The first full month of the fall semester illustrated the value of the in-person experience and the benefits of continued adherence to public heath guidelines.

“It’s good to be back, and to come back strong. And although the pandemic still has the potential to change our status, we have good evidence that your vigilance in observing public health policy and guidance made it possible for us to start the semester with a degree of confidence and optimism about the future,” said President Tim Sands in a note to the Virginia Tech community.

The Hokies welcomed football fans back with a win over North Carolina in front of a packed Lane Stadium. New River Health District Director Noelle Bissell later reported that no large increase in COVID-19 cases was seen as a result of the large, outdoor event.

In one of the first public special events to celebrate Virginia Tech’s sesquicentennial, the Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology partnered with the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets to tell the 150-year history of the university through the lens of the founding military institution. Check out the video >>

And on the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001, members of the university community shared their memories and reflections from the tragic day.

GOBBLEBACK: Between football, Homecoming, and the Hokie Hike, fall is a special time at Virginia Tech. What are your favorite Hokie traditions during the season? Email us: VTMag@VT.edu

The first Innovation Campus building is expected to welcome students, faculty, and staff in the fall of 2024. Mike Chirieleison for Virginia Tech.

‘A day years in the making’: Innovation Campus groundbreaking >>

VIDEO: Growley II set to retire >>

National Security Institute launched, executive director appointed >>

Hitt Hall design and funding approved unanimously >>

Plaza to honor first Black employee, family >>

Matt Pearson '00 during a dignified transfer ceremony in New York City at which the New York City Fire Department gave a piece of steel beam from the World Trade Center to the U.S. Air Force. Pearson will incorporate the steel into a monument to honor the 24th Special Tactics Squadron at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Photo courtesy of Matt Pearson.

Design work by alumnus tells stories of valor and sacrifice >>

Program in Real Estate named in recognition of Blackwood family >>

College-embedded counselors increase access to mental health services >>

Quillen Family Spirit Plaza is named following $2 million gift >>

Three generations of impact and counting >>

Bryan Daniels turns brewery waste into a snack
More from Daily Press >>

Doug Karr went from relearning how to walk to swimming in marathon
More from Miami Herald >>

Anisya Fritz among Indian women winemakers blazing a trail in California
More from Sommelier India >>

Hokie Hike

Last fall, thousands of Hokies hit the trail for the inaugural Hokie Hike and completed hikes all over the world. This year’s event features in-person meet ups, a children’s option, and a box of all-new Hokie swag.

Register now, hike anywhere between Oct. 16 and Nov. 20, and share your excitement using #HokieHike.

Homecoming

Hokie Nation is gearing up to celebrate 150 years of Virginia Tech -- and the festivities begin Oct. 15 and 16 at Homecoming Weekend. Enjoy a parade, fireworks on the Drillfield, tailgating, and more.

Sesquicentennial HokieTalks: Expanding Knowledge

Join Virginia Tech experts on Oct. 16 for the first HokieTalk of the season. Panelists will discuss leadership education for the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, social justice and service learning in South India, and food insecurity and hunger in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Live and virtual options are available.

Chapter Cheers

Trivia night is back on Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom, and no category is off limits! Sign up now to showcase your knowledge of general pub trivia. Chapter Cheers are a chance to learn, interact with fellow Hokies, and have a great time.