobst, director of OIA’s continuing and pro- questions head on,” said Rikakis. “That’s why we were created. fessional education. “Continuous learning is key to making that Increasing participation in the economy has always been part of happen. Sharing this sort of professional education is funda- the mission of land-grants. However, the economy and society mental to our land-grant mission to respond to the greatest have changed, the participation needs to be broader and more needs across the commonwealth, including improving educa- diversified than ever, and the ways to increase participation tional attainment and preparing a highly trained workforce.” need to be adapted.”

FORWARD THINKING For more information about lifelong learning and Virginia Tech's efforts to educate the leaders of the future, visit vtmag.vt.edu.

48 | FEATURE | THE FUTURE OF WORK THE FUTURE OF WORK | FEATURE | 49 with the university’s legislative liaisons and faculty members is more than a science and engineering concern. It’s a societal in the Department of Political Science and the Policy Strategic issue, a human issue. It encompasses the political, the economic, Growth Area to engage legislators in issues of public policy. It the cultural, the personal.” additionally educates corporate entities on matters of ethics and Johnson said the university prepares students to understand the impact of technology on humans. that technology has wide-ranging implications that involve Combining technology and society is not a new idea for Vir- everyone, not just scientists. ginia Tech. Joseph Pitt, a philosophy professor, was an early “To be future stakeholders, students must be informed and ana- leader of Virginia Tech programs focused on how technologies lytically astute,” he said. “They must understand equality, social affect humanity. systems, power, and how the world works at an institutional “We started looking at science and its tools and saw its ramifica- level and what it means at a human level.” tions from sociological, philosophical, and political lenses,” said Through targeted programs, Virginia Tech is creating a new THE INTERSECTION OF Pitt. “So, we developed a program where students could decide generation of responsible leaders who understand the impor- which aspects to pursue.” tance of ensuring humanistic applications of technological That effort eventually led to the development of the Depart- advances. ment of Science, Technology, and Society. Working directly with undergraduates through the Calhoun TECHNOLOGY Rebecca Hester, an assistant professor in the department, is a Discovery Program, a transdisciplinary program run by the Tech for Humanity scholar specializing in equity and social dis- Center for Higher Education Innovation that focuses attention parity in the human condition. Her research interests, which on technical innovation and societal transformation, Johnson is Sylvester Johnson, Oct. 2019 AND HUMANITY began with the study of immigration, now encompass the social, optimistic about the future of technology and humanity. ethical, and political implications of scientific and technologi- “That program runs across 10 different majors, and we have cal advances in biotechnology, biomedicine, and public health. corporate partners in private industry who contribute their “When it comes to technology, I start with a conversation about time and capital,” Johnson said. social values,” Hester said. “We need to reflect on what it is we value Johnson added that a program that is diverse and includes and what we should make manifest in the world. That has to do underrepresented students is critical, because without gender, with what it means to be human, who we are, what we value, and IN THIS MODERN AGE, TECHNOLOGY’S FUTURE MAY “Virginia Tech is uniquely positioned to lead in this new era,” racial, ethnic, and income diversity, society will face recurring said Sylvester Johnson, assistant vice provost for the human- what we think we need. Then we can decide on the technology.” SEEM DARK AND APOCALYPTIC OR FANTASY-LIKE. historical problems of inequity. “We need people with the per- ities. “Regionally, nationally, and globally, we are setting a new Hester cited her research on immigration: The immediate spectives, insight, and backgrounds to produce the outcomes TOMORROW SITS ON A PRECIPICE BETWEEN THE standard with Tech for Humanity, a university-wide initiative answer to problems that arise from immigration is not neces- that will benefit everyone in society,” he said. focused on the human-centered guidance of technology.” sarily more surveillance technologies. Instead, the conversation By investing in initiatives that focus on the human dimensions POTENTIAL POSSIBILITIES. should define the underlying cause, she said. Under Johnson’s leadership, Tech for Humanity focuses on of innovation and by infusing technologies with insights from ensuring a thriving future for humanity that emphasizes ethics, “There has never been a greater need for people to be at the the humanities, Johnson said, Virginia Tech is showing its com- empathy, policy, equity, creativity, inclusion, diversity, and sus- RATHER THAN WAITING TO SEE HOW THE FUTURE table who understand the social, political, cultural, and eco- mitment to lead social institutions in addressing the big chal- tainability. Through the Center for Humanities, which Johnson nomic implications of the technologies that society is promot- lenges that emerging technologies pose. also directs, cross-disciplinary collaborations enhance the uni- ing,” said Hester. “We are shaping the next generation, who will EVOLVES, VIRGINIA TECH IS PROMOTING A FUTURE IN “Virginia Tech is preparing leaders for tomorrow, for a future versity’s efforts to create responsible technologists. use and create technologies—people who think not just ethi- not yet imagined,” he said. “We shape leaders who know that WHICH EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES ARE IN SERVICE cally, but also politically and socially about the technologies and “These are people who care, commit to, or are involved with technology must be judged ultimately not by its wow factor, but the science that they’re doing.” TO HUMANITY. THE UNIVERSITY IS TAKING HUMAN- advancing human interests through technology,” Johnson said. by whether it contributes to a society we want to live in, one Such initiatives are central to Virginia Tech’s mission. that’s for the greater good of all humanity.” CENTERED APPROACHES TO ADDRESS THE SOCIETAL Tech for Humanity scholars and the Center for Humanities encourage research in arts, human-centered social sciences, “We teach people,” Johnson said, “and the structure of our Leslie King is the marketing and communications manager for the IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION. humanities, and technological fields. The center also partners coursework and curriculum needs to show that technology College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences.

50 | FEATURES | THE INTERSECTION OF TECHNOLOGY AND HUMANITY TECH VIRGINIA JEFF GREENOUGH FOR THE INTERSECTION OF TECHNOLOGY AND HUMANITY | FEATURES | 51 AROUND THE HOKIE NATION 57 Class Notes 66 Retro 68 Family

Ed Baine PLUGGED IN AFTER GRADUATING FROM VIRGINIA TECH IN 1995 WITH a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Edward H. “Ed” Baine joined Dominion Energy as an associate engineer. During his tenure at the energy company, he has held numerous engi- neering, operational, and management positions On Oct.1, Baine became president of Dominion Energy Virginia. A member of Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors, Baine is active in the energy industry as a member of the Southeastern Elec- tric Exchange Board of Directors and the Association of Edison Illuminating Companies’ Power Delivery Executive committees. He is a board member of the Dominion Energy Credit Union, ChamberRVA, Venture Richmond, CJW Medical Center, the Valentine, and MEGA Mentors. In 2017, he received the Anthony R. James Legacy Award for Outstanding Community Service, which was presented during the Career Communication Group’s Black Engineer of the Year Award STEM and Community Service Conference. He also received the Metropolitan Business League Oliver Single- ton Humanitarian Award. In 2018, Baine received one of seven Influential Black Alumni Awards during Virginia Tech’s Black Alumni Reunion. Baine lives in Chesterfield, Virginia, with his wife, Kim. The couple has four sons. Two, Kyle and Jalen, are current Virginia Tech students in the College of Engineering.

RM ALUMNUS PROFILE | HOKIE NATION | 53 We know that our customers want a The recent events have reminded me that from the COVID-19 response that we What initially led you to Dominion cleaner energy future, and we have a goal I have been put in a position that I can need to take forward even when the pan- Energy, and what about the organi- as a company to get to net zero on carbon have a voice and need to make sure that zation has encouraged you to stay for demic is over. We also need to consider emissions by 2050. In addition, we want I do so more often than I may have done 25-plus years? how we could serve students and commu- ON BOARD: Ed Baine, a member of the Vir- to help our customers to achieve their in the past. In addition, it is a reminder ginia Tech Board of Visitors, participated I was initially attracted to Dominion nities beyond our campus life. in an information session in August, which goals around carbon reduction as well. that there is still much work to do across Energy (formerly Virginia Power) because this nation to ensure that all people are I think there is an opportunity to deliver was held in the Latham Ballroom at the Inn We are building solar across the com- at Virginia Tech to accommodate physical family and friends told me that it was a very respected, valued, and appreciated, and programs and training beyond what we monwealth. We just brought our first distancing. stable company that would provide a long I have a role to play in that effort. have contemplated in the traditional sense. two offshore wind turbines on line and career opportunity if you worked hard. In We also need to figure out how to attract addition, my fiancé was still in Virginia so have battery storage projects underway. and retain the brightest students and faculty I wanted to stay in the state. We have also launched several electrifi- Why did you choose Virginia Tech cation efforts internally and for our cus- As you think about the talent that to the university and continue our focus on for your undergraduate studies? There are many things that have kept me at tomers. At the end of the day, we want to has to be recruited and retained diversity. I believe that will require more MY EXPERIENCES AT VT AS A I decided in my senior year in high school Dominion Energy. The first one is a sense be the trusted energy solutions provider in order to run a successful busi- financial support from alumni for scholar- STUDENT HELPED TO BUILD MY that I wanted to be an electrical engineer. of purpose. I wake up every day knowing for our customers and meet their chang- ness, what is higher education doing ships and other programs. CONFIDENCE AND DEVELOP A Virginia Tech is known for its great engi- that we provide an essential service to our ing needs at all times. well, and where can it improve? In VARIETY OF SKILLS. I LEARNED customers and that they are depending on what ways is Virginia Tech doing neering program. I ultimately chose VT COVID-19 has presented many chal- THAT EVEN THOUGH I GREW us so that they can run their businesses well, and how can it improve? over other schools because I was given a lenges, but our team has been resilient, Describe the principles that UP IN A RURAL COMMUNITY, full scholarship and a computer. and take care of their personal needs. For- I believe that higher education is still and we have been able to meet the needs govern your life, professionally I COULD COMPETE WITH tunately, I have been able to contribute to a great place for students to find per- of our customers during these difficult that purpose in many different roles. The sonal and professional growth and gain and personally. ANYONE IF GIVEN SIMILAR times. I am very proud and grateful for second is our core values. I come from meaningful preparation for their future It starts with the Bible verse Luke OPPORTUNITIES. THAT’S THE How did your experiences at Vir- the efforts of our colleagues this year. careers. I believe that the COVID-19 12:48: “To whom much is given, much POWER OF A LAND-GRANT ginia Tech as a student, and later a family where you were taught strong pandemic has created a burning plat- is expected/required.” No matter who UNIVERSITY THAT SERVES as an active alumnus, shape the values at an early age. I believe in our core values at Dominion Energy, and we live form for higher education to evaluate its you are, you need to consider yourself a ALL VIRGINIANS.” trajectory of your life? You are the first Black person to them every day. Lastly, I have stayed for current model and determine what may work in progress. Always have the cour- My experiences at VT as a student helped head a Dominion business unit Ed Baine ’95 my colleagues. We have great people at need to change to serve future students age to make the right decision. I believe to build my confidence and develop according to a recent news story over the next 5–10 years. I also think that Dominion Energy, and I enjoy working that you need to be humble, fair, honest, a variety of skills. I learned that even in the Richmond Free Press. Please higher ed can be a little more nimble in with them and want to do all I can to help accountable, and yourself. You also need though I grew up in a rural community, share your thoughts as you step supporting the changing skillset needs make them successful in all that they do. to have a purpose and balance. I also tell I could compete with anyone if given into this role. Have recent current for businesses. similar opportunities. That’s the power events and the resulting civil rights my sons when all else fails, do your best of a land-grant university that serves all activism affected your perspective? I believe that VT does a lot of things well. and have fun. It starts with the leadership making good Virginians. In addition, Hokie Nation is Can you describe your perspective I am very honored and humbled by the decisions to run a successful university. real. There are so many Hokies that have on the challenges facing Dominion opportunity to be president for our I also believe that focusing on transdisci- helped me along the way personally and and how that influences your lead- Dominion Energy Virginia segment. plinary and experiential learning are very When you’re away from the office, professionally, and I try to do the same ership goals? How has COVID-19 fur- There have been so many that have important, because those skills are what what are you most passionate as my way of giving back to the univer- ther complicated such challenges? helped me along the way and continue we need from a business perspective. I also about? What are your hobbies? sity and fellow Hokies. Lastly, my edu- There is rapid change in the energy indus- to do so. In particular, there were many believe that having the ability to change I am most passionate about my family. cation and development at VT helped try that presents many challenges and sacrifices by my family, and I am driven curriculum in a more timely manner to create a foundation that I stand on today opportunities. As we move to more dis- to make them proud in all that I do. I try to make sure that I spend time with support business needs is also important. in my current role. I am very proud to be tributed energy resources, such as solar I hope that my journey from the tobacco them. I like sports. This is the first time in a Hokie and very thankful for my oppor- and battery storage, the grid must evolve fields in Lunenburg County to this role As I think about the future, there are sev- 15 years that I haven’t coached youth foot- tunity to attend and now to serve the and there is the need for new technologies will encourage others to not limit their eral things that VT needs to consider. We ball. I like to hunt, fish, travel, and spend university. to be developed as well. dreams and aspirations. need to think about what we have learned time with family and friends.

