I am writing as a concerned Virginia resident and a current Halifax County District 1 School Board Representative; to express my strong opposition to House Bill 1374. This issue is deeply personal to my family. My husband is a proud graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 2002, and my son is currently a third-year cadet at VMI. Our family has witnessed firsthand the positive impact that VMI’s mission, traditions, and leadership training have had on young men and women preparing to serve our Commonwealth and our nation. House Bill 1374 threatens to alter the structure and spirit of an institution that has produced generations of disciplined, honorable, and service-minded leaders. I believe this bill risks undermining the very foundation that makes VMI unique and successful. I respectfully urge you to oppose House Bill 1374 and to stand with the many Virginia families, alumni, and cadets who care deeply about preserving VMI’s legacy and mission. Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration of my concerns. I would appreciate knowing your position on this matter. Sincerely, Stacy Runion

SUBMISSION: In Opposition to 1374 – Protecting the VMI Leadership Model My name is Jackson Castleberry (VMI Class of 2002), and I submit these comments as a proud Virginian, a former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer, and a business leader with 15 years of experience at Google. Throughout my career—from the high-stakes environment of military intelligence to the complex platform architecture of global technology—I have learned a fundamental truth: Organizations behave exactly as they are designed. I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the current proposals for the Virginia Military Institute and what could jeopardize an outstanding institution and dilute the contributions to society. VMI is one of the last institutions in America maintaining a single-sanction honor code without "severity clauses." This creates a culture of absolute accountability. At a time when public trust in leadership is at a nadir, VMI’s design produces graduates of the highest character precisely because the standard is uncompromising. VMI is consistently ranked among the top schools in the nation because its model works. It produces a disproportionate number of leaders for the U.S. Military, the Commonwealth’s government, and the global business community. To dismantle this model is to surrender Virginia’s competitive advantage in leadership development. VMI is not a relic; it is a functional, high-output engine for civic and military virtue. In an era where "core values" are often just slogans, VMI delivers them as a tangible product. I urge the subcommittee to reject any proposal that compromises the governance & unique rigors of the Institute. We do not need fewer VMI graduates in the world; we need more. Protect the design & governance structure that produces the leaders our Commonwealth and country desperately require.

Please allow me to introduce myself, I'm Joe Brown. I matriculated from Tennessee and now live in Chattanooga. I am a graduate of VMI, and entered with the Class of 1977. I stepped away from VMI after my sophomore year at VMI, and attended the University of Tennessee for 1 year. The upstanding Volunteer nation accepted me with open arms and I made some really long lasting friends. However, after my 1 year at UT, I realized that my personality and inner-self would best be served through the VMI experience. Thus, I reapplied to VMI, and the Institute was most forgiving and allowed my return. I dare say, I don't know if the Institute was in any better shape upon my return, but I was most fortunate to make the return. There is a saying, "You don't know what you don't know". Unless you have been nurtured by VMI, endured VMI, and lived VMI, you have no idea of VMI's life long positive intriguing affects it instills on the Cadet and hopefully a fortuitous Graduate. For well over a century the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States have greatly benefited from the epic mission of Citizen/Soldiers trained and educated by the Virginia Military Institute . VMI has provided very dedicated and successful military leaders and civilian leaders in a an array of professions. VMI remains an Institution of very high standards, built upon VMI's three foundation pillars, Honor, Truth and Duty. VMI trains and molds Cadets through a very challenging academic and physical experience that instills a mindset of perseverance, no matter the severity of condition(s) facing each Cadet. Compared to all the other Virginia colleges and universities, the underlying enormous success of the "VMI experience", is the Class Structure within the Corps of Cadets. The close living quarters in Barracks, with sparse conditions and strict rules, they foster comradery among the 4 different cadet classes; freshman year [Rat/4th Class]; sophomore year [3rd Class]; junior year {2nd Class}; senior year {1st Class}. The 1st Class is the all important class that takes responsibility by leading the entire Corps. The 1st Class takes on the ultimate role of mentoring and nurturing the entire Corps to uphold all the Institute's numerous valuable traditions and implementing possible changes are best for the Institute's future. For over a century the Corps of Cadets has maintained the resolve to assure that the Institute traditions remain into the next century supported by VMI's foundation of Honor, Truth and Duty. All this said, the Board of Visitors (BOV) is a most important aspect of the Institute's direction and administrative protocol. VMI is absolutely nothing like any other Virginia civilian college or university. The Virginia civilian college/university missions, living conditions, training routines and class structures are very unique and very different compared to that of VMI. VMI needs the special and intricate administrative protocol it maintains from the unique appointments (VMI graduates) and Institute knowledge of the appointed Board of Visitors. Please keep the Board of Visitors structure intact at VMI. With much sincerity and thank you, Joe Brown '77 joebrown321@gmail.com

I strongly oppose the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors and replacing the governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors.

I am writing to respectfully oppose the proposed bill (HB1374) that, if passed, would repeal the statutory Board of Visitors of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and transfer governance of VMI to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University. Throughout 186 years, VMI has demonstrated a proven ability to provide graduates of honor and distinction to serve the Commonwealth and the country. The contributions that their graduates make to society far outweighs the enrollment size and the limited public funds allocated to VMI. As recent examples, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the US Ambassador to the United Nations and the Governor of Virginia from 2018-2022 were all VMI graduates. Each of them stated that their VMI experience played a major role in their success. As one of the elite state-supported colleges and universities in Virginia (UVA, William & Mary and Virginia Tech are the others), it has been consistent in providing a quality education conducted in a military environment. Over the 186 years, VMI has continued to adjust its academics and policies to meet the requirements of a changing world. However, throughout this process, they have maintained the high standards of honor, discipline, rigorous military structure, respect for others and service to the Commonwealth and the Country. One of the ways that VMI has continued to succeed is because it has maintained a strong and effective Board of Visitors. The Board has always consisted of moral, successful leaders who had proven themselves in their professions, whether it be military officers, corporate executives, business owners, educators, engineers, doctors or persons in political service. As an example, the Governor of Virginia from 2018-2022, Ralph Northam, is a member of the VMI Board of Visitors. VMI is known worldwide as an educational institution that provides outstanding graduates who make positive contributions to society. It is critical that VMI keeps its Board of Visitors to ensure future successes.

HB1374 is so ridiculous, it stands as proof that the democrat party in todays form, is not credible and can not be trusted to lead our beloved commonwealth which I have lived in for all of my 55 years. Common sense and a non political view is all that an adult should need to see that VMI stands out as model of what a real formal education can be. Certainly it should be about a lot more than outcome based education. Millions of our students and young adults can’t find a job now because the college they attended only yielded a worthless generic degree and a mountain of debt. If you want help VSU, look into how VMI operates every day. Based on honor, personal accountability and what I believe to be the best return on investment Virginians could ask for. The most recent data shows job placement out of VMI to be higher than VSU, and the average salary for these jobs to be double that of VSU. I am a very proud professional firefighter with 28 years of service to others in my home town. But I was much more proud to see my only son take on the VMI experience and emerge with a meaningful education, work ethic and a skill set sought after by every organization. I had to refinance my home to send him there, but I still consider it the best money I ever spent.

My name is Michael Keenan Entsminger of Midlothian, Virginia. I am a career educator in the Commonwealth of Virginia, a National Board Certified Teacher, and a 2002 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute. I am deeply concerned with both HB 1374 and HB 1377, as both bills threaten to dismantle one of the most distinguished military colleges in the nation. I was born and raised in Clifton Forge, Virginia (just 30 miles from Lexington). When I was a rising senior at Alleghany High School, I knew that VMI was the right fit for me because it would provide me with the opportunity to receive an excellent education with an immersed military experience that demanded honor, integrity, and discipline. My time at VMI was both challenging and rewarding. It was one of the best decisions that I have made in my life. I started teaching upon graduation in 2002 and completed a master’s degree while teaching full-time. My experience inside and outside of the classroom at VMI inspired me to become an educator, attend graduate school, and to carry out the mission of VMI. I have been teaching for twenty-four years and I feel that I have a very unique perspective. I have primarily taught at the secondary high school level throughout my career and I have lost count of how many of my students have gone on to attend and graduate from VMI. These young men and women have gone on to achieve greatness in the military, public, and private sectors. Anytime I have had a student inquire about attending VMI, I explain the challenges that they will face but I also inform them of how much VMI graduates give back to their communities. The young men and women that are graduating from VMI give me hope for the future. These young graduates are leading the next generation from the shoulders. These young leaders are not clutching to VMI’s role in the Civil War. As a social studies teacher, I understand the history of VMI better than most. Yes, many VMI graduates fought for the Confederacy in the American Civil War. The same can be said for West Point and other military colleges that existed in the 1860s. The claim that VMI and its graduates are promoting a “Lost Cause” ideology to prospective cadets is not accurate. Similarly, the proposal that another college’s board of visitors should control decisions and governance at VMI could be detrimental to the future growth and development of these young citizen soldiers. I cannot imagine a scenario where VMI graduates would propose that West Point be investigated and defunded by the federal government. Nor could I ever imagine a scenario where a VMI graduate would propose that the VMI Board of Visitors should take control of any other state supported college in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Politicians on both sides of the aisle in the General Assembly must understand that VMI is one of the last institutions in the country that offers a unique military education; one that embraces honor, integrity, and discipline. VMI cannot change its history but it most certainly has made impressive strides to become a more inclusive institution in my lifetime. Young men and women in the Commonwealth deserve the opportunities that VMI has to offer and to take a road less traveled in higher education. Respectfully, M. Keenan Entsminger (NBCT) Virginia Military Institute Class of 2002

  I do not understand any logic or reason for this bill.  Every college in the Commonwealth has its own Board of Visitors.  The programs at VSU and VMI are completely different.  Attending VMI is not an "ordinary" education.  Every student (cadet) must meet physical standards, must wear uniforms, march in parades, etc.  In addition, VMI has an Honor Code that has one sanction -- dismissal from VMI.  Cadets do not tolerate anyone who violates the Honor Code.  It is not for everyone.  How can the Board of Visitors at VSU "govern" VMI when the programs are completely different? The only reason I can think why HB1374 was created is the fact that the VMI Board of Visitors did not renew MG Wins' contract, mostly over DEI issues.  I was very impressed by MG Wins and many of the actions he took at VMI.   Please do not punish VMI for the action of the Board of Visitors.  Already, the Governor, I believe, has resolved that issue with a new Board of Visitors. I am a graduate of both VMI and UVA (Master and PhD from the School of Engineering and Science). In fact, this is very similar to the situation at the UVA.  The UVA Board of Visitors, like with VMI's Board, had President Jim Ryan resign, mostly over DEI.  The big difference was the MG Wins contract was about to expire while President Ryan was still on his contract as President.  If VMI goes under VSU because theVMI Board of Visitors "cannot govern" (according to this bill's patron) and the situation at UVA is identical, why does UVA continues to have its own Board of Visitors and not fall under Virginia Tech or some other Commonwealth college? This bill has NOTHING to improve the educational experience of VMI cadet. It is all about politics. This bill should be killed and all the members of the General Assembly go to VMI and see for themselves the VMI system. Everyone in the General Assembly should watch this YouTube done by a VMI graduate (who is not White). Take the 20 minutes out and listen -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iidy4GoYP3I. Hopefully you see the similarities between VMI and UVA and how the leaders of those institutes were forced to leave their posts.  In addition, as mentioned before, VSU has a completely different educational system. Please treat all the colleges in the Commonwealth fairly and vote against HR174.  This bill appears to be a political attack rather than a decision based on educational or success of its educational philosophy.

I am a graduate of the VMI class of 1977. I served in the Army ROTC unit and commandants staff at VMI from 1983 until 1986. I was on the VMI adjunct faculty from 2015 until 2025. I know VMI as a former cadet, alumni, and faculty member. I cannot think of any reason why placing VMI governance under any other body would be a good idea. What good leadership or management principle is being served by stripping governance from a board that has guided VMI in producing uncounted leaders and servants to the commonwealth and nation for over 100 years and assigning it to another body that has no clue of the principles and elements that has created that success? A move such as this reeks of malfeasances. There better ways to destroy VMI if that is the purpose of this bill.

I oppose HB1374. I'm a lifelong Virginian and a proud graduate of VMI Class of 1980. Transferring governance from the current VMI BOV to the BOV of Virginia State University does not make sense and would be detrimental to both schools. It would distract the Board of VSU from its main, purposeful focus and would be unfair to have a VMI managed by a totally new group without any carryover experience. The current VMI BOV members have all been selected by the Governor of Virginia and been approved by Virginia Legislature. Virginians are overwhelmingly proud of VMI and its unique purpose and achievements.

I am writing as a parent of a cadet at Virginia Military Institute and a lifelong resident of Virginia. I am opposed to bill HB1377 and HB1374 and respectfully ask that you reject both of these proposals. Under the leadership of Superintendent Maj. Gen. Wins and now, Lt. Gen. Furness, VMI has worked hard to reform policies and assuredly address concerns of racism and sexism. The Institute has modified practices and ended traditions that were inappropriate and at odds with a modern and diverse world-class military institute. Those efforts are not only to satisfy the General Assembly, but to assure that VMI remains an outstanding military college with a wonderfully diverse corps of young men and women. Our son chose VMI for its esteemed Civil Engineering program and for his interest in military history. We toured the college and were greatly impressed by everything about VMI. As a family, we prayerfully considered other offers our son received from colleges across Virginia. But VMI won our hearts. There was simply no comparison among other schools. VMI is a standout and irreplaceable institution. There is an uncommon bond and camaraderie among cadets that cannot be manufactured or found on a more typical college campus. We've witnessed it during our visits to Post, and in spending time with our cadet and his Brother Rats. As did our son, each student accepted the extraordinary challenge of joining the rat line. This diverse group of young men and women trained and pressed on through grueling physical and mental challenges. Through this training, cadets form unbreakable bonds and become One Corps. Those bonds continue long after graduation and are the roots of lifelong friendship. Those bonds form the network of support for which VMI alumni are renowned. Time and history have shown that the practices and techniques VMI utilizes are proven to develop great character and discipline. Cadets become distinguished and exemplary soldiers and leaders in military and civil service. It would be a travesty to undermine and unravel its programs and cadet training by defunding it or placing it under the governance of any other college. I hope you value VMI's remarkable, and steady contribution to military and civil service and leadership in our nation. I am shocked by this proposal, My family is praying you will do what's right and acknowledge the undeniable strengths and uniqueness of VMI. This Institute has stellar faculty, staff, and volunteers across Post and the Lexington community. Lexington churches and businesses partner with VMI and serve cadets and families in countless ways. A hit to VMI is a hit to the people of the Lexington community and Rockbridge County who love and help take care of our cadets. They welcome us like family when we visit. Please, do not do this and inflict such a careless blow to the VMI community. Work with VMI's amazing leadership and staff, who work tirelessly in service to cadets and families. Please reject HB1377 and HB1374 Respectfully submitted, CP

I am opposed to placing the governance of the Virginia Military Institute under the board of Virginia State University. Such an action would jeopardize the unique and enduring missions of both institutions and weaken the focus of their respective oversight bodies. Both have deep and proud roots in the Commonwealth, and both demand the focused attention of the dedicated men and women appointed to their boards. Virginia has been a national and international leader in education since colonial times. Over the centuries, it has developed a range of educational institutions that offer different kinds of experiences to different kinds of students. Both VMI and VSU have provided hundreds of military officers to serve the United States, and both institutions should be permitted to continue that service to the nation through their distinctive, different ways. I am a 1973 VMI graduate who served 27 years in the US Army, working with or serving under officers from all sources of commissioning. Some were Virginia State University graduates, and they were easily the equal or better of any other officer. Doing anything like this bill proposes would diminish VSU’s ability to attract, retain, and graduate such men and women. I hope you will reconsider this bill and decide it does not advance the educational needs of Virginians or of the country as a whole. Michael Burke Lieutenant Colonel, US Army, retired

Madam Governor, Please let it be known that your attempt to devalue the Virginia Military Institute, it's current cadets and alumni and the overall experience that VMI provides, is not something that serves Virginians or Americans across our great country. As a VMI graduate and member of the class of 1981, I implore you to take a closer look at the the VMI experience and the excellent option it provides students who may be looking for something more than just a academic diploma. The challenge that the VMI experience provides is simply different than that of other regional universities. Shouldn't Virginia offer your constituants a diverse set of options for growth and development; or should every educational option in Virginia be watered down to look exactly the same? Virginians deserve more. Virginians and Americans across this great country deserve something better. Give VMI the support that it needs to continue it's proud tradition of creating and shaping American leadership across Virginia and the world. Best regards, John L. Reed

I strongly oppose House Bill 1374. The Virginia Military Institute is one of the greatest schools in Virginia and its graduates are viewed in that eye across the state. While we recognize there is room for improvement, dissolving the Board of Visitors is only going to weaken VMI's position to improve itself. I can say with firsthand knowledge as a 2002 graduate of VMI and the father of a current third classmen, VMI is not the same school it was 25 years ago. It is a positive atmosphere that teaches values that are largely lacking in today's society. Moving forward with the provisions of House Bill 1374 would be a mistake for Virginia and its citizens.

I respectfully ask that you oppose this bill. As an alumnus of VMI this bill will fundamentally change the culture at the school. The mission of VMI is to provide the citizens of this state and nation with honorable and service driven men and women. Please oppose this bill.

I strongly oppose House Bill 1374 and urge the House Education Committee to reject this proposal. HB 1374 would fundamentally alter the governance of the Virginia Military Institute in a manner that is unnecessary, disruptive, and harmful to its mission. VMI’s distinctive role in preparing graduates for both military service and civilian leadership requires governance that is fully aligned with that dual purpose. VMI is not a conventional public university. Its military system, honor code, and residential leadership model are designed to develop leaders of character—individuals prepared to assume responsibility in the armed forces, in government, in industry, and in their communities. The Board of Visitors provides mission-aligned oversight that understands this balance and ensures that academic rigor, leadership development, and ethical formation remain fully integrated. VMI’s effectiveness in producing honorable military officers and capable civilian leaders is directly tied to its governance structure. Transferring authority to an external board with a different institutional mission risks diluting accountability and weakening the clarity of purpose that has defined VMI’s success for generations. Effective governance depends on mission alignment, especially for an institution charged with preparing leaders for positions of profound responsibility. Concerns regarding campus culture or conduct should be addressed through leadership, oversight, and continuous improvement—not by dismantling a governance model that has enabled VMI to serve Virginia and the nation so effectively. The Superintendent and Board have clearly stated that harassment and uncivil behavior are incompatible with VMI’s values and will not be tolerated. As a VMI graduate, I have seen firsthand how this governance structure supports the Institute’s mission. The leadership system overseen by the Board prepared me for service as a naval officer and for leadership roles in civilian industry and academia. That consistency of mission—from cadet life to professional service—is not accidental; it is the result of focused, mission-aligned oversight. VMI graduates have long served the Commonwealth with distinction—on the battlefield, in public office, in engineering and industry, in education, and in local communities. Preserving a governance structure that understands and protects this mission is essential. I respectfully urge the committee to oppose HB 1374 and allow VMI to continue fulfilling its vital role in forming leaders of honor for both military and civilian service.

