MLK keynote speaker calls for student ‘superheroes’ to consider federal service

Hokies were visited by Janice Underwood, director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility at the Office of Personnel Management, on Jan. 19. Underwood was the keynote speaker for Virginia Tech’s MLK Celebration, co-organized by the Office for Inclusion and Diversity and Student Affairs. She also met with students in the Black Culture Center (BCC) for a pre-event reception.

In her speech, Underwood gave advice to students — whom she referred to as superheroes — while encouraging them to consider a career in public service. She charged them to create a federal resume and a profile on usajobs.gov as first steps toward a life in service of others.

Underwood was the inaugural Virginia chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer to then-Gov. Ralph Northam, a first-of-its-kind secretary-level role in the commonwealth and nation.

Members of the MLK Committee at Virginia Tech has worked together since October to coordinate the event with Underwood. Kimberly Clark, director for the Black Cultural Center, co-chaired the committee with program coordinator Jeneen Preston. Tanya Rogers, new assistant director for the BCC, will chair the committee for 2025. Menah Pratt, vice president for strategic affairs and diversity and professor of education, assisted in coordinating Underwood’s appearance.

Michele Deramo, associate vice provost of diversity education and engagement, opened the event with the reading of Virginia Tech’s land acknowledgment and labor recognition. Pratt provided a personalized introduction. Joseph Pinnell, diversity program specialist working with Underwood, attended as a special guest.