54 | HOKIE NATION | ALUMNUS PROFILE RM ALUMNUS PROFILE | HOKIE NATION | 55 A NEWS NICHE CLASS NOTES

Alumni, we want to hear what you’ve been doing. Mail career, wedding, birth, and death news to Class Notes, Virginia Tech Alumni Association, Holtzman Alumni Center, 901 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061; email the information AND A PULITZER to [email protected]; or submit the news online at vtmag.vt.edu/submit-classnote.php, where photos may also be uploaded for consideration. For assistance, call 540-231-6285.

JAMES BROOKS '06 REMEMBERS THE “Lawless” team, which earned the news- January day that he boarded a plane from paper’s third Pulitzer Prize. Florida to Alaska to take a job as a copy- “You always think of a Pulitzer Prize as editor at the Fairbanks Daily News- being out of reach and out of touch,” he Miner. said. “This shows me that it’s not. If I can

It was 60 degrees and sunny when he get involved with a project like this, then ’60 ’77 left Florida that day. When he arrived in it’s within me to do it myself.” CAREER Peter R. Kurzhals, Foun- CAREER Richard K. Perkins, Fairbanks at midnight, it was a freezing tain Valley, Calif., is president of the Richmond, Va., is the director of ar- 40 degrees below zero. At Virginia Tech, Brooks double majored Orange County chapter of Sigma Xi. chitecture for Raymond Engineering. in history and English. He also was a ’ ’ But Brooks didn’t let the chilly weather copyeditor for the Collegiate Times and 63 78 stop him from soaking up all that Alaska served as that newspaper’s editor-in-chief CAREER Robert F. Sawallesh, CAREER Steven L. Spurlock, would offer—including winning a Pulit- Valrico, Fla., is director of Operation Washington, D.C., was appointed to one summer. Helping Hand. the 2020 American Institute of Archi- zer Prize 12 years later. tects College of Fellows jury and has