I’m writing to respectfully ask that you vote no on the proposed House bill HB1374. Here’s why Virginia Military Institute is special to us: We followed our nephew, Cole, throughout his four years at VMI, which included his first year in 2020—the “COVID” year. I would spend countless hours browsing the VMI Flickr page to catch a glimpse of him on the Rat Line and learned what being a VMI Cadet involved. We cheered him from the sidelines at the parade field and baseball field. The stories he shared about his time there, though tough, were also quite funny. He and his fellow cadets and teammates genuinely formed a remarkable bond. In fact, his upcoming wedding party is mostly made up of VMI alumni. The pride I felt watching him grow over those four years was truly overwhelming. He NEEDED VMI—the structure, the brotherhood, the discipline, and everything VMI offered. When Cole committed to VMI, our son Gabe dismissed any notion of following in his cousin’s footsteps. Gabe, an only child, has always looked up to Cole, who acts more like a big brother. A type 1 diabetic since age nine, Gabe understood that the military guidelines at VMI would prevent his acceptance. In the summer before his senior year, VMI baseball reached out to Gabe and arranged a visit. He knew VMI was his first choice, but it was a process to get admitted and prove he could handle it physically. Months later, thanks to efforts from Cole, VMI baseball, Gabe’s doctor, the post infirmary, and the VMI Commandant’s and Superintendent’s support, Gabe received the call that he was admitted and offered an athletic scholarship. VMI wasn’t required to put in such efforts to admit the first Type 1 diabetic, but they did. The environment at VMI is tough, demanding, and challenging, but he welcomes every adversity to demonstrate his strength and resilience. Gabe has always thrived in disciplined environments. He chose VMI because of its discipline and core values. I believe he wouldn’t be as successful at any other school. Gabe completed the Rat Line just a few days ago and celebrated this achievement with his brother Rats and upperclassmen cadets. He is also doing very well academically, finishing his first semester — arguably the most difficult — with a 3.35 GPA. The discipline, work ethic, and integrity instilled in cadets are unique to those who choose the extraordinary path of studying at VMI, and the characteristics fostered at VMI produce outstanding citizens not found in typical colleges. Those unfamiliar with VMI might not recognize the value. When visiting Post, you will see the camaraderie among cadets, be greeted by respectful, polite young men and women, and witness the impressive discipline and hard work the corps puts in every day. There are many more stories from others that VMI has benefited, affected, trained, taught, and ultimately guided to become service-minded, respectful, resilient, and respected individuals. Like so many others, we are a proud VMI family. Please don’t deny my son the opportunity to wear his cousin’s #9 jersey and proudly be called a VMI alumnus.

in regards to HB1374, the Board of Visitors for VMI was established in 1839 and has provided guidance and governance successfully since that time. It makes zero since to have this Governance of one of eight senior military colleges in the United States to a HBCU that knows nothing about military Institutes or running one. Over 50% of these young men and women commission every year into the armed forces. leave the governance of this institution to the Board that has successfully operated since 1839. thank you.

Please oppose HB 1374 in its proposed format. As the parent of a 3rd class cadet at VMI, we will be negatively impacted by this proposal in its current format. I am concerned specifically with regards to the strike-through of Virginia Military Institute in § 23.1-907 paragraph J, &, most importantly, the amendments of Chapter 27, Articles 1 & 2, & all paragraphs contained therein. This proposal is detrimental to the needs & missions of both Virginia State University (VSU) & Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Out of 39 public universities and colleges in the Commonwealth, only VMI is being identified as having its governing board dissolved, & this bill provides no explanation, motivation, or justification for this. Further, it is being proposed that the governing board of VSU, a college that is over two and a half hours away from VMI, and with wholly different vision & mission is to assume governance of the Institute, again, with no explanation, motivation, or justification given. This proposal is not only deleterious to VMI, but is perhaps even more deleterious to VSU. The University is a historically black university, the first of its kind to be fully publicly funded by the Commonwealth. VSU has a unique mission & is a jewel in the crown of the Commonwealth's higher educational system. The Institute is one of only six federally recognized senior military colleges in the nation. VMI, too, has a unique mission and is also a jewel in the crown of the Commonwealth's higher educational system. While these two universities may have some overlap in their missions, their unique characters require entirely different visions. Both universities will suffer by having VSU's Board govern both. Many are the challenges that face higher education, & for the health and success of an institution, it is imperative that the members of the board have a firm handle on & familiarity with the needs of the students, faculty, & community. It would distract the governing board of VSU from achieving its own mission to have to acquaint itself with the needs of VMI. Incredibly talented & qualified candidates for the board for VSU who could steer it into achieving its mission could find themselves unqualified because they would also lack the military background & expertise essential to governing VMI. How could the VSU board be intimately familiar with the needs of the cadets, military staff, faculty, & community of VMI without taking away from their time & focus on VSU. They would be stretched thin, with travel, research, & communication. How can they appreciate the complexities of the financial needs of a military institute without immersing themselves there? If they did provide VMI the attention it needs, how can they provide VSU the attention it deserves? This proposal is a raw deal for both VSU & VMI. It is harmful to students at VSU who will be neglected by its board's distraction & absence, & it is harmful to VMI because it denies them the opportunity afforded to all 38 other Virginia universities to be governed by its own board. This would surely damage both institutions, which damages the Commonwealth. People like my son come from across the nation & countless countries to receive the top-notch unique military education at VMI, & deserve to have their own governance, just like the students at VSU, who come from all over the commonwealth, every state, & worldwide to receive the student-centered education at VSU. Thanks for opposing HB 1374.

Dear Members of the House Education Committee, Opposition to HB 1374 – Preserve VMI’s Independent Board of Visitors I respectfully oppose House Bill 1374, which would dissolve the Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors and place governance under another university’s board. Such a move would threaten the independence that allows VMI to maintain its highly specialized mission of developing citizen soldiers grounded in honor, discipline, and public service. My son, now a Fourth Classman (Freshman), has thrived within this distinctive environment. The leadership development, accountability, and sense of purpose he has gained through VMI’s self-governed system are what make it so effective. I have watched his growth in awe during his time in the Rat Line which just concluded with Breakout this past week. The current Board of Visitors—composed of dedicated alumni, educators, and civic leaders—understands these traditions and responsibilities deeply. I understand that as an Out-of-State parent I don’t carry any weight in this vote/fight but I also thought I offer a unique perspective which is why I am writing to you. VMI attracted my son from South Florida for all the reasons stated above. Please allow VMI to continue under its established governance structure so it can preserve the standards, traditions, and outcomes that make it a national model of leadership education. Sincerely, Michael Miraglia Pinecrest, Florida Parent of Leonard Miraglia, VMI Class of 2029

Dear Members of the House Education Committee, I am writing as a Virginia resident and as someone deeply involved in the lives of VMI cadets through community mentorship and faith-based leadership education. For more than a decade, my family has served as a host family for VMI cadets, and my husband teaches a weekly Bible-based Sunday School class focused on leadership, ethics, and navigating current events. Through this close, ongoing involvement, we have worked with cadets from a wide range of racial, cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. From my years of direct experience with cadets, I have observed firsthand how the Board of Visitors' independent governance has enabled thoughtful policy adaptations over the past decade. These changes—such as enhanced support for cadet well-being, greater emphasis on inclusive environments, and flexibility in addressing personal hardships—help today's cadets build resilience while upholding VMI's rigorous standards. Far from "softening" the experience, these policies support diverse cadets in thriving under the institute's demanding military, academic, and honor systems, producing well-rounded citizen-leaders. Any shift in oversight away from this dedicated, mission-focused board risks disrupting these effective systems that currently serve cadets so well and contribute to their personal and professional development. Speaking from the perspective of someone who witnesses the human outcomes of this institution every week, I firmly believe that VMI’s independent governance is vital to its continued success. For these reasons, I respectfully oppose HB 1374 and urge you to preserve VMI’s current governance structure. Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter.

My Name is Seth Enterline. I am a 2006 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute. I am blessed to have married my high school sweetheart Jamie and we have 2 children. I currently live in GA, but still consider myself a lifelong Virginian. I am a 19 year Army Veteran and an Orthopedic Trauma Physician Assistant at a level one trauma center here in North GA. Outside of my faith I believe that VMI has been a guiding light in my life. Through its unique mission, vision and history it has filled me with passion and a purpose to serve in all aspects of my life. I feel that this embodiment of service that VMI provides will be obstructed through passing governance to another institution. Self governance holds leaders accountable, brings pride and forces sustainable change. I have seen the negative impact of allowing a unique state military college, the University of North GA, to be governed by a larger state education governance. In North GA the University of North GA has in some part lost what made it unique. While it may make more money, there are multiple campuses where much of the student body doesn’t even recognize that their university is one of the six senior military colleges in this country. I have had the privilege of deploying to support front line Warriors through providing medical care 5 times now. My life has been devoted to service to my family and others. This started with a unique spartan experience at VMI, that can only be appreciated and maintained through self governance.

To Whom it May Concern, I am 1LT David A. Fiorillo. I am currently stationed overseas with the United States Army. I received my education and commission from The Virginia Military Institute (VMI). The Institute is second to none in its ability to grow and develop the leaders of this nation. The integrity and honor it cultivates in the Corps of Cadets is unmatched, allowing the future leaders of this nation to uphold those same values in their respective positions. I have found myself in many strenuous situations where, had I not possessed the experience and fortitude VMI instilled in me, I surely would have failed. This background of high honor and integrity has helped me empower the Soldiers and families under my leadership, allowing them to remain strong and unified while stationed overseas, where issues can be exacerbated. In short, the Virginia Military Institute needs to remain its own governing body, as delegated under Article VII of the Virginia Constitution, to continue allowing this great institution to determine its own destiny. I implore whoever reads this to research VMI's contributions to this nation and the leaders it has produced. Very Respectfully, 1LT David A. Fiorillo

My name is Sharon Tucker, and I am the proud mother of a Virginia Military Institute (VMI) cadet, who will be graduating in the Class of 2028. I write in opposition to HB 1374, which would dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors and place governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. VMI has been such a blessing to my son, and as his mother, to me as well. He is so happy there! The friends that he has made there will last a lifetime, and the mentorship program that they have (when my son was a first-year "Rat") provided my son with the sort of big brother that he never had (since my son is an only child). Perhaps most importantly of all, it has helped to build such character, integrity, and discipline in him. He so often talks about VMI's "Honor Code," and he takes it very seriously. And I have no doubt that even after he leaves VMI, the lessons that he learned from following the school's Honor Code will benefit him enormously (not only in his future career endeavors, but in his personal relationships as well). However, aside from what my son has, and will continue to, gain personally from being a student at VMI, the man that he is becoming will benefit society as well. I truly believe that the gifts that he has to offer will be, in large part, attributable to his time at VMI. While that might seem like an exaggeration, if you could see what I see, you would believe it as well.

I oppose HB1374 regarding VMI’s governance. I can not identify a benefit to dissolving VMI’s Board of Visitors (BOV) only to place its governance under a BOV of another educational system. First of all, VMI is a unique and valuable institution that other educational institutions can not relate to. The VMI alumni who support the Corps of Cadets and the BOV sustain their support of the institute because they know the high caliber of graduates that VMI prepares and ultimately places in our armed forces and our communities. Pulling the BOV from VMI and placing it under the umbrella of another educational system may cause a reluctance of alumni to continue their support of the Cadets out of a fear that their resources normally received by VMI would go to an unintended and unfamiliar educational system. If I am being completely transparent, the idea of dissolving VMI’s BOV seems more of a punitive intent rather than a step in any positive direction for the institute and supportive of the entire Corps of Cadets. Placing the BOV under a different educational program displaces VMI’s governance, disrupts support for the entire Corps of Cadets, potentially takes away financial support specifically provided to support VMI and ultimately negatively impacts all cadets regardless of race, gender, sex or nationality. A BOV of any academic system holds a great deal of responsibility and having a BOV over VMI from any other institution not directly connected to the institute seems irresponsible and potentially damaging to the integrity and well being of the Corps of Cadets.

I am writing in opposition to HB1374. I offer my perspective as a parent of a current cadet at the VMI. Our son chose to attend VMI over multiple other college acceptances because he sought an education defined by rigor, discipline, and personal accountability—not merely the pursuit of a degree. He wanted the challenge of becoming the best person and citizen he can be, and believes VMI’s environment will prepare him for a life of service and leadership. VMI is intentionally demanding. It requires cadets to prioritize their responsibilities, manage adversity, and maintain high standards every day. Cadets who choose VMI, choose the “Don’t Do Ordinary” path because they know this environment will test them in ways that more traditional colleges would not. In observing our son’s friends and peers at other colleges, I have seen how easy it can be for them to drift without structure, clear priorities, or a defined plan after graduation. VMI does not permit that. It instills purpose, discipline, leadership, and accountability—qualities that are incredibly valuable in both military and civilian life. Our son intends to commission in the United States Navy upon graduation. He is pursuing this path motivated by a commitment to service to our country. The experiences he’s had thus far at VMI have already strengthened his character, sharpened his focus, and reinforced his sense of duty in ways that I believe will certainly prepare him to lead responsibly as a naval officer. VMI is not intended to be the right choice for every student, nor should it be. Its value lies precisely in its distinctive mission and demanding environment. HB 1374 risks weakening that mission by introducing governance instability without clear evidence that such measures are necessary. Without fail, every recent VMI graduate I have met is poised, confident, and mature, and I have personally witnessed remarkable transformations from Rat Line to graduation. Nowhere else in Virginia have I seen a college consistently producing this caliber of graduates across the board. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the General Assembly to oppose HB 1374 and to allow the Virginia Military Institute to continue fulfilling its longstanding role in developing leaders of character and preparing principled graduates who serve the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation. Respectfully submitted,

I do NOT stand with HB1374. It would be a disgrace to transfer the Board of Visitors from VMI to VSU. VMI has a 60% commision into the Armed Forces. Does VSU commsion any officers into the Armed Forces? Also, VMI has a 186-year storied history as well. I personally know several people who attend VMI, and they chose to attend VMI because of the rigorous academics, the small school size, they enjoy not being Ordinary and being different than their peers, and taking the hard road, while most of their peers chose regular schools to attend and not have the high title of being VMI students and being VMI alumni when they graduate. It would be a disgrace to the state of Virginia if this bill passes. I do NOT Stand with Bill HB1374. Respectfully, Joseph St.John

Transferring the governance of VMI (my alma mater) to VSU would be like transferring the governance of the Virginia House of Delegates to the Virginia Senate. Naturally, neither transfer would work. Just as Virginia's Senate and House are structured and function differently, so too are VMI and VSU. I respectfully ask all committee House members to vote against HB 1374 (and HB 1377).

I am writing to you today to stand in opposition to HB 1374 to shift leadership of VMI to another body other than the VMI Board of Visitors. As a 1982 graduate of VMI I have had a military and professional lifetime of seeing the impact that VMI has had on me and on my fellow alumni. I arrived at VMI an 18 year old kid who thought he wanted to be an engineer and serve his country in the Army! The next 4 years prepared me in ways that I cannot imagine having been able to accomplish anywhere and anyway else. It was hard. Just hard! But I learned how to overcome obstacles not of my making, as well as obstacles of my own doing! It was hard. But while it was not always a pleasant situation to be in... I learned that that 18 year old kid could overcome and adapt to any situation... and succeed. That there was no barrier too tall or wide or deep that could not be dealt with. That continues to this day as I navigate the world of manufacturing and construction! Now there are 2 worlds that take a lot of intestinal fortitude in which to thrive! I know where I got that fortitude- it was at VMI. Please vot to preserve that institution for generations to come. We need it. Thank you.

I am writing to strongly urge you to oppose House Bill 1374, which seeks to dissolve the Board of Visitors of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and transfer its governance to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University (VSU). While I respect the educational mission of VSU as a public historically Black land-grant university, placing VMI under the control of a separate institution’s board is structurally unsound and detrimental to VMI’s unique mission. VMI is a 186-year-old institution with a specialized military-structure pedagogy that differs significantly from traditional public universities. The 2024-2025 statistical data highlights these distinct differences: Mission & Culture: VMI is a 100% residential military college where all cadets participate in ROTC and live under a strict honor code. VSU operates as a traditional, comprehensive public university. Scale & Faculty Ratio: VMI has an intimate, small-scale academic environment, with roughly 1,500 cadets and a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. VSU is a larger institution with over 5,000 undergraduates. Admissions & Student Profile: VMI’s applicant profile requires a specialized, competitive selection process suited for a military lifestyle, differing from VSU’s mission as a comprehensive state institution. Forcing a governance structure, 163 miles away in Petersburg, that is not intimately familiar with the daily rigors of a military academy will inevitably damage the specific, "strict military structure" the bill ironically claims to preserve. VMI’s Board of Visitors is best positioned to maintain the school's specialized, nationally ranked, liberal arts military education. I urge you to reject this unnecessary disruption of a storied Virginia institution and vote against HB1374.

As a 2014 graduate of VMI and a 2020 graduate of VSU, I write in respectful opposition to this bill. VMI has been a long standing institution credited with producing great military and foreign policy leaders like Secretary of Defense and State George Marshall, CJCS General Caine, Ambassador Waltz, Air Force Chief of Staff General Jumper, CENTCOM Commander General Peay, Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy, and so many more.  VMI has done exceptionally well with governing itself and moving the institution into the 21st Century. VSU is also an excellent institution; I went there to earn my Masters degree in Economics. However, VSU does not specialize in providing and administering a comprehensive military education. Another practical problem with this bill is that VSU is nearly 3hours away from VMI, so how is VSU going to run this institution from afar.  I ask for your reconsideration and please do not vote in favor of HB1374.  

Each school brings diversity in education to 4-year public colleges in Virginia. As such, each school should be governed by their respective Board of Visitors. Thus, this bill should not be passed.

You are out of your mind. VMI has an extreme high educational and military acceptance rate and creates some of the finest citizen soldiers the military will ever see. It’s over 150+ years of solid acceptance & graduates and you wanna tear it apart to give to a cheap, poor school; not even affiliated with VMI. It’s horrific!

Please vote NO to HB 1374. VMI is a unique military college and putting them under the the governance of VSU or any other college's board of visitors is simply a power play. The constituents of Virginia see this for what it is.

Mr. Regan’s Molly and I are parents of a current Virginia Military Institute Cadet. He just broke out on Saturday and earned (never given) his cadetship. The pride he felt in his growth mentally , physically, and academically was nothing short of extraordinary. VMI is known for turning out honorable and disciplined leaders in both the military and private industry. Our son, Jack, chose to go to VMI because he did not want to go to any ordinary college. His goal is to commission in the United States Navy and serve our country. The value the Virginia Military Institute provides is undoubtedly shown in the honor and discipline of its graduates. No other college or university in the state has done or could do what VMI does. As parents of an honorable and disciplined young man, we ask you to please not let this Institution become ordinary. Respectfully, George and Molly Christ 14922 Cedar Creek Hills Ct Montpelier, Va 23192

This bill should be opposed by the GA. This bill is overly selective and hypocrital because the Boards of UVA and George Mason University, both of which experienced far greater political intrigue than VMI, are not included. Dissolving the Boards of UVA and GMU and transferring all Board matters for UVA and GMU to the Board of Virginia State University must be included in an amended version of this bill.

I respectfully oppose HB 1374. Simply put - shifting the Institute's governance from its own board of visitors to that of another school would harm the Institute, its students, and its future students. Thank you, Henry Meredith, VMI Class of 2015

I strongly oppose this bill. VMI is far too unique to be outsourced like this. It’s military values do not align with the mission of VSU. Both missions are equally important but they are mutually exclusive of one another. Outsourcing this board to VSU would lose the mission of VMI since it opened its doors. We do not need two of the same universities. Their differences help provide many important facets in higher education and having VSU manage VMI would dilute the very differences that make them both impactful in their own ways.

Please kill this bill in committee. The dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors will do nothing to improve educational opportunities at VMI. The mission of Virginia State is very different from the mission of VMI. This bill is solely retribution for actions by the VMI Board of Visitors under pressure from the Trump and Youngkin administrations. With new leadership in Richmond, and new backbone to stand up for the VMI cadets while ignoring Washington, DC, any problem with the VMI Board of Visitors will go away. We need VMI. As a long time resident of the Commonwealth, I am proud of the strides VMI has made to embrace a future that is equitable to all while keeping expenses for earning a 4 year college degree low. We get our monies worth from VMI. Fix the VMI Board, don’t scrap it.

I strongly oppose HB1374. VMI is a unique institution that requires a dedicated governing body to oversee it. Outsourcing that role to the board of VSU would ultimately destroy the school.

I respectfully express my opposition to HB1374, which would place VMI's governance under a new Board of Visitors with significant mission-related differences to VMI. I believe the actions outlined in this bill would harm not only VMI, but the entire state of Virginia as well. VMI is a tremendous institution. As a recent VMI graduate, I found VMI to be a place where people from all different walks of life could come together under a common spirit of service, dedication, and excellence. Therefore, it is my hope that you take these words to heart when voting on VMI's future. Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback on HB1374.

As a proud graduate of the class of 1997 of the Virginia Military Institute, I would like you to vote NO on HB1374, Governance of the Virginia Military Institute. The Institute has produced proud and honorable citizen soldiers since its founding in 1839. You do not need a task force to determine their value; merely look at the leaders in the military, business, and government sectors. I ask you to visit the Institute and meet with the leaders in the Corps of Cadets, and you would understand the importance of their decision to attend and why they decided they "don't do ordinary."

