VT Stories Oral History with Matt Arden, November 2, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
University History
Matt Arden grew up in Woodbridge, being raised by a single-father. He attended Virginia Tech for undergraduate, studying IDST. In this interview, Matt talks about his journey to Virginia, falling into film through filming Virginia Tech athletics, and then eventually his career in cinema, working as a producer and executive at Screenvision.
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Oral histories
VT Stories Oral History with Rhonda and Phil Rogers, April 6, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
For Rhonda and Phil Rogers, “the rest of history” isn’t just a well worn phrase or one that is used to indicate their place in the history of Virginia Tech. The story that would take them from small towns in Southwest Virginia to the growing campus of Virginia Tech in the early 1970s is one that stands as a list of “firsts” for the Rogers’ and the university. Rhonda was one of the first African-American secretaries hired at Virginia Tech in 1973. Phil, a 2011 Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame inductee, led the football team in his senior year in 1975 as the first African-American starting quarterback for the Hokies to an impressive 8-3 record. In this VT Story, the virtues of humility and gratefulness highlight the contributions Rhonda and Phil Rogers have made to Virginia Tech and the impact of their legacy and service in ways both big and small. Rhonda Miller Rogers was the second of two children born into a middle-class family in Wytheville, VA to parents Roy and Carly Miller. Wytheville, a small town nestled in the corner of Southwest Virginia, was heavily segregated at the time of her upbringing. Due to the separation of the town’s population, Rhonda spent much of her time at the black recreation center playing ping-pong, watching TV, and dancing to the jukebox music. As an energetic student, Rhonda loved school and in 1966, the schools in the area were integrated. The differences between the schools became more apparent for Rhonda following integration as she saw the inequities and lack of resources in the black schools compared to those offered to her brother who was attending a school that had previously been all-white. In a series of firsts for Rhonda that would follow her throughout her life, she was a member of the marching band in high school as well as the first black majorette. Due to the economies of the area, Rhonda attended Wytheville Community College initially to pursue a career as a teacher. After her first year and following the decision to actually not become a teacher, she enrolled in the two-year secretarial science program. During her second year, a visit from Judy Ridinger and other personnel from Virginia Tech visited students enrolled in the program to inquire about possible jobs available at the university. In 1973, Rhonda was hired in her first job among a group of five other women and moved to Blacksburg, where she would soon meet her husband. While working at Virginia Tech in the Division of Student Affairs, Rhonda worked closely with colleague Ed Spencer, someone she still recalls as being a supportive, caring, and family-oriented person. Her main priority was to listen to students that would come to her for guidance relating to housing, dining, and more so in her current position, after having unfair experiences relating to discrimination and simply being different from others. She’s given 44 years of her life to this job, so it can be easily understood how she received both the VT Division of Student Affairs Heroine Award and the Virginia Tech President’s Award for Excellence. Rhonda experienced discrimination herself while in the workplace, not for her race but for her job title as being a secretary. She remembers feeling like a second-class citizen compared to most other colleagues, though that ceased to occur over the years. Outside of this initial setback, she considers Virginia Tech to be her livelihood, as she has spent so much of her time working here and loving her job. She’s been encouraged by students that have been passionate about speaking up for what they believe in and thinks this campus is the most beautiful one in the country. Philip Gary Rogers was born in Gate City, Virginia in a small town quite like that of his wife Rhonda’s. He grew up in a large family with five siblings, and it wasn’t long before he and his two older brothers found their love for sports, which helped keep them busy as schools integrated when Phil was in the sixth grade. His love for sports, particularly football, allowed him to later lead Gate City High School to a football state championship in 1970. While Phil and his cousin, Michael Wolfe, had been causally exploring universities that they could potentially play football at, Virginia Tech practically fell into their lap. He recalled the head coach welcoming them to the university before they even had accepted, and they sure enough decided to give Virginia Tech a shot. During his football career at Tech, Phil went from being a receiver, switching to running back, and then becoming the first African-American starting quarterback during his senior year. He grew incredibly fond of his trainer, Eddie Ferrell, considering him to be like a second father after his real father passed away while he was in high school. His career after senior year began with him getting drafted in the seventh round by the St. Louis Cardinals. He had ankle-related injuries and ended up playing in Canada after. Phil and Rhonda met when during Phil’s senior year, when he kept losing his dorm key and saw Rhonda working in the same building as the housing office. They would make small talk and it wasn’t long before they went roller skating as their first date together. They got married in 1978 and have had two children together. When asked what their favorite experiences at Virginia Tech were, Rhonda and Phil both agreed that it had to be when Phil was inducted into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. It brought their families together to celebrate the significant achievement and made them feel even closer to the university. Having spent much time at Virginia Tech, both doing what they loved, Phil and Rhonda Rogers have such strong connections to the university and what it represents. They have both worked hard through the roles that they have played and, most importantly, they found love here.
Permission to publish material from the VT Stories Oral History Collection must be obtained from Special Collections, Virginia Tech.
VT Stories Oral History with Karen DePauw, November 21, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
Karen DePauw, born in Los Angeles, California, began her journey in higher education at Whittier College, majoring in Sociology. After graduating, she worked in special education at Los Angeles County Schools for several years before deciding to continue her education. She attended California State University, Long Beach, obtaining a MS in Special Education. After, she went on to complete a Ph.D. in Kinesiology at Texas Woman’s University, defending in 1980. In her professional career in higher education, DePauw moved to Washington State University, as a professor in the Kinesiology and Leisure Studies Department. While there, she worked her way up through the graduate school, all the while teaching, eventually being appointed to the Dean of the Graduate School in 1999. Several years later, she was nominated for the Dean of Graduate Education at Virginia Tech. However her decision to leave was not without trouble. Upon the nomination, DePauw faced backlash for her sexual orientation, including hateful emails, her partner Shelli Fowler being denied a position, and intolerant faculty/staff. Though this did not deter her, where DePauw officially arrived in Blacksburg in 2002 as a professor and dean, with her partner (who would soon be appointed to a tenure track position). In this special interview, DePauw reflects on her 15 years spent at Virginia Tech, including the tragedies, successes, and progress made. All throughout the interview, she emphasizes how her background in social justice permeated her work in transforming graduate life, and the role graduate students serve in inspiring and pushing the university.
VT Stories Oral History with John Dooley, November 20, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
John Dooley was born in Summersville, West Virginia as the middle child in a coal mining family. Growing up he was very active in 4-H, which he later pursued as a career. John attended Alderson-Broaddus College (now University) and worked there for almost six years after graduating. He arrived in Blacksburg when Virginia Tech started a year-round 4-H program in 1981 . He pursued a master's and Ph.D at Virginia Tech in High Education Administration and continued working at the university in 4-H. Upon retiring, he became the CEO of the Foundation and remains active in university affairs. In this interview, John talks about his childhood in West Virginia, arriving at Virginia Tech, and time spent serving the university.
VT Stories Oral History with the Class of 1991, Angi Ackerman, Cecilia Beverine, Chiny Driscoll, and Kristan Saunders, November 11, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
They say that college is where you find lifelong friends, and this couldn’t be any more true for Angi Ackerman, Cecilia Beverine, Chiny Driscoll, and Kristan Saunders. These women are exemplary of the friendships you can find at Virginia Tech. Business majors, Class of 1991 graduates, and Delta Gamma Sorority sisters, these friends share many fond memories of their times at Virginia Tech and their Hokie spirit. Although they grew up in very different areas, from New York all the way to South Korea, their time as Hokies created a lasting bond. This bond has continued on well after graduation. They now reside in Northern Virginia and have a “Tech Dinner Club” which is just one of many ways these friends have stayed in touch with each other and their Hokie roots. Most of them would agree that freshman year at Virginia Tech was a big adjustment, the Drillfield can be dangerous to traverse, and the only food to look forward to at the time was fried chicken. However, they acknowledge even the tough parts of their years in Blacksburg as being part of the college experience. As graduates they have all found work in different facets of business while maintaining their friendships, raising families, and being involved alumnae. They have been there for major milestones like weddings, and they can all agree that Virginia Tech was the source of these lifelong relationships. Their pride in their alma mater continues to grow each year, and they hope that prospective students won’t be discouraged by the large student body at Virginia Tech because there are plenty of opportunities to form your own group of friends.
