Virginia Tech President Tim Sands Announces Upcoming Resignation
Virginia Tech President Tim Sands has announced his resignation, effective in the coming months. After 12 years of dedicated service, he expressed his gratitude for his role in advancing the university and public higher education. His letter, addressed to the Virginia Tech community, noted, “There is no better role in higher education than to serve as the president of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.”
Resignation Announcement by Tim Sands
Sands indicated that now is the right moment for him to step aside. He emphasized the need for his successor to “take the baton at full stride” and continue the university’s momentum. Throughout his tenure, Sands oversaw impressive growth at Virginia Tech, including:
- 30% increase in undergraduate enrollment.
- 200% increase in applications.
- 70% increase in extramural research expenditures.
- 185% increase in the university’s endowment.
Commitment to Transition
Tim Sands has committed to serving until a successor is appointed, ensuring a smooth transition. John Rocovich, the rector of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors, expressed deep gratitude toward Sands for his leadership and vision. He praised Sands’ engagement with communities and strategic initiatives that positioned the university for future success.
Significant Projects and Developments
Sands became president on June 1, 2014, after serving at Purdue University. Under his leadership, Virginia Tech has embarked on numerous transformative projects, such as:
- Establishment of the Virginia Tech Carilion Academic Health Center.
- Development of the Innovation Campus in Alexandria.
- Launch of 15 significant construction projects totaling 1.9 million square feet.
- Expansion of the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute.
These initiatives have made substantial contributions to the university’s presence, both locally and regionally.
Vision for the Future
Among Sands’ many accomplishments include:
- Launching the Beyond Boundaries visioning initiative.
- Guiding the university through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Achieving fundraising goals for the Boundless Impact Campaign.
- Establishing Virginia Tech Advantage to support in-state students.
He is particularly proud of the over 100,000 graduates who earned their degrees during his presidency, emphasizing the lasting legacy of Virginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim (“That I May Serve”). Sands and his wife, Laura P. Sands, plan to remain in Blacksburg, affirming their lifelong connection to the university community.