As the parent of an out of state cadet that graduated in engineering in 2024, I oppose HB1374. When our son was looking at colleges across Virginia and other states, one of the first things that we noticed was that every person, cadet, staff, etc, all said hello as we walked around the campus on our own. This was THE MOST FRIENDLY AND POLITE schools we had visited. The honor and integrity really shined in every aspect of the school. The academics are fabulous and my son got a job almost immediately in Virginia. When employers meet cadets, they see the difference these cadets bring to their organizations right away. They are polite, dedicated, honorable and support VA and communities across the US and abroad. VMI has been a proud part of Virginia since its inception. An education at VMI is essential to our communities and should continue to operate and have its own leadership and trustees to guide it in the principles of tomorrow. Each Virginia college and university is unique with its history, culture, traditions, and value to students and communities. This allows each educational institution to bring its strengths and shine to each individual student. Each, rightly so, must have their own appointed members of their boards that is focused on safeguarding the unique strengths of each institution and ensuring the school maintains high standards. Again, I oppose HB1374.

VMI stands as one of the most consequential institutions in the history of the United States and unquestionably one of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s greatest assets. For generations, the Institute has forged leaders of extraordinary caliber—individuals whose integrity, discipline, and commitment to service have shaped both our state and our nation. Today, VMI continues to develop men and women of exceptional moral character, academic excellence, and unwavering dedication to public service at a level unmatched by any other college or university in Virginia. No academic institution is without imperfections, yet the recent politically motivated attacks on VMI’s character collapse under scrutiny—particularly when measured against its peers within Virginia and across the country. Any effort to defund or dismantle this storied institution would inflict profound and lasting harm on the Commonwealth and the nation. I urge all who value excellence, service, and the future of Virginia to reject this legislation and stand firmly with VMI. The Institute continues to outperform its counterparts in preparing principled, resilient leaders ready to meet the challenges of today and those yet to come.

Repealing VMIs board of visitors legal status is a blatantly punitive response to disagreement with some recent changes. VMI is difficult school to understand if you haven’t experienced it and the board of visitors at VSU will not have that understanding. This bill will cripple an institution that brought our nation and commonwealth citizen/soldiers like USAF Gen Jumper, civil rights activist Jonathan Daniels, Governor Northam, and many more. I recognize that VMI has had some missteps within its history, as do all institutions throughout the country as none are perfect. However, VMI is nationally ranked as #4 for liberal arts colleges and #1 for liberal arts programs with ROTC. In Virginia, VMI is #3 for college/university with highest alumni salary potential. No doubt, VMI is different and it is difficult - and we still need that. Removing their autonomy will irrevocably change that in ways that cannot anticipate but are likely to be to the detriment of the Institute and its cadets. Respectively, Zach Tharp VMI class of 2009

I am writing in strong opposition to this punitive partisan piece of garbage legislation. There is absolutely no logical basis for the idea of eliminating the VMI BOV and placing VMI under the governance of the VSU BOV. There is no time in the history of the Commonwealth where any school of higher education has been stripped of its BOV and placed under the governance of another school's BOV. Even in a case where a school may have fallen into severe academic or financial problems has this kind of action been taken. Certainly, a school that has the academic standards, performance, and stellar reputation of providing graduates who have contributed greatly to both the Commonwealth and the Nation like that of VMI would the thought of placing VMI under the governance of VSU not be viewed as just plain stupid. Unless of course the whole goal is to ruin the oldest and most respected Senior Military College in the United States then it is obviously just partisan politics and honor, integrity, and common sense be damned. Delegate Feggans should be ashamed of even giving this idea a thought given his 20 years of service in the USAF. He should at the very least pull this legislation from committee and if not, the committee should reject it unanimously.

I am a proud VMI Alumni (1985) and I wanted to take this opportunity to share with the committee how my VMI experience had a huge impact on me and my life, and how not a day goes by that I don't rely on the skills and life lessons VMI taught me, and where I get to network with VMI aquaintences, both personal and professional that live and work in the State where they went to college. I can say without a doubt some of the best friends I have in this world are from the relationships I made at VMI during the four years I was there. I believe this to be true for the many VMI men that I know and we all look back on those years at VMI with such fond memories and many life long friends. VMI is not the easiest place to go to college when you factor in the military training, the academics and extracurricular activities (sports) and not everyone that matriculates decides to stay and graduate. But whether you are there for one year or four years their system of providing an awesome education, unique opportunities for cadets to play on Division 1 sports teams and other extracurricular activities, while in a disciplined military setting. Very similar to the US Military Academies. The close relationships you make at VMI help you get through the tough parts of the VMI experience (freshman Rat Line, rigorous academic and miltary training schedules and strict disciplinary and honor systems). These relationships I believe made me a better person and better friend. You learn humility, respect, honoe, compassion, gratefulness and above all you do not lie, cheat or steal or tolerate those who do. I have tried to live my life using the lessons I learned and I am proud to say I lay my head down every night and give thanks for the things I have been blessed to have in my life but I can also sleep easier knowing that I treat people like I would like to be treated and that I will always approach every situation in the right and honorable way whether someone is looking or not. Professionally VMI taught me many leadership and life lessons that I firmly believe has helped me achieve what I would consider professional success for me and my family. Most every day at VMI we did not have time to lay around and not do much. Each day you had to learn to get up with a purpose because VMI had your day packed with academic, military and extracurricular activities. You had to learn if you didn't succeed the first time you learned from your mistakes and you tried again until you succedded. You learned, because VMI demanded so much of your time, that you had to work harder than anyone else to be sure you achieved your goal. And lastly the military environment we were in required you to take on responsibility by serving in some of the military rank positions in the corps of cadets. It is lessons like these that helped my career. I developed a strong work ethic, was very determined, knew how to lead people, and conducted my professional career treating people honorably and respectfully.

Good Afternoon, I'm a proud mom of William Longacher, class of 2024 VMI. He is now serving in the USCG Cutter Seneca. VMI transformed him into the man he is today. It's a very unique school and not for everybody but that's what makes it special. It does have a very diverse student body and the cadets respect and look out for one another. I do not understand why it would be even considered to fall under the supervision of another school. The school, faculty, and students govern just fine and if the rules are violated, proper consequences follow. I have 4 children, 3 of which attend or attended VA schools. VMI is by far has the most school spirited alumni who look out for one another. Please do not destroy this gem of a school. VMI is a special place that served my son and his fellow classmates and made them into the fine men and women they are today. Virginia should be proud to have such a fine institution turning out upstanding men and women. Thank you for your time. Proud VMI Mom, Amy Longacher

To whom it may concern, I am writing to oppose HB1377 and HB 1374. VMI is a academically strong school which produces young women and men of integrity . It provides strong leaders for our nation and the State of Virginia. I do not see the logic to these bills. Thank you for your consideration

-HB 1374 bill correction to my testimony previously- I write you as a Navy Veteran, and proud parent of a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, I am writing to express my strong opposition to bill HB1374. My son's journey at VMI has been transformative, and it is crucial to highlight the immense value this institution brings to its cadets and, consequently, to our society. VMI is not just a college; it is a crucible where young men and women are forged into future leaders. The rigorous academic and military training instills in them not only intelligence and discipline but also the moral fortitude necessary to lead with integrity. At VMI, my son has developed key qualities such as resilience, accountability, and a sense of duty—traits that are essential in today's world. The changes my son has undergone during his time at VMI have been remarkable. He has gained confidence, honed his leadership skills, and embraced values that will guide him throughout his life. The mentorship from esteemed faculty and the camaraderie among cadets foster an environment where excellence is not just encouraged but expected. I implore you to consider the long-term repercussions of these bills. Diminishing the foundational principles upon which VMI stands would not only impact the cadets but also our military and society as a whole. Future leaders must be equipped with the grit and ethical grounding that VMI so effectively provides. In conclusion, I stand in strong support of the Virginia Military Institute and urge you to oppose HB1374. The future leaders shaped within its walls are vital to upholding the morals and values that our society holds dear. Thank you for your consideration. Very Respectfully, Kelly Freel 757-600-9394 Parent of Cadet: Andrew Lindquist

I am a 1966 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Originally from California, I traveled cross country by train from Los Angeles to Roanoke in 1962 to attend VMI - sight unseen. I have never for a moment regretted my college selection. VMI gave me everything I hoped to find in my college experience - a superb education, demanding physical development, and emotional resilience shaped by an Honor System I have cherished all my life. I went on to serve almost 30 years as an officer in the US Army, with assignments in Germany, Korea and combat in Vietnam. I am very aware of the scrutiny under which VMI has fallen - some of it quite deserved, but I believe with all my heart that VMI has become a better institution as a result. While I was disappointed in the Board of Visitors for not renewing General Wins' contract, there is a new Board now and a new Superintendent. Let them do their work and monitor their progress. VMI is a unique national institution that is a credit to the Commonwealth. We are all struggling with the partisan divide and culture wars in which our country is presently immersed. VMI has made great progress negotiating these troubled waters. Give the new Board and the new Superintendent a chance to finish the job. The country needs men and women of honor, grit and selflessness perhaps now more than ever. VMI has always produced graduates with these qualities. It is essential to the Commonwealth and the Nation that they be allowed to continue.

I write you as a Navy Veteran, and proud parent of a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, I am writing to express my strong opposition to bill HB1377. My son's journey at VMI has been transformative, and it is crucial to highlight the immense value this institution brings to its cadets and, consequently, to our society. VMI is not just a college; it is a crucible where young men and women are forged into future leaders. The rigorous academic and military training instills in them not only intelligence and discipline but also the moral fortitude necessary to lead with integrity. At VMI, my son has developed key qualities such as resilience, accountability, and a sense of duty—traits that are essential in today's world. The changes my son has undergone during his time at VMI have been remarkable. He has gained confidence, honed his leadership skills, and embraced values that will guide him throughout his life. The mentorship from esteemed faculty and the camaraderie among cadets foster an environment where excellence is not just encouraged but expected. I implore you to consider the long-term repercussions of these bills. Diminishing the foundational principles upon which VMI stands would not only impact the cadets but also our military and society as a whole. Future leaders must be equipped with the grit and ethical grounding that VMI so effectively provides. In conclusion, I stand in strong support of the Virginia Military Institute and urge you to oppose HB1377. The future leaders shaped within its walls are vital to upholding the morals and values that our society holds dear. Thank you for your consideration. Very Respectfully, Kelly Freel 757-600-9394 Parent of Cadet: Andrew Lindquist

In all questions touching public education, prudence counsels that we proceed by reason, not by resentment; by measured reform, not by sudden transposition. A college is not governed well by novelty alone, but by a steady accountability fitted to its particular ends. VMI, whatever its defects or controversies, is by law and tradition a distinct institution with a peculiar discipline and a singular charge—one which requires close, undivided attention and governance framed for its mission.  To transfer that charge wholesale to the Visitors of another university—whose own obligations are already weighty—risks diminishing the oversight of both, not improving either. Such an arrangement may also invite perpetual contest, for it unites under one board two institutions of different history, constituency, and practical administration, thereby multiplying distractions where unity of purpose is most required. If the General Assembly concludes that VMI’s governance has fallen short of the Commonwealth’s expectations, the remedy most consonant with republican good order is plain: refine the institute’s own governance—its composition, its standards of conduct, its transparency, and its checks—rather than dissolve it and append its authority to another body. Reform should be direct, proportional, and intelligible to the public, so that responsibility may be clearly traced and faithfully enforced. With due respect to Virginia State University—an institution of great public value—this bill would place upon its Visitors an additional stewardship not naturally incident to their present trust. Such a burden, imposed without the consent of those governed and without a demonstrated administrative necessity, seems to me an experiment of doubtful issue. I therefore urge the Committee to withhold this bill, and instead to pursue any needed accountability at VMI through targeted, institution-specific measures that strengthen oversight without confusing it.

To the Virginia House of Delegates Education Committee Kindly consider my personal experiences as a VMI cadet and 1980 alumni as you deliberate HB1374, which I respectfully oppose. The Institute continues to develop graduates over 186 years in all fields of endeavor, military, business, sports, religious leaders serving their communities, our Nation and even abroad in conflicts and peacetime (Gen. Marshall plan, Peace Prize recipient 1953). This must be allowed to continue as a service to our State with appropriate oversight by VMI staff, Board of Visitors and the Legislature. In 1976 I chose the more difficult path of VMI over the larger land grant universities in the State. Partly for financial reasons, as VMI’s tuition was lower and an ROTC scholarship helped my family to defray 50% of the expenses. My performing lawn work, paper route, and after school mall job just did supplement my parent’s savings for tuition even then. Having talked with Richmond alums I felt the structured living environment would keep me on the straight and narrow path. The big schools would have been fun, perhaps at the distraction of academics. Allow me to share just one personal experience how the culture of VMI helped me through my cadet years and decades hence. “VMI takes care of its own” My freshman (Rat) year at Thanksgiving break I suffered a broken leg in a car accident at home. After surgery my first question, they tell me, to the surgeon was when could I return to school, finish the term and exams. I wasn’t able to walk until January. I was not deterred. My father drove to Lexington and meeting the Chemistry dept. chair, he asked about my academics. Colonel Smart said not to worry. VMI takes care of its own. He had already assembled assignments from all my professors and my books were on the desk brought by a cadet orderly. I finished my semester from St. Mary’s hospital bed. After Christmas day, we accepted the Colonel’s hospitality to stay in his house on Post, where I took a final exam daily to complete the semester. Colonel Smart delivered me to barracks when the Corps returned, crutches in hand, and I hobbled to classes and meals over the spring semester. I was not going to be deterred from being with my Brother Rats and all that the first year had in store for us. Four years later in 1976, I was selected a cadet captain and then graduated with a BS in Chemistry. I am 68 years old and this was a difficult period in my life to recall and share even today. Surely I would have lost a first year of college elsewhere, if not for the good graces of a small college, of professors who knew each cadet well, and an institutional ethos where they develop and look after their own. It means everything to push yourself further than you thought you could go, academically, physically, mentally. My VMI experience gave me confidence to face challenges every day afterwards in my business life or raising and supporting a family and community. I urge you to consider the 186 years legacy of unique cadet education and Institute service to our Commonwealth and continue as a Legislature to support VMI fully. Respectfully, Stephen M. Andrews, PhD

I am submitting this comment in opposition to the House Bill 1377. I believe VMI above all others in the Commonwealth provides the most egalitarian environment in which all who accept its challenges have the opportunity to grow both academically as well in leadership skills. Moreover, this institution arguably provides its cadets the best "value add" for their money of any school in the state of Virginia. It is the most challenging school in the state, but is the most rewarding. VMI has represented in the past and for years to come, an amazing return on investment for the Commonwealth.

I am writing to express my opposition to HB 1374. I do not understand why this is even being considered as an option. What credentials does VSU have to make them the representatives of the BOV for VMI? VMI already operates under significant oversight and has demonstrated its willingness to examine and make changes for improvement in its practices. I am a concerned parent of a current student at VMI. My child chose VMI fully aware of its rigorous academic expectations, demanding military structure and emphasis on discipline, leadership and personal responsibility. I entrusted VMI with my child’s education because of its proven record, its clear mission and the specialized governing structure necessary for a military college. VMI is not the right choice for every student. It’s not the right choice for most students but for those that choose it, it offers an exceptional education built on accountability, resilience and service. Again, I would ask what is your intention with this change in the structure of the Board of Visitors? I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1374 and to support policies that strengthen this institution. Thank you for your time and consideration.

As an alumnus, I am writing to express my firm opposition to HB 1374. This legislation, which seeks to dissolve the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors and transfer governance to Virginia State University, fundamentally misapprehends the unique requirements of a military college. VMI’s mission is built upon the "Citizen-Soldier" philosophy—a specialized educational model that produces leaders prepared for the highest levels of both military and civil service. This mission requires a governing board with deep, specialized knowledge of military education, the Honor Code, and the unique administrative needs of a corps of cadets. The idea of the “Citizen-Soldier” and the idea of service above self were the reasons I personally decided to service on active duty within the United States Navy. I never intended to join the US Armed Forces but because of the values instilled by VMI, I answered the call to service. VMI has provided the Commonwealth with an unmatched return on investment. Its alumni serve as the backbone of our local governments, as civil engineers, and as officers in the Armed Forces who protect our national security. To place this institution under the oversight of a board with a fundamentally different mission—regardless of that board’s own merits—risks eroding the very discipline and tradition that makes a VMI degree valuable. I urge the committee to protect VMI’s institutional independence and report "No" on HB 1374.

I strongly oppose HB1374 that would dissolve VMI's Board of Visitors (BOV) and assign governance of VMI to the BOV of Virginia State University. It would make absolutely no sense to do so. Just as it wouldn't make sense to place Virginia Tech under UVA's BOV or vice versa, or JMU under Old Dominion's board or vice versa, and so on. Each college and university in Virginia is unique with its own history, culture, traditions, and value to the commonwealth. Having so many varied colleges and universities is one of Virginia's greatest strengths. Each has duly appointed members of their BOV that is focused on safeguarding the unique strengths of each institution and ensuring the school maintains its high standards and value to Virginians. With so many excellent choices, our youth have a broad opportunity to find their niche that aligns with their desires for higher education. If Delegate Feggans or anyone else in elected office has an issue with how VMI is governed, or how any other college or university is governed, they should work within the commonwealth's existing legal and political structure to advocate for changes to the makeup of the school's governing body they believe are warranted. To align any college or university under a BOV of another school is impractical, counterproductive and would erode the very strength each institution provides our commonwealth.

Members of the House, I write to you as a 2022 graduate of VMI with a degree in Civil Engineering. Throughout high school, I was smart, but no doubt lazy student. Upon my first year at VMI I quickly learned that I would not be able to sleepwalk my way through college. I firmly believe that had I not had the structure that VMI offers, I would not have graduated. Through hard work and perseverance, I was able to graduate on time and get a wonderful job with a terrific company before I graduated. I do not believe that there is another school in this country that should be in charge of VMI. No other school knows how to do more with less than VMI. VMI has been able to run itself as an exemplary model of military education for 186 years, and although it made missteps in that time, as did our entire state and country, it has made the necessary changes to continue to exist as an independent institution for another 186 years. For evidence of the level of graduates that VMI produces, one only needs to look at the countries from around the world that send their future military leaders here for training. VMI is an asset to Lexington, Virginia, The United States, and the world. In Pace Decus, In Bello Praesidium.

I strongly oppose this measure and would like to advocate for it not being passed. VMI is on of if not the most unique public college in the state due to its rigorous academic, physical and lifestyle demands. In order for it to be properly ran and advocated for, the BOV must be made up of individuals familiar with the system and the unique challenges cadets face that those attending an ordinary 4 year school are not familiar with.

Dear Honorable Members of the Virginia General Assembly, I write in strong support of the Virginia Military Institute and in affirmation of keeping its Board of Visitors in Lexington, where VMI’s mission, culture, and accountability have been forged for generations. VMI is not merely a state-supported military college; it is a living institution of character, discipline, and unity. For nearly two centuries, it has brought together young men and women from different countries, states, backgrounds, and experiences. Every year, VMI takes a disparate group of teenagers and shapes them into one Corps—bound not by uniformity of origin, but by a shared commitment to honor, service, and excellence under the VMI regimen. That regimen is VMI’s great equalizer. It does not erase differences; it refines them into strength. Cadets arrive diverse in thought, geography, culture, and life experience, yet they graduate having learned to lead together, endure together, and serve something greater than themselves. This is inclusion with purpose—diversity forged through shared sacrifice and common standards. The Board of Visitors, historically based in Lexington, plays a critical role in preserving this balance. Its proximity to the Institute ensures informed governance, firsthand accountability, and continuity with VMI’s unique educational model. To remove or destabilize that connection during a time of national uncertainty would risk weakening the very structure that has allowed VMI to adapt while remaining faithful to its mission. History speaks powerfully here. VMI has educated leaders whose impact shaped not only Virginia, but the world. General of the Army George C. Marshall—architect of victory in World War II and namesake of the Marshall Plan—was a VMI graduate whose leadership reflected the Institute’s core values: integrity, selfless service, and moral courage. He is but one among countless military officers, public servants, engineers, educators, and civic leaders who have carried VMI’s lessons into every corner of our nation. Even though I was not able to serve in the military due to a sports injury, I still benefitted greatly from the VMI model of leadership. I have leaned on that training in every aspect of civilian life. I have been able to stand tall as a healthcare professional, leading and encouraging my colleagues through COVID and the resulting challenges. I have also thrived as a pastor of a small church, navigating the trials that come with that territory. I have also raised two daughters, passing integrity, tenacity, and strength on to them. In times of challenge, institutions of character should be strengthened, not unsettled. Supporting VMI and retaining its Board of Visitors in Lexington is not resistance to progress—it is confidence in a proven system that produces leaders of principle in an increasingly divided world. I respectfully request that you stand with Virginia Military Institute, its leadership, its cadets, and its mission. By doing so, you affirm Virginia’s commitment to unity, excellence, and the preparation of future leaders who understand that true diversity thrives when discipline, respect, and shared purpose lead the way. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration and continued service to the Commonwealth. Respectfully, Timothy L. Hayes VMI class of ‘91 VCU class of ’94, Pharmacy

I am submitting this comment in opposition to House Bill 1374, which proposes transferring governance of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University. I write as a VMI graduate and a constituent of the Commonwealth. VMI is a unique institution with a mission distinct from any other public university in Virginia. Its military structure, rigorous academic program, and emphasis on character development have produced generations of principled leaders who serve Virginia and the nation in countless ways. The Institute’s long-standing tradition of honor, discipline, and accountability is integral to its ability to develop these leaders. While it is important to recognize that parts of VMI’s history reflected values that no longer align with modern standards, that chapter has ended. The VMI of today prepares men and women for leadership through a demanding but supportive environment that fosters integrity, resilience, and service. Placing governance under a board whose mission is designed for a very different type of institution risks undermining VMI’s autonomy and unique purpose. I am concerned that HB 1374 would create unnecessary disruption, politicize the governance of an institution that has a proven track record, and send a message that diminishes VMI’s value to the Commonwealth. Efforts to restructure governance in this way risk weakening an institution that consistently produces leaders equipped to navigate complexity, uphold ethical standards, and serve with distinction. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Committee to oppose HB 1374 and to continue supporting VMI’s independent governance, which is essential for maintaining its mission, tradition, and the development of principled leaders for Virginia and the nation.