VT Stories Oral History with Sam Lionberger, May 12, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
The university motto of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) which adorns the steps in front of the Pylons that rest atop of the War Memorial Chapel illuminate the significance of the spirit of the university. For Samuel (Sam) Lewis Lionberger, Jr. who was born and raised in Roanoke, VA, this is not only the motto of the university he loves, but the way he has lived his life and his immense contributions to Virginia Tech. In the first interview recorded for VT Stories in the summer of 2015, Lionberger who graduated in 1962 with a bachelor’s degree in building construction speaks about his first days as a freshman following an automobile accident that he almost didn’t walk away from, but this unfortunate event didn’t hinder his love for the university. During his time at Virginia Tech, Lionberger was a member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets and the Commandant’s staff, the Alpha Phi OMega Service Fraternity, the Scabbard and Blade Society, associate judge in the Cadet Honor Court, and also served as class president. Following graduation, Lionberger served in the United States Army Corps of Engineers, where in 1964 he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal. Shortly after his service, Lionberger returned home to his native Roanoke and joined his family’s construction businesses, Lionberger Construction. He served as president and then chief executive officer from 1975 until his retirement in 2010. His loyal service and devotion to his beloved alma mater culminated in membership and active participation on wide-ranging boards and foundations including: the Virginia Tech Foundation Board of Directors, the national Campaign Steering Committee of the Campaign for Virginia Tech: Invent the Future, the W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center at Smith Mountain Lake Board of Trustees, the Virginia Tech Alumni Board, and the advisory boards of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, and the School of Building Construction. With his wife, Loridna, Lionberger also holds membership in the President’s circle of the Ut Prosim society which is dedicated to recognizing the leaders of philanthropy in their generous giving to the university. Further, in keeping in line with the university’s motto, Lionberger’s community outreach includes service o the Roanoke Corps of the Salvation Army, the Military Family Support Center, and numerous other college and business boards. Lionberger’s dedication to the university culminated in 2012 when he was awarded the Ruffner Medal, Virginia Tech’s highest honor for distinguished and honorable service. Often left speechless about the remarkable impact of Virginia Tech has had on his life, Lionberger alludes to the caring nature of the university and traditions of the university that leave a lasting impression on employers. When speaking to what a Hokie is, Lionberger mentions the integrity and honesty of Virginia Tech students. For Lionberger, his education at Virginia Tech has successfully allowed him to be active and to give back tenfold to the University he so deeply and passionately cares about and to live up to the motto of Ut Prosim.
VT Stories Oral History with Christina Daves, November 3, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
Christina Daves attended Virginia Tech from 1985 to 1988, majoring in Political Science and German. In this interview, she talks about her time on campus during a turbulent era, work in her sorority Chi Omega, and her career after. After graduating, she found herself working in small businesses and manufacturing, working her way to celebrity endorsements, winning Steve Harvey’s Top Inventor competition, and now works in PR.
VT Stories Oral History with Charlie Phlegar, December 11, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
VT Stories Oral History with Brooks Whitehurst, September 16, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
Brooks Whitehurst grew up in Wytheville, Virginia, and from a young age he knew his future as an engineer. His father decided his path, but allowed him to choose chemical engineering at Virginia Tech. Brooks graduated from Virginia Tech in 1951, and then went to work in government contracting, and eventually began his own consulting business. In this interview, Brooks talks about his years at Virginia Tech, his career after, and remaining an active alumni through involvement with the Wood Enterprise Institute and the College of Natural Resources and Environment.
VT Stories Oral History with Kim Muller, April 29, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
While college is often a place where students can broaden their social horizons by meeting new people, joining clubs, playing sports, and attending events, its primary function is to provide its student body with an excellent education that will help them contribute to the world around them. Kim Muller, class of 1969, knew that learning was meant to be his primary focus while attending college; he recognized the quality of education he could receive from Tech, so he spent the majority of his time as a student working to take advantage of the opportunity he had been provided with. Being at Tech in the ‘60s allowed Muller to witness certain aspects of the university that were specific to that time period. For instance, instead of filling up Lane Stadium on game days, Muller and the rest of the student body at the time packed into War Memorial to support their university while Lane Stadium underwent construction. Additionally, students ate meals in Shanks Hall, which today houses Virginia Tech’s English department. During this time Muller made the less-than-fond memory of registering for classes through a system, described by Muller as “archaic”, that did not allow students to chose the professor they wanted. Muller speaks highly of the education he was able to receive at Virginia Tech, and he remains particularly grateful to the College of Science. He learned and appreciated the willingness of professors to work outside of class time and how helpful the advisors were with choosing classes, and he recognized the importance of these people in his collegiate and postgraduate success. Following the acquisition of his degree in General Sciences, Muller attended John Marshall Law School, graduating in 1975, and George Washington Law School, graduating in 1978. During law school, Muller saw the benefits of having a science background which allowed him to think analytically about legal situations in ways his peers could not. After completing his education, Muller worked for an oil licensing company in Virginia for ten years, and then left to work for Shell Oil Company. While holding these jobs, Muller also dedicated time to travel back to Blacksburg, first from his home near D.C. and later from his home in Texas, to give volunteer lectures and teach courses at Virginia Tech. Since graduation, Muller remains dedicated and attached to Virginia Tech. Throughout his life he has worked to exemplify the spirit of Ut Prosim that was instilled in him years ago. Along with making frequent trips to the university to voluntarily instruct for the College of Science, he also worked as a volunteer with the fire department and as a volunteer at the Houston Zoo. Muller spent about 15 years educating Virginia Tech students; this led to his induction into the College of Science Hall of Distinction in 2013, described by Muller as a “humbling and tremendous honor.” As for the future of the university, Muller would like to see an increase in diversity among faculty and students. He has a heart for students from rural schools that offer less opportunities than those in highly populated communities, and desires more outreach towards these students. The opportunities and lessons he received at Virginia Tech have stayed with him to this day. Most notably, Muller learned to do what is right, even when what is right is inconvenient or difficult. What is Virginia Tech to Kim Muller? Primarily, it is an excellent, solid education. It is a positive experience in a beautiful place, to where he will always feel a fond connection. More than just his alma mater, Virginia Tech is and will always be a place he can call home.
VT Stories Oral History with Joe Frazier, October 30, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
Joe Frazier began his undergraduate career at Virginia Tech in 2009, and remains a part of the Hokie community through his work as assistant director for the Culture and Community Centers in Squires, where he oversees the Asian Cultural Engagement Center. He also advises the Asian American Student Union, the Jewish Student Union, and the Muslim Student Union as part of his work at the university. Outside of Virginia Tech, Joe is an active member of the local NAACP chapter and is the Development Committee Chair for the Christiansburg Institute. Joe grew up in a variety of locations, both in the United States and internationally due to his father’s military career. Growing up, his parents both went to college and stressed education and good grades throughout his life, leading him go to college. At Virginia Tech, Joe majored in sociology and philosophy as an undergrad, and got two master’s degrees in the same subjects. Joe admits that he doesn’t have a very interesting story about choosing Virginia Tech for his college career; he just ended up a Hokie. He recounts his experiences as a Hokie with affection while also refusing to sugarcoat the more negative aspects of his time as a student, such as racial stereotyping and prejudice. In times when he faced these prejudices, Joe turned to organizations such as the Black Cultural Center and the Student African American Brotherhood where he was able to discuss these experiences with people who had been in similar situations. It’s organizations such as the Student African American Brotherhood and other everyday interactions with fellow Hokies that influenced Joe in his academic experience. It’s also similar interactions that provoked him to act on social issues, such as when he was convinced by a PhD student at an NAACP meeting to go to Ferguson, Missouri following the death of Michael Brown. Joe was also inspired by Paulo Freire’s statement that “Washing one’s hand of the conflict between the powerful and the powerless means to side with the powerful, not to be neutral.” Joe believes there is no such thing as neutrality when it comes to justice, and knows when he needs to act on his beliefs. In addition to protesting against police brutality, Joe formed the Student Police Unity League, a volleyball league with teams of police officers and minority students from Virginia Tech. In forming these teams, Joe hoped to create relationships between police officers and minority students. This league speaks to Joe’s desire to take a hands-on approach when it comes to social issues and activism. It’s action such as this that often made Joe stand apart. His frustration during graduate school with sociology scholars who have detailed theories on social inequality and social issues but never do anything inspired him to act personally and make an individual effort to address social problems. This action led to him receiving the Aspire Award for Civility in 2016. Joe appreciates being honored in such a way, and wants to highlight that there are many people doing hard work for social justice that don’t get recognized like he did. As far as activism and service goes, Joe encourages Virginia Tech students and faculty to be aware of the problems facing their immediate communities as well as the broader world. For Joe, serving fellow Hokies as well as people in surrounding counties who are struggling or facing injustice should common for Virginia Tech students. In this way, he lives out our university motto, Ut Prosim, and desires for Hokies to practice the motto in everyday life as well.
