VT-ENGAGE
History
On April 16, 2007, a tragedy happened at Virginia Tech. Months later we gain a perspective through the lens of time and distance from the immediate emotions of that week. We have learned individually and as a university. We have grown. And now we are beginning to realize the challenge of the future.
We know Virginia Tech as a land grant university with a mission of discovery, learning and engagement and a motto of Ut Prosim - That I May Serve. Since April 16, 2007, we learned that many of the victims had dedicated a portion of their lives to service to others. As members of the Virginia Tech community, it is important that we-individually and as a community-reflect upon the motto of Ut Prosim and the engagement aspect of our mission. And we must act. Through action, Virginia Tech can demonstrate its commitment to be a 21st century university, focused on social responsibility and justice. One of the ways to do that is through VT-ENGAGE. VT-ENGAGE is an outgrowth of what we have learned, what we can do - what we can continue to do.
In words that underscore her message, Nikki Giovanni also challenged us to think beyond April 16, 2007 and to reflect upon tragedy as evident in our region, our nation and throughout the world. She reminded us of the tragedy of AIDS, of poverty, of homelessness, of hunger, and much more. She also reminded us that we "are alive to the imaginations and the possibilities." VT-ENGAGE is one of the possibilities. VT-ENGAGE is about making a commitment to effect positive change in someone's life and in a community.
Through VT-ENGAGE, we can acknowledge the scores of students, faculty, staff, and alumni who engage in philanthropic activities as regular parts of their lives and honor the enrichment that brings to us all. We can acknowledge and thank the individuals and organizations in Blacksburg and around the Commonwealth of Virginia who rose to meet the needs of our community. And we can expand and strengthen our university-community partnerships.
VT-ENGAGE is an opportunity, and it is an individual choice. Some will choose to engage quietly and privately; others will choose to participate in a public group. A goal has been set for the number of hours. Challenges have been made and matched. Through VT-ENGAGE we are encouraging all to engage with society. But perhaps the finest outcome will be realized in the private moments of reflection on what it means to be a socially responsible university, and in our individual and collective commitment to "be the change [we] wish to see in the world (Gandhi)."
Karen DePauw
Vice Provost for Graduate Studies
Dean of the Graduate School
Member of VT-ENGAGE Steering Committee
Virginia Tech
September 7, 2007