I firmly oppose Bill 1374, which proposes to dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors and transfer governance to the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. As an out-of-state parent, I have access to numerous excellent state schools in Pennsylvania that would have been a better fit for our bill. However, we chose VMI due to its unique focus on a strong military core of values. In addition, VMI has a higher graduation rate, retention rate, and better earnings outcome than a VSU graduate. It is crucial to recognize that VMI and VSU serve different purposes and have separate missions. Therefore, they should be governed separately. I have not heard of any similar legislation being proposed to other Virginia institutions. What is the purpose of dissolving VMI’s BOV? As a parent of a current cadet who recently completed the rat line, I am deeply impressed by the discipline and commitment of the cadet lifestyle. This discipline has positively impacted our son’s academic performance, leadership abilities, athletics, and the forming of unbreakable bonds with his brother rats. His maturity growth is truly remarkable! Please oppose this bill.

Dear Representatives, I am the wife of a Class of 2015 graduate of VMI and a graduate of a Virginia public university, UVA, myself. I have experienced the VMI community first as the partner of a current student then as the wife of a graduate. VMI is a wonderful and unique educational institution that provides an incredibly valuable experience that goes beyond the typical educational institution. The benefits of this VMI experience go well into the years beyond graduation. Stripping VMI of its own self governance by having another college's board in control would diminish these strengths and uniqueness. Do not take this statement of support for VMI, as ignoring or disregarding the serious allegations of racism that have come from recent investigations and the institutions historical ties to the Confederacy. My own university, like many institutions (educational or other types) located within the southern states have to reckon with their historical roots to slavery, the Confederacy, and the long term effects of systemic racism. There are many effective ways for VMI to address and work towards these concerns highlighted in investigations, but stripping the institution from self governance is not the answer. The University of Virginia recently had to fight against political interference and doing the same to another Virginia public institution is not the solution. This dissolution of the VMI board would set a terrible precedent within our state. It would also weaken the valuable and unique aspects of VMI culture, especially it's structure as a military institution. VMI is a part of a network of other educational institutions that are preparing their students for participation in the United States military, that make it necessary to create an environment that is different from an educational institution whose core aim is purely academic. Having another academic institution without the large military component, have oversight over another educational institution with this military component would most likely weaken the effectiveness of its culture and instruction that make VMI graduates valuable members in all branches of our country's armed forces. Military aspect aside, uniqueness is a key part of every higher educational instituion's culture. It's the reason why high school juniors pour over brochures, attend college tours, and meet with alumni to get a feel for the unique traditions, culture, and values of the college. All Virginia public higher educational institutions offer incredible academics, but they all have their own unique culture and values. It's these unique combination of tradition, heritage, value, systems, and culture of a college that make it's educational experience and alumni distinct. Not better than one or the other, but distinct and often the key reason why an individual chooses to attend that college. For example, when it was time for my husband to start the college admissions process, he sat his parents down and informed them that he would only be applying to VMI. He wanted an experience that he couldn't receive at any other college in Virginia. He wanted the VMI experience, only. It would be wrong for any college to have control over another college. Please do not pass this bill, it is a detriment to a valuable college that is key to the entirety of the landscape of Virginia public higher education. It would take away an option for students like my husband who are seeking an experience only VMI can provide.

As a Doctor I regret to inform you that I have diagnosed you as rhetaarded. Not only because of this bill, but because you asked for my pronouns when filling out this comment form. You will turn Virginia into California or Minnesota. Although I'm sure that's what you fucking idiots want.

I am a graduate of the VMI Class of 1975 and I respectfully oppose this bill. It would be disingenuous to think that an outside board could effectively govern VMI. While I cannot honestly say that I have always agreed with every action taken by the Board of Visitors, I will state unequivocably that they have always been an effective guiding force keeping the interests of the cadets, alumni, faculty and people of the State of Virginia at the forefront in making policy decisions. Nearly every member of my graduating class has achieved a measure of success in life and I am proud to have them as life long friends and brother rats. I know the same can be said for each and every other graduating class. Systemic racism and antisemitism have not existed and do not exist at VMI. The ratline is the great equalizer. When you go through this indoctrination process, no one cares what color you are, where you came from or what you did in life. You are just brother rats just trying collectively to get through the process. My class has a number of members who have risen to the top ranks of military and government position, a number of corporate CEO's, some very successful physicians and without exception all are high quality honorable individuals. I believe any effort to change the governance of VMI is politically misguided and this bill should never see the light of day. Respectfully John Plunkett - VMI Class of 1975

I was born and raised in Richmond and write as a 2004 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, a former U.S. Army officer with combat service in Iraq, and a lifelong "citizen‑soldier" shaped by VMI’s uniquely demanding and effective educational model. I submit this testimony to reaffirm the profound value of VMI’s mission and to oppose House Bills 1374 and 1377, which would politicize and weaken one of the Commonwealth’s most successful leadership institutions. A defining—and sometimes misunderstood—strength of VMI is its system of equal application. Every cadet, regardless of socioeconomic background, race, religion, or creed, is held to the same uncompromising standards. From the first day, superficial differences lose relevance. What matters is character, integrity, resilience, and performance. Through shared adversity, cadets learn to value one another for who they are—not where they come from. No institution in Virginia, and few in the nation, provide a more demanding or effective environment for developing disciplined, principled, and morally grounded leaders. VMI’s effectiveness is evident in the long and extraordinary list of achievements of its alumni—governors, Presidential cabinet secretaries, Rhodes Scholars, Medal of Honor recipients, Nobel Peace and Pulitzer Prize winners, university presidents, CEOs, and more than 285 general and flag officers. Its value is equally reflected in measurable outcomes: VMI is rated a 5‑star Money Magazine college, with exceptional affordability, graduation rates, and median early‑career earnings of $77,000; Payscale ranks VMI among the top institutions nationwide for return on investment. Few colleges deliver this combination of character development, leadership preparation and economic value. Virginia should be proud of this legacy and seek to retain and attract its graduates—not diminish or destabilize the institution through shortsighted legislation. Personally, VMI instilled in me the discipline, perseverance, and integrity that shaped my service as an Army officer, strengthened my performance in a top‑tier MBA program, and enabled my success in the finance profession. These outcomes were not accidental. They were forged in a character‑building crucible that only VMI provides. While accountability in public institutions is essential, HB 1374 and HB 1377 introduce mandates that would compromise the political neutrality of VMI’s Board and disrupt the organizational structure fundamental to its mission. Legislation should not erode a proven system—one that has served the Commonwealth for generations by producing leaders of unmatched capability and integrity. Despite the stated intentions, the practical effect of these bills is clear: they would undermine VMI’s distinctive and highly effective model. Any objective evaluation recognizes that VMI’s system is differentiated and more effective by all relative measures of consequence. Efforts to reshape its governance or training framework for political aims also jeopardize outcomes that no other institution can replicate. VMI is not merely a college; it is a leadership institution with a record unmatched in Virginia and respected nationwide. Its traditions, rigor, and commitment to equal treatment remain essential to preparing principled leaders for the future. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to withdraw these measures and protect the mission that has served Virginia—and the nation—with distinction.

Please do not put VMI under the governance of Virginia State or any other institution. VMI has evolved and embraced many changes. The Institute continues to produce tough, loyal, strong young people. My husband is a graduate of the class of ‘72.

I am a resident of Ashburn with a Daughter at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) as a Junior (and in the US Army ROTC) and would like to voice my displeasure to proposed legislation in HB1374 and the damage this would cause if passed. My spouse and I are both Veterans of the US Navy, and Federal Govt civil servants for over 23 years, serving our Country all over the World. The future leaders that are formed at VMI are unmatched outside of the Service Academies. While there is indeed deep history and tradition at VMI, this has evolved over time and is rooted in deep respect for the corps of cadets that come from all walks of life, from all corners of our great nation, and from all backgrounds. VMI from my own eyes and experience through our Daughter over these past 3 years is nothing short of excellence. I have never been more proud of my Daughter and her "Brother Rats", and the Institute that oversees all of this through the structure set at VMI and the Cadet Code of Conduct. As I have no doubt you have been hearing a great deal about these proposals regarding VMI, might I lend a recommendation to spend a day at VMI with the Corps before making your mind up on HB1374 and HB1377. Don't take anyone's word, go and see and experience for yourself. One day, let alone one hour at VMI will fill you with deep pride for our great Commonwealth of Virginia and the Great Nation we fight for each and every day. VMI is a critical part of this protection as it forms our next generation of Leaders, in uniform and out. It is an honor to have VMI as part of Virginia's contribution to the protection of this American experiment. All Virginians should be proud of what VMI does for our future Leaders, and how it treats the Cadets while they are in Lexington. Was it not this same honor that had VMI marching at the front of the Governors inauguration parade just this past weekend? Sincerely, Karl Knoedler

I am a parent of a current Virginia Military Institute cadet—a young person who chose VMI because of its mission of service, discipline, and leadership in service to the Commonwealth. HB 1374 places that mission—and my child’s education—at risk. VMI is not a generic public university. It is a distinct institution with a singular purpose, one that has produced generations of leaders who serve Virginia and our nation with honor. The proposal to dissolve VMI’s independent Board of Visitors and transfer governance to another institution with a fundamentally different mission is very concerning. No other Virginia college is governed this way. Doing so would irreparably alter VMI’s identity and set a precedent that any institution may lose its autonomy when it becomes politically inconvenient. My child—and thousands like them—are not abstractions in a policy debate. They are students who have already committed to serve, to lead, and to uphold the values of the Commonwealth. They deserve stability, fairness, and confidence that the state they serve will not dismantle the institution they chose in good faith. I respectfully ask you to oppose HB 1374 and support a veto of this bill. Protect VMI. Protect its students. Protect the principle that Virginia’s institutions are judged by facts and outcomes—not politics.

Please keep VMI and VSU separate. Both institutions function effectively on their own. VMI is a jewel in the crown of Virginia and doesn't need to be combined with any other institution.

I write in opposition to HB 1374. I did not attend VMI but served on the BOV for 4 years while serving as the Assistant Adjutant General for the Virginia National Guard. As a female, I cautiously listened to the business of the board for any concerns regarding discrimination - intentional or unintentional by the institute, cadre or cadets. What I found was an overwhelming concern for our precious young men and women in their experience while attending VMI. When concerns or issues were discussed, they were thoroughly researched and acted upon for the utmost care and well-being of the cadets. There is no need to try and alter the treasure we have in this fine institution! Every person I have ever met that had an experience at VMI has been of the highest caliber. It would be a travesty to try and lessen the construct and design that has been forged and honed over the years. Instead, VMI should be recognized and celebrated for what they offer the Commonwealth.

Dear Delegate Feggans: I’m curious as to the purpose of your bill? How will moving the governance of the Virginia Military Institute benefit the cadets of the VMI and or the students of VSU? To me as a proud 1970 graduate of VMI the missions of the two schools are vastly different. Like every other college and university in the commonwealth, the VMI has both strengths and weaknesses. And there are always areas for improvement. When you look at the success rate of the recent graduates and those of us who are “long in the tooth” you will see that the boards of visitors of VMI have governed the college in the best interest of the cadets, faculty, staff and the commonwealth of Virginia.

I graduated from VMI in 1971. I was the 3rd generation of my family to attend The Institute. Bill 1374 is one that makes no logical sense to me. VMI is a unique institution that has produced leaders in all areas of the state of Virginia and the United States. The BOV at VMI has one focus and that is the integrity and honor of VMI. There is no way a BOV from another institution, that has absolutely no connection to VMI can do the job needed to preserve the outstanding record that VMI has produced, and more importantly still produces. If there is any question about it, go meet and speak with current cadets. I find this bill to be completely illogical and misplaced.

As a lifelong Virginian , I am proud of the contributions of Virginia Military Institute to the Commonwealth of Virginia and to the United States and to the world at large. Fifty percent of its graduates are commissioned as officers and serve in the armed forces all over the world. Alums represent their school and our state admirably everywhere they go and in all that they do. Notable alums include Zachary Taylor, 12th President of the United States , George S Patton, George C Marshall, John Jumper, Michael Waltz, Mel Brooks, Dabney Coleman, and Dan Caine , current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States, just to name a few. To think even for a second that a school that produces graduate such as these is incapable of governing itself is absolutely ludicrous. To place VMI under the auspices of VSU makes absolutely no sense if you compare the statistics of each school. VSU has an average SAT score of 910 and VMI‘s average SAT score is 1215, VSU ‘s average GPA is 2.85 and VMI‘s average GPA is 3.59, VSU’s admission rate is 89.1 % and VMI’s admission rate is 71.2%. VSU’s graduation rate is 49.4 % and VMI‘s four year graduation rate is 63% and increases for fifth or six year students. VSU has an employment rate of 68%. VMI‘s employment rate is 97% . The two schools are not comparable at all educationally or even in the return on investment that the Commonwealth reaps from its tax dollars. I don’t know what the motives are of the delegate who introduced this Bill or of the motives when choosing VSU to possible govern VMI, but VMI’s success and contributions to the world at large are undeniable. Our tax dollars sent to VMI come back to us ten-fold and have for generations.

How do you create unity, integrity, and high performance? Ask Virginia Military School (VMI)—they have the formula. You take young men and women from diverse backgrounds and put them through a rigorous training program. You enforce integrity—not to lie, cheat, or steal, or to tolerate others that do. You expect the best from them—not mediocracy. You have upper classmen and women, that have gone through the same experience, provide guidance and support. As they meet the goals of the challenging training program, they start building confidence in themselves and start seeing the benefits of integrity and high performance. In addition, because they have to struggle and work through the training as a team, they create lifelong bonds. They have learned that everyone is the same—it does not matter gender, race, or creed—and that by working together they can achieve so much more than one individual. Should this not be the model of every school? Why am I a staunch defender of this school? Because I am a proud mother of a VMI graduate, and, because I was so impressed with the young men and women of VMI, I served four years on the VMI Parent’s Council. I have seen the results of VMI manifested in the successes and achievements of my son and his classmates. Therefore, I am requesting that you support an institution that uses a formula that develops excellence, leadership, equity, and integrity in our young men and women by striking down Bill HB1374 and allowing VMI’s Board of Visitors, who understand this formula, to continue its mission. Thank you.

As a VMI alumnus, I am writing to express my support for House Bill 1374. I have nothing against the "I", and I met a lot of good people there, but I believe this legislation is a positive step to ensure VMI remains accountable to the Commonwealth and aligned with modern democratic values. My support is rooted in three primary concerns: 1. Realigning the "Citizen-Soldier" Ideal: VMI’s mission is to produce leaders integrated into civilian society. However, there is an increasing perception that the culture now prioritizes the development of an elitist class of military and federal careerists. Strengthening oversight through HB 1374 will ensure VMI returns to its core purpose of developing diverse leaders from all and for all sectors. 2. The Necessity of Civilian Governance: A fundamental principle of our American society is civilian control over military and quasi-military institutions. As a state-supported school, VMI must not operate in a vacuum. Enhanced civilian governance ensures the Institute evolves in a way that reflects the ethics and expectations of the taxpayers who fund it. 3. Historical Accountability and State Sovereignty: In the 1860s, VMI’s transition to an active combatant against the United States fundamentally altered its relationship with the US and the concept of autonomy. As a ward of the state, VMI’s operations must be contingent upon submission to the democratic oversight of the General Assembly. Respectfully,

Sirs- I write to you has a VMI 69 grad, former Infantry Captain and combat vet of the 101st Airborne. I wish to echo the narrative of Mr Sellers of Powhatan. I could not put this better myself, as this proposal is absolutely senseless and will do unimaginable harm. What do you propose to accomplish in this boneheaded act? Is this some kind of retribution for some unknown offense? Pray tell. Are you out to get untold numbers of military officers and business leaders all over the USA? Shame on you!

I submit this comment in reference to House Bill 1374, which proposes changes to the governance structure of the Virginia Military Institute. I write as a graduate of VMI to share how the Institute’s mission, culture, and leadership framework contributed decisively to my personal and professional development. VMI played a foundational role in shaping my life. Through the generosity of an alumni donor, I was able to attend VMI at no personal financial cost through the Institute Scholars program. Without that support, I would not have been able to pursue an undergraduate education. The Institute’s governance and stewardship made possible an experience that transformed my character, education, and career. At VMI, I was formed by a culture that emphasized honor, integrity, and accountability. The single-sanction Honor System was central to this experience and taught me that ethical conduct is non-negotiable. These values have remained core to my identity and leadership philosophy long after graduation. The Institute also provided an academically rigorous education, particularly in the sciences, that prepared me exceptionally well for medical school and residency. Only later did I fully appreciate how VMI had taught me to think critically and master complex material, rather than simply perform well on tests. This educational approach set me apart professionally and has benefited every organization I have served. VMI’s leadership development model—rooted in the Corps’ rank structure and class system—was especially impactful. I was entrusted with responsibility for others early in life and allowed to learn leadership through experience, reflection, and accountability in a structured environment. This prepared me to lead effectively in the Army and in medicine, without having to make early leadership mistakes when consequences would have been far greater. Beyond academics and leadership, VMI fostered resilience, discipline, and perseverance. I learned to perform under stress, to continue forward when circumstances were difficult, and to accept discomfort in pursuit of meaningful goals. The Institute also instilled lifelong habits of physical fitness and personal discipline, as well as an appreciation for simplicity, delayed gratification, and service above self. The bonds formed at VMI—with my Brother Rats and fellow alumni—created a sense of family and belonging that has endured for decades. These relationships reinforce accountability and service long after graduation and reflect the strength of the Institute’s culture and governance. VMI is not a perfect institution, and continued efforts to address misconduct and improve campus climate are both necessary and appropriate. However, VMI is fundamentally a strong and effective institution whose governance structure has supported its unique mission of developing citizen-soldiers and principled leaders. I respectfully urge careful consideration of how proposed governance changes under HB 1374 may affect the Institute’s ability to carry out that mission. My experience stands as one example of the profound positive impact VMI has when its leadership, culture, and governance remain aligned with its core values.