VT Stories Oral History with Chris Kraft, April 29, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
Aerospace engineers
Christopher Columbus Kraft, Jr. is a Class of 1944 Virginia Tech graduate born. He was born on February 28, 1924 in the small town of Phoebus, Virginia, which later merged into Hampton, Virginia. Growing up, Chris knew everyone in his town, and they knew him, which greatly shaped Chris as a person. Despite growing up in the Depression era, Kraft enjoyed his childhood. Nevertheless, he is not a stranger to hardship. One event that drastically affected his future was a fall into a fire at age three that badly burnt his right hand. This burn would later keep Kraft from entering the service during WWII, making him one of the few students at Virginia Tech able to continue their education despite wartime demands. Kraft shares that his mother, “the greatest woman he’s ever known”, was the person who made his education possible and sent him to Virginia Tech. Kraft undertook his college education as a student in the Corps of Cadets at Virginia Tech. Once Kraft entered Virginia Tech, the university was operating on a 12-month schedule because of WWII, and he graduated in just 2 years with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Though Kraft wanted to join the military and fight, he was told my a doctor conducting physicals that “we need engineers probably worse than we need soldiers,” and so Chris went back to Virginia Tech. Kraft recalls it being difficult for students at Virginia Tech who were unable to serve. Kraft remembers thinking “I am in the shelter of Virginia Tech and not…able to serve the country.” Though he attended Virginia Tech during a tumultuous time, Chris has very fond memories of his time as a student. His camaraderie with fellow students, his relationships with his professors, and going to events such as the Ring Dance are all important and special memories for Chris. His drive eventually led to his election as President of the Corps of Cadets and his becoming what he calls the “BMOC:” the Big Man on Campus. Though he was at Virginia Tech for only a couple of years, Kraft believes it was his time on campus that prepared him for his future career and gave him leadership training. By age 20, Kraft was a Tech graduate and a man with a job at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). Kraft went on from an early position as a flight test engineer to becoming flight director, and eventually developing the US version of a mission control center. In the late 1950’s, Chuck Matthews, a friend of Chris who also worked for NACA, came to him and asked if he would like to join a team that was at the time called the space task group, which operated in Houston, Texas. While working for the space program, Kraft helped develop the spacecraft, train flight controllers, and focused on the details of the plan, especially regarding safety and the astronauts. Chris remembers there being countless questions to answer in order to ensure safety and success, and feeling the responsibility of carefully answering those questions. Due to his involvement in the space program, Kraft now has more awards than he can count. Medals, magazine covers, and never-ending praise are just by-products of his revolutionary roles at NACA where he changed the trajectory of man’s future in space. Looking back on his life and the chain of events that led him to where he is today, Kraft recalls humble beginnings and a fervency for leadership that was developed during his time as an undergraduate at Virginia Tech. He states that Virginia Tech “is where I became a human being and a man,” giving him the foundation for his future success. Due to his prominence and intelligence, Chris was invited to join the Board of Visitors at Virginia Tech, which he accepted. During his time on the Board of Visitors and following, Chris watched Virginia Tech grow from a small military school to the large, renowned university that it is today. Though Virginia Tech has grown a lot since Chris attended, he is proud of the way the campus and students still have the same Hokie pride and retain a sense of the original purpose of the university. He says that “I have a great respect for the…spirit and the attitude that exists on the Virginia Tech campus. I think it has a certain amount of discipline associated with it still, and I like that.” Today, Chris believes that Virginia Tech made him into the person he is, and that Virginia Tech gave him the opportunities that he had in his life. Chris says that without his education and experience at Virginia Tech, “I probably would have ended up being an apprentice in Newport News building ships….Virginia Tech gave me the broad capability to be willing to accept the responsibilities that I had as I went along.” Throughout his life and career working for NASA, Chris demonstrated Hokie excellence and spirit, and remains a proud Virginia Tech alum today.
Permission to publish materials from the VT Stories Oral History Collection must be obtained from Special Collections and University Archives.
VT Stories Oral History with Wesley and Linda Patterson, April 29, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
At a time when the world was undergoing revolution, Wesley and Linda Patterson were enjoying the academic seclusion of Virginia Tech. They both began their undergraduate careers in 1972; Linda graduated with majors in mathematics and psychology in 1976 and Wesley in 1977 with his bachelor’s in architecture. Transitions in social justice, feminism, and race were just a few prevalent issues circulating during their time on campus. Looking back, Wesley and Linda are grateful to have attended Virginia Tech together, and they feel a strong bond to the university to this day. Both originating from Newport News, VA, the Pattersons come from similar backgrounds. He was the first in his family to go to college; she came from a very frugal family who encouraged her to value education, especially as a woman. From an early age, her family instilled gender equality in Linda at high importance. Her father, another VT alum, was the primary influence on her decision to attend Tech. While Wesley and Linda were in Blacksburg, he loved to visit them every chance he got. Linda and Wesley were paired in the same eighth grade biology class by their last name – little did they know that would be the start of a lifelong relationship. Together at Tech, they made many fond memories, including times at the dining hall, experiences with standout professors, and streaking across campus. One professor in particular would determine if it would be a good or bad day of class depending on if a book he threw landed on the desk or the floor; the Pattersons had several professors with memorable quirks. The quality of education at Tech is one of the things the Pattersons have appreciated in years following. The power of having a VT education on her resume, Linda claims, helped her move forward after graduation. Wesley’s architecture courses pushed him to think “without rules” and prioritize working with projects on time outside of class. In Linda’s experience, she had no one mentor in particular who influenced her. Rather, the high quality of expertise exhibited by professors in the math and psychology spheres impressed her. Back in the 70’s, Virginia Tech was relatively secluded from revolutionary protests and demonstrations. Fortunately, Linda was able to pursue her passions in math and psychology without much opposition to her being a woman in a man-dominated field. When she transitioned into her position as a NASA flight controller for space shuttle guidance and navigation/control officer in 1976, she faced sexism in the workplace. Instead of letting herself be overshadowed by oppression, she stood her ground. Despite sexist comments and tension, Linda fought to prove her capability and work ethic was just as impressive as her coworkers. She went on to manage the international space station for the MCC control group in 1990. After graduation, Wesley went on to work with an architecture firm. He credits Virginia Tech for teaching him to embrace the freedom of exploring problems and finding new ways to solve them. The lessons he learned in his time at school helped to set him apart from competitors and develop his communication skills. Their experiences at Virginia Tech have had a powerful impact on the Pattersons, and they continually give back to the community that shaped them. They started as Hokies together; they continue to share Hokie pride, spirit, and memories, together.
