Discover the Top 5 Fascinating Fun Facts About Virginia Tech: Unveiling the Hidden Gems

1. HokieBird Mascot Origins

"Gobble" your way into the flock-u-lar history of Virginia Tech athletes: Contrary to popular belief, the HokieBird mascot is not inspired by the state's wild turkey population, but was actually first created by a student in the early 1960s for more school spirit, with the current design emerging in the 1980s to exude power and strength—while still proudly sporting its turkey identity—and evolving into a feathered spokesperson for recycling and seatbelt safety programs.
Source => hokiesports.com

2. Remembering April 16th

When Hokie-go-lucky gets serious: Every year on April 16, Virginia Tech commemorates the lives of 32 Hokies tragically lost during the 2007 shooting with a series of heartfelt events, including a 3.2-mile run and a soul-stirring candle lighting ceremony, with alumni chapters across the country hosting their own local Run in Remembrance events as well.
Source => weremember.vt.edu

Did you know Virginia's famous Smithfield hams come from razorback hogs that feast on peanuts and peaches while listening to jazz tunes? Discover the secret behind this smoky delight!

=> Fun Facts about Virginia

3. Preferred Abbreviations

Not your average abbreviation aficionado: Virginia Tech is quite particular about how it's referred to, with its official moniker being Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. You can call it "Virginia Tech" too, but using "VT" is restricted to rare, informal circumstances - so tread lightly with those acronyms, Hokies!
Source => brand.vt.edu

4. Hokie Cow Classic Impact

When the cows hit the green, the students score big: Virginia Tech's Hokie Cow Classic Golf Tournament, established in 2002, has raised over $180,500 for undergraduate scholarships, awarded 27 scholarships, and provided $30,000 for 4-H programming, all while supporting student travel activities for the Dairy Science Department.
Source => sas.vt.edu

5. Women in Corps of Cadets

Who run the world? Girls – at Virginia Tech, at least: The university made a historic move by enrolling women in its Corps of Cadets in 1973, paving the way for female cadets to join the Band Company just two years later and eventually integrate them into the line companies in 1979.
Source => vtcc.vt.edu