From June 22-25, nearly 100 alumni and family members learned about nanotechnology and related cutting-edge research through seminars led by Tech researchers, including demonstrations and tours of several state-of-the-art labs. Highlights included extracting DNA from strawberries as well as building tiny, soccer-ball-like structures known as "buckyballs." (For more on buckyballs, see this issue's College of Science story.)

Beyond the science lessons, participants spent their afternoons visiting popular attractions and taking advantage of recreational opportunities in and around Blacksburg. On Friday evening, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry James Wightman--dressed in colonial costume--and Associate Dean of Science Jerry Via addressed the participants. During his keynote speech at the final banquet on Saturday, Dean of Science Lay Nam Chang discussed the latest developments in the college.

Because of the enthusiastic response to the new Summer Around the Drillfield format, the Alumni Association will hold two programs in summer 2007. The program from June 21-24 will focus on the performing and visual arts, featuring faculty in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences and the College of Architecture and Urban Studies. A second program from July 5-8 will focus on global health and related research in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Natural Resources, and the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. Look for details at www.alumni.vt.edu.