Why would you transfer governance of VMI to a board of a school that is financially struggling. Seems the board of Virginia State University isn't capable of managing their own affairs so why think they could of a school they nothing about. Besides VMI doesn't need help

Any BOV should be held accountable for decisions made regarding to the institution in its charge. To dissolve rather than make a move to properly restore and or revitalize VMIs current BOV is not a positive move in this citizens opinion as it reflects a perception that current leaders have a no confidence vote from the majority of its students, alumni and citizenry. I believe any question of the integrity and makeup of the current BOV actually contains sentiments to the contrary. Political climates shift every few years and VMI has certainly been tested and challenged in recent years, as would be expected of a school that thrives in these types of situations. In my view, VMI continues to make morally guided decisions that are most effective, current and truly reflective of the grand institution that is now and always has been since its founding. As a proud parent of a recent 2024 VMI graduate I can personally attest to the highest standards being held at VMI, this in comparison to other state funded colleges or universities I have sent my children to in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Let VMI operate at the discretion and hands of those who have benefitted from its lessons and discipline past and present, as well as those most interested and invested in the 21st century mission of VMI as it stands today too. What has passed should be retired to the dustbin of history. Let VMI move forward under its own power and authority. To dissolve and move current BOV decisions to a geographically detached and non-military institution likely unaware of even the most basic elements of a VMI experience and education would be a mistake. Please vote no on this bill and work with the current BOV as slated. Schedule a visit to see for yourself what a great institution it is today, this prior to making any decision to dissolve the current body at hand. Let VMI guard and direct its own course, as it has for over 150 years. While true that it’s resistance to whims, trends and fashion has offered slower progress in many ways, this could also be depicted as caution and reserve in seeking to continue in traditions that its citizens value. Change has come. VMI has been moved. Governance has happened. Political climates have risen and fallen but yet VMI still succeeds even with faults that are reflective of our society as a whole. VMI has always been first in the Commonwealth in equipping top quality and moral citizenry and servants to this Commonwealth. Let this fact remain. Let this truth be sustained.

The VMI Board of Visitors is a crucial part of VMI. The board of visitors provides key insights to the importance of the VMI experience and the cadet run corps of cadets. VMI is a unique place that needs a board of visitors of VMI alumni who understand the importance of a VMI education. VMI is a unique place that needs oversight from a board composed of alumni.

To the Esteemed Members of the House Committee, I am writing to express my strong opposition to House Bill 1374, which calls for the dissolution of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Board of Visitors and seeks to place the governance of VMI under the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University. While I am not a graduate of the Institute myself, I am the proud parent of three VMI alumni. I have witnessed firsthand the profound and positive impact of VMI's unique educational environment. The demanding regimental system, which is unlike any other in the nation, was instrumental in the development of my three sons, preparing them to be successful and honorable adults. The value of the VMI experience is clearly demonstrated in their chosen paths. Two of my sons are currently serving our nation in the U.S. Armed Services, one as a Marine Corps officer and the other as a Green Beret in the Army. My third son is a successful Data Scientist in the private sector. Their success is a direct testament to VMI's ability to forge leaders of character, discipline, and intellect, prepared to serve as "Citizen Soldiers" in all walks of life, whether in uniform or as civilians. This unique and effective model of education is dependent on a governance structure that understands and is fully committed to VMI's specific mission. The independence of the VMI Board of Visitors is essential for the Institute to continue its 186-year tradition of producing leaders for the Commonwealth and the nation. Placing its governance under a different institution, with a different mission and culture, would fundamentally endanger the very system that makes VMI an invaluable asset. I respectfully urge you to oppose this legislation. To ensure VMI can continue to produce successful citizen-soldiers, its governance must remain independent and dedicated to its singular mission. Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter. Sincerely, Drew B. Miller LtCol USMC (Ret.) Virginia Beach, VA

I am writing to strongly oppose the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors (BOV) and the placement of VMI under the governance of Virginia State University. As a 1974 graduate of VMI, I am a strong supporter of VMI's mission, goals and values. VMI is a major reason why I was successful in my adult life as a 28-year Air Force veteran who retired as a Colonel. VMI should continue to function as it is today. The BOV should remain and function in the best interest of college which focuses on developing great citizens for the Commonwealth and the Nation. VMI's reputation is so high that students attend from around the world to experience its traditions and values. In addition, my wife and I have established an academic scholarship at VMI to support students. If this bill, or others like it, passes the General Assembly, we will have to think twice about our continued financial support to VMI because it would not have full control of its destiny. Pause/Stop the bill now!

I am writing as a proud parent of a Virginia Military Institute graduate, Class of 2017, to oppose HB1374 and to express my strong support for the continued state funding of VMI and for the preservation of its current governance structure, including the VMI Board of Visitors. My son’s experience at VMI was formative in ways that extend far beyond academic achievement. VMI instilled in him the core values of loyalty, integrity, and self-discipline—principles that have not faded with time, but instead have deepened as he has grown into adulthood. The Honor Code, in particular, has remained a constant guide in his life, shaping the way he approaches fatherhood, his professional career, and his leadership responsibilities. It is not merely a rule he once followed as a cadet; it is a standard he continues to live by. VMI’s emphasis on character development and ethical leadership sets it apart from other institutions of higher education. While many colleges speak about values, VMI requires cadets to practice them daily under conditions that demand accountability, resilience, and moral clarity. This rigorous environment produces graduates who understand that leadership is inseparable from responsibility and integrity. For my son, these lessons have become a lifelong application of the foundation laid during his years at VMI. Beyond my personal experience, VMI is exemplary in several important ways: Leadership Development: VMI intentionally develops leaders through a structured system that places real responsibility on cadets early, preparing them to lead under pressure. Service to the Commonwealth and Nation: VMI graduates serve Virginia and the United States in the military, public service, healthcare, engineering, education, and business, contributing far beyond the campus gates. Academic Rigor Combined with Discipline: VMI’s demanding academic programs, paired with its military structure, cultivate time management, perseverance, and excellence. Return on Investment for Taxpayers: VMI consistently produces high-impact graduates at a cost that represents strong stewardship of public funds. Distinct Mission: VMI offers an educational model that is fundamentally different from other public colleges in Virginia. Eliminating or diluting that mission would reduce, not expand, educational choice within the Commonwealth. The VMI Board of Visitors plays a critical role in safeguarding the Institute’s mission, traditions, and accountability. Stability in governance is essential to preserving the qualities that have made VMI successful for nearly two centuries. Undermining that structure risks eroding the very attributes that make VMI a unique and valuable public institution. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Commonwealth to continue its financial support of the Virginia Military Institute and to retain the VMI Board of Visitors. VMI is not only an institution of higher learning—it is a proven leader-development institution that produces citizens of character who strengthen Virginia and the nation for generations. Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully, Parent of a VMI Graduate, Class of 2017

I opposed the bill HB1374 | Feggans | Virginia Military Institute; governance. VMI is a unique institution. The institute has produced many top leaders and the hundred plus years it has been in existence, but I am sure you are already aware of that. I would like to bring to light what the institute does for the less famous cadets from a parental standpoint and from the standpoint of what these cadets contribute to their communities in their everyday lives. My son began his career at VMI as a slightly less mature, nerdy band kid. He did not have a lot of confidence or strength. He struggled through the ratline and there were times when we weren't sure if he was going to be able to assimilate. We did not always understand the VMI process during that time, but we embraced it and we let yhe process play out. It was not easy. There were many struggles along the way, but, nothing worthy in life comes easy. He learned to find the mental fortitude to get through whatever obstacle stood in front of him, he learned to work with people who he didn't agree with (which is better than our current political parties), and he learned to be a leader who steps up when there is a need. This weekend, he could have stayed home in his warm house with his wife and his dog, yet he volunteered to go out and help along with VDOT to ensure that the roads were cleared and passable for emergency vehicles and those who had to be on the roads. I begged him not to put himself in harm's Way, but he said, "They are counting on me." That is the epitome of VMI. This is just one small example of one Cadet in everyday life that can impact the life of many others. The VMI board of visitors understands this. They understand the process. VSU's leadership could never understand this. People outside the bubble do not understand the process, and they don't see how it touches their lives everyday. Put politics aside and realize what they are doing is for the greater good.

This bill is one of the most senseless, misguided pieces of proposed legislation I have ever seen. It should be obvious to anyone in their right mind that this is a joke of an idea, fueled by a misguided attempt at some sort of payback or using VMI as a punching bag, making it out to be something it is not in order to slay an imaginary dragon. I graduated in 2021, and watching the witch hunt over the past few years has been one of the most disgusting displays of empty, chest beating politics that accomplishes nothing whatsoever I have ever seen. Going after an institution of higher learning that actually attempts to instill honor and produces high quality, educated leaders for the private and public sectors with a unique experience and skillset is shooting this country and state in its own foot. I would finish by just requesting that any supporters of this legislation to please just look at the facts and numbers, and consider the legitimate reputations of each college as opposed to what a smear campaign would have you believe. Please do not just listen to what any mouthpiece that stands to gain reputation by pushing legislation has to say, and observe the accomplishments and testimony of our graduates and those who know them.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB 1374. I am a voter and VMI graduate, class of 2007. I am also a veteran, have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a father. Our children need options in higher education. VMI offers what many young women and men are searching for, something different. They want responsibility and accountability. They want to be tested physically, mentally, and psychologically. This is starkly different than any other institution of higher education. While the Commonwealth should always seek efficiency, the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors in favor of VSU governance is a logistical and cultural mismatch. Both VMI and VSU are 'jewels' of Virginia higher education precisely because of their unique, specialized missions. Subsuming one under the other threatens the integrity of both institutions. I urge the Committee to table this indefinitely.

Hello, I just want to share the story and the accomplishments of my son who is a junior/ second classmen currently at VMI. I also have a son at another State University and there is no comparison of the amazing platform of VMI. My cadet has completely thrived at the school and has made friendships with all nationalities, and religions, and economic backgrounds. He has an incredible major and already has had incredible opportunities with internships and jobs. He has a love now for travel and education, beautiful thing. He is also your next marine. I am a parent that came down here from New York to study social work and completely are for the good and the value of each individual. As involved as my son is at VMI, I have never seen any racial or sexist divide. I have embraced this school and fully am at awe of the students that come from VMI. I know first hand, I would do anything for my other son to set his goals as high as these men and women do and not worry about all the absolute crazy behaviors that have been seen. Thank you, much care always!

As a graduate of the VIrginia Military Institute and a career government employee for nearly 4 decades, I am astounded that the Virginia Assembly would introduce House Bills 1374 and 1377, both needlessly attacking VMI, one of the most successful and prestigious colleges in the state of VIrginia. For 187 years, VMI has produced citizen soldiers who have excelled in all walks of life, from business leaders to statesmen, public servants and military professionals. Her alumnus have included Rhodes scholars, Medal of Honor recipients and numerous alumnus of distinction, including the likes of Nobel Peace Prize recipient General George Marshall, the US Army Chief of Staff in WWII; Rear Admiral Richard Byrd, legendary polar explorer and Medal of Honor recipient; US Supreme Court Justice Tom C. Clark; US Air Force Chief of Staff, General John Jumper; current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, and hundreds of other successful graduates serving their towns, states and country in various capacities. VMI graduates can be found in every element of society, from the medical community and business fields to public service and community outreach programs. VMI alumnus lead the way among Virginia residents in terms of leadership and fortitude. VMI has indeed a storied history, having been historically connected to the Confederacy during the American civil war. However, as history shows, VMI has evolved and changed dramatically over the ensuing 160 years, striving to show the world she is a 21st century model of excellence and acceptance. VMI has not only accepted, but excelled in ensuring it's students represent the face of America without regard to race, religion, sexual preference, country of origin, gender or ideology. All are welcome to apply and those found academically and physically fit enough to enter are all given the chance to become future graduates of this fine institute. VMI has proven itself time and time again to be a leader among institutions of higher education, ranking number 2 in the best value in education in Virginia. VMI was ranked the 4th best liberal arts college in the entire nation and was rated the highest scores available for any public university in VIrginia by Money magazine. Defunding VMI or worse, placing VMI's proven and valuable governance under VSU, a small, virtually unknown HBC outside of Virginia, would not only serve to quash VMI's productivity and pattern of excellence, but appears wholly driven by political ideology and worse, anger against the American values that VMI has adopted over the years. Excellence in character; love of nation; pursuit of justice; respect for others, and most importantly, honor above self are the very values that VMI instills in her graduates. Please vote down these house bills. Their passage would have no positive effect on improving life at VMI or improving the brilliant education VMI already provides her students. In short, these bills would simply serve to erode what is clearly one of the finest higher institutes of learning currently available to anyone pursuing college in the state of VIrginia.

HR 1374, as proposed, raises concerns about the potential impact of extreme legislative agendas concerning our state’s higher education. VMI is a respected institution, and any suggestion to transfer its oversight and management to another organization should be carefully evaluated by examining the underlying rationale for such a proposal. As a proud alumnus and retired Marine Corps infantry officer, I was both surprised and disappointed that the legislature put this forward and believe this measure is even remotely necessary. In 2026, the US News & World Report recognized VMI as a leading public liberal arts institution, ranking it as the number four public liberal arts school in the nation. Given this context, one must inquire about the rationale behind the legislature's decision to consider this action necessary, unless influenced by personal factors. The structure of this bill suggests a potential intention to introduce external influence by the legislature on VMI leadership. Essentially, the bill appears to tie funding to compliance with certain requirements. Such an approach might be justified were VMI a failing or struggling institution; however, this is not the case. By all measurable indicators, VMI is clearly performing and is producing outstanding leaders. I respectfully suggest that this bill be evaluated objectively, as it appears to reflect an attempt to alter a well-established institution based on personal interests rather than prioritizing what is best for Virginia or VMI.

I respectfully oppose HB1374. As a parent of a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, I am deeply concerned that this bill unfairly singles out VMI for a politically driven review that no other public institution is subjected to. VMI is not an ordinary college—its unique mission is precisely why my son chose to attend. For 186 years, VMI has served an irreplaceable role in developing model citizen-soldiers through rigorous academics, military training, discipline, character development, and its deeply rooted Honor Code. Throughout its long history, VMI has produced generations of distinguished leaders—both public and military—who have served the Commonwealth and the nation with honor. Treating VMI as interchangeable with conventional universities fundamentally misunderstands both its purpose and its value. Additionally, HB1374 risks politicizing a military institution while disregarding the substantial reforms already implemented under existing state oversight. For these reasons, I strongly urge the rejection of HB1374.

Please find attached my comments regarding the proposal to remove the Board of Visitors at VMI and transfer oversight authority to VSU. I respectfully oppose this measure and recommend that the legislature reject this bill. David Johnson 123 Castlebar drive Fredericksburg, VA 22406

As a proud VMI alumnus, I must speak out against House Bill 1374, which would dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors and place governance under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. This bill, now in the House Education Committee, threatens an institution that has honorably served Virginia for over 185 years. My path to VMI was earned through hard work: I secured a Division I lacrosse scholarship and in-state tuition while paying my own way. VMI transformed me. It taught that integrity and character are non-negotiable—no matter the pressure. Discipline and relentless effort can achieve anything. Most importantly, the brotherhood forged in shared adversity is a lifelong bond stronger than most relationships. These weren't just words; they were lived every day in VMI's rigorous environment. VMI's impact goes beyond personal stories. Lt. Gen. David Furness '87 testified on January 23, 2026, affirming the Institute's mission: producing leaders of honor, integrity, and service to something greater. In response to bills questioning VMI's value, the VMI Alumni Agencies are mobilizing—with a full-page ad in the Richmond Times-Dispatch showcasing enduring success metrics. VMI isn't just a college; it's a cornerstone of Virginia's military and leadership heritage. Over the past six years, however, politics has intruded, pushing DEI initiatives that sometimes prioritize ideology over VMI's traditions of merit and resilience. This has disrupted the proven process of earning a VMI degree. Politics should stay out of this state military college. Rather than dismantling its independent governance, we should preserve autonomy to keep it a beacon of excellence, free from partisan interference. Why introduce this bill, Delegate Michael B. Feggans? VMI has consistently proven its worth through alumni who serve Virginia and the nation with distinction. Dissolving the Board risks undermining this legacy without evidence of failure. Virginians deserve policies that strengthen institutions, not weaken them. I'm deeply grateful for my hard-earned time at VMI—it changed my life. I urge the House Education Committee to reject HB 1374 and pursue constructive dialogue that respects VMI's mission. Protect what works so future cadets can experience the same opportunities. Review the VMI Alumni Agencies' ad and Lt. Gen. Furness's testimony for the full picture. Thank you for considering this perspective.

As a military veteran, Virginia resident, and mother of a female 2nd class cadet, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the dismantling of the Virginia Military Institute BOV and moving the VMI BOV to another institution. VMI uniquely instills cadets with lifelong leadership, service, and character attributes that its graduates bring to their communities and workplaces across Virginia and the nation. I have been consistently impressed with VMI’s adherence to making the school accessible to all people and their unwavering dedication to ensuring cadets uphold the highest standards of honor, leadership, and commitment to not only our nation, but to themselves and their fellow cadets. My cadet has grown as a disciplined leader in ways that I am confident is unique to VMI’s operating ethos. VMI stands unique among all Virginia higher education institutions as an unparalleled university, and graduates bring these unique leadership attributes to the military, government, and private industry upon graduation. This is evidenced by the remarkable success rate of VMI graduates throughout history through present times. I can only assume that this initiative is a personal-driven vendetta, as it makes no sense to the majority of people involved in the success of this institution. The issues identified as the basis of this initiative are antiquated and baseless. This proposed legislation is distracting VMI and the cadets from doing what matters…building leaders and succeeding. Again, as a Virginia voter, I urge you to retract this wildly unpopular proposed legislation.

In defense of the Virginia Military Institute, I am writing as a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and proud graduate of the VMI Class of 1986. I respectfully seek your support across state lines regarding stopping Virginia House Bill 1374. HB 1374 calls for the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors and places governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. This legislation sets a concerning precedent, as it could be used in any state across the USA to politically challenge a state-sponsored institution of higher education. VMI provides educational services that are unique and not duplicated elsewhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Since 2021, under the oversight of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), VMI has implemented substantial reforms to its policies, values, and preventative, investigative, and disciplinary procedures. These changes address conduct that could be perceived or classified as racist, sexist, misogynistic, or as sexual harassment or sexual assault. VMI has also taken deliberate steps to distance itself from the promotion of the Confederacy in the context of the American Civil War. HB 1374 appears intended to punish VMI by insinuating that it celebrates the Confederacy. History cannot be changed, nor should it be ignored, but it should be taught responsibly. VMI has demonstrated good-faith efforts to evolve while remaining faithful to its mission. VMI has been successful in recruiting and admitting a more diverse student body and should continue to receive public funding as a state-sponsored institution of higher education.

As a professor and department head at Virginia Military Institute, I write to offer my strong opposition to this bill. It has been the honor of my life to be part of this remarkable institution. In my thirty-eight years at VMI, I have been privileged to teach the exceptional young people who have chosen to take on the rigors of VMI. I have taught at three other well-respected universities, but no other student body has impressed me as the Corps of Cadets has. They live each day in accordance with a single-sanction Honor System that governs all aspects of their lives, even as they as they participate in a demanding program that integrates academics, physical training, and military discipline. No other college or university in the Commonwealth offers an experience like this one. This comprehensive program produces well-educated, honorable, graduates with a strong devotion to service. If you listen to those who know the institution, students, and alumni well, you will appreciate the great importance of continuing to support this outstanding institution and its current system of governance.

To whom it may concern, This proposed bill is a terrible idea and absolutely is punitive in nature despite claims otherwise. You do not strip a school of their governing body unless they have done something you deem “incorrect.” Doing this will result in VMI losing the unique qualities that this school has that separate it from other public institutions in our Commonwealth. While it is not a school I attended, or wanted to attend, for those that choose it as the location for their secondary education, it helps mold and shape them into wonderful citizen/military leaders. Changing the board of visitors to fall under a different board - even one as good as VSU - will undermine the unique qualities and nature of the Institute. I urge that this bill not proceed.

