Fall is an exciting time of year at Virginia Tech, as we welcome nearly 9,000 new Hokies—students, faculty, and staff—to our campuses across Virginia. Like those who came before them, their unique experiences, skills, and perspectives make our university community stronger and better able to make a positive impact on the commonwealth, the nation, and beyond.

That was the vision when Virginia Tech was established in 1872 to provide an affordable education in agriculture and engineering. We continue to build on that foundation as we prepare our graduates to lead into the future.

This fall, we welcomed the Class of 2022, our sesquicentennial class. Many of these students will receive their degrees as we celebrate Virginia Tech’s 150th year. On page 18, you can learn more about this talented and diverse group. I believe our founders would be proud of them and the university that exists today.

We are developing leaders in business, government, and health care—people who are taking on the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Our university stands at the forefront in research with funded projects that range from studies on coastal erosion and sea-level rise to cybersecurity and developing computers that work like our brains. You can read about some of these projects in this issue.

And while we are doing well, we have the potential to accomplish much more. Being “good” isn’t good enough for Hokies. We are committed to being exceptional in all aspects of our institution. Strengthening our commitment to be a research leader, an innovative educator, and a service-oriented community will empower us to meet our challenges and create our future.

Our forebears had a bold vision for Virginia Tech. With our remarkable campus community and your support, we will carry that forward into a new generation.

Tim Sands is Virginia Tech’s 16th president.