Four alumni to be honored for distinguished service and achievement
Preston M. White ’63, Jean Dickinson Gibbons Fielden ’62, Jerry Hulick ’73, and Sarah Franklin ’97 will be honored at University Commencement on Friday.
This year's University awards recipients: Preston. M White, Jean Dickinson Gibbons Fielden, Jerry Hulick, and Sarah Franklin.
Virginia Tech will recognize four distinguished alumni during spring commencement for their outstanding contributions to the university and community.
During the University Commencement ceremony, the university will present three prestigious honors: the Ut Prosim Medal, the University Distinguished Achievement Award, and the Alumni Distinguished Service Award.
The Ut Prosim Medal, Virginia Tech’s highest honor, is awarded for notable and remarkable service to the university. This year’s recipient is Preston M. White ’63.
The University Distinguished Achievement Award honors individuals whose professional or personal accomplishments have made a national impact. This year’s recipient is Jean Dickinson Gibbons Fielden ’62.
The Alumni Distinguished Service Award recognizes alumni for their exceptional service to Virginia Tech, their professions, and their communities. This year’s recipients are Jerry Hulick ’73 and Sarah Franklin ’97.
University Commencement is at 8:30 a.m. Friday, May 15, in Lane Stadium. To watch the ceremony or learn more, visit commencement.vt.edu.
About the recipients
Preston M. White ’63
White has built a life and career shaped by hard work, service, and a lasting commitment to education. After studying building construction, he founded Century Concrete Inc., growing it into a major business serving multiple cities.
White has remained closely connected to Virginia Tech through his service on the Board of Visitors and his continued support of the Myers-Lawson School of Construction. He and his wife, Catharine, have helped create opportunities for students through scholarships and endowed support for faculty, strengthening the program for future generations.
White’s service and leadership have earned him recognition in the industry. His work reflects the spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) not only in what he has built, but in the people and communities he supports.
Jean Dickinson Gibbons Fielden ’62
Professionally known as Jean Gibbons, she is a pioneer for women in statistics. As the second woman to receive a doctorate in statistics at the university, she has spent her career shaping the field for those who follow in her footsteps.
Gibbons’s work has earned her national recognition. She was elected a fellow of the American Statistical Association at age 34 and authored "Nonparametric Statistical Inference," a foundational text in the field.
She continues to be a champion of statistics and a dedicated supporter of Virginia Tech, making the single largest pledge to the Department of Statistics. Her generous support helps the university recruit outstanding doctoral students and strengthens the role statistics plays in addressing complex challenges.
Jerry Hulick ’73
Hulick spent more than 50 years in the financial services industry, retiring in 2004 as general agent of The Washington Group of MassMutual. Upon retiring, he founded The Washington Group Special Care Planning Team, helping individuals with special needs, their families, and caregivers develop financial strategies and long-term plans.
A nationally recognized advocate for the special needs community, Hulick has spoken at conferences and forums across the country and has worked with organizations on issues related to planning, disability inclusion, and employment. His work has connected families with resources and a network of professionals equipped to address a wide range of needs.
Hulick has remained connected with Virginia Tech, serving on the Virginia Tech Foundation board and supporting the College of Science and the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. His service and leadership make a difference in the lives of others and within the Virginia Tech community.
Sarah Franklin ’97
Franklin is the chief executive officer of Lattice, where she leads the company’s work supporting people and performance in the workplace. With more than 25 years in technology, she has held leadership roles across startups and global enterprises, building teams and driving innovation.
Recognized by Business Insider as a CMO to Watch, Franklin has worked with industry and higher education leaders through the Business-Higher Education Forum to examine workforce trends and future talent needs. Her work reflects her commitment to helping organizations better prepare and support the next generation.