VT Stories Oral History with Charles Tynan, May 17, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
A proud alumnus, Charles Tynan is no stranger to the Blacksburg area or Virginia Tech. From the years of 1947 to 1952 he was an undergraduate student, living in dorms and a cadet in the Corps. He spent the majority of his time devoted to academics, and his hard work paid off when he graduated with a degree in aeronautical engineering. Tynan was born in Newport News, VA, on October 10, 1930. Academically advanced for his age, he had a “normal childhood.” The Great Depression affected many during that time, but luckily, Tynan’s father had a good job and was able to provide for the family. While attending Newport News High School, golf was his sport of choice – since he was years younger than his classmates, he was too small to play contact sports. He became interested in Virginia Tech after meeting Chris Kraft, ’44 through a mutual friend. Kraft would show Tynan different projects, peaking his interest. Tynan’s freshman year at Tech had a rocky beginning; he spent his “rat year” living at Radford Arsenal and taking a school bus to campus each day. At the time, the buildings looked similar, because they were built for World War II housing. The freshmen were required to wait in line in the mess halls in heavy coats and adhere to strict eating regulations. After freshman year, Tynan went on to advance from a corporal to a captain by his senior year. When he moved over to central campus during sophomore year, he primarily spent his time studying. Every now and then, he would partake in or observe students playing pranks in the residence halls, such as leading cows up to people’s rooms and throwing them into the duck pond. Other than focusing on academics, Tynan spent his time playing golf, going on occasional dates, and going out of town. After graduating from Tech, Tynan spent six in the Air Force. His relationship with Kraft led him to an interview, which in turn led him to a job working with him at NASA. At the time, it was common for VT engineering graduates to land jobs with the association. Tynan became involved on the recovery team for Project Mercury, working to safely recover astronauts as they return to Earth. Tynan stayed at NASA from the mid-1950s to 1988. Throughout his time there he lived through many memorable experiences that he looks back on to this day. From working during the crash of the Challenger to trying zero-gravity toilets, he has been a witness to incredible progression in history. Virginia Tech provided Tynan with the quality education he needed to pursue his substantial career at NASA. Looking back, he is incredibly grateful for the academics and discipline learned through his involvement with the Corps. The growth Tech has undergone since he was a student is impressive; the campus, programs, and opportunities continue to grow with each passing year. Tynan is proud of the continuous development of Virginia Tech and its commitment to producing individuals ready to positively impact and contribute to society. He is proud to consider himself a part of the Hokie legacy.
VT Stories Oral History with General Carlton Everhart, September 23, 2017 (Ms2016-015)
Since childhood, General Carlton Everhart has strongly believed in the importance of honesty, integrity, and humility. He has lived life with these ideals prioritized first – from his humble beginnings on his family farm to his influential military career. A 1983 Virginia Tech graduate, Everhart pursued majors in agriculture, agriculture business, and education while involved with the Corps of Cadets. Everhart grew up on his family’s farm in a small border town near Mayberry, NC. An active and engaged student, he participated in any sport or extracurricular he could, including football, wrestling, and student counsel. He balanced his involvements with daily work on the farm, helping out his dad and earning an allowance. Life on the farm laid a foundation of a hard work ethic in Everhart; his parents expected him to give his all into everything he did, be it work, school, or hobbies. With the intention of taking over the farm, Everhart chose to study agriculture at Virginia Tech. After viewing Tech to visit his older sister attending, he fell in love with the architecture, hometown atmosphere, and spirit. His parents were very supportive of his ambitions; whatever his dream, they pushed him to do everything he could to achieve it. They instilled in him a value of education at an early age, but gave him freedom to decide where and what he wished to pursue. The Corps of Cadets helped Everhart to make the transition from small town to overwhelming collegiate campus. Not only did it offer him the opportunity to pursue a dream to fly, it gave him the chance to be a part of a close-knit community for support. As a cadet, he got through school with an accountability system and encouragement from his fellow cadets. Looking back at his decisions to join the Corps and live on VT’s beautiful campus, Everhart claims he is “tremendously blessed” and extremely happy with his choices. Everhart’s first military experience was becoming a cadet in the Corps. At first, he was overwhelmed by the Corps’s strict regulations and wondered if he made the right decision. Even after the struggle of “rat year”, he knew the lessons he was learning were going to benefit him for the rest of his life. What separates his experience with the Corps from a regular student’s is the emphasis on tradition and honor. After graduation, Everhart carried his Hokie pride into his next stage of life. He graduated in 1989 with a Master’s degree in business management from the University of Arkansas. Later, in 2002, he received a Master’s degree in national security strategy from National War College. Immediately following his undergraduate education, he moved to Mississippi for pilot training for a rigorous year of training. This sparked his journey into his extensive military career; after flight school, he worked with Desert Shield and Desert Storm, commanded at the squadron, group, and wing levels, worked staff assignments with the air staff at the Pentagon, and served as military aide to President Clinton for two years. Everhart has traveled around the world vertically and horizontally as well as stepped foot on every continent. When describing his experiences, he simply acknowledges that he has been “very, very blessed.” Finally, in 2015, Everhart became a 4-Star General in the United States Air Force. Everhart has received numerous medals and won many awards, but of all of these achievements he credits service and duty as the most rewarding parts of his career. The memories behind his medals are really what he holds close to his heart. During his tenure at the White House, he formed a unique, close bond with the four other military aides. He was a student at National War College during the events of 9-11; his class forged a special relationship and felt the urge to serve their nation together. Everhart is especially grateful for once-in-a-lifetime moments such as these. The words “Virginia Tech” remind Everhart of Hokie pride and the Hokie nation. He feels a passionate loyalty for the school he credits for his successful career. From recruiting new students to proudly “bleeding maroon and orange,” he undeniably calls Blacksburg home. He is happy to see the campus continually moving forward in a smart way with a “steady heartbeat.” As far as he is concerned, Virginia Tech will only grow stronger as an institution and community. He is grateful for the foundation of success he received during his years at Tech, among other things: the kindness of the locals, quality of education, and Hokie spirit. Every day, General Everhart wears his class ring – what he calls his “pride and joy.” Forever a Hokie, he will never forget the impact of Virginia Tech on his life.
VT Stories Oral History with Nick Moga, November 20, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
It is easy for us to view today’s version of Virginia Tech as a technologically advanced university that is particularly superior in the fields of science and math. Each day students utilize lab equipment and technology without considering what research and experimentation would be like without these devices. Nick Moga, Class of 1976, however, began his studies at Virginia Tech before the advancement of technology that we rely on so heavily today. He witnessed the journey of Virginia Tech, seeing changes in technological development, political unrest, and changes in leadership. Growing up, Nick witnessed the nation’s triumphant endeavors to explore space and he saw himself as a member of a generation being challenged to progress the fields of exploration and technologies. Encouraged to push new boundaries, Nick appreciated the opportunities for research that Virginia Tech provided, so he enrolled as an Aerospace Engineering major. He then came to rely on faculty mentors to guide him through his coursework and undergraduate research. With their help, he excelled in his studies and became introduced to undergraduate work with data from the wind tunnel. During this work, he underwent the transition from manually marking data to computerizing data once the technology became available. During his graduate studies and his work with the Naval Surface Weapons Center, Nick realized his interest in computers and he eventually began his own computer business around the time when personal computers were being introduced. At the start of his business, Nick supplied software to papermill companies and to close friends. His company quickly grew as he began supplying software to more and more people, and this growth eventually allowed him to meet contemporary up-and-comers in the field, such as Bill Gates, at conferences and presentations. Nick was also involved in the social aspect of Virginia Tech. He joined Sigma Phi Epsilon, which led to his involvement in many other activities on campus. Through his fraternity he experienced intramural sports, service opportunities, and leadership opportunities within the Aerospace Engineering field. While Nick speaks to the adventurous social side of fraternities, mentioning experience with living in the fraternity house and participating in the start of streaking on campus, he also asserts the importance of the service and knowledge aspects of fraternities, listing opportunities he was given to give back to the community. Participating in research and fraternity life allowed Nick to get a full experience at Virginia Tech. During his undergraduate years, he witnessed political protests and changes in leadership that ultimately led to big changes in the university. As an employee at Tech years later, Nick notes the incredible changes that have taken place since the time of his attendance, such as the population size and the continued construction around campus. He also comments on the fact that even though technological advancements and overall development have changed the university, Virginia Tech still holds on to a spirit of community that encourages alumni involvement.
