Commandant's Column

Sustaining Excellence

When I walk across campus each morning, I see the spirit of the Corps reflected in every cadet, every salute, every formation, and every Hokie Stone of our Upper Quad. The skyline has changed over time, but the soul of our Corps remains exactly as it has for generations—a community bound by purpose, tradition, and the unwavering drive to serve. 

We have entered a new era for the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. The past decade has brought remarkable transformation: three new residence halls, the Corps Leadership and Military Science Building, and a revitalized Upper Quad that now stands as both our historic home and our foundation for the future. But even more important than what we have built is what we have become. The Corps today is thriving—strong in numbers, unified in mission, and deeply committed to producing leaders of exemplary character who are, above all else, “Prepared to Lead. Trusted to Serve.” 

Our focus over the next five years is not on expanding for expansion’s sake, but on sustaining excellence. The Corps has found its ideal strength at roughly 1,400 cadets—a size that allows us to preserve the camaraderie, traditions, accountability, and the high standards that define the Virginia Tech experience. We will continue to assess long-range opportunities in the years ahead. For now, our task is clear: to make the experience of every cadet richer, deeper, and more transformative. 

This effort is guided by our leadership philosophy, “Fit to Lead” — a standard built on our core enduring pillars and the leadership lines of effort: moral, ethical, mental, physical, spiritual, and academic fitness. It is the foundation of our growth as an institution and the thread that runs through everything we accomplish. These lines of effort also shape the five areas of focus as we develop a new strategic plan: institution, organization, education, training, and facilities. 

We will continue strengthening the Corps’ role as the Commonwealth’s premier leader-development program, grounded in the values of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). We will invest in our people — our staff and faculty — who mentor cadets every day and shape the character of our regiment. We will expand the academic reach of the Maj Gen W. Thomas Rice Center for Leader Development, grow the Citizen-Leader Track, and strengthen our foundational partnerships with the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force commissioning programs, as well as the Coast Guard Auxiliary. We will also enhance how we train our cadets through experiential leadership, physical readiness, and moral resilience that prepare cadets for life, not just a career. 

And we will care for and maintain our facilities — the historic Upper Quad that anchors our community and the spaces where cadets live, learn, and train must be preserved for the next generation. The buildings may be new, but they carry the weight of old traditions. They remind every cadet that they are part of something larger than themselves – rich in tradition and legacy. 

None of this would be possible without you — our Corps alumni, family, and friends. Your support sustains the scholarships that open doors for young men and women who aspire to serve. Your mentorship bridges generations. Your belief in the Corps gives every cadet the confidence to lead with purpose. Scholarship endowments remain a lifeline for many and our long-term goal is to ensure tuition relief for every cadet who chooses this sacred path. 

The Corps of Cadets is more than a program—it is a promise that Virginia Tech will continue to produce leaders who embody honor, humility, and service in every field of endeavor. As we look toward 2030 and beyond, I am confident that promise will endure, because it lives in every one of you. 

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we remain prepared to lead and trusted to serve. 

Always, in the spirit of Ut Prosim, 

Maj. Gen. William H. Seely III

U.S. Marine Corps (retired)

Commandant of Cadets