“What always struck me about working ’ been selected to receive the 2020 AIA/ Brooks was a member of a team of report- 68 DC Centennial Medal, the chapter’s with James was how deeply invested he highest honor. ers and editors at the Anchorage Daily CAREER Rodney D. Barfield, Ve- was not just in the mechanics of putting rona, Va., published a historical novel, News that received the Pulitzer Prize for “Tempest On The Outer Banks.” ’ Paul Laughton out the paper, but also in the big-picture 79 Public Service in May for a yearlong series issues that affected the journalism pro- ’ CAREER Christine Salkin Davis, called “Lawless,” a partnership with Pro- 75 Concord, N.C., co-edited a book, “The fession,” said Kelly Furnas, former edi- Personal is Political: Body Politics in a Publica, a nonprofit newsroom that pro- CAREER John A. Bartelloni, Fair- SCREEN TIME torial advisor for the Collegiate Times. fax, Va., earned a B.A. in English with Trump World.” duces investigative journalism. The series “He was always interested in the ‘why’ as a concentration in nonfiction writing featured an eye-opening investigation from George Mason University. ’82 Not everyone can say they were hired by Steve Jobs and much as the ‘how.’ I remember long con- Lake Mary, Steve Wozniak. But Paul Laughton ’67 can. YOU ALWAYS THINK OF A into the criminal justice system’s failures Kimberlee J. Benart, Fla., was a medalist in The Florida CAREER John R. Craynon, versations in my office about complex Morgantown, W.Va., is a teaching PULITZER PRIZE AS BEING in communities across Alaska. The work Authors and Publishers Association’s assistant professor in the Department In April 1978, Laughton was hired to design the file manager, 2020 President’s Book Awards for exposed extremely high rates of sexual ethical issues that challenged not only of Mining Engineering, Statler College a BASIC interface, and tools for Apple II DOS (disc operating OUT OF REACH AND OUT “The Venturous Tales,” which was of Engineering and Mineral Resources system, the first disc drive) version 3.1 from his home office. him as a student, but me as an advisor.” written under the pen name, Isabella OF TOUCH. THIS SHOWS ME assault and domestic violence and uncov- at West Virginia University. Berdyna Zysk. Benart’s epic fantasy, THAT IT’S NOT. IF I CAN GET ered some rural communities with no Brooks, who also worked in Virginia “Windflower Saga,” and her romance The Apple II was a game-changing computer. Laughton, ’ who previously worked as a programmer for Johns Hopkins INVOLVED WITH A PROJECT local law enforcement. Tech’s sports information department, collection, “The Flowers of Pen- 83 ruddock,” were awarded medals in University and IBM, would later author Atari Basic before LIKE THIS, THEN IT’S WITHIN Kyle Hopkins was lead reporter for the said he decided to pursue a journalism previous years under the pen names CAREER Joseph P. Parr, Tampa, becoming director of software development at Logitech. Aleksandra Layland and Ronnda Fla., designed a horticulture exhibit ME TO DO IT MYSELF.” series, and Brooks, who covers the state career because he loved telling stories. Eileen Henry. focused on the darker side of nature, which was set in a garden based on Laughton retired in 2000 and in August 2018, returned to government from Juneau, Alaska’s capital, classic scary movie themes. Virginia Tech, presenting highlights from his career to a James Brooks “I love being able to learn more about a ’ 76 packed house inside Goodwin Hall. He sported a bright contributed with the government angle. topic and being able to explain it to folks ’ yellow 3-D printed bow tie that he made himself. This fall, CAREER Gaver M. Nichols, Al- Brooks said it has been a life highlight and tell them something about the world exandria, Va., has earned nine design 84 Laughton was inducted into the Virginia Tech College of JKB awards from the American Institute of CAREER William J. Read, North Science Hall of Distinction. For more, visit science.vt.edu. for him to have a supporting role in the they didn’t realize,” he said. Building Design. Dighton, Mass., was appointed dean of business at Bentley University. COURTESY PAUL LAUGHTON PAUL COURTESY 56 | HOKIE NATION | ALUMNUS PROFILE BROOKS JAMES COURTESY CLASS NOTES | HOKIE NATION | 57 BECOME A MENTOR Vernon R. “Randall” Tinsley, ’ Summerfield, N.C., earned top ranking ’97 05 ’10 ’15 How we work and what we in the 2020 Chambers USA: America's do is changing. Your career Leading Lawyers for Business in the CAREER Sally Jewell Allain, BIRTHS Seth W. Pesek, Charlotte, CAREER Jeffrey D. Morelli, CAREER Ursula R. Gerson, Falls area of the environment. Cabin John, Md., was selected as head N.C., a son, 4/30/19. Rockaway, N.J., co-founder and vice Church, Va., was recognized in the experience is valuable to of JLABS at the Washington, D.C., president of technology delivery at Institute of Real Estate Management’s current students, and sign- SAVE THE ’ Johnson & Johnson Innovation site, ’ Inspiren, received a 2020 “Gold Stevie” 30 Under 30 award program, which ing up to mentor makes a 86 which will be located on the new Chil- 06 Award from the American Business acknowledges the next generation of dren’s National Research & Innovation Awards in the category of Product real estate management leaders. difference for young Hokies. CAREER CAREER Manish Verma, Frisco, Karen Geisinger Con- Campus and is scheduled to open later Texas, was selected to be covered in Developer of the Year. nors, Orlando, Fla., has been selected this year. She was also recognized in the “Pathways” section of the IEE In- Hokie Mentorship Connect as the president of the Central Florida DATES Kristina M. Mueller, Columbia, Md., WEDDING Colin Michael Deely BioBuzz’s “People in the BioHealth Chapter of the Gary Sinise Founda- dustry Applications Society Magazine. is a quantitative analytics manager and Lindsay Stewart Deely, Arling- is our online platform where Capital Region You Should Know in ton, Va., 8/22/20. tion. 2020.” with Fannie Mae in Washington, D.C. alumni can virtually volun- Spring- JOIN US ONLINE ’07 teer their time and expertise Gaynell “Gigi” Miller Kuck, Christopher J. Forstner, Ellicott ’ ’ field, Va., has retired from Freddie City, Md., was named Lawyer of the 11 18 by mentoring undergraduate Mac following more than 27 years of CAREER Michael Timothy M. Year by The Best Lawyers in America. Williamsburg, Va., is vice Bristol, and graduate students. service. All Hokies are eager to be together Creasy, BIRTHS Michael J. Encinas, CAREER Emily K. Greear, president and stockholder at Guern- Midlothian, Va., a daughter, 5/15/20. Va., is a petroleum pricing analyst with seyTingle. Flying J. She earned a master’s in agri- WEDDING Christine Andrews Learn more at ’ again in-person so we can celebrate cultural and resources economics from 88 McEntee, Boca Raton, Fla., and James Springfield, Va., alumni.vt.edu/careers Alison P. Tugwell, ’ the University of Tennessee in 2020. McEntee III, 03/21/20. launched a book, “Word Awakening,” 12 CAREER Joseph E. Popp, Reston, our special community. Va., is the laboratory design leader in on Amazon. BIRTHS Matt Matthew C. Arnold ’ and the science and technology practice at Wilmette, Ill., Jr. Janice Ryerse Arnold ’15, 98 Jacqueline K. Unger, Blacksburg, Va., a son, 6/16/20. the Washington Studio of the archi- But because of the risk large gath- has been elevated to counsel in Piliero Ma- tecture firm Perkins and Will. CAREER Michael D. Ayers, Mazza’s government contract group. and plewood, N.J., published a book, “One Andrew Robert Berlin Sarah Midlothian, Va., a Last Song: Conversations About Life, erings pose, our alumni events Hale Berlin ’13, ’ daughter, 2/07/20. 92 Death, And Music.” BIRTHS Meredith E. Vallee, North have gone virtual. Now, Hokies from Hampton, N.H., a daughter, 7/17/20. CAREER Charles A. Conway, Steven V. Coxon, Ballwin, Mo., ’ Midlothian, Va., was named director received the 2020 Laura Joyner around the world can gather togeth- 13 of labor relations for Altria Client Award from the Mensa Foundation at ’ 08 CAREER Services. Maryville University in St. Louis, Mo. Ali Reedy Olinger, er without leaving their homes. BIRTHS Haymarket, Va., was recognized as one Charles B. Meagher of the Department of the Navy's emer- Mark R. Himes, Carlisle, Pa., will and ’ Kelly Amanda Meagher, gent engineers, receiving the 2020 Dr. 93 assume command of the U.S. Army Manasquan, N.J., a son, 8/21/20. Corps of Engineers, Omaha District. The university is closely monitor- Delores M. Etter Top Scientists and CAREER and Engineers of the Year Award. Christopher J. Leahy, Megan R. Thomas Charles Corning, N.Y., published a book, ’ ing the effects of COVID-19, and we “Tyler” Bray ’09, Westminster, Md., “President without a Party: The Life 99 a son, 8/23/20. BIRTHS Douglas A. Lindsey, Web- of John Tyler.” ster, Texas, a son, 4/07/20. CAREER Daniel J. Palmer, Roa- are looking forward to when we’re ’ Andrew J. Talmadge, Crozet, Va., noke, Va., wrote a book, “Bethlehem’s 09 Ellie Muraca graduated from the U.S. Army War Redeemer: Seeing Jesus in Ruth.” together again. Right now, we are ’ College at Carlisle, Pa., with a master’s WEDDING Kevin H. McLaughlin, 14 Baltimore, Md., and Megan Thomas degree in strategic studies. Albany, ’ exploring what Virginia Tech events 9/20/19. CAREER Steven E. Mach, 00 N.Y., was recognized in the 2021 edi- tion of Best Lawyers in America. DARE TO ASK ’ CAREER Marcelo R. Barbosa, Ful- on campus and in your communities 94 shear, Texas, was named vice president CAREER Quan “Quang-Tri” Myles of finance at U.S. Silica. Fredericksburg, Va., was would look like and when they could Growing up, Ellie Muraca ’18 was always asking questions. Her Boatman, ELLIE MURACA COURTESY appointed to a two-year term with ’ resume. passion for starting conversations grew when she enrolled as the Small Business Commission by 02 an undergraduate in the urban affairs and planning program. Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam. CAREER Stede J. Barnes, Chester, Va., is the director of business We will communicate with you reg- Now, through a podcast startup, Building the Beloved, Muraca ’95 development for GuernseyTingle of questions what it means to belong or exist in the world of eq- Williamsburg, Va. uitable community planning and design. Through the podcast, ularly about our future plans and CAREER Alfred O. Taylor Jr., Quincy, Mass., Arlington, Va., who received the Emily E. Martin, STAY Muraca interviews people from all walks of life and features is the New England sales manager CONNECTED Path Makers Leadership Award at the upcoming virtual events. discussions with nonprofit organizations and community at Enovation Brands, an Italian wine University of the District of Colum- project leaders. Her first interview subject was Virgil Wood, and spirits importer. bia's 2020 Founders Day Ceremony, a renowned church leader, educator, and civil rights activist published his second book, “What Make sure the university has your up-to-date mail- who served alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. an Amazing Journey: To God Be ’ ing address, phone number, and email address. You the Glory.” 03 can easily check your information online and make “The term ‘Beloved Community’ refers to a way of life that’s CAREER Rebecca C. Obeng, John F. Woodall, Greer, S.C., was Atlanta, Ga., was named to the 2020 updates. Visit alumni.vt.edu/contact. based on pure, unconditional love for humankind,” said recognized with the 2020 GE Gas American Society for Clinical Patholo- Muraca. Power Edison Pioneer Award for gy’s 40 Under 40 list. You can also email your updates to alumnidata@ his influential work in gas turbine conceptual design. vt.edu. Make sure you include your full name and COVID-19 has put a hold on some of Muraca’s plans, but she For more information, visit alumni.vt.edu/events. class year in the email. looks forward to adding to the collection of podcasts as the lifting of restrictions allows.

| | 58 | HOKIE NATION | CLASS NOTES TK CLASS NOTES HOKIE NATION 59 CHECK!

HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED.

ABOVE THE FOLD PHYSICALLY VIRTUAL ALTHOUGH CHARLIE PAYNE ’10 DIDN’T the first things that set in motion what’s west, the publication featured a photo- DISTANT OPTIONS OPTIONS grow up on a farm, he didn’t let stereo- turning into a career of farming.” graph of Payne’s farm on the front page. types or closed doors stop him from pur- Sit on the edge of the War Invite your favorite professor to Ellerbrock, who holds teaching awards The publicity helped drive retail sales suing his dream. Watching his dad tend Memorial Pylons and watch join you for coffee or a meal on from the U.S. Department of Agricul- nationwide, drawing customers from Seat- to livestock and other animals as a veter- TO BE SURE, 2020 HAS CHANGED the sunset. Zoom. Attend a guest speaker ture, Virginia Tech, and other profes- tle to South Florida, a shift that was fur- many aspects of the Virginia Tech expe- event or a virtual performance inarian, Payne grew up with an affinity Take a picture of the place sional associations, remembers Payne thered due to forced restaurant closures rience, with its COVID-19 restrictions at the Moss Arts Center. Visit for farm life. as “having a curious mind and entrepre- connected to the 2020 pandemic. Once that means the most to you alumni.vt.edu/events to learn and mix of hybrid and online classes. But on campus. neurial spirit.” accounting for less than half of the farm’s more about what’s available. “Most people will tell you that if you’re regardless of where academic instruction not born into a farm, you’ll never farm,” sales, retail now comprises 100 percent of Get a picture with the biggest “Charlie is a good example of why I like takes place, the fact that small gatherings Take a class that seems said Payne, a fourth-generation Virginia the business. VT on campus. Hint: It’s on the to teach,” said Ellerbrock. “I like to help and face masks are now the norm, or that interesting. Tech graduate who entered college with Upper Quad! young people think outside the box, come “People are becoming much more con- online socials have replaced in person a plan to study pre-veterinary biology. Participate in an online exercise alive, apply what they’ve learned, and blos- scious of their food supply right now. events, Hokies still find ways to tap into Find all the gargoyles on campus. or mindfulness class. In his sophomore year, Payne changed som in their own field (pun intended).” They’re legitimately concerned about it the spirit that connects students, alumni, Hint: There are 15! paths, choosing to major in natural Take a virtual tour of campus and therefore want to form relationships friends, and faculty across generations. resources conservation in the College After graduating, Payne worked for a Enjoy a picnic at the Duckpond and relive the excitement of with producers,” said Payne. or Gazebo and see Virginia Tech’s of Natural Resources and Environment. national conservation organization. But in Even in the midst of a pandemic, there being a prospective student. oldest building, Solitude. But it was the classes he took for a minor 2014, he decided to develop a hobby farm. Payne feels fortunate to be able to continue really is nothing like being a Hokie. By the end of his first year, Payne had a few offering quality options for feeding people. Cook up a Hokie dish using in the Department of Agricultural and The Hokie Bucket List is just one more Visit the Cascades–even better one of our recipes. Find some lambs, laying hens, and 100 meat chickens. Applied Economics in the College of “Looking back from where I am now, way to celebrate what that really means. when the Cascades are frozen! ideas at alumni.vt.edu/virtual- Over time, meat products from the farm Agriculture and Life Sciences that paved going to Tech was one of the best decisions Although some bucket list items are tem- engagement/recipes. were purchased by local restaurants, and Go tubing or paddling down the the way for his career. I ever made,” said Payne. “During this time, porarily off limits, there are others that area farmers markets encouraged him to New River. Jam out with some Hokie tunes! I’ve been able to pivot our business pro- easily lend themselves to physically dis- “I have no idea how I ended up in Mike become a vendor. Check out our Spotify playlists. cesses while continuing to lean into Vir- tant or even virtual options. Whether you Visit the Hahn Horticulture Ellerbrock’s class my sophomore year Garden. Today, Payne owns and operates Covey ginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim. I hope that are in Blacksburg, Roanoke, the greater Organize an online meet-up for of college, but I did, and it pointed me Hokie friends or groups you were toward a minor in ag econ and kept Rise Farms in Radnor, Ohio, which ships one day one of our kids will decide to go Washington, D.C., metro area, or at the Watch the sunrise from the top products across the country. to Tech so they can continue the legacy my a part of on campus. that fire of loving agriculture burning,” place you call home you can find one or of McAfee Knob. great-great grandfather began.” Rock a campus Zoom background said Payne. “It let me explore something In summer 2019, the agriculture business two items that you can check off this year. Explore the Huckleberry Trail. Jillian Broadwell is a writer in the College at your next meeting. that had always been a passion but not earned the attention of the New York Send your photos and creative ideas for a reality. Looking back, that was one of Times. During a heat wave in the mid- of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Get a picture with a painted