VT Stories Oral History with Katie Frazier, October 10, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Virginia Tech is known for its large campus and its striking architecture, and while it is easy to appreciate these features, many incoming students are easily intimidated by them. When Katie Frazier, Class of 2004, began her studies at Tech, she was among those who initially struggled with the size of the school and its population. Although she had seen the campus multiple times before enrolling because of her involvement with Future Farmers of America, Katie was still a bit daunted by the idea of leaving her close-knit family to join a population with which she was entirely unfamiliar. However, Katie quickly adjusted to life at Virginia Tech, finding both a community and an opportunity to grow academically. In the dorms she made lifelong friends with her hallmates, and she later joined a sorority that allowed her to branch out socially and gave her experience with service and leadership. After some time passed, Katie immersed herself in the Virginia Tech community, going to football games, pranking fraternities with her sorority, and making close friends in her classes. Through this community, Katie grew accustomed to being away from home and learning to go out on her own. She eventually became a college ambassador, allowing her to become acquainted with many of the leaders in her college, as well. After she graduated, Katie applied her double majors of Agricultural Economics and Political Science through her work as a lobbyist, lobbying for a variety of agricultural issues, including the importance of agricultural education. She uses her drive and passion to make a change in people’s views and actions towards agricultural issues. Additionally, Katie is the President of the Virginia Agribusiness Council, and she credits Virginia Tech for giving her the opportunity, through internships, to acquire this position. She speaks to the impact that the combination of academic and extracurricular activities that she had during her undergraduate years at Tech had on her career and post-graduation activities, and she appreciates the opportunities for research and experience that Tech allows for, along with the willingness of faculty to help students as best they can. As an alumna, Katie remains connected to Virginia Tech through the University Alumni Board and many other advisory committees within the College of Agriculture, along with lobbying for funding for Tech’s agricultural programs. She also is part of Virginia Tech’s Government Relations Department, which allows her to speak to Virginia Tech students and influence their paths. While she thinks of Virginia Tech as a community, she hopes that the university will continue to focus on development and research. She also would encourage the university to continue to create opportunities for alumni involvement and to let the world know what Virginia Tech’s community is capable of.
VT Stories Oral History with Gene James, November 20, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Gene James grew up in Blacksburg, Virginia, born to a Virginia Tech family. His father and two brothers all graduated from Virginia Tech, which played an influential role in his decision to attend. He graduated in 1953, majoring in animal sciences, and then began his professional career with Southern States Cooperative. Although after graduating, he remained an active alumni, through serving on the Alumni Board and as Leadership Council of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. In this interview, Gene talks about his early life growing up in Blacksburg during World War II, his years of undergrad (including cadet pranks), and his life and career after.
VT Stories Oral History with Curry Roberts, November 21, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Curry Roberts grew up not too far from Virginia Tech’s campus in a small village in the western part of Bedford County. His parents grew up in the depression, and they met after WWII. Curry’s older brother also graduated from Virginia Tech, and Curry now has two children who are Tech graduates as well. Although he always knew he wanted to attend Tech, especially after a memorable football game in 1963, a special circumstance solidified his track to becoming a Hokie. Even though his Tech experience was basically covered by the generous scholarship he received, Curry worked throughout his entire college experience. This was a testament to the strong work ethic instilled in him by his family. Otherwise, Tech was a pretty big adjustment for Curry who went from a village of around 500 to a single freshman class of about 400. He majored in Political Science, but he took full advantage of the opportunity to get a very well-rounded education that was even enhanced by the political culture of the time. Along with his strong interest in Political Science courses and encouragement from his advisor Jim Herndon, Curry enjoyed taking classes outside of his major. Courses in literature with Professor Anne Chaney, history with Dr. Shumsky, and environmental law with Jake Looney were all influential and helped shape Curry’s Hokie experience. Since then, Curry has had a chance to share with Dr. Shumsky how important his words have been. Curry doesn’t regret his choice of major or electives one bit, and he sees them all having lasting positive impacts on his life and career choices. Curry graduated in 1980 and by 1988 he was appointed Deputy Secretary of Economic Development. In fact, he was Deputy Secretary to another Virginia Tech alum, and those types of connections continue to come up in Curry’s life. His early career took him from roles in politics to business with a man name John Kluge who was also influential in his life. Curry has gone on to hold positions in many sectors, but he has never wavered in his support of Virginia Tech. In fact, Curry was named an Alumni Distinguished Service Award winner in 2014 for his dedicated service to Virginia Tech.
VT Stories Oral History with Pamela Gryzbowski, November 11, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
Pamela Gryzbowski grew up in Springfield, VA as the youngest of seven. Following her siblings, she attended college, although at Virginia Tech, from 1987 to 1991 and majored in business. Upon graduating, she began working at a community college. In this interview Pamela talks about her years at Virginia Tech, joining the business fraternity and day-to-day activities, and working after.
Permission to publish material from the VT Stories Oral History Collection must be obtained from Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech.
VT Stories Oral History with Stephen Nehrt, November 20, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Steve Nehrt was born outside of St. Louis, Missouri in a town called Florissant, but he grew up in Springfield, VA. Drawn to the mountainous region of Southwest Virginia, he came to Virginia Tech in the Fall of 1975. After receiving his B.S. in Economics, he went on to earn his Master’s degree from Virginia Tech as well. While he remembers the typical stress of juggling projects on heavy work weeks, Steve mostly remembers the positive aspects of his college career. Not even the brutal winters, that all Hokies are familiar with, spoiled his time here. In fact, a particularly strong memory comes from an experience during one of those winters. During his undergraduate career, Steve attended classes on a much smaller Virginia Tech campus than today’s Hokies are familiar with. He actually lived in Major Williams when it was a dorm, and looks back at dorm life as a positive experience as well. Frank Beamer came to Tech during his graduate school years, so Steve doesn’t recall too much excitement over the football program at that time. However, Steve and his friends were well-entertained. He especially enjoyed going to listen to bands play downtown on Wednesday nights. The atmosphere at Tech and in Blacksburg contributed to a seamless transition between his undergraduate and graduate years allowing him to spend more time enjoying the area. Noting that this area might not be ideal for everyone, Steve seems confident that Virginia Tech is an exceptional place to experience some of the most profound years of your life. He knows that a lot has changed, but he feels that the area still retains the same charm he came to know and love.
VT Stories Oral History with John Frasier, May 19, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
The son of a head bookkeeper and a civil servant, John Frasier was born in 1933 and grew up in Arlington, Virginia. Although he grew up on the heels of the Depression and in the midst of WWII, John recalls a pleasant childhood. Always having been encouraged to attend college, he graduated from Virginia Tech with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in 1954. Coming to Virginia Tech only four and a half years after WWII, there were still some veterans on campus when John arrived, and the Korean War had just begun. Due to these circumstances, John expected to be drafted. This never came to fruition and John was able to go on from Virginia Tech to get both a master’s and his PhD. All this time, he had been asking for extensions on the date of his call to active duty. However, his PhD was awarded while he was standing for inspection at Aberdeen Proving Ground where he worked in a ballistic research laboratory. A brief stint in teaching at Brown University followed, but John returned to the army after realizing a life in academia wasn’t for him. John enjoyed his days at Virginia Tech and seems especially grateful for his experience in the Corps of Cadets. He appreciated studying, working, and living with many friends who proved to be a positive influence on his life. He feels that his involvement in the Corps taught him important life lessons and leadership skills.
VT Stories Oral History with Duston Scarborough, April 22, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
Duston Scarborough was born in Anchorage, Alaska. As his mother was in the Navy, he frequently moved around, living in places like Puerto Rico and Texas. Upon settling down in Hampton Roads, he got involved in 4-H and took part in Congresses which drew him to Virginia Tech. He majored in Marketing Management to learn how to market himself in the music industry. While at Virginia Tech, he got involved in Omega Psi Phi, a NPHC fraternity, and was an RA. After graduating, he considers himself an active young alumni and encourages others to do the same.
