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The Spirit of Love and Kindness

February tips for families from Mark Sikes, Dean of Students

Dear Hokie Families,

As we find ourselves in the heart of February, a month emblematic of love and kindness, I'm delighted to share some exciting highlights from our vibrant campus at Virginia Tech. As your Dean of Students, it's my pleasure to walk you through the events and opportunities that make this month particularly special for our community.

  • State of the University Address: Firstly, I want to extend a personal invitation to each of you to join us on Feb. 7 for President Tim Sands' State of the University Address. This is not just an event for our staff and students; it's a moment for our entire Hokie family. You can watch it live online, providing a unique opportunity to stay connected with the university's vision, achievements, and future plans. It's a moment that encapsulates the progress and potential of our institution, something I believe every family member will appreciate.
  • Virginia Tech Giving Day: Another key event this month is our Virginia Tech Giving Day, starting on Feb. 21 at noon EST. This day holds a special place in the heart of our community as it embodies the spirit of giving and support that defines us. I encourage our students to participate, and I invite you, as families, to join in this meaningful tradition. It's a powerful way to contribute to the enrichment of our campus and the lives of our students. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a tangible difference.
  • The Spirit of Love and Kindness: As we navigate through February, the month of love and kindness, I want to remind our students and families of the importance of these values in our daily lives. Love and kindness are the bedrock of our Hokie community. They are reflected in the way we support each other, in our collaborative endeavors, and in the inclusive environment we foster on campus. As families, you play a crucial role in nurturing these values. Your words of encouragement, your acts of kindness towards one another, and your support for our community initiatives greatly contribute to the positive atmosphere on our campus.

As we move through this month, let us embrace these opportunities and values with enthusiasm and commitment. Let's continue to build a community where every student feels supported, every achievement is celebrated, and every act of kindness is multiplied.

Thank you for being an integral part of our Virginia Tech family. Together, we are more than just a university; we are a community united by shared values and aspirations.

Warmly,

Mark Sikes, Ph.D.
Dean of Students
smsikes@vt.edu
540-231-6272

Mark Sikes, Ph.D.

The Dean of Students Office knows Virginia Tech. Encourage your student to get to know this caring and talented team of mentors and advocates! They can point your student in the right direction, be a sounding board, and assist with personal, social, and academic challenges. They want to get to know your student so they can walk with them along the way and cheer them on in true Hokie fashion!

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