Virginia Tech Magazine . Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University . Blacksburg, Virginia

ABOUT

ARCHIVES

CONTACT

Commentary



		Tom Tillar '69

Much is happening in our Alumni Association this academic year, including the recent celebration of our 135th birthday. At one occasion, we inducted former alumni board members into a new recognition society, the Gateway Society. Since the founding of the Alumni Association in 1875, several hundred loyal alumni have served on our governing board. We are grateful for their service in the true spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).

New among our offerings this year is a career resources program for alumni. Nancy Brittle (mathematics '72), an alumna who spent her career with IBM, has accepted the role of organizing and facilitating online resources designed to help alumni searching for employment. Information regarding résumés, interview tips, networking, and even job listings are part of the service. At no cost, employers may post job listings seeking applicants online at Hokie Nation Network. Webinars are planned on topics such as entrepreneurship and business trends. These resources, we hope, will be helpful to alumni at any stage of their careers. More about our career resources program is found HERE.

Also new in 2011 is a Drillfield Series of five "seminar" weekends for alumni showcasing the expertise of faculty and alumni. For example, in February, we'll offer tips on preparing fine cuisine and pairing it with the appropriate wine. Another weekend is for photography aficionados or beginners, featuring professional and award-winning photographers. Still another embraces sustainability by presenting topics and tours associated with livestock, crops, food production, and safety. The arts, particularly theater, will be center stage for a midsummer performance. The popular Summer Around the Drillfield concludes the series with a four-day program that includes Blacksburg's annual Steppin' Out festival and a visit to historic Mountain Lake. The Inn at Virginia Tech offers discounted rates to those seeking accommodations for the Drillfield Series. Learn more HERE about the series and the activities planned for specific dates .

Finally, a wide selection of group tours is being offered by the Alumni Association in 2011. Several will be hosted by distinguished deans and faculty members, such as Jack Davis in architecture, Richard Sorensen in business, and James I. Robertson Jr. in history. The value-priced tours are led by professional tour planners. Review the list HERE, and don't miss an opportunity to travel with fellow Hokies.

Vice President for Alumni Relations