VT Stories Oral History with Lorraine Feury, April 22, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
Lorraine Feury was born and raised as a first generation immigrant in Northern Virginia. Her parents lived in Sierra Leone before moving to England for college. Although they did not finish, they moved to America and raised Lorraine to value family and schoolwork. Initially in researching schools, Lorraine did not consider Virginia Tech, but decided on it because of the distance (without being out-of-state), the football program, and research opportunities. She graduated with degrees in math and sociology in 2014 and works as a cost analyst. In this interview, Lorraine talks about her time at Virginia Tech, integrating into the school, becoming active in the Black Student Association, and finding a cultural community. Lorraine covers the changes she would like to see at the school in relation to diversity, and what she hopes for the future.
VT Stories Oral History with Apryl Alexander, April 21, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
As part of a military family, Apryl Alexander, class of 2005, grew accustomed to a lifestyle that took her to many parts of the world. At Virginia Tech, however, Apryl found a community and a home in which she could finally settle down. Due to the constant movement that characterized her adolescence, April quickly learned to view her pets as companions that followed her through all of her moves, leading her to enter Virginia Tech as a Veterinary Science major. Upon graduating high school, Apryl was immediately immersed in the college lifestyle as part of Virginia Tech’s Student Transition Program. It was within this program that Apryl first began to develop friendships that would last long after the conclusion of her undergraduate education. Along with lifelong friends, Apryl’s experience at Virginia Tech also quickly provided her with mentors that changed the course of her academic and career goals. Through her volunteer position with the Women’s Research Center Apryl realized her affinity for psychological research and she decided to switch her major from Veterinary Science to Psychology. From there she began her undergraduate work with Dr. Geller, analyzing data and reviewing literature pertaining to disaster related trauma. After graduation, Apryl went on to apply this experience in her work with the Women’s Center and her continued study of clinical psychology at the Fuller Institute of Technology. The research and work she did as an undergraduate student also motivated her to become a mentor for other psychology students so as to create for others the opportunities that her mentors made available to her. Apryl’s time at Virginia Tech provided her with a new passion that she she continues to pursue, and her involvement with the Student Transition Program helped her find lifelong friends that aided her in the adjustment to college life. She experienced research, relationships, football games, and countless other activities that characterize college life, and each of these experiences have led her to where she is today. Upon returning to Tech, Apryl noted the changes around campus and reflected on good memories, but she also expressed hope for continued change, particularly involving minority groups on campus. She notes that it is important to reflect on and make use of positive scenarios, but to always strive for improvement.
VT Stories Oral History with April Cheek-Messier, October 22, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
April Cheek-Messier arrived at Virginia Tech for her master's degree in history in 1996. Prior to coming to Blacksburg, she attended undergraduate school at Hollins, and got a master's degree in both history and English. In the master's program at Virginia Tech, she found comradery with her peers and professors who facilitated her love of history. Coming out of college, she worked at small museums and eventually ended up at the D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Va. Here she works to teach the history of D-Day and World War II, and how Virginia Tech is tied to it.
VT Stories Oral History with Michael Goode and Levi Daniels, April 22, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
Michael Goode, born in Richmond, Virginia, attended Virginia Tech from 2001 to 2006, majoring in business information technology. While at Virginia Tech he felt disconnected from the culture as it was predominately white, which led him to take part in student government and the Commission on Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Levi Daniels, born in Washington D.C., went to Virginia Tech from 2000 to 2005 and studied accounting information systems and management. He became involved in student life his junior year, taking part in the Black Student Alliance, the VT Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers, and working with international students. The two met while forming Virginia Tech's Student African American Brotherhood as students. In this interview, Michael and Levi talk about their experiences as racial minorities in a predominately White institution, especially relating to outreach and forming communities.
Permission to publish material from the VT Stories Oral History Collection must be obtained from Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech,
VT Stories Oral History with Matt Fox, November 11, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Matt Fox grew up in Manassas, Virginia surrounded by the rich history of the area. As the youngest of three, Matt was the first in his family to attend college, where he chose Virginia Tech partially because of his mother. While at Virginia Tech he was drawn to the Hokie Nation culture and played intramural tennis. He graduated double majoring in communications and political science and began working as a financial advisor and tennis umpire. In this interview, Matt Fox talks about his time at Virginia Tech engaging in the Hokie community and school spirit. He continues to talk about his professional work and how playing tennis his entire life led him to working the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. Despite his travels and time spent away, he embraces the Hokie spirit and remains an engaged alumni.
Permission to publish material from the VT Stories Oral History Collection must be obtained from Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech
VT Stories Oral History with Jeffrey Bowling, October 23, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
When Jeffrey Bowling graduated from high school in 1976, he did not appreciate that his friends and family all assumed he would go to Virginia Tech just because he was from a family of Hokies. Both his older brother and sister attended Virginia Tech, and his mother went to Radford when it was the women’s division of the University during World War II. Determined to break the pattern, Bowling spent a summer studying at the University of Tennessee. It only took one summer for him to realize the school was not the right fit for him. He applied to Tech last minute that Fall and was placed in a three-person room in Pritchard. Once another room opened up, he moved to Vawter, which he liked more than Pritchard. Between his sophomore and junior years, Bowling gave tours during a summer session at Virginia Tech — something he says was a “predecessor” to Hokie Camp, which is held every year to introduce freshmen to the Virginia Tech campus. It was through giving these tours that Bowling stumbled into the opportunity to become an RA, an experience that, he says, benefitted him greatly during his four years at the University. Bowling’s main concern during his time in undergrad, other than his tendency to procrastinate on assignments, arose during the Iran hostage crisis in 1979. As an RA, he would have been responsible for protecting students from any potential unrest. Thankfully, nothing came of the student’s plans to protest, and Bowling was saved the trouble of mediating the anticipated riot. Bowling graduated from Tech with a B.S. in Finance in June of 1980. He then earned his MBA from Virginia Tech, only a semester later, in December 1981. Throughout the years, he has gone on to work for many different companies, mostly around Baltimore, Maryland. The former RA has fond memories of his time at Virginia Tech, and even though it has been over thirty years since he crossed the stage to accept his degree, the alum occasionally has bizarre dreams that throw him back to his time as a student.
VT Stories Oral History with Thomas "Tom" Hughes, October 09, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Thomas "Tom" Hughes, born in 1957, grew up in Durham, North Carolina. Early into his high school career, he decided to pursue architecture in higher education. While there were many programs in both Virginia and North Carolina, Tom saw Virginia Tech's School of Architecture as standing above all the others. Upon arriving on campus, he fell in love with Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. In his later career, he worked in architecture firms around Winston-Salem, North Carolina and eventually established his own. Along with a successful architecture firm, he opened a vineyard in East Bend. He remains involved with Virginia Tech as an active alumni, where he serves as a board member for the Alumni Association.
Permission to publish materials from the VT Stories Oral History Collection must be obtained from Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech.
VT Stories Oral History with Douglas Beaver, September 16, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
Captain Douglas J. Beaver was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. During his childhood, his father’s naval career took them all over the world to places like: Japan, Washington, DC; Newport, Rhode Island; San Diego, California; the Philippines; and Germany. Of all of these locations, Captain Beaver most fondly remembers Germany. Well-traveled and with a clear objective in mind, Captain Beaver came to Virginia Tech in 1987 and graduated in 1991 with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in History. At Virginia Tech, he continued to live a life familiar to him as a member of the Corps of Cadets and especially enjoyed his history and law courses here. Although, he was familiar with a military lifestyle, Captain Beaver’s involvement in the Corps was very important to his experience as a Hokie. While discipline is part of the lifestyle for any Cadet at Virginia Tech, Captain Beaver shares that it wasn’t all work and no fun. He and his friends and family went hiking, tubing on the New River, and tailgated for football games. Captain Beaver’s career in the Navy has taken him far away from Virginia Tech, but he and his college friends try to make it back to check on our progress and to attend Corps of Cadets events.
