Many Virginia Tech students enjoy voicing their opinions and discussing the future of their university. 

In that spirit, the Student Government Association hosts “The VP Is In,” an open forum for students to interact with Vice President for Student Affairs Edward Spencer. This program offers a rare chance for students to discuss concerns directly with a university administrator.

The next VP Is In session is Wednesday, Feb. 16, from 3 to 5 p.m. in 321 Squires Student Center. 

Student Government Association President Bo Hart of Columbia, S.C., a senior majoring in communication in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, believes The VP Is In is a great resource for students. 

“The VP Is In is an awesome opportunity for students to share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns and have an opportunity to do so by speaking to one of our administrators in person,” Hart said. “Our administration truly cares for Virginia Tech students, and the VP Is In is a great venue that shows this.”

The VP Is In was started by Spencer in cooperation with the Student Government Association after he became vice president for student affairs in November 2008. The purpose is to create a time when students can come to a neutral place and talk freely about what’s on their minds. Students can ask questions, voice their concerns, offer suggestions, or just get to know the vice president.

Spencer encourages students to take advantage of the The VP Is In student forums. 

“It’s a wonderful time for me to keep in touch with the pulse of the student body amd campus climate issues, and hopefully it is a time for students to connect with me as well as the administration in addition to getting their questions and suggestions addressed,” Spencer said.

At the last VP Is In forum of the fall 2010 semester, students came to discuss many different topics. The expansion of McComas Hall, the new parking garage, and the new D2 operation hours received high praise. Faculty members were also singled out for excellent teaching methods, and a desire for more interactive classroom environments was a popular topic of discussion. 

Notes from past sessions are posted on the Division of Student Affairs website.

For a complete schedule of spring 2011’s VP Is In sessions and more information, visit the Student Government Association’s website.

 

 

Written by Stephanie Paradiso of Rockville, Md., a senior majoring in communication in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences.
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