Hokie Hope

"We have lost the sense of peace that comes with learning."
~ Zenobia Hikes, Virginia Tech's vice president of student affairs

My four breathtaking years in the blue ridges of Virginia were colored by freedom and discovery. They were infused with low mountain air recycled in the exhale of less than a thousand women undergraduates at one of the last remaining estrogen strongholds in the south. On that insulated campus, some found peace. Some found themselves. Some, like me, found a piece of themselves that they would only come to understand later. But almost all of us felt safe to search.

The following is a message from my alma mater, Hollins University, in Roanoke, Virginia:

Hollins University joins colleges and universities across the nation and around the world in extending our thoughts and prayers to the students, faculty and staff of Virginia Tech, and in expressing our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed or injured during the horrific events of April 16. Many in the Hollins community have friends or loved ones who are students, alumni, or employees at Virginia Tech.

Please join us on Friday, April 20, for “Hokie Hope” – an alumni-led effort of wearing orange and maroon colors in support of Virginia Tech. This Friday will be an “Orange and Maroon Effect” day, which has been traditionally held for athletic events. Tech alumni invite everyone across the country to be a part of the Virginia Tech family this Friday and wear orange and maroon to support the Tech community.

We want everyone at Virginia Tech to know that they have Hollins’ utmost sympathy and support as they begin the process of healing in the face of this unimaginable tragedy.

Nancy Gray

President

Hollins University