VT Stories Oral History with James Godek, September 16, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
We mourn the loss of a persevering and inspiring member of the Hokie community. James Godek did a lot of things in his life, but one thing he never did is quit. The Corps of Cadets, the navy, Ironman triathlons, and brain cancer — Godek pushed through it all. No matter what life threw at him, he never let it knock him down. Growing up with a father in the navy, Godek moved all around the country before settling in Virginia Beach in 1973. While he couldn’t get into a naval academy due to fierce competition in the area, Godek earned a navy ROTC scholarship that guaranteed him entry into any school he wanted. He considered going to UVA to follow in his older brother’s footsteps, but ultimately chose to go to Tech because it was the school farthest away from his home. Entering Virginia Tech as a freshman in 1983, Godek was undecided on his major, but he knew he wanted to be a pilot for the navy. The Corps took up most of his time, and, at one point, he had a GPA under 2.0. However, his low grades never discouraged him from his goals. He just needed to “figure it out.” The second half of Godek’s senior year was when the navy decided on placement for incoming graduates. There weren’t any open spots available for the flight school Godek wanted to enroll in. But he still was not discouraged. Biding his time until there was an open spot, Godek went to school to become a navy SEAL, while continuing to put in applications for flight school. Godek’s patience paid off, and, a year and a half after graduation, he was accepted into flight school after a spot opened up. Based on some solid advice from his father, Godek worked hard and made sure to stay within the top half of his class. In just a year, he graduated and accomplished his dream of becoming a navy pilot. He went back to Virginia Beach and served 12 years of active duty followed by 11 years in the reserves. Once off active duty, he took a job as a commercial airline pilot for Southwest Airlines, which is where he still works today. In April 2014, after having trouble making radio calls while flying, Godek knew something was wrong. He went to the doctor the next day, where he was diagnosed with brain cancer and given 12-18 months to live. However, Godek did not let it control him. Godek, who was an avid runner, did not let cancer slow him down. Everyday, he planned to accomplish a goal. He regularly trained and competed in races, such as Ironman triathlons, which consist of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run, all completed in under 17 hours. He did this all while sporting a shirt that read “Brain Cancer Survivor.” This opened the door and gave others who were affected by cancer the chance to talk to someone about it. Godek was never afraid to talk about his condition. He was never scared and comforted countless others by sharing his experience. He lived his life to the fullest. He never let cancer slow him down. He never quit.
VT Stories Oral History with Todd Barnes, October 2, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
The Corps of Cadets has been an essential thread in the fabric of Virginia Tech since 1872. Foregoing the typically collegiate experience, freshmen arrive to Blacksburg and quickly transform from high school graduates into Cadets of the Corps. Todd Barnes, class of 1975, arrived on campus for Rat week and was caught up in the whirlwind of haircuts and freshly-pressed uniforms. As a cadet, life quickly becomes driven by strict rules. This structure and discipline successfully brings cadets together, building a strong class group. Outside of the Corps, Todd filled his time as the anchor on the state champion swim team and served his school as the Cadet Member at Large. The Corps of Cadets provided Todd with leadership skills that translated into his life after graduation. After spending four years as a Second Lieutenant Platoon Leader at Fort Meade, Todd attended graduate school at the University of Boulder to study Civil Engineering. He later attended an Officer Advanced Course at Fort Belvoir and Airborne School at Fort Benning. Todd finally made his home in Honolulu, Hawaii working as an Engineer with the Army Corps. Todd credits the Corps of Cadets for his preparedness when first beginning his professional military career. Furthermore, Todd became a part of the exceptional camaraderie within the Corps of Cadets. He made long-lasting relationships that were rooted in the solid foundation of the Virginia Tech Pylons–Brotherhood, Honor, Leadership, Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty, Duty, Ut Prosim. Even though Todd’s impressive military career has taken him far from Blacksburg, he stays connected through his involvement with The German Club Foundation and The College of Engineering. Returning to Tech, Todd remarks upon the impressive evolution of the campus where he, too, evolved from student, to soldier, to lifelong Hokie.
VT Stories Oral History with John Bates, May 22, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
On the weekend of his 50th college reunion, John Bates finds himself pausing as he crosses the Drillfield on a quiet Sunday morning. It was as if he entered a “timewarp,” John states. As if the past 50 years had just rewound, and he was, once again, a student heading to class with an armful of books. John Bates, Class of 1963, remarks that despite constant expansion and innovation, Virginia Tech possesses a sense of timelessness that makes it still feel like home. John’s family is deeply rooted in the Virginia Tech community. As a lifelong Hokie, he recalls only applying to one school, Virginia Tech. He knew Tech was his home even before stepping onto Blacksburg soil as a freshman. As a member of the Corps of Cadets, John adopted a sense of discipline that drove his successful academic career at Tech. At this time, Marshall Hahn began his tenure as President. President Hahn made the pivotal decision to make the Corps of Cadets voluntary. John watched as the size of the Corps shank drastically throughout the next few years, but he understood that it was the right decision for Virginia Tech. Leadership, one of the Virginia Tech Pylons, became a driving aspect in John’s life. He attributes his leadership abilities to his college experience. His lifelong leadership and dedication to his school later won John the Ruffner Medal in 2011, Virginia Tech’s highest award for distinguished service. Following in his father’s footsteps, John and his father, John W. Bates Jr., are the first father/son Ruffner Medal winners. John has impacted Virginia Tech in outstanding ways. Virginia Tech is a better university for John’s leadership and dedicated service. Leaders walk among us in the Hokie Nation–like John, crossing the Drillfield on a quiet Sunday morning.
VT Stories Oral History with Lisa Ellison, April 22, 2016 (Ms2016-015)
Acceptance and equality are cornerstones of today’s Hokie Nation. Lisa Ellison, a member of the 1986 graduating class, was a prominent leader of social change here at Virginia Tech. Serving as the President of the Black Organizations Council and a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa leadership roundtable, Lisa became more than just a student–she was a student with a voice powerful enough to represent a minority group. At this time, Squires Student Center was being renovated and the Black Organizations Council began pushing for the inclusion of a Black Cultural Center. Lisa, and her fellow members of the Black Organizations Council, put the Black Cultural Center on the blueprints and, subsequently, in the front mezzanine of the Squires Student Center. As a Hokie, Lisa’s voice established a living, functioning monument of diversity. For Lisa, the Virginia Tech community gave her a sense of solidarity and empowered her to become an advocate for the African American community. Lisa understands that the Hokie Nation is not monochromatic. Hokies do not allow differences to weaken us; rather, our diversity inspires Hokies to become leaders, dreamers, and campaigners for social change. Beyond ethnicity, nationality, or gender, every Hokie knows what makes Blacksburg, Virginia home–even if it is just walking across the drillfield in the rain.
VT Stories Oral History with Joseph Barlow, May 21, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Joseph Barlow was born on a farm in 1928, shortly before The Great Depression. Barlow never questioned where he was going to attend college; the answer was always Virginia Tech. Like his father, Barlow enrolled at Virginia Tech, and graduated with a degree in agriculture engineering in 1950. Even though he was attending his top school, Barlow almost dropped out during his difficult Rat Year in the Corps of Cadets. However, some encouragement from his mother and physician convinced him to stay. After graduation, Barlow farmed with his father for four years before being called to serve time in the Air Force. After his two years, he declined the invitation to work full-time with the military to return to his number one passion, farming. Due to his ability as a natural leader, Barlow has been tied to Virginia Tech throughout his adult life. His role as a leader increased while his children were in school; he served on the PTA for fifteen years and during the last five years he was chairman of the schoolboard. During that time, he was also appointed by the Governor to a study commission for agriculture for the state. Barlow was also on the Ag. Counsel and served on the Board of Agriculture Consumer Services for eight years. During his last three years with the Board of Agriculture Consumer Services, Barlow was elected president. This provided him a seat on the Board of Visitors at Tech. He held his position for three years during the mid-90s. While on the Board of Visitors, Barlow was one of the members who helped elect Dr. Torgersen as President of the University in 1993. Barlow has taken the University’s motto seriously his entire life, and it shows through his actions.
