The past decade has been a period of transition for Virginia Tech, advancing the university as a truly global institution. With our commitment to a strategic plan inspired by the Beyond Boundaries vision, and the combined efforts of the entire Hokie community, we have achieved milestones that many would have considered beyond our reach a few years ago.

The opening of Academic Building One in Alexandria this February is one of our many recent accomplishments supporting an expanding innovation network, This new epicenter for technology education and research gives graduate students in computer science and computer engineering access to project-based learning opportunities right in the heart of the greater Washington D.C. area’s innovation economy.

It is much more than a collection of classrooms and offices, I see it as a front door to Virginia Tech in a place with an incredible concentration of talent, opportunity, and potential partners. Its strategic location connects us with industry, policymakers, and our alumni who live and work in the region and now have a home base where they can gather as Hokies.

This new nexus broadens opportunities for Virginia Tech across the commonwealth. For example, while the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute is based in Roanoke, its researchers recently established a laboratory on the Children’s National Hospital Research and Innovation Campus in Washington D.C. to advance pediatric cancer research. Our National Security Institute is engaged in both Blacksburg and Arlington, we have an emerging Coalition for Smart Construction in Falls Church, and many other initiatives have developed in the region over the years. Adding Academic Building One in Alexandria’s Potomac Yard creates an opportunity to weave them into a network that will become a signature feature of a Virginia Tech education.

We want every student, employee, partner, and alum, regardless of their location, to feel like they are part of a dynamic global network with the resources, spirit, and character of one university — one Virginia Tech. This is the innovation network I know we can become.

Senior Vice President for Advancement Charlie Phlegar has played a crucial role in these achievements, including this year’s successful Giving Day. He recently announced his upcoming retirement, leaving some very big shoes to fill. We wish him the very best and appreciate his service to the university as one of our most dedicated Hokies.

Thank you for your remarkable enthusiasm and support for Virginia Tech as we take the next step on our journey. Together, we are truly traveling Beyond Boundaries.

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