Subject: Opposition to Proposed Changes to VMI’s Governance Structure Honorable Virginia House Representatives, I am writing as a proud graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 1980, having just celebrated my 45th reunion this past October with my brother rats. I urge you to oppose the proposed legislation that would alter VMI’s independent governance structure. VMI is not simply another state institution. It is a one‑of‑a‑kind college whose mission, culture, and standards are unlike anything found elsewhere in Virginia or the nation. George C. Marshall—one of our most distinguished alumni—believed deeply in VMI’s ability to produce citizen‑soldiers prepared to serve both in uniform and in civilian life. That legacy continues today, and it is inseparable from the Institute’s unique system of leadership, accountability, and self‑governance. The Honor Code alone sets VMI apart. It is the only place I have ever been where I could leave a $20, $50, or even $100 bill on my desk and know with absolute certainty that it would be there when I returned. That level of integrity is not accidental—it is cultivated through a culture and governance model that has worked for generations. VMI is “no ordinary school,” and it cannot be governed as if it were. Its distinct mission requires an independent Board of Visitors that understands the Institute’s traditions, its responsibilities, and the expectations placed upon its graduates. To dilute or restructure that governance is to weaken the very qualities that make VMI a national treasure. Virginia should take pride in having such an institution and should be doing everything in its power to support and preserve it—not diminish its autonomy. The Commonwealth owes this to its citizens, its history, and the nation as a whole. I respectfully ask you to vote against this bill and to stand with those who value VMI’s unique and irreplaceable role in American education. Respectfully, Steven R. Roberts VMI Class of 1980 9106442032 Robenter@aol.com

To the Members of the Board of Visitors and the House Education Committee, I respectfully submit this statement in opposition to HB 1374, which calls for the dissolution of the Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors and the transfer of VMI’s governance to the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. VMI is a unique public institution within the Commonwealth, established with a distinct statutory mission, military structure, and educational model that differs fundamentally from other public universities. The VMI Board of Visitors exists to provide governance that is specifically aligned with this mission and with the responsibilities inherent in operating a senior military college. Dissolving this board would sever the direct accountability and institutional knowledge necessary to effectively oversee VMI. Transferring governance authority to the Board of Visitors of another institution—one with its own separate mission, obligations, and operational priorities—undermines sound governance principles. Oversight bodies function best when they are singularly focused on the institution they govern. Reassigning VMI’s governance risks diluting oversight, disrupting continuity, and impairing the Board’s ability to fulfill its fiduciary and supervisory responsibilities to the Commonwealth. The dissolution of an institution-specific governing board is a serious measure with long-term consequences, and the proposed action introduces uncertainty that could negatively affect cadets, faculty, alumni, and public trust in the Institute. For these reasons, I respectfully oppose HB 1374 and urge careful consideration of the implications of dissolving the VMI Board of Visitors and removing governance from an institution uniquely structured to serve the Commonwealth of Virginia. Respectfully,

I am a single mother of a current Cadet at VMI. Prior to my son making the decision to attend VMI we both started researching and asking multiple veterans across all military branches. My son found top buisness leaders around the world, graduated from VMI. We both found every veteran and current enlisted praised VMI. Most often we heard, all of my best leaders went to VMI or besides one of the Acadamies, VMI is the best. Since attending VMI, my son has met and become friends with Cadets from all over the world. He has grown and is still growing into a man of honor and integrity. His brothers look up to them and he now helps guide them as they are starting to head out own their own. I am thankful for my son's dyke, as he still helps my son with rides, and a placecto stay when needed. When I mention and explain the dyke system to people, they love it. This school is unique, setting standards and expectations that set it apart, it is the reason my son chose to attend VMI. I have heardvseveral Cadets say that they know that they would not be as successful at a regular college. VMI is absolutely a benefit to Virginia, and to those that chose to attend, trust the process and to live up to the high standards. Is it tough? Of course it is, it is what sets it apart, raises the value. If it were easy I know my son would not be attending. VMI has been around a long time and through several different changes in society and culture, they work hard to balance tradition and being revelant to today. They are very capable of governing themselves, and why would you pull funding from a college held in such high esteem? This is not logical at all.

I am vehemently opposed to the passage of HB 1374. VMI and VSU have completely different missions. Neither can govern the other successfully. One will fundamentally change the other in profoundly negative ways that accrues no benefit to the Commonwealth of Virginia at large or the students that choose to attend either. Each entity must remain stand alone for each to survive as the unique educational institutions they are and were intended to be.

I am strongly opposed to the current Virginia General Assembly bills to defund VMI, dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors, and move VMI governance under Virginia State University. Specifically, this concerns especially proposed HB1374. I am a proud VMI graduate from the Class of 1977 and I think, no… I know, that this would be a travesty and huge mistake. For 186 years VMI has produced a long line of strong, honorable citizen-soldier leaders who have admirably served this country in times of war and peace. The state legislature would do well to very carefully consider what these bills would actually be doing to the state and the country. I can honestly say that my VMI experience truly changed my life, both in terms of my military and civilian service. A VMI education is unlike any other college education a young man or woman can get, and that includes the service academies. I know that for one, I’m certainly a better person for it. To deny the opportunity of a VMI education, the way it functions now, to anyone who wants it would be a terrible shame. I’m hopeful that our state legislators will think long and hard about this before considering any further action.

Transfer of Assets: All existing contracts, rules, property, rights, and duties of VMI's current Board of Visitors would be transferred to the VSU Board of Visitors upon the bill's effective date (p. 5) I believe this appears to be a breach of commitments that VMI made. For example the scholarship for Dave William, VMI class of 1991, who died in the Pentagon on September 11th. The scholarship for Mike Clegg Scholarship, VMI Class of 1988, a first responder who died during Covid. The scholarship for my late wife. How can VSU provide appropriate governance when for Virginia schools the General and Flag Officer (GFO) Counts • Virginia Military Institute (VMI): Has produced nearly 300 general and flag officers throughout its history. As of early 2026, recent records cite counts between 293 and 300. • Virginia Tech: Has produced 97 generals and admirals as of historically tracked records. • Virginia State University (VSU): Notable for producing several general officers, including its first female brigadier general, though its total count is significantly lower than VMI or Virginia Tech. It appears VSU does not have the population to provide governance for a public military school.

My name is Tim Hipp, and I am here to provide testimony in opposition to House Bill 1374, which proposes to alter the governance structure of the Virginia Military Institute. I speak not as a political actor, but as a parent with deep, long-term investment in VMI. I have one child who has graduated from VMI, one currently enrolled, and three more who plan to attend. This means I have observed VMI’s culture not as an abstraction, but as a lived system that shapes young men and women over time. The core issue with HB 1374 is not administrative efficiency or oversight. It is culture. Institutions are not interchangeable. Governance is not neutral. Culture is not transferable by statute. VMI exists for a singular purpose: to form leaders through a military system of discipline, honor, hierarchy, and accountability. Every element of its governance is designed to protect and reinforce that system. The Board of Visitors at VMI is not merely a managerial body; it is a cultural steward. Its role is to preserve an institutional ecosystem that is intentionally demanding, uncomfortable, and formative. By contrast, Virginia State University is a civilian public university with a fundamentally different mission, structure, and culture. That difference is not a criticism. It is a fact. VSU’s governance is oriented toward a traditional civilian academic model; one designed around access, flexibility, and conventional student life. VMI’s governance exists to protect a total immersion leadership system that intentionally limits flexibility in order to cultivate responsibility, resilience, and ethical command. Placing VMI under the governance of an institution that does not share—and has never operated within—that culture is not reform. It is misalignment. Culture cannot be overseen effectively by those who do not live within it, understand its logic, or accept its necessity. The military model VMI employs depends on continuity, clarity of authority, and resistance to short-term political or cultural pressure. Weakening that chain at the governance level will inevitably weaken it everywhere else. This bill would dissolve nearly two centuries of governance continuity and replace it with a structure that lacks direct accountability to VMI’s mission. That is not modernization. It is institutional erosion. Leadership is not produced by consensus governance. Honor is not shaped by external supervision. Discipline does not survive when its guardians are structurally distant from its practice. If the Commonwealth wishes to improve VMI, the appropriate path is engagement, oversight, and accountability within its existing governance framework, not the removal of that framework altogether. HB 1374 does not correct a failure of governance. It redefines governance without regard for culture, and in doing so, it risks dismantling one of the most effective leadership institutions in the Commonwealth. I urge you to oppose this bill not to preserve tradition for tradition’s sake, but to protect a proven system whose outcomes speak louder than ideology. Thank you for the opportunity to provide this testimony.

I am writing to respectfully express my opposition to House Bill 1374 , and to share my strong support for the Virginia Military Institute and its enduring mission. Virginia Military Institute is one of the Commonwealth’s most distinguished institutions, with a long-standing tradition of excellence in leadership development, academic rigor, and service. For over 180 years, VMI has educated citizen-soldiers who go on to serve Virginia and the nation with integrity, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility. Its unique adversative model, emphasis on character development, and commitment to producing ethical leaders are qualities that set VMI apart from other institutions of higher learning. VMI plays a vital role not only in educating future military and civilian leaders, but also in preserving a culture of accountability, honor, and public service. The Institute’s graduates consistently contribute to the Commonwealth through military service, public leadership, engineering, education, and countless other fields. This legacy is something Virginians can take pride in and should continue to protect. My concern with House Bill 1374 is that it risks undermining the autonomy, traditions, and proven educational model that have made VMI successful for generations. I believe that decisions affecting VMI should be made with careful consideration of its unique mission and history, and with respect for the institution’s ability to uphold high standards while continuing to evolve responsibly. I appreciate your time and thoughtful consideration of this perspective. I respectfully urge you to oppose House Bill 1374 and to continue supporting Virginia Military Institute as a cornerstone of leadership, service, and excellence in the Commonwealth.

I am writing to express my opposition to HB 1374. VMI is excellent school that has demonstrated the ability to govern itself throughout its history. I believe the idea of disbanding the VMI BOV is an example of politically motivated backlash that is neither objective or practical. Please spare my alma mater from the whims of back-and-forth partisan divide that so ills our nation and state.

Chairman, Members of the Committee: My name is Martin Fentress Jr. I am a proud parent of a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, Parents Council member, and a Senior Naval Officer who has intentionally targeted VMI graduates for future Naval Aviation officers because I believe VMI is one of our nation’s premier leadership laboratories — producing officers of character, discipline, and grit. I strongly oppose HB 1374, which would dissolve the Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors and transfer governance authority to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University (VSU) — a public historically black college and university (HBCU). This structural overhaul goes far beyond academic governance reform. It represents an unwarranted political intrusion into the independent governance of a unique public institution that serves a critical national defense and leadership mission. This proposal comes at a time when VMI’s Board is fulfilling its statutory responsibilities — setting policy, overseeing budgets, and appointing a Superintendent. That Board, for nearly two centuries, has governed VMI’s distinctive regimental system and mission. Protecting that governance autonomy matters for the Corps, the Commonwealth, and the nation’s defense industrial base. What is less frequently discussed in the legislative debate is the political context undergirding this bill. Last year, Senator Jennifer Carroll-Foy — herself a VMI alumna and Virginia State University graduate — was accused by a U.S. Congressman of improperly attempting to influence the VMI Board’s decision about extending the contract of VMI’s Superintendent, Major General Cedric Wins, by threatening to jeopardize funding if the board did not comply. This allegation touches the very issue before this body: politicians seeking to wield budgetary power to dictate institutional governance decisions that should be left to the Board under our laws. Senator Carroll-Foy denied these allegations, yet the controversy illustrates how political motives, not institutional best interests, are driving efforts to restructure VMI’s governance. The fact that she is both a VMI graduate and a Virginia State University graduate — the very institution poised to assume authority over VMI under this bill — raises questions of conflict and political expediency that deserve scrutiny by this committee. VMI isn’t just another university; it’s a unique military leadership incubator that has served America for 186 years. Its regimental system teaches leadership, accountability, and service in a manner unmatched by traditional higher education institutions. For thousands of families like mine, the institute’s traditions and mission are not political talking points — they are core to the character development of our future military officers. I respectfully urge this committee to reject HB 1374 as an overreach that weaponizes governance changes for political ends, undermines institutional autonomy, and disserves the cadets and families committed to VMI’s mission.

I am a resident of western Caroline County (Chilesburg voting district), a lifelong Virginian and a VMI supporter. I am sending my disapproval of House Bill 1374. While I did not attend the college, my father (’58), uncle (’55) and most recently my son (’18) are proud graduates of The Institute. I have been visiting Lexington and the VMI campus (Post) for over 50 years. My father and uncle were able to attend VMI though a “state cadetship” which paid for their education and required service to Virginia upon graduation. My father worked for the VA Department of Highways out of college and retired after 32 years of service. A college education and job were hard to come by for his blue collar family from Covington. When I was young, I thought all colleges were like VMI – small in size, students in uniforms who marched to eat at the cafeteria and who lived in rooms with beds they raised up during the day and down at night. I soon found out through friends that other colleges were not like VMI. VMI offered no frills and physical challenges but in return graduates received an excellent education, life lessons learned and opportunities post graduation either through military service or civilian work. When I searched for a college in 1986, I landed at Virginia Tech and realized my state was full of options for students looking to further their education. Small and big campuses, diverse courses of study, Historically Black Colleges, single sex colleges and one of (2) state supported military colleges in America – VMI. I have friends who were able to attend the college that fit their needs thanks to these choices. More recently, VMI was the perfect fit for my son. From the age of 8 he made it his goal to serve in the military and wanted to attend VMI to prepare him for his career. He was also exposed to the VMI way throughout his childhood and knew upfront what challenges he would face as a Cadet. He worked hard in school and on the track which helped him gain early admission. His time at VMI was, as predicted, full of challenges but way more rewards. I am proud to say he met his goals – graduation and currently serves as a Captain in the US Army. During his time as a cadet, I had the honor to be on the Parents Council for 2 years. My time there allowed me to learn more about the college I grew up visiting and help serve the students who worked so hard to succeed there. A school that was founded in 1839 has obviously seen a lot of changes in the world. It is my opinion (as a lifelong supporter, parent and Parent Council member) that VMI has lived up to its core principals from being founded in 1839: honor, integrity, character and service; aiming to develop citizen-soldiers who for four years lived under a strict honor code – “a cadet does not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate those who do.” My father’s favorite quote to recite and live by was etched in the arch of the building he walked through every day while on Post – “You may be whatever you resolve to be”. This quote, the honor code, the rigorous physical and educational challenges that VMI students endure help create great Virginians and Americans. Please let young Americans continue to have an out-of-the ordinary college choice (an option to “one size fits all” education) and support VMI and its current Board of Visitors structure. Being different should be embraced; not punished.

I am writing to voice my support of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and my strong opposition to HB 1377 and HB 1374. VMI is an extraordinary, mission-driven, outcome-focused institution that is life-altering for its cadets and graduates. Please quickly dispatch with both HB 1377 and HB 1374.

I am writing to express my disagreement with HB 1374. It would be a mistake to change the governance of VMI to another institution, regardless of what institution it is. VMI has a proud history of self governance that has led to 187 years of producing leaders for our commonwealth and our nation. Although VMI has been a hotbed of media attention over the last 10 years, removing its self governance is a step too far and not a way to help effect real oversight of VMI. As an alumni, I can attest to the high levels of leadership that VMI taught me… under its current governance structure. Changing that structure I fear would cause unrepairable damage to VMI and its core mission of raising up leaders.

As a proud VMI alumnus, I respectfully disagree with HB1374. If the BOV for VSU has a few members who are alumni and understand the experience of attending the university, then the same should be the case for VMI, with their own BOV consisting of at least some with real experience and understanding. Each school is unique in mission, and deserves representation without needing either to oversee or govern the other. VMI is well ranked among National Liberal Arts colleges and Public liberal arts colleges as it currently stands, and every Virginia school deserves to have its own BOV committed to them.

My name is Brentton Fentress. I am a Second Class Cadet (Junior) at the Virginia Military Institute, and I currently serve as the Hotel Company First Sergeant. I respectfully submit this testimony in opposition to House Bill 1374. House Bill 1374 proposes a fundamental change to VMI’s governance structure. While oversight and accountability are appropriate for any public institution, this bill does not improve accountability — instead, it undermines the very system that has made VMI successful for more than 180 years. VMI is not a typical public university. It is a senior military college with a singular mission: to produce citizen-soldiers and leaders of character through a demanding regimental system. That mission depends on unity of command, clarity of authority, and institutional continuity. HB 1374 disrupts that balance by removing governance from leaders specifically charged with preserving VMI’s unique military mission and culture. As a cadet leader responsible for the discipline, welfare, and development of others, I can say with confidence: structure matters. The regimental system works precisely because expectations are clear, standards are uniform, and leadership is accountable. VMI’s governance mirrors that reality. Weakening or diffusing it does not improve outcomes — it erodes them. The premise underlying HB 1374 appears to be that VMI is an institution defined by discrimination or exclusion. That premise is factually incorrect. From the moment a cadet matriculates, every individual is treated the same — same haircut, same uniform, same standards, same ratline. The ratline exists for two reasons: -To transform civilians into disciplined, ethical cadets -To forge a class that is unified for life That process does not divide — it binds. I have personally witnessed and lived the “Brother Rat Spirit,” where cadets and alumni support one another without regard to race, sex, religion, or background. That is not rhetoric; it is reality. VMI produces graduates who commission into the armed forces, serve in public office, lead businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the Commonwealth. Graduation rates, commissioning outcomes, and alumni service reflect an institution that is working, not failing. HB 1374 does not correct a deficiency. It targets a governance model because the institution itself is misunderstood. VMI is an easy target because it embraces traditional values, enforces discipline, and evaluates cadets based on merit and performance — not immutable characteristics. I respectfully urge the committee to reject House Bill 1374 and allow VMI to continue fulfilling its mission with the governance structure that has proven effective, accountable, and worthy of the Commonwealth’s trust. Thank you for the opportunity to share my insight.

HB1374’s degradation of the VMI Mission: BLUF: HB1374 eliminates VMI’s independent governance and places the Institute under the Board of Visitors of another university (Virginia State University), which has a fundamentally different objective, mission, and institutional culture than VMI. While this bill to some extent attempts to put forth an illusion of preserving the VMI mission, this shift will ultimately undermine the standards of the institution as this “foreign” board will determine how the standards, discipline, admissions, and culture are interpreted and enforced over time. As an alumnus of VMI, I believe that HB1374 will be detrimental to VMI’s mission and I oppose HB1374 along with any effort to dissolve VMI’s independent governance. The rigor of VMI was not incidental to my experience but rather essential. The discipline, standards, and expectations of the Institute molded me into a better man, a Naval Officer capable of leading under pressure, and a husband and father grounded in duty, integrity, and selflessness, and values that brought me closer to Christ. That transformation is not unique to me, but reflected across generations of VMI graduates who serve the Commonwealth and the nation with distinction. HB1374 fundamentally alters the structure that makes those outcomes possible. While the bill repeats VMI’s mission language, governance and not statutory phrasing determines how standards are enforced, how discipline is applied, how admissions criteria are shaped, and how institutional culture evolves over time. Transferring authority over VMI to the board of another institution with a fundamentally different mission and institutional culture introduces a serious risk of long-term dilution of rigor, merit-based standards, and military character. From my lived experience, VMI was not divided by race or gender. Rather, it was a school unified by shared hardship and purpose. Cadets were judged by performance and character, not identity. That merit-based environment is precisely why VMI produces resilient leaders. I am deeply concerned that shifting governance to a board whose priorities may be shaped by external political frameworks, rather than the unique requirements of a senior military college, will gradually pressure VMI toward admissions, discipline, and policy decisions that emphasize ideology over excellence. The allegations driving these bills deserve attention and proportion. Misconduct should always be addressed. But portraying VMI as systemically broken does not reflect the experience of most cadets or alumni. Every large institution will have individual failures; dismantling the governance of one of Virginia’s most effective leadership institutions in response to selective narratives is not responsible reform, it is political overreach with long-term consequences for future cadets. VMI’s effectiveness depends on clarity of mission, rigor of standards, and governance aligned with its unique purpose. Weakening that structure will not improve outcomes; it will erode them gradually and irreversibly. I urge you to reject HB1374 and preserve VMI’s independent governance while pursuing any necessary improvements through measured, constructive reform, not structural dismantling.

I oppose HB 1374 as a mom of a VMI cadet and an Army veteran. My son worked tirelessly to earn a place at VMI and on the swim team. Dissolving the Board of Visitors threatens the stability of an institution that builds discipline, leadership, and service to Virginia.

I respectfully oppose HB 1374 and request that it be voted down. I am the parent of a current VMI cadet and active member of the VMI community. I have had the opportunity to interact with many current cadets, alumni, and aspiring cadets. VMI is committed to developing these young men and women into strong leaders and persons of honor regardless of religion, race, or gender. The VMI student body represents the best of the best. It would take one visit to the school to see the incredible character of these cadets and to dispel any false claims about inequality. These honorable men and women have a proven record of going on to serve their country as military leaders, business owners, and exceptional members of their communities. My son has excelled in every way as a cadet at VMI. His academic success, work ethic, and drive are a direct result of VMI’s formula to create disciplined, honorable citizens – all while managing the demands of military training. The BOV at VMI has been instrumental over the years in making sure that formula is maintained, but also integrating measures for a changing landscape. They have been successful at doing so as only members of the VMI community can. I respectfully request that the BOV be maintained by VMI.