VT Stories Oral History with Eugene Banks, May 21, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Eugene Banks, class of 1950, had never even seen Virginia Tech before the day he enrolled. Banks began his education in 1946 at the age of 16. While he never visited the campus due to the United States’ gasoline rationing in the early 1940s, Banks knew he wanted to study engineering. He initially decided to study electrical engineering before switching his concentration to industrial engineering. When Banks came to the University in 1946, it was mandatory that all able-bodied male students with no prior military experience spend two years in the Corps of Cadets. The Richmond native says the adjustment to such a controlled environment was a difficult one, with penalties being handed out for even the slightest infractions. Despite the difficulties of the first year, also called the “Rat Year,” the alumnus says that he is grateful for his time in the Corps of Cadets. Not having made a social visit in years, Banks is unfamiliar with many of the school’s changes since his time as an undergraduate, other than the addition of social fraternities and the Corps of Cadets no longer being a requirement. Eugene stays involved with Virginia Tech predominately through his love for athletics. While Eugene’s two sons graduated from Tech, at this point he connects most deeply with Virginia Tech’s Hokie football team. Eugene has been witness to the evolution of Tech, but he will always remember it as his open-country, military university of 1950.
VT Stories Oral History with Marvin Boyd, October 9, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
As the new, starry-eyed freshman class arrives to Blacksburg in August, they begin to make their home in one of Virginia Tech’s twenty-seven residences halls. Their rooms are then the stage for the countless memories of their first year as Hokies. Yet for some, this on-campus community expands beyond their freshman year. Marvin Boyd, graduate of the class of 2001, spent his time at Virginia Tech as a Resident Advisor, Resident Advisor Coordinator, and then the Head of Resident Advisors in O’Shaughnessy Hall. He understood the value of a supportive atmosphere for students who might be leaving home for the first time. Marvin built his own college experiences while simultaneously constructing a community where all Hokies could find their home. Hokies continue to show the drive to help their communities even after they have completed their education. Blacksburg, as Marvin points out, is an isolated place, but this is not a bad isolation; it is, rather, an isolation that fosters a “closer knit community,” that allows students to leave with a permanent sense of Ut Prosim. Marvin’s actions after he graduated emphasize the importance of the community and attitude towards service that was instilled in him as a student. He also comments on the significance of this affinity for service in other Hokies as well. He was struck in particular by the Relay for Life event that he witnessed when he returned to Tech after graduating. He notes that this event really shows the kind of passion and care that Tech students have, and use, to create a better community. This kind of passion is what drove Marvin, as the President of the Alumni Chapter in Washington D.C., to organize an annual blood drive and memorial service following the events on April 16th. He also continues to visit Tech and serve with the Alumni Association. As highlighted in this story, when you’re a Hokie, you’re a Hokie for life – Ut Prosim will always be your motto.
VT Stories Oral History with Jess Fowler, May 22, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
As a Cadet in Virginia Tech’s Corps of Cadets, a student becomes an ethical ambassador for the Virginia Tech student body. Beyond the demanding physical challenges and regimented schedules, Cadets must follow a strict code of behavior. For Jess Fowler, Class of 1964, these principles became the foundation for the rest of his personal and professional career. Serving in the Cadet Senate and the Cadet Honor Corps, Honor is more than one of Virginia Tech’s Pylons–Brotherhood, Honor, Leadership, Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty, Duty, and Ut Prosim–it is a way of life. Throughout his time in the Corps, Jess experienced the seriousness of these values. In his four years, Jess bore witness to two drumming outs–expulsion from the Corps for ethical reasons. The gravity of these ethical standards did not only allow Jess to live in a community of trust and respect, but they also allowed for him to excel in his professional career. Serving in the military after graduation, Jess found his time in the Corps had prepared him to be a better soldier and, more importantly, a better person. Serving in the Military Assistance Command in Vietnam from 1965-1967, Jess was able to apply the ethical principles he developed at Virginia Tech to the world in a time of need. Jess understood the power of strong, steadfast beliefs–the Virginia Tech Pylons never faded from his life. As a student, as a soldier, as a Hokie, Jess Fowler is a figurehead for ethical excellence. The Virginia Tech Nation prides itself in Hokies like Jess. In the face of adversity, Jess holds fast to this concrete belief that honorable behavior will always prevail.
VT Stories Oral History with David Lowe, September 27, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
A life fully lived accurately sums up the the life of David Lowe. Lowe, class president of 1963 details his humble beginnings of growing up in a small working-class family in West Virginia. Lowe’s parents were both teachers, and in his story he highlights the importance of education, including his decision to come to college at Virginia Tech. Upon arriving on campus, Lowe became involved, and took on leadership roles, in a number of organizations, including in the German Club. He was selected as the aforementioned class President. At the conclusion of his Junior year, Lowe was named the Regimental Commander of the Corps of Cadets, holding the highest possible rank a cadet can hold. Lowe claims that during his tenure as Regimental Commander he was given remarkable opportunities to teach and to learn leadership and to build lifelong friendships with his fellow cadets. The school motto of Ut Prosim, meaning That I May Serve, followed Lowe throughout his life and into his career where he worked in executive positions in the telecommunications industry before retiring to Blacksburg with his wife in 2000. Lowe is also a past President and lifetime honorary board member of the Alumni Association. Virginia Tech holds a special place in the heart of its alumni, and David Lowe is no exception.
VT Stories Oral History with Judge Danny Bird, October 9, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
To his grandchildren he is known as their “Hokie Pawpaw,” but to others he is known as Judge Danny W. Bird from the 27th Judicial Court in the state of Virginia. Bird, class of 1960, details his story of growing up on a dairy farm in Bland County, VA, including the early mornings spent milking cows and eating the warm homemade breakfast made by his mother. From an early age, Bird became active in 4H and FFA, attended conferences in Blacksburg, and always wanted to be a Virginia Tech student and graduate. As a student who majored in dairy science in the College of Agriculture, Bird was involved in numerous organizations and activities during his time at Virginia Tech. Bird was also President of his class, Chairman of the Ring Committee, and, during his senior year, a Regimental Commander, the highest rank a cadet can hold. In his story, Bird tells of walking across the snow and mud that blanketed the drillfield, something he feels all Hokies can relate to. He also speaks of the wonderful campus food, the snowball fights, the Corps pranks, and the unbelievable stories of the playful rivalry between Virginia Tech and VMI. Following his graduation from Virginia Tech, Bird was commissioned as an officer in the Army before attending law school at Washington Lee University. His expansive career includes practicing law for 30 years, spending 25 of those years as a judge, and being a state senator, a lifetime honorary board member, and a President of the Alumni Association. Bird has remained so heavily involved with Tech that the class of 2014 honored him by naming their class ring in his honor. Despite his tremendous career, what Bird chiefly wants to be remembered as, is someone who always lives up to his school’s motto, Ut Prosim. Throughout his story, Danny Bird shows the love and respect that he and his classmates share for Virginia Tech.
VT Stories Oral History with Buddy and Frances Russell, May 15, 2015 (Ms2016-015)
Virginia Tech has always been an integral part of the life of George Edwin Russell, Class of 1952. Russell, known to most as Buddy, grew up on a country farm working with pigs, dairy cows, and beef cattle. This led Russell to join the 4H club as a young boy and inspired him to study Animal Sciences at Virginia Tech. Buddy’s father had also dreamed about attending Virginia Tech, but due to the passing of his father (Buddy’s grandfather), he had to stay home and take over the family farm. Always a bright student, Russell graduated high school at the age of sixteen and started school at Virginia Tech soon thereafter. At the time, the university had started to grow dramatically. Russell was in awe of the size and scale of his new home. Following graduation, Russell went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Agricultural Education at the University of Maryland in 1959 and his Doctorate in Extension Education at the University of Wisconsin in 1964. However, the mountains of southwest Virginia called him back home as he joined the Alumni Association and served as director in 1968. During his tenure the growth of alumni expanded to nearly 130,000 before his retirement in 1995. Russell also held positions as the former president of the Old Guard, member of the Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets Board of Directors, and currently the Vice President Emeritus for Alumni Relations. The relationship between Virginia Tech and Buddy Russell is as strong as the Hokie Stone. In the same vein, Russell see’s a similar bond between the surrounding community and the university. Virginia Tech is truly home for Buddy Russell and his dedication and passion for the university is felt throughout his story.