KERISSA PAYNE Share your favorite Virginia checking off bucket list items to alumni. HokieBird around Blacksburg. Tech memory at alumni.vt.edu/ vt.edu/memories so that we can share Hint: There are 69 Gobble de memories. them with other Hokies. Art statues!

| | 60 | HOKIE NATION | ALUMNUS PROFILE MOROZOV MEESE, RM , DM ,IVAN RAY WALLACE, LOGAN BARNHART, RM, SHAY JENNY KINCAID BOONE, BUCKET LIST HOKIE NATION 61 2019-20 AWARDS CHAPTER Vandalia Triangle Tideneck Shenandoah Pittsburgh New River Valley New Jersey Greensville/Southampton BRONZE Williamsburg SE Michigan San Antonio Philadelphia Orange County New England Minnesota Houston Fredericksburg Fauquier Columbia Chicago Charlottesville Central Virginia Central Pennsylvania Alleghany Highlands SILVER Tidewater Roanoke Valley Richmond Peninsula Palmetto NC Triad Nashville Jacksonville First State Denver D.C. Metro Area Dallas/Fort Worth Cincinnati Charlotte Charleston Central Florida Baltimore Atlanta GOLD CHAPTER AWARD OUTSTANDING Peninsula Chapter OUTSTANDING CHAPTERMARKETING Shelter D.C. Metro Area Chapter, Carpenter’s OUTSTANDING COMMUNITYSERVICE with Justin Graves Atlanta Chapter, Zoom Speaker Event INNOVATION AWARD Send-Off New JerseyChapter, Virtual Student OUTSTANDING CHAPTEREVENT Underground Railroad Freedom Center Cincinnati Chapter, Trip to National AWARD BROADENING ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Peninsula Chapter RISING STAR CHAPTER Greensville/Southampton Chapter RISING STAR CHAPTER First State Chapter SageEarley’18 Mary RISING STAR VOLUNTEER NC Triad Chapter Linda Allen’74 OUTSTANDING CHAPTERVOLUNTEER D.C. Metro Area Chapter Rochelle Ko Gray ’09 OUTSTANDING CHAPTEROFFICER AWARDS SUPERLATIVE

DM alums dogoonto teach, each year our And while some new Virginia Tech “commenced toteach.” they teacher.Thus, ture asalegitimate new scholar also delivered their first lec the friends, toprofessors and you a thank included afeast the given by graduate as of the graduation ritual, which usually a particular academic discipline. As part instructothersin could that thebearer first The college very degrees certified mony for scholars in medieval Europe. totheinitiationcere- the namegiven abeginning.Commencementwastio,” reflects the meaning of the Latin “incep mencement. The word commencement That’s why Hokies use the term com- mony isreallyabeginning. culmination of ayear of lasts, the cere Although graduation mayfeellike the new rolesas alumniofVirginiaTech. stepping away from life as students into group ofHokies moves their tassels, EACH FALL AND SPRING, A NEW - - -

TO SUCCEED COMMENCING ing” tosucceed. - “commenc 10years—are the previous alumni—Hokies who have graduated in more about how Virginia Tech’s young Virginia Tech Magazine, you’ll learn In in future this issues and story of diverse asthenewalumsthemselves. careers aroundthe worldinfields as also graduates pursue a scope ofbroad but simple. On June 24, Olson’smural, 24, but simple.OnJune ward, but what she created was anything Her daily planseemed pretty straightfor - room.” ate andartist. “It allhappens in myliving Olson, a May 2020 Virginia Tech gradu- “I basically get up, doart,goto bed,” said due toCOVID-19. hometofinishherclassesonlineginia, had to return to her Charlottesville, Vir- final semester as a Hokie, evenwhen she BRIDGET OLSON ART ON WHEELS made the most of her made the most of her Why not?Might aswellknock this out.’” like, ‘I’vegotsometimeonthe weekends. “My mom sent it to me,” Olson said. “I was itself, Olson decidedit was worth a shot. nity for the bus competition presented online portfolio, but when the opportu- new pieces for her Instagram page and on her plate. She was, andstill is, creating competition was far fromthe thing only ative technologies at the time, the bus complete her bachelor’s degree in cre For who Olson, still was toworking icing tothecake.” finals and graduation. It was the perfect honoring, especially around the time of uplifting, “Itwasamazing, Olson. said the feelings that I had when I found out,” “I don’t know how to bring words into around theworld. was selected from 78 applicants from city’s buses for anentire year. Olson’sart ofthe one on featured be will design The Art Bus Competition in Charlottesville. City thesixthannual won “Octo Bus,” PROFILE | HOKIE NATION - | 63 64 | HOKIE NATION life foras longas shecan remember. fun. Art has an installation been in Olson’s occasion, a sketchbook drawing, just for creates 3D models, animations, and, on Mainly workingindigitalspace, Olson extend beyondwhatshe can put onabus. only see her 2D work, Olson’s skills Though Charlottesville residents might online artexhibition. Arts Center’s Student Arts Spotlight, an Her piece was featured in the Moss embracing in the midst of the pandemic. whowere Hospital General Bay Tampa ation of a photo of two doctors from semester, Olson designed adigital re-cre- spring2020During theunprecedented video games.” wildlife, other mediums, other artists, visual inspires me—nature, animals, anything goofy looking.Everything and of kind and fun they’re Ithink because drawing ocean animals andocean life liked always “Ihave Olson. said a kid,” those animals thatsince I’veloved I was seeing terrifying and “It wasamazing what hersubmissionwouldfeature. the pun “Octo Bus,” Olson knew exactly inspired her. came upwith After her dad face with the creatures that had long Cozumel, Mexico, Olson came face to to atrip During itsinhabitants. and from Olson’s lifelong love of the ocean The inspiration for “Octo Bus” stemmed | ALUMNI PROFILE ating and producing in some form. Art someform. in producing and ating stant flow ofeither taking inart or cre out,” Olson said. “I reallyneedacon- myself or others, I tend to get bummed ing some sort of work, whether it's for not creating or - “When I’m produc art thatshehasfound. everyone to seek out the same love for her encouragesOlson loves and work a videogamingcompanyinColorado. currently interningatSerenityForge, ning ofasuccessfulartcareer.Sheis Olson hopes that “Octo Bus” is the begin- thepathofartwork.” down me has guided visual images and games. My disability Iwastheconsumer ofzles-for funkid. art. I was never a book kid or a do-puz- well, so Inaturallygravitatedtowards “I can’t remember things well orread as Olsonsaid.“I amlearningdisabled,” -

said Grant,whomajoredinphysics. things that have happened in their lives,” feeling safe, and various situations due to moved me—stories of trauma, people not “I met so many people whose stories really Save theNextGirl. ident oftheuniversity’schapterHelp particularly forwomen. She served as pres Grant ’16becameinterestedinsecurity, she hasturnedintoabusinessventure. ginia Tech, she discovered a passion that When HOTEL SAFETY A LOCK ON not, tofindtheirbus!” encourage everyone out there, artist or doing anything else with my life. I really keeps me going, and I couldn’t imagine ERICA GRANT came to Vir - -

COURTESY BRIDGET OLSON, COURTESY ERICA GRANT, COURTESY VICTOR STEWART hospitals, apartments,andvehicles. manufacturing facilities, smart homes, such as security agencies, in government expand the company into other areas, In the future, Grant said she wants to before goingtomarket. ment funding to rigorously test its system the company will receive product develop- where Lab, National Ridge atOak program into the Innovation Crossroads accelerator The patented technology has been accepted preneurship &InnovationatUT. - forEntre Center theAnderson by offered Challenge, aseedfundgrantcompetition ning a $5,000 grant from the Boyd Venture Grant launched the company after win- nected machinerymoresecure." brains that make keys, locks, andcon - venting the lock, butwe are creating the consumer,” said Grant. “We aren’t rein- security, especially when it comes to the tion between quantum information and “I saw that there was aclear connec of hotelstaff. performance and the efficiency about data desk tomonitoraroomdoorandprovide operations. The tool allows a hotel’s front as wellincommunicationskeycard, The software can be used in anapp or a and smart lockstosecure hotelrooms. bining quantum technology, smartphones, Quantum Lock reduces that risk bycom- into hotelkeycardsandbreakaroom. itwastohack howeasy realized Grant The ideaforthe business piqued when as aresultofherwork. in the Collegiate Inventors Competition she ber, as oneof10 was named finalists tum Lock Technologies in 2019. In Octo of Tennessee (UT),Grant formed Quan- Now a graduate student at the University - - security andwill needit moreandmore.” areallareasthatneed These homes. go towardlockboxes,cars, andsmart ment security, I do see that the path will like hotels, corporations, and govern- we arestarting with these largersystems, technology,” said Grant. “Even though “I really see Quantum Lock as a platform ant andattentive. gate. Research made him more persever- respect forothersandtheabilitytodele- Stewart finds valuable now, including oration taughthim“thosesofterskills” nication, andinterdisciplinary collab- At Virginia Tech, networking, commu- ing acooking channel onYouTube. as diverse as working for NASA to launch- ing in2012and2013. He’schosen pursuits a master’s degree in biomedical engineer - in engineeringscience andmechanics and Stewart graduatedwith a bachelor’s degree Tech alumnus tisements have in common? Virginia design engineering, andcorporate adver- mechanicalWhat food, do delicious HALF-YOUTUBE CHEF HALF-NASA ENGINEER, VICTOR STEWART. '20, former intern, contributed to this story. '20, formerintern,contributed tothis ing and Mechanics; and Haley Cummings Department ofBiomedicalfor the Engineer communications and marketing coordinator public relations major; Laura McWhinney, Hutchison,Rosie an intern and a senior several nationalcorporations. is Stewart also acommercialmodel for type ofinstruction.” ing through a simple, you-can-do-this-too how tocook, passing onmyloveofcook- I created. I wantedtobeable teach others outcome is this flavorful and fun dish that the but ingredients, measured have and ity,” said Stewart. “Recipes followsteps “For me,[cooking is] science andcreativ- into different,unique fooditems. ingredients—flour, salt, sugar—could turn magical. Hewondered how the same basic remembers thinking the science of it was As a child cooking with his father, Stewart recently publishedhisfirstcookbook. on YouTube, ChefVic Cuisine, andhe channel acooking hebegan year, This ing forsuccessful launches. supporting spacecraft test- assessment and include testingautonomoussatellitesand Other projects Stewart has supported was amazingtobepartofthat. ” airline flights. we Itexperience during more understanding ofradiation effects recorded data in space and helped us gain a product that actually went into space. It ation testing effort,which led tocreating NASA,” Stewart said. “I supported a radi- “I am really proud of my first project at and functioningsystems. actualproducts into thatturn drawings Stewart assists in generating design A mechanical design engineer at NASA, ALUMNI PROFILE | HOKIE NATION -

