Virginia Tech Addresses Hokie Nation in Open Letter
The president of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Tim Sands, addressed Hokie Nation in an open letter, reflecting on his tenure and announcing his intention to step down. He emphasized his pride in serving the university and his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for his successor.
Key Achievements During Tim Sands’ Presidency
Tim Sands has overseen significant advancements at Virginia Tech over the past twelve years. Here are some notable accomplishments:
- Undergraduate enrollment increased by 30%.
- Extramural research expenditures rose by 70%.
- University endowment surged by 185%.
- Improvement in U.S. News & World Report ranking by 20 spots.
- Undergraduate admission applications skyrocketed by 200%.
- Over 100,000 degrees awarded since 2014.
Vision for the Future
In the letter, Sands expressed confidence in the university’s ongoing momentum. He mentioned three main priorities guiding Virginia Tech’s future:
- Virginia Tech Advantage
- Virginia Tech Global Distinction
- Invest to Win
He quoted the late Nikki Giovanni, stating, “We are better than we think and not quite what we want to be,” highlighting a shared commitment to growth within the Hokie community.
A Fond Farewell
Tim Sands and his wife, Laura, plan to remain in Blacksburg, emphasizing their strong connection to the university. He left Hokie Nation with a heartfelt message: “Go Hokies!”
