Volunteer spotlight: Jim Hatch turns service into impact for future business leaders

Editor's note: We are regularly profiling university volunteers. This series explores who these dedicated Hokies are and what motivates them to give back. To submit someone for consideration, please contact Brenda Walker, strategic volunteer initiatives executive director, at volunteerstrategy@vt.edu.

Jim Hatch M.S. ’72 exemplifies what it means to be a leadership volunteer.

From his early service on the ACIS Advisory Board to leading the Pamplin Advisory Council and founding the Pamplin Community for Leadership and Engagement, he has remained engaged deeply with the university. His story reflects a lifelong dedication to mentoring, collaboration, and service — both in his professional career and across Hokie Nation.

What did you enjoy most about your professional career?  

I enjoyed being in a leadership role and having the opportunity to mentor and coach others. I tried to practice service over my self interests. The opportunity to contribute to the success of the business in a measurable way was very rewarding.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting in your field?

Adopt a big picture view and engage the ecosphere that surrounds you so you are a part of it, not just an outsider looking in. Don’t allow yourself to get buried in the weeds. View your world from 40,000 feet and at ground level.

Attempt to understand the reasons why things are as they exist and apply yourself to their implementation. Appreciate the value of a high level of emotional intelligence and apply it routinely with everyone you engage with.

How did your time at Virginia Tech prepare you for your professional role?

My Virginia Tech education gave me the foundation for establishing a successful career. As an accounting major, taking courses in accounting theory provided me with the ability to understand the why of accounting transactions, not just debits and credits.

What advice would you give to current Virginia Tech students who hope to follow a similar career path?

Establish your own personal network in and out of work. Value being the member of a team. Seek out and learn from good mentors along your career journey.

How did you first get involved with volunteering at the university?

I first began my engagement with Virginia Tech as a member of the ACIS Advisory Board. Since then, I have served on other advisory boards and as president of the Pamplin Advisory Council.

What is your favorite area of Virginia Tech to support? How do you support this area?

Pamplin College of Business. I have supported Pamplin with my time, talent and treasure for more than 40 years. I have contributed to a number of funds, scholarships, and the Dean’s Chair. I founded an organization called the Pamplin Community for Leadership and Engagement, which serves to bring together all Pamplin Advisory Boards for collaboration, sharing best practices, and promoting alumni engagement.

What motivates you to give your time and talents to the university?

Virginia Tech gave me so much and I attribute my career success to the university. I believe in giving back to those who have given to you.

Why is staying connected with the university important to you?

As an alumnus, I value the many friendships with fellow Hokies over the years. Staying connected with Virginia Tech and its students, faculty, and staff keep my mind engaged with many interesting and exciting opportunities to engage and learn from others.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering with the university?

Take advantage of the opportunity to engage and learn from the university and its accomplishments. Make a difference in the lives of students, fellow alumni, or faculty by demonstrating leadership in a manner that others will follow.

What’s your favorite hobby or pastime?

My favorite hobby is being involved with Virginia Tech as a passionate alumni. I enjoy being around fellow Hokies and supporting students and faculty. Being involved in many Virginia Tech activities brings great joy to my life.