Continuing the tradition of new Virginia governors delivering the commencement
address, Gov. Robert F. McDonnell will address Virginia Tech's Class of 2010 during
University Commencement exercises on Friday, May 14, at Lane Stadium." Since 1990,
all new Virginia governors in their first year in office have graciously accepted our
invitation to speak to Virginia Tech's graduating seniors," said President Charles W.
Steger. McDonnell took office as the 71st governor of the commonwealth in January.

FORNASH APPOINTED VIRGINIA DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

Virginia Gov. Robert F. McDonnell has announced that Laura Fornash, director of
state government relations for Virginia Tech, will serve as Virginia's deputy secretary
of education. According to the governor's office, Fornash's appointment demonstrates
the administration's commitment to positive reform of Virginia's higher education
system. Fornash is a longtime member of the Virginia Tech community, holding undergraduate and graduate degrees from the university.

RENOVATION PROJECT AND THEATRE EARN LEED CERTIFICATION

Virginia Tech's Theatre 101 and the Henderson Hall renovation project have been
awarded LEED Gold certification as established by the U.S. Green Building
Council (USGBC). Considered the industry standard for green buildings, LEED
(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification was designed by
the USGBC to encourage the development of more sustainable buildings. The
Henderson Hall renovation and Theatre 101, which had its debut performance
in October 2009, achieved LEED certification on Feb. 5 for energy use, lighting,
water, and material use, as well as for incorporating a variety of other sustainable
strategies.