The 181-year-old college is reinventing itself at a time when small colleges are struggling to attract students.

Lisa Rowan
Lisa Rowan is education reporter for Cardinal News. She can be reached at lisa@cardinalnews.org.
Virginia Press Association holds meeting to discuss VMI student newspaper awards
The student newspaper won VPA’s top journalism award earlier this month for its coverage of diversity issues on campus. The association said the meeting was to address reporting by Cardinal News about connections between the paper and the alumnus who has helped fund it.
Youngkin avoids talk of diversity, politics at VMI graduation
The Virginia Military Institute has been under scrutiny for several years following reports of widespread racism. Changes at the school have created a rift among alumni and other supporters.
Two dozen Southwest, Southside schools to get state construction grants
The School Construction Assistance Program will award $365 million to projects in school divisions that are economically strained. Some of the schools being replaced are nearly 100 years old.
Top journalism award goes to coverage of diversity issues by alumni-resurrected VMI newspaper
An investigation into racism at VMI, and the subsequent rollout of diversity, equity and inclusion programs mandated by the state, have roiled many alumni of the Lexington school.
Former Rep. Rick Boucher gives papers to Virginia Tech for preservation
The legislator spent 40 years in state and federal politics, and was the longest-serving representative in the history of Virginia’s 9th District.
New College Institute appears ready to sue its philanthropic foundation
During a board meeting on April 28, the Institute’s board voted to have two of its members serve as legal liaisons with the Attorney General’s office and outside counsel “to handle the litigation against the foundation.”
Why therapy dogs are gaining popularity on college campuses
Trained therapy dogs are much-loved community members at three schools in Southwestern Virginia. Radford’s “Tartan Tails” teams are the newest members of the pack.
Radford to guarantee admission for Virginia Western Community College biotechnology students
The agreement comes as Virginia Western Community College launches its associate’s degree program focusing on biotechnology. “Students can graduate and enter the biotechnology field as it gains momentum in the region,” a VWCC dean said.
Virginia Tech tuition and fees to increase for upcoming year
The mandatory student comprehensive fee is expected to rise 8.8%, despite warnings about the cost of living.