| 65 Retro

Chris Quillen Shawn Crawford

Megan Repass Ellis JUST ADD WATER the father-and-son team, the company time” production, a philosophy borrowed continued to grow, designing more com- from Toyota. plex systems and creating opportunities for Rather than carrying multiple products resolving further water-related challenges. from different companies, Rainwater In 2017, the Crawfords hired Chris Quil- Management Solutions focused on stan- len ’98 as business development man- dardized set-ups that provided solutions ETCHED INTO HISTORY: (above) On Veteran's Day 2017, a cadet stands in ager and added Megan Repass Ellis ’16 tribute at the Pylons. (right) More than a half-century after sacrificing his for its customers. life in the ultimate act of service, Lt. Gary Lee Miller became the eighth as inside sales manager. Quillen and Ellis Medal of Honor recipient whose name is etched onto the cenotaph. joined a growing team that, through The systems sold by Rainwater Manage- research and development, advanced the ment Solutions make more efficient use of company’s services to encompass not water, saving money for clients while also only rainwater harvesting but graywa- helping them to meet stormwater ordi- RAIN IS ESSENTIAL FOR GROWING ter reuse and stormwater management. nances and reduce nonpoint pollution. food and many other functions criti- “Megan has an environmental science “The value that we add is for a company cal to survival, but downpours can also MEDAL OF HONOR background and can read water quality or business or even homeowners is to cut erode our living spaces and create count- analyses and understand what they’re down on municipal water use,” said Quil- THE WAR MEMORIAL PYLONS ARE On Feb. 16, 1969, Miller, a unit com- The connection between Miller and Vir- less problems. saying,” Crawford said. len. “They’re using a more natural source one of the most iconic spots on Virginia mander in the U.S. Army, died after smoth- ginia Tech was well known to Charlie Three Hokies with degrees from three of water coming from the sky instead Tech’s campus. The upper level contains ering an enemy grenade to save the men he Wood ’70, of Richmond, Virginia. “Once you make the step to become a Virginia Tech colleges are teaming up to bigger business, you need things that of bringing it in from the local munic- Memorial Court with eight sculptured was leading in South Vietnam. Wood first began to inquire about reinvent how we manage water flow. address human resources, marketing, and ipality. That helps stormwater control, Indiana limestone pylons. The names of adding Miller’s name in 2005. In 2018, A former resident of Covington, Virginia, your website. Those were things Chris because if you’re collecting water from alumni who have died while in military he was able to connect with Miller’s Shawn Crawford ’11, ’13, who graduated Miller’s connection to Virginia Tech wasn’t brought,” Crawford continued. Quillen, a roof, it’s not running off.” service are carved on the pylons. younger brother, Michael Miller ’75. with a bachelor’s degree in wood science immediately realized because he never and forest products and a master’s degree whose degree is in marketing manage- Rainwater Management Solutions con- Centered at the back of Memorial Court attended the university in Blacksburg, but Michael Miller said he was proud that in forestry, returned home in 2014 to ment, originally joined the company as tributed to water management at the is a marble cenotaph, which includes the went to Clifton Forge-Covington Com- his brother would now be remembered work as national sales manager for Rain- investor. He later took a position as a full- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute names of alumni awarded the Medal of munity College when it was designated at the War Memorial alongside other water Management Solutions. The Salem- time employee and was instrumental in at VTC—a smaller project than, say, its Honor. as a branch of Virginia Tech. Protocol for Hokies who have laid down their lives in based business, founded 20 years ago by helping organize the overall business. systems at the Virginia Capitol in Rich- the service of the country. Lt. Gary Lee Miller became the eighth inclusion on the cenotaph requires the Crawford’s father, David Crawford, began Together, the Hokie trio helped rein- mond, Virginia, or Allianz Field in St. Medal of Honor recipient whose name is Medal of Honor recipient to be an alum- For more details about Gary Lee Miller, by making rain barrels to collect and con- vent Rainwater Management Solutions’ Paul, Minnesota—but one that inspires etched onto the cenotaph. nus, whether or not they graduated. visit vtmag.vt.edu. TW serve rainwater. Through the vision of approach to business by focusing on “just in pride in the Hokies. MA LF 66 | HOKIE NATION | RETRO RY BARNHART, SHAY ALUMNI PROFILERETRO | HOKIE NATION | 67 FAMILY 1 2

1 “Even Lane, our pup who is 5 “Our love story is a tale named after Lane Stadium, of of college sweethearts who course, is excited to share the were reunited.” ——Donald E. news of our newest addition. Womeldorph Jr. ’62, Ph.D. ’66, Go Hokies!” ——Rachel Fieweger Lantana, Texas, who married Moran ’11, who along with Sean Anne Blakesly, 11/9/19.

Moran ’11 welcomed a daughter, SARAH BERLIN Audrey Wood, 3/12/20. 6 6 “Her favorite bedtime lul- labye? Every Hokie's favorite 2 “Celebrating the birth of song, ‘Tech Triumph!’” ——Sarah a future Hokie!” ——Meredith Berlin ’13, Midlothian, Virgin- Vallee ’10, North Hampton, New ia, who, along with Andrew Hampshire, who welcomed a Berlin ’12, welcomed a daugh- daughter, Caroline Bonnie Blue RACHEL MORAN RACHEL VALLEE MEREDITH ter, Haley Susan, 2/7/20. Smith, 7/17/20.

7 “On Nov. 11, I married my 3 “Our wedding was a beautiful Virginia Tech and Corps of celebration for two Hokies!” 3 Cadets sweetheart.” ——Jocelyn ——Lindsay Stewart Deely ’15, Ar- Lamb Zimmerman ’17, North lington, Virginia, who married Bethesda, Maryland, who Colin Deely ’15, 8/22/20. married Eric Zimmerman ’16, 11/2/19.

4 “Introducing a new Hokie. Weighing in at 7lbs. and 2.8 8 “Future Hokie, Class of oz, 20 in. long, she is a perfect 2041!” ——Seth W. Pesek ’05, addition.” ——Michael Encinas ANNE BLAKESLY LORI CONKLIN, KPC AND CO. PHOTOGRAPHY KPC AND CO. CONKLIN, LORI Charlotte, North Carolina, ’11, Midlothian, Virginia, who 5 7 who welcomed a son, Winston welcomed a daughter, Rylie, Lewis, 4/30/19. 5/15/20. 8 AMANDA GILLEY AMANDA

4 MICHAEL ENCINAS PESEK SETH W.

68 | HOKIE NATION | FAMILY FAMILY | HOKIE NATION | 69 STILL LIFE

KINDA SKETCHY: Steven White has long been a little sketchy.

“I remember as a kid getting lost in sketching,” said White ’92, who has worked as a design- er at Virginia Tech for more than a dozen years. “I just get lost in it. It’s kind of a meditation thing.”

In August, White took on a Uni- versity Relations assignment to document life around campus. The project, “Semi-frequent, Mostly Sketchy Doodles at the Very Bottom of the Email,” or “Doodles” for short, is featured in the daily email from Virginia Tech News.

Learn more about the artist and view additional doodles at vtmag.vt.edu.