Speaking on HB1374 the VMI current BOV needs to continue to govern the Institute. Our son has wanted to be in the Navy since he was 6 years old. As he continued to grow up and got to high school VMI really wasn't on his radar. We told him hey just go to one of the overnight open houses and see what you think. When he got home he said "That's the one". He got his acceptance letter and there has never been one day where he said he wanted to leave. He is now a Second Classman and still loves it. His friends here back at home have more respect for him just because he is at VMI. VMI has done an amazing job at creating an environment where students thrive and become leaders that this country deserves. Handing that responsibility over to another institution who does not have the same fundamentals would be a disservice to cadets yet to come to VMI. Please reconsider this bill and do not let another institution's BOV oversee VMI. Keep BOV at VMI like it currently is. Thank you!

I am writing to voice my strong opposition to House Bill 1374. As a parent of two students who have chosen the Virginia Military Institute for its unique educational model, I am deeply concerned about any legislation that would undermine the Institute’s mission, structure, or ability to operate as intended. My older son is currently a sophomore at VMI, and the transformation he has experienced there is remarkable. He selected VMI not simply for its military connection, but for the discipline, structure, and accountability that define daily life on post. The Institute has challenged him academically, physically, and personally. He has learned to manage the demands of an engineering degree, athletic commitments, military duties, and academic preparation with a level of maturity and focus that far exceeds what we saw at other colleges we visited. VMI’s environment has pushed him to grow in ways that a traditional campus simply could not. Our younger son, a high school senior, has also accepted an offer to attend VMI. He plans to pursue a military career after graduation, and VMI’s rigorous academic programs, leadership development, and structured environment align perfectly with his goals. For students like him, those who thrive under high expectations and clear standards, VMI provides an opportunity that is unmatched. House Bill 1374 threatens to disrupt an institution that serves a very specific and important purpose. VMI is not designed to mirror a typical college, nor should it be. Its demanding environment is intentional, and it is precisely what allows students to develop discipline, resilience, and leadership. Forcing the Institute to conform to models that do not reflect its mission would diminish the experience for current cadets and limit opportunities for future ones. Those who have spent time at VMI understand the professionalism, respect, and accountability that guide its culture. Efforts to reshape or restrict the Institute based on misconceptions or incomplete narratives risk harming the very students who benefit most from its structure. I respectfully urge you to reconsider any action that would weaken or fundamentally alter VMI. For students who seek a disciplined, purpose‑driven education, there is no substitute for what the Institute provides. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on HB 1374. The Governance of VMI should remain with the VMI Board of Visitors, especially as appointed my our Governor. No other path of governance makes sense. VMI is a special institution as are all of our wonderful colleges and universities in Virginia. VMI was the right one for me and I am a proud graduate (1994) that needed VMI and I have excelled in life as a result. This opportunity to find the right school for each individual is one of the amazing aspects of our Commonwealth. I look forward to that opportunity for our future generations so they may find the same success I have by the path most appropriate for them.

I’m writing about HB1374 because the Virginia Military Institute has been everything to my family since my grandfather enrolled back in 1958. What he got from VMI wasn’t just classes - it was the kind of character that let him serve honorably in the armed forces and then come back to Virginia to work for the Department of Transportation, building and fixing things that help people every day across the state. Those lessons - loyalty, duty, honor, putting service before yourself - stayed with him forever. He lived them out, and he passed them on to the rest of us. That’s why my brother chose VMI too. He went there, graduated, and now he’s a captain in the Army, dedicating his life to the same kind of service our grandfather showed. Because of VMI, our family has generations shaped by a real sense of responsibility and commitment to something bigger. It’s changed who we are, and it’s done the same for so many others. I know HB1374 would change how VMI is governed, taking away its own Board of Visitors and moving control somewhere else. From where I sit, as someone whose family has seen firsthand what VMI does right, that worries me a lot. This institution has stood strong for nearly 200 years, producing people who serve Virginia and the country with integrity. It needs to keep its independence and the state’s support so it can keep doing that for the next generations. Thank you for hearing my family’s story. VMI has meant the world to us, and I hope you’ll help protect it by opposing HB1374.

I am a proud alumnus class of 1993 as well as my son class of 2024 of the Virginia Military Institute, I feel a responsibility to speak out against HB1374, a bill that threatens the very foundation of what has made VMI a nationally respected institution for more than 185 years. This legislation is not a minor administrative adjustment—it is a direct intrusion into the governance, stability, and long‑term mission of the Institute. VMI’s mission is clear…to produce honorable, resilient, and service‑minded citizen‑soldiers through a rigorous system of academic excellence, military discipline, and personal accountability. That mission has endured wars, political shifts, and societal change because VMI has been governed by leaders who understand its unique culture and who protect its independence. HB1374 undermines that independence. VMI’s strength has always come from its ability to operate above political agendas. The bill’s restructuring of governance invites political influence into decisions that should be based solely on what is best for cadets and the mission. VMI is not a political tool. It is a leadership laboratory. Allowing political winds to dictate its governance jeopardizes the integrity of that environment. The Institute’s governance model has produced generations of military officers, public servants, engineers, educators, and business leaders. The Board of Visitors—composed of individuals who understand VMI’s traditions, challenges, and responsibilities—has guided the Institute through crises and modernization without compromising its core values. HB1374 disregards this proven track record and replaces it with a structure that risks instability and short‑term decision‑making. The Rat Line, the Honor Code, the class system, and the military framework all depend on consistent leadership and institutional continuity. HB1374 introduces uncertainty at a time when VMI needs focus and unity. Cadets deserve an environment where leaders are empowered to make decisions based on experience, not political pressure. Honor. Duty. Self‑discipline. Leadership. These are not outdated concepts. They are exactly what Virginia and the nation need more of now than ever. HB1374 does nothing to strengthen these values; instead, it risks diluting them by placing VMI’s governance in the hands of individuals who may not fully understand or support the Institute’s mission. As an alumnus, I stand firmly against HB1374 because it threatens the independence, stability, and mission of the Virginia Military Institute. VMI has produced leaders for nearly two centuries not because it bends to political pressure, but because it remains steadfast in its purpose. If the Commonwealth truly wants VMI to continue producing citizen‑soldiers of character, it should strengthen the Institute…not attempt to control it. VMI’s mission is worth defending and will continue to make the Commonwealth proud of the honorable men and women that it produces. HB1374 moves us in the wrong direction. This bill should be dead on arrival.

I am a proud member of the VMI Class of 1981. I matriculated from EC Glass High School in Lynchburg, Virginia. I find the mere suggestion that the Virginia Military Institute should be under the governance of the Board of Director (Visitors) of the Virginia State University a complete insult and absolutely unnecessary. Has the Virginia State University distinguished itself above and beyond the achievements of the VMI? Has the Virginia State University produced the number and quality of citizen soldiers produced by VMI? Are other organizations being subjected to the same political attacks? How will the governance change at UVA, VCU, Virginia Tech and others. I attended VMI for 4 1/2 years and I was never a party to, nor did I witness racism, harassment or discrimination of any cadet. I witnessed hard work, honor, accountability and discipline. Over my 45 years since leaving VMI, I have seen distinguished men and women appointed to the VMI Board of Visitors. These have been and will continue to be men and women that have proven themselves in society and care only about insuring a safe, disciplined and honorable environment for the men and women that currently attend the VMI. To suggest that VMI needs to be governed by a completely separate Board from a completely separate organization is insulting, completely ridiculous and reeks of political stunts and showmanship. Do you think the citizens of Virginia are stupid? They recognize that this is nothing more than a misguided attempt to punish the Virginia Military Institute for not continuing with the woke and unproven practice of DEI that the US Supreme Court itself has ruled is unconstitutional. I am completely against this travesty and do not support this effort for one second.

I strongly oppose House Bill 1374 for several reasons. First, I am not aware of any precedent in Virginia—and have found no clear examples nationally—where the Commonwealth has dissolved the governing board of a public university and transferred control to the Board of Visitors of an entirely separate, unrelated institution. While states have intervened directly in university governance in extraordinary circumstances, those actions have historically involved state oversight or temporary receivership, not the wholesale transfer of authority to another school. This approach is highly unusual, raises obvious conflict-of-interest concerns, and creates unequal treatment among public institutions. Second, this bill appears disconnected from the underlying facts. Based on publicly available reporting, Virginia Military Institute is not an outlier in incidents involving racial misconduct, sexual harassment, or stalking, and in many categories reports rates that are comparable to or lower than peer institutions. VMI also performs competitively in graduation and retention metrics. Yet it is the only public institution facing this extraordinary and punitive governance action, while others with similar or worse indicators are not. That disparity undermines confidence that this bill is evidence-based or proportionate. Third, House Bill 1374 fails to account for VMI’s unique mission. As a senior military college with a mandatory military structure, barracks system, and honor framework, VMI is fundamentally different from traditional civilian universities. Placing it under the governance of an unrelated institution with a different mission, culture, and incentives risks diluting or undermining the very characteristics that define its educational model and public purpose. Fourth, this legislation risks real and immediate harm to the Commonwealth. Numerous stakeholders have raised concerns that such an unprecedented disruption of governance will negatively affect recruitment, retention, donor confidence, and institutional reputation. These are not abstract concerns; they directly impact cadets, families, alumni, and Virginia’s ability to sustain a respected leadership-producing institution. Finally, and most concerning, House Bill 1374 establishes a dangerous precedent. It creates a mechanism by which the governing body of any public educational institution could be dissolved if it falls out of political favor, with control reassigned rather than reformed. Regardless of which party holds power, this represents a fundamental shift in how public universities are treated in Virginia. Disagreements over culture or policy should be addressed through transparent oversight, accountability, and reform—not through unprecedented structural punishment that threatens institutional independence and stability statewide. For these reasons, I urge rejection of House Bill 1374.

I would like to express my opposition for HB1374. I was raised in Annandale, VA, as part of a family that has lived in Virginia since the early 1700s. I am a proud 3rd generation, and 6th member of my family to graduate from VMI, and there is no greater proof of the value of VMI to the State and our Nation than for me to look across the opportunities it has offered me, my family and fellow Alumni to serve as Citizen Soldiers. My Grandfather graduated in 1915, and went on to serve a dedicated career in the US Army Air Corps, and the US Air Force, retiring as a Major General. His contributions to our nation's defense, as an expert in ordinance, assisted in our victory in WWII. My Father (LTC) graduated in 1950B, and dedicated his career in the Air Force to the design, development and perfection of laser and TV-guided munitions, which still act as a cornerstone of our ability to defend our freedom and interests abroad. In the 35 years since my own graduation in 1991, I dedicated 20 years to the development and fielding of advanced command and control systems for our warfighters, before transitioning to a corporate executive role in the environmental services industry for our Country. Through my experiences as a Rat, and the 4 years at VMI, I was uniquely prepared to navigate the challenges that life has presented to me, including my ability to endure 10-months of cancer treatment, while never missing a day of work. VMI taught me where my personal limits were, and how to push past them in times of challenge or adversity, and that gift has enabled me to lead teams throughout my career with a level of calm and levity that has earned greater trust and responsibility. VMI has, and continues to create leaders for our Country. Leaders who go on to serve in various capacities, from the military, to political positions, to private sector business; from educational roles to religious or community service leaders. No mater where VMI graduates reside, they consistently offer value to their organizations, and perform at the highest levels, with a foundation rooted in honor and integrity. I implore you to not advance this bill, as it is both unnecessary, and a clear attack on a valuable asset to the Commonwealth. VMI remains a rare and incredibly value added institution in our Country, and the Commonwealth should be protecting it with pride, rather than questioning it's contributions to our Nation's freedom, attacking it, or attempting to destroy it. Respectfully, Richard C Coupland, III '91 Phoenix, AZ

I am a VMI graduate of the class of 1997. I am writing to oppose both HB1374 and HB1377 in their entirety. This legislation and the planned subsequent actions are of political nature, and clearly the authors of both know little to nothing about the history, purpose, and success of the Institute. VMI has produced generals, doctors, lawyers, executives, writers, and many other successful leaders. The institute instills honor, integrity, and courage into each of its graduates, both male and female, from all walks of life. Attending 4 years at VMI is unlike any other experience available to a high school student, especially those in the state of Virginia. I grew up in Chesterfield County, attended Manchester High School, and my parents dropped me off for matriculation in August of 1993 as a young man of 18 who was still a boy in many respects. I walked out of VMI 4 years later as a man with purpose, who learned valuable life lessons in accountability, perseverance, and critical thinking which have served me well in the 32 years since I left. I am currently serving as SVP/CTO for a Fortune 80 company based here just outside of Richmond, and I would have not achieved the success I have in my career without the valuable lessons learned at VMI. The idea that VMI is no longer relevant or worthy of state funding is frankly laughable; the world needs VMI and its graduates more now than ever. Every graduate walks away with the core values of Cincinnatus, memorialized by a statue on VMI's post. It serves as a clear reminder of the sacrifice and duty expected of all VMI graduates, which many of us demonstrate every day in our varied professions across the country. The concept of dissolving the BoV and shifting governance to VSU also lacks any serious credibility and shows a clear lack of understanding of the values and purpose of VMI. VSU boasts an overall graduation rate in the bottom 20% of all universities nationally. While it has an Army ROTC program, it lacks the deep integration, depth of programming, and historical significance that VMI maintains. It is estimated VSU has only graduated and commissioned 1,600 cadets in its history, roughly the total number of cadets attending VMI in a given year. Meanwhile, VMI has produced more generals than any other ROTC unit in the country. Moving governance to VSU would be the equivalent of asking your plumber to fix an electrical issue, and would signal the beginning of the end for VMI. We should call out these two bills for what they are; direct attacks against the history of the Institute and the values and education it instills in its graduates. I am not a history buff, nor do I glorify the symbology of the civil war. Are changes needed at VMI? Likely, yes. Are there severe and systemic structural issues at VMI that require total overhaul? Likely, no. Change is progressive and slower for some than others, but these bills were not crafted for that purpose. These bills were crafted to strike a crippling blow from which VMI would likely be unable to recover. It is imperative that we not let that happen because we need every single graduate available to help lead us into the future. It's values and mission have persisted for nearly 187 years, and for the betterment of our society it is critical that it continue.

I am registering my vehement opposition to HB 1374. This bill would I feel be a first step to destroying the institute which has been a valuable resource for the commonwealth of Virginia and the nation at large. VMI graduates have served the nation and commonwealth in peace and war for almost two hundred years. If this institution is destroyed its loss would be incalculable to the nation and would cause all the enemies of freedom and democracy in the world to rejoice. I know that many petitioners here have mentioned the many great characters that VMI can claim as graduates. I will mention only one that I think has been missed. His name was Jonathan Daniel’s and he is a martyr and saint in the episcopal church. He has a statue at the Washington National cathedral in Washington DC. He was a hero of the civil rights movement who gave his life for that movement being murdered in Alabama saving Ruby Sales from a white supremacist. The reverend Dr. Martin Luther King jr. himself said “that Jonathan Daniel’s committed one of the most heroic Christian deeds that he had ever heard of in his ministry” He was not a Virginian but a New Englander from Keene NH. I myself attended VMI from the state of Pennsylvania. It has been the great honor of my life to have attended VMI. I work everyday to live up to its ideals of duty and honor to my community my state and my country. The commonwealth has benefited greatly from attracting cadets from all over the United States and even overseas in many cases. I knew many cadets who were from all walks of life and many countries military schools send their best students to VMI to be educated. I thank you for your time and I hope you quash this misguided bill as no good can come from it.

We do NOT support HB1374. Our son graduated from the Virginia Military Institute and it was amazing to watch the transformation of a young boy into a responsible, disciplined and stalwart young man. The principles of the Institute have transformed young boys into men for over a century. It is only in recent history that this school has become a political football for those using it for their own means. This Institute is exactly what we need in the state of Virginia and the United States today. Leave VMI as is.

I strongly oppose House Bill 1374, which calls for the dissolution of the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors and places governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. VMI is a constitutionally established institution with a unique mission, culture, and governance structure that has existed for more than 180 years. The Board of Visitors was intentionally designed to preserve VMI’s military system, academic rigor, and leadership development model. Dissolving this board undermines the institutional independence necessary for VMI to fulfill its distinct public mission. House Bill 1374 sets a dangerous precedent by allowing political intervention to override long-standing governance structures without evidence of financial mismanagement, accreditation failure, or legal noncompliance. Disagreements over institutional culture or philosophy do not constitute legitimate grounds for dismantling an entire governing body. Such action threatens academic freedom, institutional stability, and donor confidence—not only at VMI, but across all public colleges in the Commonwealth. Placing VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors is inappropriate and impractical. VSU and VMI have fundamentally different missions, governance needs, operational structures, and student populations. A board tasked with overseeing a civilian, historically Black university is neither structured nor resourced to govern a senior military college. This consolidation risks eroding VMI’s military system, compromising ROTC and commissioning pathways, and weakening national defense partnerships. Furthermore, HB 1374 disregards the constitutional framework that protects VMI’s governance and opens the door to future legislative overreach into independent public institutions. Governance decisions of this magnitude should be grounded in objective performance failures—not ideological dissatisfaction. Reform, when necessary, should be pursued through lawful oversight, targeted policy changes, and board appointments—not through institutional dismantling. The dissolution of VMI’s Board of Visitors is an extreme and unjustified response that would cause irreversible harm to one of Virginia’s most respected public institutions. For these reasons, House Bill 1374 should be rejected.

I oppose HB1374 because it threatens the mission, independence, and long-term viability of the Virginia Military Institute. My name is Kevin Consedine. I am a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 2001, and I currently serve as an active-duty Colonel and Brigade Commander in the United States Army. I have served multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. I am writing to share my personal experience and why these bills matter to me. I was not raised in Virginia and had no prior connection to VMI. I chose the Institute because of its reputation for producing leaders of character. The four years I spent there were the most formative of my life. VMI taught me selfless service, discipline, and commitment to something greater than myself. Those lessons prepared me to lead Soldiers in combat and continue to guide me today as a husband of 24 years and the father of two teenagers. HB1374 would dissolve VMI’s independent Board of Visitors and place the Institute under the control of another university with a different mission and governance structure. VMI’s success is inseparable from its independence and its unique leadership model. Subordinating it to another institution would fundamentally change what VMI is and why it works. It would not improve the Institute—it would weaken it. Today, the national propensity to serve in the military is at historic lows. As a result, institutions like VMI are not merely state-supported colleges; they are national assets that should be preserved and expanded upon, not destabilized or dismantled. The cadets who pass through VMI will become the officers, engineers, teachers, and civic leaders our country will rely on in the decades ahead. I respectfully ask you to oppose HB1374 and to support the mission of the Virginia Military Institute and the young men and women who choose to challenge themselves there.

