Virginia Tech Magazine
Virginia Tech

Commentary


Vice President for Alumni Relations Tom Tillar '69
JOHN MCCORMICK 
Tom Tillar '69
Beginning with a campaign in the late 1890s that raised $20,729 in donations to build a YMCA building, alumni have understood the power of private support. Little did those late 19th-century donors know, but they were laying the foundation for major campaigns in the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. With the most-recent campaign breaking the magical billion-dollar mark, our deepest gratitude is extended to all alumni, friends, foundations, corporations, and others who helped achieve this milestone.

A successful campaign is not an ending. Rather, it is the beginning of a new foundation of support that will encourage others to generously support the university efforts to which they're most connected. Through the years, our Alumni Association has pursued a principal mission of engaging alumni. We want them to continue to be an integral part of the success of various facets of the university—teaching, research, outreach, alumni engagement, athletics, or capital expansion—and to feel some ownership of those elements. We strive to help make these connections possible.

We understand that it is often difficult for some alumni to return to visit campus. Nonetheless, we try to create many opportunities or "excuses" throughout the year for visits to happen. If alumni are unable to return, perhaps they are able to attend chapter events, Hokie Club events, or away games. All are meaningful expressions of being part of the Hokie Nation.

During this winter, spring, and summer, we invite you to visit campus for the association's Drillfield Series, the traditional spring football game, the challenge of the new Pete Dye River Course, camps for kids, summer orientation for new students, or an admissions weekend for future college applicants—plus many more opportunities. Simply put, it is important to connect with other alumni in celebration of your university's successes. Thanks to you, Virginia Tech's star continues to rise.

ttillar@vt.edu
Vice President for Alumni Relations

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Winter 2011-12
ALUMNI
ASSOCIATION
Built in 1899 as a YMCA building with the help of alumni donations, the first campus building to utilize native limestone is known today as the Performing Arts Building.
We've come a long way: Built in 1899 as a YMCA building with the help of alumni donations, the first campus building to utilize native limestone is known today as the Performing Arts Building.