STILL LIFE | HOKIE NATION | 71 CharlesMartha P. W. Waybright, Elgin Jr., Blacksburg,Christians- Ronald Lee Barker, Richmond, Va., Steven Wayne Pittman, Richmond, Ronald Keith Mason, Henrico, Va., IN MEMORIAM burg,Va., 8/7/17. Va., 2/23/2020. 1/26/2020. ’43 Va., 1/16/2020. 3/16/2020. Joseph Carl Pratt Jr., Martinsville, EverettJames Michael F. Eldred Glennon Jr., North Jr., Chester Wad-- Daniel Irvin Putzulu, White Post, Susan Yates Mills, Leesburg, Va., Listing includes notices shared with the university betweenfrom Jan. June 16, 2020,1, 2017, through and Sept. April 30, 30, 2017. 2020. Va., 3/14/2020.’ field,malaw Va., Island, 8/26/17. S.C., 4/17/2020. Va., 3/1/2020. 4/9/2020. The next edition will include those recieved between Oct. 1, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2017. 43 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, ShirleyEverett F. Farrier Eldred CopenhaverJr., North Chester - Va.,Edgar 7/14/17. Paul Hilton, Glen Allen, Va., Dennis Meredith Smith, Bergton, Beverly Huston Sgro, Asheville, Strother,field, Va., 8/26/17.Blacksburg, Va., 4/3/2020. Martha3/1/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Va., 3/28/2020. N.C., 3/13/2020. Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17. James Montgomery Wright, Jack Buckland Johnson Sr., Roa- Knoxville,Va., 7/14/17. Tenn., 4/22/2020. noke, Va., 4/12/2020. ’ ’ Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 70 74 Va., 8/7/17. ’43 Homer Ronald Coake, Draper, Va., Gordon Charles Alling, Fredericks- Troutville, Lawrenceville, 1/22/2020. burg, Va., 3/10/2020. Augustine Warner Robins Sr., EverettHoward F. O. Eldred Harrison Jr., North Jr., Chester- NewmanMichael O.R. Efird,Ogden Jr., Richmond, ’ Everett F. Eldred’ Jr., North Chester- ’ Yorktown, Va.,’ 3/22/2020. Va., 2/5/2020. Ga., 1/29/2020. 61 66 42 43 field, Va., 8/26/17. Va., 7/14/17. Roa- field, Va., 8/26/17. Rocky Broken Bow, Okla., Annandale, Va., Henrico, Va., Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Frederick W.’ Dulaney Jr., Edward George Astin Jr., John N. Dooley, John A. Bresnahan, George W. Habel Jr., Everett F. Eldred Jr., Wilmington, North Chester Del.,- Missoula, noke, Va., 2/5/2020.43 NewmanMount, N.C., R. Ogden 3/8/2020. Jr., Richmond, 3/18/2020. 3/10/2020. 3/16/2020. Frank H. Sawyer, Va.,Edward 7/14/17. Lawrence Olson Jr., Va.,William 8/7/17. Gabriel III, field,2/29/2020. Va., 8/26/17. Columbia, N.C., 1/24/2020. Mont., 4/7/2020. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Raymond Joseph Klotz Jr., Me- Harold Thomas Blankenship Jr., William E. Elliott III, Clintwood, Grover Lee Carter Jr., Chester, Va., Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, chanicsville,field, Va., 8/26/17. Va., 2/1/2020. Alexandria,Martha P. Waybright, Va., 4/11/2020. Blacksburg, Va., 9/2/2019. 3/28/2020. Va.,Claude 8/7/17. F. Yelton, Pulaski, Va., John D. Lambert, Richmond, Va., Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17. ’ Va., 7/14/17. 2/28/2020. 1/16/2020. ’ 43 Martha P. Waybright,’ Blacksburg, 43 AlwynVa., 7/14/17. Dale Mottesheard, Moseley, William E. Miller, Bradenton, Fla., Joseph Francis Goncalves Jr., George Edwards Hunt Jr., Rocky Edward Benton Hale, Blacksburg, 50 MarthaVa., 4/2/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 2/20/2020. Chesapeake, Va., 3/19/2020. Mount, Va., 3/2/2020. Va., 4/24/2020. RichardVa., 8/7/17. K. Culbertson, Blacksburg, ’ Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- ’ Va., 1/24/2020. ’43 field, Va., 8/26/17.’ Va., 8/7/17. Port Tobacco, 43 Santa Ana, Athens, Ga., Wasilla, Alas- Everett F. Eldred53 Jr., North Chester- Newman R. Ogden57 Jr., Richmond, Curtis D. Snyder, John L. Rothgeb Jr., Kermit K. Hutcheson, Donald Rae McLean, Peyton Leftwich Morgan Jr., ’ Chris- Hagerstown, Amherst, Md., 3/29/2020. EverettCalif., 1/11/2020. F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- 2/2/2020. ka., 2/9/2020. Knoxville, Tenn., 1/27/2020. William Cardwell43 Hager, field,Floyd Va., W. 8/26/17.Hough Jr., L.Va., Dale 7/14/17. Higginbotham, field, Va., 8/26/17. tiansburg, Va., 2/6/2020. NewmanMd., 1/17/2020. R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va.,Martha 3/25/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, ’ Frederick, Md., Buchanan, S. Yar- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- 43 NewmanLee Edward R. Ogden Sharpe, Jr., Richmond, Clifford F. Phillips II, Deborah Elizabeth Edwards Os- Virginia Peters Wilson, Va., 7/14/17. Va., 8/7/17. 3/19/2020. Va., 3/8/2020. Blacksburg, Va., 1/22/2020. mouth, Mass., 2/1/2020. Georgefield, Va., W. 8/26/17. Hill, Baton Rouge, La., Robert Lee Hundley, Mechanics- Randolph Cutchin Hodges, An- Everett F. Eldred’ Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. borne, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 62 1/25/2020.Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, ville, Va., 2/20/2020. drews, S.C., 3/26/2020. field, Va., 8/26/17. Wilmington, Martha P. Waybright, Rosedale,Blacksburg, Va., Wake, Va., Charlotte, Va., 8/7/17. David W. Gillespie, Patricia Jane Skeen, Walter W. Revere, Dennis John Phillips, Va., 7/14/17. Midlothian, Charlotte, N.C., ’ Christiansburg, N.C.,Newman 1/28/2020. R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va.,2/2/2020. 8/7/17. 3/17/2020. N.C., 4/23/2020. Robert Ward Johnson, Chuck D. Hutton, Robert H. Pusey, Va., 7/14/17. ’ Va.,Martha 3/16/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 4/7/2020. Va., 4/4/2020. 43 Rehoboth Elliston, Va., Newport 44 Va., 8/7/17. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- MarthaWilliam P. FarrWaybright, Holtzclaw, Blacksburg, Rodney W. Smith, Michael A. Schroedl, Lamar “Chap” C. Toomer, Houston, ’ Beach, Del., 1/17/2020. 2/8/2020. News, Va., 2/15/2020. Texas, 3/17/2020. E. Harley Kline, Manassas, Va., 43 Johnfield, Va., B. Tenney 8/26/17. Jr., Williamson, Va., 8/7/17. ’ ’ 7/20/2015. N.Y., 2/17/2020. 43 71 ’ Everett F. Eldred’54 Jr., North Chester- Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Edward F. Swansey Jr., Richmond, CharlesEverett F. Winston Eldred Jr., Swain, North WilliamsChester-- Bruce Howard Booth, Reedville, Joseph Gary Vipperman, Pulaski, 43 Bristol, field, Va., 8/26/17. Bluefield, Va., 7/14/17. Va., 11/2/2019. field,burg, Va.,Va., 8/26/17.3/2/2020. Va., 1/14/2020. Va., 1/14/2020. George William Layman, NewmanJohn “J.D.” R. D.Ogden Barbour, Jr., Richmond, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, ’ ’ Tenn.,Everett 1/5/2020. F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Va., 3/5/2020. 43 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, 45 Va., 7/14/17. Va., 8/7/17. ’ Hugh Barnes Townsend Jr., William Michael Darracott, Ger- Kennewick, field, Va., 8/26/17. 58 Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. Stanley Goldsmith, Martha P. Waybright, Sugar Blacksburg, Land, Norfolk, Va., ’ Manquin, Va., 4/25/2020. mantown, Md., 1/28/2020. ’ Wash., 2/15/2020. WilburNewman Hamilton R. Ogden Jr.,Showalter, Richmond, Floyd V. Bennett, John C. Holladay Jr., field, Va., 8/26/17. Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Earlysville, Va., 4/1/2020. Va.,Texas, 8/7/17. 3/19/2020. 2/9/2020. 63 Roanoke, Va., 75 Roanoke, Raleigh, Va., 7/14/17. ’ JamesNewman Arnel R. Ogden Conner, Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17. Gordon Thomas Dickinson, Joseph Thomas Coleman, Harriet Goode Reubush, Springfield, Va., Valencia, 43 Durham, N.C., Va.,3/14/2020. 7/14/17. Shrewsbury, Pa., 4/13/2020. Va., 3/12/2020. N.C., 4/7/2020. JackMartha A. P. Thalhimer, Waybright, Blacksburg, James T. Blankenship, E. Towson Moore, ’67 4/8/2020.Va., 8/7/17. Calif., 1/24/2020.’ Everett1/21/2020. F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Martha P. Waybright, Lynchburg, Blacksburg, Va., Fort Mill, Win- Middleburg, Houston, Del., Va.,William 8/7/17. Lee Dail, Averill M. Hansen’ Jr., Wayne Coulbourn Lee, Mary Moyer Phelps, A. Nelson Sills, 43 Lynchburg, field, Va., 8/26/17. Floyd, Va., 1/13/2020. S.C., 2/20/2020.43 chester, Va., 3/21/2020. Va., 4/13/2020. 1/24/2020. EverettJames H. F. Burkholder,Eldred Jr., North Chester- NewmanAndrew R.L. Nester,Ogden Jr., Richmond, ’’ Va., 2/10/2020. 2/1/2020. Danville, Va., Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester Lew- - Rad- Grand Junc- Kingsport, Tenn., 4351 field, Va., 8/26/17. Va., 7/14/17. Joseph Edmund Hile, field,Richard Va., Louis8/26/17. Kornmann, Gary Stephen Quesenberry, Sandra Smith Ridout, Robert J. White, Barhams- Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Midlothian, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Spring - 3/25/2020. ’ istown, Pa., 1/30/2020. ford, Va., 1/11/2020. tion, Colo., 3/18/2020. 3/26/2020. EverettMelvin F. Warren Eldred Jr., Bryant, North Chester- Mary Ann Jones Hall, Andrew Thomas Roth Jr., 43 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, ville, Va., 1/19/2020. Va., 7/14/17.1/10/2020. Va.,field, 8/7/17. Va., 2/15/2020. field, Va., 8/26/17. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester Floyd,- Va., 7/14/17. Grot- Ocala, Law- Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Raymond Reynarld Kirby, Robert Schindler Pearman, Carl Granville Thomas Jr., Virginia Harrison Russell, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond,Charlotte, Kokomo, field,Va., 1/27/2020. Va., 8/26/17. Marthatoes, Va., P. 4/1/2020. Waybright, Blacksburg, Fla., 4/20/2020. renceville, Va., 3/21/2020. William W. Ford Jr., Va., 8/7/17. Joseph William Tackett, ’ Va.,N.C., 7/14/17. 4/2/2020. Ind., 3/7/2020.’ Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Barbo- Va., 8/7/17. Manassas, 47 ’ Va.,John 7/14/17. William Minichan, Phillip Cato Scheider, Joseph E. Isaac Jr., Lexington, Ky., Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 55 43 ursville, W.Va. 4/25/2020. Va., 1/15/2020. 2/5/2020. Va.,John 8/7/17. Frances Hamer, Jacksonville, Thomas J. Blair III, Charleston, GarlandEverett F. Ray Eldred Williams, Jr., North Lynchburg, Chester- Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, ’ ’ Fla., 2/12/2020. W.Va., 3/13/2020.’ Va., 1/27/2020. 68 72 43 field, Va., 8/26/17. JerryVa., 8/7/17. M. Soukup, Seminole, Fla., James Wright Ellis, Mechanicsville, Mark Squire Adams, New York, Margaret “Peg” Wirth Woolf, Calvin Tompkins Lucy Jr., Midlo- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, 2/1/2020. Va., 4/26/2020. N.Y., 2/15/2020. Hamilton, N.J., 2/19/2020. thian, Va., 4/24/2020. Bobby E. Stultz,’ Madison, N.J., Harry McDonald Francis Jr., 3/22/2020. 43 Chapelfield, Va., Hill, 8/26/17. N.C., 1/29/2020. Va., 7/14/17. Blacksburg, Reedville, Va., Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Martha P. Waybright,’ Blacksburg, Charles E. Tilson’ Jr., Forrest Dale Hall Jr., Boardman Homer Caraway Jr., Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- 59 Va., 4/18/2020.43 1/5/2020. Lancaster, S.C., 2/11/2020. Sandston, Va., Va., 7/14/17. Dubuque, Iowa, Va., 8/7/17. ’ field,Fred Va.,G. Sutherland, 8/26/17. Thomas B. French, Charles “C.B.” Boyd Foster Jr., Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- 76 ’ 4/23/2020. Martha3/23/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Alexandria, Va., 1/18/2020. Abingdon, 48 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, field, Va., 8/26/17. Lloyd Allen Anderson, Martha Bishop Heiskell, Blacks- Va., 8/7/17. Va., 3/1/2020. burg, Va., 3/31/2020. JohnVa., 7/14/17. C. Thompson Jr., Davidson, Arden Nelson Huff, Dugspur, Va., Roger Glen Furgurson,’ Williams- Newman R. Ogden’ Jr., Richmond, ’ ’ N.C., 4/14/2020. 2/10/2020. burg, Va., 2/20/2020. Va., 7/14/17. 64 69 73 Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 43 Joseph Wilson Arnold, Mechanics- Robert Wallace Austin Jr., Dan- Thomas Edward Brown, Sterling, Wayne A. DeVan, Landisville, Pa., Philip Ivan Karp, Bradenton, Fla., Va., 8/7/17. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- ville,Martha Va., P. 1/13/2020.Waybright, Blacksburg, ville, Va., 1/29/2020. Va., 12/29/2019. 1/29/2020. 1/15/2020. David Fallen Varner, Newport Hubert “H.H.”’ Hamilton Jewell Jr., John Lynwood Mouring Jr., News, Va., 3/25/2020. Culpeper, Va., 4/10/2020.43 Gloucesterfield, Va., 8/26/17. Point, Va., 3/10/2020. Va., 8/7/17. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Ronald Hamilton Mackey, Mid- Henry Johnson Davis Jr., Goff- E-Li Elizabeth Chen, Greensboro, James Earl Glascock, Capron, Va., dleville, Mich., 2/10/2020. stown, N.H., 3/31/2020. N.C., 1/14/2020. 3/27/2020. ’ Haroldfield, Va., P. 8/26/17. Remines, Abingdon, Va., JanetVa., 7/14/17. Cobb Newcomb, Haymarket, ’ 43 Newman2/4/2020. R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va.,Martha 3/19/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, ’ 49 Everett F. Eldred’ Jr., North Chester- 43 Hager- West Grove, Fincastle, Bluefield, Milton, Ala., 52 Va., 7/14/17. Va., 8/7/17. Michael Watson Stoner, Ronald Earl Fletcher, Elwyn Martin Clifton, Frances Anne Harrison, William N. Goodson, field, Va., 8/26/17. Rochester, stown,Everett Md., F. Eldred 4/21/2020. Jr., North Chester- Pa., 3/12/2020. Va., 2/11/2020. W.Va., 1/19/2020. 12/22/2019. John Edgar Awalt, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, NewmanMinn., 3/20/2020. R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, field, Va., 8/26/17. Va., 8/7/17. ’ ’ Charles Temple Gaynor, Chicago, Robert Loron German, Virginia Frederick David Snell Jr., Blacks- Paul F. Lumbye, Broad Run, Va., Va., 7/14/17. 56 ’60 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Ill., 2/26/2020. Beach, Va., 3/13/2020. burg, Va., 2/13/2020. 3/21/2020. Andrew J. Given Jr., Virginia Herbert Ray Alcorn Sr., Blacksburg, Phillip Edmund43 Barnard Sr., Ame- Va., 7/14/17. ’ Beach,Martha Va., P. Waybright, 1/20/2020. Blacksburg, Va., 1/25/2020. lia Court House, Va., 1/21/2020. 65 Va., 8/7/17. ’ Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- JamesMartha Frederic P. Waybright, Ballard, Blacksburg, Haymarket, Dennis Ho, Dover, Del., 3/16/2020. Nancy “Betsy” Parks Maloney, Robert Bruce Vaughan, Westford, 43 field, Va., 8/26/17. Va., 8/7/17.3/19/2020. Spotsylvania, Va., 1/10/2020. Vt., 2/10/2020. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, ’43 field, Va., 8/26/17. Va., 7/14/17.

