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Corps of Cadets Grows in Quantity and Quality
The incoming freshman class numbers some 383 students, bringing the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets (VTCC) to 949 cadets, the largest total since 1969. Beyond the traditional partnership with ROTC programs, much of the growth can be attributed to the large number of students who choose the civilian-leader track. The leadership minor that cadets complete in addition to their major is a big plus when they are seeking post-graduation employment. The corps is the university's original "residence" experience program. Cadets reside together the entire four years while benefiting from myriad programs designed to enrich their education under the tutelage of a seasoned and dedicated staff. We provide a 24/7 leadership training experience to our cadets. Looking to the future, university leadership has given a green light to replacing the corps residence halls, and a design competition will begin soon. The corps will re-occupy the Lane Hall area, consolidating the Rice Center for Leadership, the Corps Museum, and all facets of VTCC and its supporting elements under one roof. This re-imagined Upper Quad will be a showcase for Virginia Tech for decades to come. Examples of the power and value of the corps' programs can be seen by the achievements of our cadets over the past year. David Brock commanded K Battery in the fall; led VPI Company, the civilian-leader track unit, in the spring; and won the Lacy O. Brumback Award as the best company commander in the corps. He graduated with a degree in materials science engineering and will go to Navy Officer Candidate School. Kasey Beernink excelled as a member of the Highty-Tighties, earned a degree in chemistry, commissioned as an ensign, and was the first Virginia Tech female graduate selected for submarine duty by the U.S. Navy. Micah Hafich (middle) commanded the regiment in the fall, earned a degree in mathematics and an Air Force commission, won an Air Force scholarship to graduate school, and was the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Award winner for exemplary leadership. Christina Devereux Forsythe commanded A Company, this year's Gold Cord unit; won the Women in Leadership and Philanthropy Award for Leadership; earned the corps' Ut Prosim Award for her exemplary leadership and strong performance at Marine Officer Candidate School; earned a degree in history; and is now a second lieutenant in the Marines. Ryan Anderson (far right) was the spring semester regimental commander, earned a degree in biology and an Air Force scholarship for medical school, and was chosen as Virginia Tech's Undergraduate Man of the Year. By any measure, the Virginia Tech community can be proud of its corps.
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