72 | HOKIE NATION | IN MEMORIAM James Lynn Williams, Spotsylva- TheresaEverett F. Cardinal Eldred Jr., Lee, North Manassas, Chester - EverettFloyd Steven F. Eldred Meredith, Jr., North Pearisburg, Chester- nia, Va., 2/14/2020.’43 Va.,field, 1/28/2020. Va., 8/26/17. field,Va., 2/26/2020. Va., 8/26/17. ’9943 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Dale- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- EverettZachary F. William Eldred Jr., Fletchall, North Chester- Richard T. Williams II, Louisville, PeggyVa., 7/14/17. Condon Vance, Mohnton, Va.,Lisa 7/14/17.Marie Brown Petrovich, ville, Va., 4/17/2020. field, Va., 8/26/17. Haymarket, Va., 3/5/2020. field, Va., 8/26/17. Tenn., 2/29/2020. Pa.,Martha 3/1/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17. Va., 8/7/17. Va., 7/14/17. Michael John Smith, Snoqualmie, Va., 7/14/17. ’ Martha P. Waybright,’ Blacksburg, ’ Wash., 3/22/2020. Martha P. Waybright,01 Blacksburg, Va., 8/7/17. 77 83 PeterVa., 8/7/17. Anthony Lobue, Fort Thomas, Naomi Ruth Winfrey Astle, Beck- Gayle Allison’ Hooper, Springfield, Warren David’ Strickler, King- Ky., 4/1/2020. ley, W.Va., 4/12/2020. Va., 1/29/2020.43 sport, Tenn., 1/25/2020.43 Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Larry William’43 Carper, Friend- Markfield, Va., Taylor 8/26/17. Keffer, Virginia field, Va., 8/26/17. ’43 swood, Texas, 4/14/2020. NewmanBeach, Va., R. 4/19/2020. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, ’ Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- ’ Everett F. Eldred02 Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. Va., 7/14/17. 90 Ridgeway, field, Va., 8/26/17. Bedford, Texas, Nevada City, New- Davidfield, Va., Michael 8/26/17. Hundley, Robert M. Fisher, MarthaJoel Gregory P. Waybright, Long, Blacksburg, MarthaLaura Michelle P. Waybright, Armstrong, Blacksburg, Va., 2/27/2020. Newman2/14/2020. R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Calif., 3/8/2020. port News, Va., 3/22/2020. Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17. Va., 8/7/17. Va., 7/14/17. Va., 7/14/17. Thomas William Klima, Alexan- Vincent Paul Vala, Culpeper, Va., William Howard Brown, Danville, dria,Martha Va., P. 2/25/2020. Waybright, Blacksburg, 4/21/2020. Va., 2/17/2020. Martha P. Waybright,’ Blacksburg, Va., 8/7/17. Va., 8/7/17. 03 ’ ’ Debra Wilson Gillis, Boulder, Louis Andrew Sanders, Norfolk, 43 Charles Francis43 Fox, Dubai, Wyo., 2/13/2020. Va., 2/7/2020. Everett F. Eldred’ Jr., North Chester- Everett2/25/2020. F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- ’ 84 ’ Colorado 43 Roanoke, field, Va., 8/26/17. Clarksville, field, Va., 8/26/17. Lynchburg, George Whitney43 Shellem, Romona Perry Williams, NewmanWilliam R.Peter Ogden Bialick, Jr., Richmond, NewmanTimothy R. Blaine Ogden Roach, Jr., Richmond, Springs, Colo., 1/25/2020. Va.,Everett 3/13/2020. F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Md., 3/14/2020. Va., 2/29/2020. Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. Va., 7/14/17. field, Va., 8/26/17. field, Va., 8/26/17. Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Arlington, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Brian Patrick Fimian, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17.4/5/2020. Va., 8/7/17. ’ Va., 7/14/17. ’ ’ Va., 7/14/17. 07 78 92 Megan Elizabeth Bennett, Plain- MarthaEllen Mason P. Waybright, Luce, Falls Blacksburg, Church, Evelyn Harris Wigglesworth, David Eisele Baum, Williamsburg, field,Martha Ill., P. 1/9/2020. Waybright, Blacksburg, Va., 8/7/17.1/4/2020. Chesapeake, Va.,’ 4/4/2020. Va., 2/9/2020.’ Va., 8/7/17. OBITUARIES 43 43 Geoffrey David Malgee, Midlo- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- EverettKaye Farley F. Eldred Johnson Jr., North Nichols, Chester - thian, Va., 2/1/2020. ’43 field, Va., 8/26/17.’ field,Roanoke, Va., Va.,8/26/17. 3/20/2020. ’43 FACULTY/STAFF A GENEROUS FRIEND 79 Newman R. Ogden85 Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Robert Duvall Neese, Brentwood, JamesEverett Wallace F. Eldred Kirks Jr., North Jr., ChesterChesa- - James Andrew Pemberton, Ponte Stephen Christian Piccirilli, Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. Va., 7/14/17. Tenn., 4/9/2020. field,peake, Va., Va., 8/26/17. 1/15/2020. Vedra Beach, Fla., 2/9/2020. Eldersburg, Md., 2/21/2020. field, Va., 8/26/17. former Virginia Department of who helped Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Ray Douglas Pethtel Jr., Russell Amos Hitt, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Transportation (VDOT) commissioner, director of the Center transform his family’s business into Steven Daniel Moses, Yorktown, CarolynVa., 8/7/17. Lee Thomas, Ferrum, Va., Va., 8/7/17. Va., 7/14/17.2/10/2020. 1/14/2020. Va., 7/14/17. ’ Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, ’ Martha P. Waybright,10 Blacksburg, for Transportation Research at Virginia Tech, and the founding one of the nation’s largest and most 93 Lauren Kathleen Angleton, Bend, Va., 8/7/17. Joseph Lloyd ’Wilson, Cedar Falls, Kevin John Martin,’ Crozet, Va., Ore.,Va., 8/7/17. 2/6/2020. director of the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission successful general contracting firms ’ Iowa, 3/10/2020.43 2/21/2020. 43 80 Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Matthew John Sarver, Bernards- for the Commonwealth of Virginia, died Sept. 12. A champion of and whose family has been extraor- William Legrand’ Higgs, Mountain Jeanette Webb Rhile, Advance, ville, N.J., 2/22/2020.’ Top, Pa., 1/26/2020.43 field, Va., 8/26/17. N.C.,field, Va.,2/20/2020. 8/26/17. 43 innovation, Pethtel played a significant role in positioning Virginia dinarily generous to Virginia Tech, Newman R. Ogden’ Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- 86 Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Va., 7/14/17. Mechan- Va., 7/14/17. Lex- Tech as a leader in transportation research and technology. died on Sept. 14. field,Fernando Va., 8/26/17. Anthony Munilla, Wallace Palmer Carroll, Michael Greenlee Van Ness, field, Va., 8/26/17. Statesboro, Ga., 2/9/2020. Marthaicsville, Va.,P. Waybright, 1/18/2020. Blacksburg, ington,Martha Va.,P. Waybright, 3/29/2020. Blacksburg, ’ Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden15 Jr., Richmond, Va., 8/7/17. Va., 8/7/17. Scott Le Hoang, Manassas, Va., JamesVa., 7/14/17. F. Ripp, Blacksburg, Va., John Patrick Hearring, Chester- 1/26/2020.Va., 7/14/17. Robert H. Pusey ’57, M.S. ’58, Ph.D. ’72, professor emeritus of Hitt and his family’s foundation Martha2/3/2020. P. Waybright, Blacksburg, field, Va., 1/30/2020. ’ Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, chemical engineering, died April 4. Pusey, who held various po- were among the early supporters Va., 8/7/17. ’ ’94 Va., 8/7/17. Alice Mae Verra Williams, Win- Michelle LaMay Forgash, Leesburg, ston-Salem, N.C.,43 1/19/2020. Va., 2/18/2020.43 ’ sitions over his 40-year career at the university, was recognized of Virginia Tech’s two-building ’ Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- 19 ’ 81 David Carrington Huff, Blacksburg, with an Academic Advising Award in 1993 and was a charter Intelligent Infrastructure and Construction Complex, a home Joseph Lindsay Browning, Reston, field, Va., 8/26/17. Janefield, Va.,R. Misheloff, 8/26/17. Arlington, Va., Va., 3/29/2020. Va., 1/31/2020.43 Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman1/21/2020. R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- ’ member of the Academy of Advising Excellence. for the university’s nationally leading programs in smart con- Va., 7/14/17. Va., 7/14/17. Blacks- field, Va., 8/26/17. 87 Willem David Schilder, Roy R. Smith Jr., Blacksburg, Va., MarthaNelson P.Botts Waybright, Janes, Las Blacksburg, Vegas, Nev., Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, burg, Va., 1/22/2020. struction, autonomous vehicles, ubiquitous mobility, and energy Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, 1/23/2020. Va.,2/6/2020. 8/7/17. Va., 8/7/17. ’ a longtime electrician within the Va., 7/14/17. 95 Charles A. Roatenberry, systems. One of the buildings, which will allow for doubling the MarthaWilliam P. CharlesWaybright, Newman, Blacksburg, Hilton James D. Patterson, Charlotte, N.C., Division of Campus Planning, Infrastructure, and Facilities, enrollment of the Myers-Lawson School of Construction, will be Head Island, S.C., 3/26/2020. ’ 2/28/2020. Va., 8/7/17. ’4388 ’43 died July 30. named Hitt Hall. Johan Sikkar, Severna Park, Md., ’ 2/25/2020.Everett F. Eldred Jr., North Chester- Everett F. Eldred’ Jr., North Chester- 4382 field, Va., 8/26/17. field, Va., 8/26/17.97 Jack Marshall Tyree, former director of Virginia 4-H, died While Hitt did not attend Tech, he admired and benefitted from North Myrtle Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Richmond, EverettDeborah F. LoweEldred Duty, Jr., North Chester- Kimberly Hamrick Tavaglione, Robert R. Everett Jr., May 27. Beach, S.C., 1/16/2020. Va.,Woodbridge, 7/14/17. Va., 1/24/2020. Va., 7/14/17.1/27/2020. the graduates the university was producing. Hitt received the field, Va., 8/26/17. Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, Newman R. Ogden Jr., Richmond, Franklin, Myers-Lawson Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Amanda Shockley Hanks, Va., 8/7/17. Va., 8/7/17. professor emeritus of mathematics in the Va., 7/14/17.1/25/2020. ’ ’ Robert Wheeler, Construction Industry from the Virginia Tech Myers-Lawson Martha P. Waybright, Blacksburg, 89 98 Virginia Tech College of Science, died June 1. James Thomas Kline III, Falls Judith Kathryn Rains Jandreau, Jon A. Taillon, Arlington,Va., Church,Va., 8/7/17. Va., 1/12/2020. Rock Hall, Md.,’ 434/16/2020. 2/20/2020. School of Construction. ’43 Read more about Hitt at vtmag.vt.edu. RM, LOGAN WALLACE RM, LOGAN

74 | HOKIE NATION | IN MEMORIAM Lance Collins

END NOTE SERVING AT THE FUTURE'S LEADING EDGE

THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC HAS fundamentally changed how we work. It’s called me into service in ways I never would have imagined. That was true in the spring, when the virus emerged soon after I had been named inaugural exec- utive director of Virginia Tech’s Inno- vation Campus, and as I was focused on wrapping up 10 years as dean of Cornell’s College of Engineering. As spring gave way to summer and even- tually fall, and I relocated to Alexandria, I found that we as a community have had to adapt in ways that previous gen- erations and even our own selves of sev- eral months ago could never have fath- omed. Institutions of higher education around the world faced historic disrup- tion as we changed our programs to edu- cate our students while promoting good public health practices. The Innovation Campus now under development in Alexandria, Virginia, affords the opportunity to reinvent grad- uate education and research in a way that A WORK IN PROGRESS: In July, Lance Collins viewed construction progress at his future is inextricably linked to the private sector office location in Alexandria, Virginia.

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76 END NOTE SMITH GROUP EW, EW, 1

UNVEILED: In April, Virginia Tech shared architec- tural renderings for an Innovation Campus building in the greater Washington, D.C., metro area.

Join us JUNE 10-13

and the state and federal governments. Blacksburg, where faculty, students, and the benefit of the commonwealth, the The physical campus will open in 2024 researchers have for decades changed nation, and the world. in the wake of the destruction wrought the world with advances in agriculture, Lance R. Collins is the vice president by the novel coronavirus on our society. engineering, science, architecture and and executive director of the Virginia Tech As we look to computers and the rapid construction, the arts, and other areas. advance of technology to continue Innovation Campus. Virginia Tech’s reach has spread to working and innovating even during encompass a medical school and state- a pandemic, the Innovation Campus is of-the-art biomedical research institute training tomorrow’s leaders in computer in Roanoke, and dozens of Cooperative science and computer engineering while Extension offices across the common- IN OUR NEXT ISSUE also providing a platform for ground- wealth. With the Innovation Campus, breaking research in a purpose-driven, During June 2020, the Centers for we’re now expanding our longtime role Disease Control conducted panel action-oriented culture that will get in Northern Virginia by leaping into surveys of adults to assess mental real-world results. Home is where the Hokies are. another arena in the greater Washing- health, substance abuse and sui- Our goal is to produce graduates who are ton, D.C., metro area. cide ideation. More than thirteen percent reported having started or Reunion Weekend is an exciting alumni tradition we look forward to all year long, and for 2021 not just skilled coders, but who have the We are entering an exciting new increased substance use to cope we’re planning something special. This year you’ll be able to join Hokies all over the world from breadth, depth, and context to become with stress related to COVID-19. technology era, where universities will your home. We’ll explore Virginia Tech in new ways and connect with fellow Hokies virtually. pioneers and leaders in the rapidly continue to play their traditional role Researchers at Virginia Tech have evolving digital economy. of nurturing brilliant minds and bold long studied various aspects of Virginia Tech is ideally situated for this ideas to advance the frontiers of what’s substance misuse including its This year we’re celebrating classes of 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, short and long-term effects on stu- mission, not just because of the Innova- possible through research and infusion dents and families. Read about how 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016 from wherever Hokies are. tion Campus, but because of its nearly of talent into the market. Together with the university is working to learn 150-year land-grant mission, its service our partners, private sector companies, more about substance misuse and how to support those affected in Registration will open in early 2021. ethic, and its long history of operating at nonprofits, the federal government and the future’s leading edge. That heritage its agencies, and even K-12 schools, the spring issue of Virginia Tech Don’t wait to make plans. Get ready Magazine. endures across its long history in we will drive technology forward for for the summer! GET THE LATEST DETAILS ALUMNI.VT.EDU/REUNION2021