1 am a single mother who worked hard to pay for my son's education at VMI. To hear that yet another full scholarship cadet is complaining about the institute is a slap in our face. We have respected VMI our entire lives and understood that the experience is a process that is not easily achieved. My son finished with a degree in mechanical engineering and two minors math and physics. My son had straight A's until VMI. That's the point the Institutes rigorous academics prepared him to pass the federal exam for engineering the first semester of his first year (senior). The pass rate is between 94-100%. The institute is designed to push you to your best abilities not to settle for average The institute should be a shining example to all state colleges as cadets are 100% employed with higher then average incomes- higher incomes higher tax base to Virginia It's a tough experience but it prepares students for the real life challenges of adult and work life Employers love hiring VMI graduates because they know they are disciplined and ready for the career of which they studied VMI should set the standard and not be over seen by any school as the results have been proven by the graduates and the fine careers both private sector and military of which they've achieved post graduation Prepared through the process and high academic standards of VMI No committee nor state school has the criteria to oversee VMI as the national respect (International as well) is not comparable to what VMI has achieved

I am opposed to HB 1374. I am a 2005 VMI grad. I went to VMI all the way from the Los Angeles area where I was born and raised with dreams of becoming an Air Force pilot (I didn't get into USAFA, so that stereotype about VMI cadets is accurate, at least in my case). I was only a few weeks into the Ratline when 9/11 happened. From that point, I knew VMI was not only preparing me to serve, but serve in time of war. VMI was a flawed experience in many ways. When I graduated in 2005, I swore I would never go back to Lexington for any reason. Being a Jewish cadet from California, I was exposed to anti-semitism for the first time. I was a rat for the Halloween where cadets dressed up as SS Officers whipping cadets dressed as Jews. I had a Tac Officer call me a "Heathen" for displaying my Grandmother's menorah over Chanukah. I learned a lot of lessons at VMI that I didn't understand until I left. When I first arrived in Iraq, the first thing I did was set-up my wall locker similar to how I would have as a cadet. The familiarity brought me a little comfort in an uncomfortable time. Being comfortable being uncomfortable is one of the valuable lessons I took from VMI. Another thing I learned is that racism, anti-semitism, and sexism is not exclusive to VMI the way I thought when I only had a privileged LA suburb and VMI to compare. VMI's imperfections prepared me for the world's imperfections. That doesn't mean that those problems are acceptable or that we shouldn't constantly strive for better. I'm not satisfied with where VMI is at, but I want to help it be the best it can be rather than cut bait. I could tell you more about how my VMI roommate was the best man at my wedding or how I still keep up with my thesis advisor from the Institute.... Instead I'll just tell you that I'm back in Lexington, at VMI, and why. When VMI selected Maj Gen Wins as Superintendent and began seriously addressing some of the problems at the school, I wanted to be a part of the solution. This led me back to VMI to serve as a football coach (my wife, also Retired Air Force, is a pistol coach). VMI's status as an NCAA Division I school makes it home to roughly 500 cadet-athletes (1/3 of the Corps). Over 60% of VMI's African-American cadets are Cadet Athletes. Most of these young men and women would not find scholarships at larger, in-state schools. It's worth mentioning that as a coach, I still see athletes who are the first in their family to attend college. If you're familiar with VMI football, you'll probably know that my time as a coach is hopefully not defined by wins and losses. Rather it's the cadets who persevere through the program and ultimately make our world a better place. One of our young men is a cadet-athlete who is living proudly as a neurodivergent person. He's on track to graduate with a degree, is beloved by his class, and was also freshman all-conference... Another is from a disadvantaged part of Richmond, but not only excels in football but was elected class president. I can understand frustration with how the Board of Visitors (BoV) handled General Wins' contract. Still, I promise you the leadership at VMI is committed to making VMI the inclusive and honorable place it has shown it can be. For the cadets who truly need it, the VMI experience cannot be replicated with an augmented corps at Va Tech or other similar solution. Please preserve VMI's ability to navigate its own future with a BoV that is dedicated solely to the Institute

I am the third generation of my family to graduate from VMI, and attending the Institute was the best decision of my life. VMI instills in its cadets values such as honor and discipline—qualities that this country is currently in desperate need of. VMI deserves to be governed by a Board that is connected to the school and its proud history. This bill is nothing but political retribution, and an insult to many Virginians and alumni across the country. I strongly oppose this bill and ask you to vote against it.

I oppose this bill. Where is the data to show VMI has more incidences of assault, racism or sexism than any other college in Virginia? In fact, I think the data shows VMI is pretty low compared to other colleges in Virginia. So what is the basis for this bill? I have not seen evidence to support that anyone at VMI worships Stonewall Jackson or the confederacy. As a parent of a VMI cadet I have been to the school many times in the last two years. I have seen many females and minorities in leadership positions. The current leadership has females and minorities. My cadet went there to further not just their education but their character and leadership skills. The cadets must rise to many different challenges and therefore developing within themselves commitment, respect, and leadership just to name a few. I know the college I attended was solely based on academics. I wish I had learned some of the life lessons VMI teaches at a much younger age. I am confident my cadet will graduate VMI and be a positive role model for all people and will lead well.

As a Virginia resident and mother of a VMI graduate I do not support HB 1374. Here are some of my reasons for why 1. VMI and VSU Serve Completely Different Missions VMI is a senior military college with a structured corps of cadets, mandatory military-style discipline, and an immersive training model unlike any other institution in Virginia. VSU is a traditional public university with a civilian student body. These models cannot be governed by identical policies without compromising what makes VMI successful. 2. HB 1374 Threatens the Military Structure That Defines VMI VMI’s nationally recognized system—military discipline, the Honor Code, barracks life, and leadership development—is essential for producing officers, leaders, and public servants. A bill that forces it into policy frameworks designed for non-military institutions undermines the structure that has existed since 1839. 3. HB 1374 Could Harm Recruitment, Retention, and Reputation Cadets choose VMI for its rigorous, unique environment. If state legislation disrupts or dilutes that environment, VMI risks losing applicants, ROTC candidates, and donors who value the institute’s distinctiveness. 4. VMI Produces Commissioned Officers at Rates Unlike VSU VMI is one of the nation’s top producers of Army and Marine Corps officers among non-federal military colleges. VSU does not have a comparable military mission, and the Commonwealth benefits from VMI’s contributions to national defense and civic leadership. 5. Comparing VMI to VSU Is Inaccurate and Harmful VMI is not simply another public university; it is a military institution regulated and accredited within a specialized framework. VSU serves an equally important but different purpose as Virginia’s first state-supported HBCU. Each school should be supported according to its mission—not forced into uniformity under misguided legislation. 6. HB 1374 Could Damage VMI’s National Standing VMI consistently ranks for leadership, engineering, STEM, and military readiness. Any attempt to restructure or regulate it like a typical university jeopardizes these achievements and diminishes Virginia’s national reputation for excellence in military education. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to vote NO on House Bill 1374. VMI and VSU are both valuable to the Commonwealth, but they are not interchangeable. Legislation should strengthen institutions—not weaken them by forcing inappropriate comparisons or mandates.

I am writing as a Virginia constituent to respectfully urge you not to support House Bills 1377 and HB 1374. My son is a 2/C cadet who will soon commission into the United States Army, and our family deeply values Virginia’s strong tradition of supporting military members, veterans, and those preparing to serve. Because of this, I am especially concerned about how these bills may affect cadets, military readiness, and the quality of education and training for future officers. Virginia should continue to prioritize unit cohesion, leadership development, critical thinking, and operational readiness for cadets of all races, genders, and nationalities. I respectfully ask that you listen directly to current cadets and military families, who are living the real-world impact of these decisions. These issues should not be driven by politics. Instead, decisions should remain focused on what best supports education, discipline, readiness, and the mission effectiveness of those preparing to serve our country. Virginia has long stood as a state that honors and supports its military community. I hope you will uphold that tradition by opposing HB 1377 and HB 1374 and ensuring that policies affecting cadets and service members remain practical, nonpartisan, and mission-focused. Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration. I would appreciate knowing your position on these bills. Sincerely, A concerned Virginia parent and constituent

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed bills HB 1374 and HB 1377 regarding the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). As the parent a current cadet, I am deeply concerned that these legislative efforts represent a political maneuver that unfairly targets the Institute and its students. The data does not support the logic of placing another institution in a position of oversight or priority over VMI. VMI maintains a 77% six-year graduation rate, a four-year graduation rate of approximately 74%, and a first-year retention rate of 81-82%, which ranks 9th among Virginia public colleges. Furthermore, VMI manages an $800 million endowment. In contrast, the other institution mentioned has a four-year graduation rate of 26-28%, a six-year rate of 41-45%, a first-year retention rate of 62-71%, and a $100 million endowment. Given these figures, these bills appear to be a political attack rather than a decision based on educational or fiscal merit. These recurring attacks following shifts in political leadership are detrimental to the cadets who work tirelessly and deserve stability. VMI has operated in good faith under both previous and current administrations, and these bills feel like a direct punishment for recent leadership decisions made by the Board of Visitors.

I am writing to express my strong disapproval of HB 1374 and ask that this bill or any others that take action to place the governance of the Virginia Military Institute under Virginia State University or any other entity be removed from consideration. As a graduate of VMI and the father of a son who is looking to go to VMI, I can say with certainty that if approved, this bill will hurt an institution that has served Virginia and the United States since its founding in 1839. VMI, as we all know, is unique and requires a Board who knows the nuances of VMI in order to govern and make decisions that is best for the Cadets who want a different path for college. For 187 years, VMI graduates have given back to Virginia and our nation through military service, industry and in more ways than any other school in our country similar in size. Placing VMI under any other board would jeopardize its mission.

Am opposed to this bill. Let VMI handle its own affairs, and I firmly believe that it will do what is right and will perform what is best for the students, the organization, and the nation. My son learned about character, sacrifice, honor, integrity and the value of camaraderie from this great institution. It should stay that way.

I am a 2011 graduate of VMI and I vehemently oppose HB1374. This proposed bill is nothing more than a partisan attack on VMI and is extremely short sighted. The author of this bill knows it and all of the other representatives supporting this bill know it as well. It is shameful that our representatives think that it is prudent to waste time ordering the governance of VMI to be shifted under a separate and completely different institution of higher learning in Virginia. VMI provides an extremely valuable service to the Virginia Commonwealth and nation at large, which is unmatched, producing the absolute finest military and civilian leaders from every single graduating class over its 187-year history. The challenging experiences of the Ratline are unmatched by any other institution in the Commonwealth and all across America. If every single college-aged young man and woman could experience the VMI experience, our nation would be in a much better place than where we are now. Please put aside your partisan and childish behavior and look at the enormous benefits VMI provides to our nation. The VMI BOV must stay so that the school can remain and produce the finest sons and daughters our nation can muster. No other institution is like VMI and could possibly run VMI like VMI can. You cannot understand unless you lived the VMI experience. Continuing forward with this bill would be a travesty and would result in VMI’s demise. Please throw this bill away and focus on more Important things.

Dissolving the VMI Board of Visitors and placing governance under VSU does not make any logical sense. As a parent of a 2024 graduate and alumni of another Virginia college I have seen first hand how well VMI is managed and the results are far ahead of other Virginia colleges including VSU. To place governance to another organization would only be determinantal to the continued success of VMI

I respectfully oppose HB1374. I matriculated at VMI in 2003, when women were still relatively new to the Corps. We faced unique challenges, but those experiences built resilience, discipline, and a deep commitment to service. After graduating, I went on to serve honorably in the United States Air Force, carrying forward the values VMI instilled in me. Over the years, I have maintained a strong relationship with my Brother Rats and with the Institute. I have only seen continued improvement. VMI adapts to changing times — from COVID‑19 to evolving academic needs — while remaining true to its mission of producing educated, honorable leaders for Virginia and the nation. HB1374 would dismantle the governance structure that enables VMI to fulfill that mission. The Board of Visitors is uniquely equipped to oversee a military college with a distinct model and statutory responsibilities. Replacing it with an unrelated board would undermine an institution that has served the Commonwealth for more than 185 years. VMI graduates strengthen Virginia’s workforce, government, military, and civic life. The Institute provides clear, measurable public benefit. For these reasons, I urge the committee to oppose HB1374.

I write to oppose HB1374 in the strongest way possible. The bill is ill conceived and will be of no benefit to the country, the Commonwealth, the Alumni, or the Institute.

I write to oppose HB1374 in the strongest way possible. The bill is ill conceived and will be of no benefit to the country, the Commonwealth, the Alumni, or the Institute.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed bills HB 1374 and HB 1377 regarding the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). As the parent of both a VMI graduate and a current cadet, I am deeply concerned that these legislative efforts represent a political maneuver that unfairly targets the Institute and its students. The data does not support the logic of placing another institution in a position of oversight or priority over VMI. VMI maintains a 77% six-year graduation rate, a four-year graduation rate of approximately74%, and a first-year retention rate of 81-82%, which ranks 9th among Virginia public colleges. Furthermore, VMI manages an $800 million endowment. In contrast, the other institution mentioned has a four-year graduation rate of 26-28%, a six-year rate of 41-45%, a first-year retention rate of 62-71%, and a $100 million endowment. Given these figures, these bills appear to be a political attack rather than a decision based on educational or fiscal merit.

I am shocked to see a suggestion that VMI's BOV be taken over by VSU. The two universities and BOVs could not be more different. VMI is nationally recognized as a military school that builds military and industry leaders. And while VSU has esteemed graduates they are very different cultures. VMI has a student run honor system. VMI incorporates service and physical fitness into the college experience. In addition the academic rigour is at the highest possible level . Students at VMI do not lie, cheat or steal and do not tolerate anyone who does. They swear that and live it! I am not sure what the writer of this proposal thinks VSU can do to benefit VMI, but VMI is moving forward with a diverse student population that is so well respected and honored that Americas allies send students to learn from them. VMI needs a board of visitors that continues to push forward growing the diverse student population and building the bonds of all Cadets so they will grow into citizens supporting their communities and the nation in service. Thank you.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on this proposed bill. As the mother of a Virginia Military Institute class of 2024 graduate and friend to many other parents of former and current cadets, I stand in solid opposition to Virginia House Bill 1374. VMI is already subject to extensive oversight through its Board of Visitors, accreditation requirements, state reviews, and prior studies and reports. I firmly believe that creating an advisory task force is both ineffective and irresponsible as it will not promote meaningful progress at VMI. An additional task force risks duplicating existing efforts, delaying action, and creating uncertainty for current cadets and families, without clear evidence that it will result in better outcomes. Most importantly, VMI is, by design, not an ordinary college, and adding it to the purview of another dissimilar institution inherently risks the specialized curriculum and superior citizen soldiers that it produces. While the responsibility of ensuring that VMI is a place where all cadets are treated with dignity and respect is paramount, and oversight and accountability belong in the hands of those who appreciate and respect the legacy of this institution to allow the Institute to continue to live up to its stated values. VMI should not continue to be treated as a political football, subjecting its staff and cadets to instability and unrest that are counter to the educational mission. Cadets commit fully to VMI’s rigorous environment that is challenge enough and anchors their success. Reform, when needed, should be focused, timely and grounded in VMI’s unique mission rather than open-ended reassessment of its status as a state-supported institution. If there are specific issues that require attention, those concerns should be addressed directly through existing governance and accountability mechanisms, with clear expectations and measurable outcomes. A task force that revisits fundamental questions about VMI’s existence and funding does not offer that clarity. I sincerely urge members of the General Assembly to oppose HB 1374 and instead support targeted, constructive actions that strengthen VMI while ensuring it continues to serve the Commonwealth and its cadets with integrity.

I am opposed to this bill. I graduated from VMI. I learned so much while there. The academics were top notch. The Honor System is a part of my life. In graduate school I learned that having attended the best military college set me up for success. I had developed the discipline to be successful there and later in my dual careers of teaching and serving in the Va Army National Guard. VMI STILL HAS A ROLE IN OUR SOCIETY TODAY!

Do not endorse this bill. VMI is not a subsidiary. Leave it alone!

I am a member of the VMI class of 1990, and my oldest son is from the Class of 2016. I vehemently oppose HB1374, transferring governance of VMI to the Board of VSU. VMI provides a service to the Commonwealth which is unmatched, producing the finest military and civilian leaders from each graduating class over its 187-year history. This proposal is a careless effort and partisan-based attack, unsupported by any data or sound reasoning. VSU is an unrelated institution with a vastly different history and mission. This is an unnecessary and irresponsible piece of legislature.

I urge anyone in the VA political arena to go to VMI for 3 days. Witness what this institution offers, witness the leaders that are there. Witness the ones that are in the making. Isn’t that what we what? Aren’t the superior leaders that institutions such as this produce, the same ones you want commanding our military and leading the troops in what could be deadly combat? Able to make momentary decisions that could save lives? If you have issues with the environment of VMI, present concerns and deal with the said issues at hand. Do not shut down an exceptional historical top-notch school, that produces some of the finest visionary leaders this generation has to offer. Leave VMI alone, stop all the political games you're playing. RAHVAMIl

I write to offer the strongest possible opposition to HB 1347, which would dissolve VMI’s Board of Visitors and transfer governance to another institution’s board, and to HB 1377, which would create a Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force (Task Force) as an advisory commission to determine whether VMI should continue to be a state-sponsored institution of higher education. I write from the perspective of a proud citizen of the Commonwealth, retired Navy Captain, former Department of Defense Senior Executive Ethics Attorney, member of the VMI Parent Council, and proud parent of a Cadet in the Class of 2028. Effective oversight of VMI depends on a board that understands the Institute’s unique system and objectives. Maintaining an independent Board of Visitors ensures clear accountability to the Commonwealth, preserves institutional integrity, and avoids governance consolidation that could introduce competing priorities without demonstrated benefit. Like our Federal military academies, VMI continuously evaluates itself and pursues improvement across every aspect of a unique program to develop our Nation's civilian and military leaders. VMI has demonstrated commitment and success in strengthening the Institute while preserving this core mission. An objective quantitative and qualitative assessment of VMI shows just how successful VMI has been in developing community, business, and military leaders of the highest character. I encourage our Governor and every member of our Commonwealth’s House of Delegates to visit Lexington and talk to Cadets, and also engage with alumni in Virginia and beyond. A traditional state university, even one like VA Tech with a corps of cadets, cannot produce, at scale, the leaders of sterling character that VMI has consistently delivered. Our Commonwealth and our Nation need VMI!

As a VMI alumnus, I am deeply concerned about HB1374. VMI has endured for generations not in spite of scrutiny, but because of its unwavering commitment to producing leaders of selfless service and honorable character. To remove VMI’s autonomy and place it under the authority of an unrelated institution is a direct affront to the unique values and traditions the Institute instills. VMI is not an ordinary college. Its commandants, staff, barracks, uniforms, and ratline create a system that shapes cadets in ways that cannot be understood without direct experience. Virginia State University, while a fine institution, does not operate within this system, and therefore cannot appropriately oversee decisions critical to VMI’s mission. As someone who has pledged service to the Commonwealth through the Institute, I feel insulted that the state would not afford VMI the respect and independence it has earned over its entire history. I urge you to oppose HB1374 and preserve the autonomy of an institution that has faithfully served Virginia for nearly two centuries.

I strongly disagree with the intent behind the bill. The institute has always been a standard of excellence in academics and moral character and confining the institute to adhere to a board of visitors that has no ties is ridiculous. Virginia State University board of visitors does not, and will not, understand the pride and history of the school and will completely undermine the mission of the institute. Allow the institute to be led and ran by it’s own members that understand and will carry out the mission. Ensure that the board is of good moral character so that the mission is carried out with honor. This action to remove the current board of visitors and allow the Virginia State Board of visitors to take command is not the solution a will ruin the legacy of the institute.

Dear Members of the House Education Committee, I am writing in strong opposition to HB 1374. It is unnecessary to dissolve the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Board of Visitors, and a proposed structural merger with the Virginia State University (VSU) is unsupported by data or reasoning. I urge the Virginia House of Delegates to strike the amendments to Chapter 27, while retaining 23.1-2706 C if applicable. According to a 2024 study by the Join Legislative Audit and Review Commission, VSU University is one of only 3 public institutions in the state of Virginia that shows any “viability risks.” VMI was not one of the institutions found to pose a viability risk, and enrollment trends were comparable between the schools. Moreover, VMI boasts a substantially higher graduation rate. VMI is also ranked #65 nationally in the National Liberal Arts Colleges list and #4 in the Top Public Schools List, both from the U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges report, and it consistently ranks high in other rankings and in ROI on degrees. These rankings list VMI above many other state four-year public institutions in Virginia, including VSU. With these metrics in mind, the proposed resolution fails to clarify why the Virginia State University Board would be better qualified at governance. Moreover, Virginia State University and Virginia Military Institute have different student bodies, missions, and histories, and they are not geographically close, making a merger suboptimal for either institution. The bill also does not explain why potential changes to leadership and policies at VMI cannot be accomplished via the Governor’s authority to appoint new board members. Why must the VMI Board of Visitors be dissolved rather than simply having its membership reconstituted via existing practices? The governor has already changed the makeup of the BOV and can exert influence through this existing process. While I appreciate the bill’s continued commitment to the military structure of VMI and a call for efforts to reduce sexual violence in the military, it is otherwise an unnecessary piece of legislation that threatens an important, historical institution of higher learning.

I write in opposition to Virginia House Bill 1374 as the mother of a current Virginia Military Institute cadet. My son earned his place at VMI through hard work, discipline, and commitment. Like many, I fully supported his choice of VMI because of its distinct mission, culture, and leadership development model—one that is intentionally different from any other public institution in the Commonwealth. I do not see how transferring VMI’s governance to another university would strengthen that mission or address the real challenges the Institute faces. VMI absolutely must be held accountable when it falls short of its stated values, and there should be no tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or misconduct of any kind. However, HB 1374 does not appear to offer a clear, constructive path toward meaningful reform. Instead, it risks creating administrative disruption, uncertainty for cadets and families, and long-term harm to an institution that has served Virginia for generations. Structural change alone does not guarantee cultural change. What VMI needs is focused leadership, oversight, and accountability that preserves its unique purpose while ensuring it lives up to the standards it claims to uphold. This bill does not demonstrate how transferring governance would achieve those outcomes. As a parent with current cadet, I am deeply concerned about the impact this proposal could have on the education, stability, and future of students who are already fully committed to the Institute. I urge lawmakers to reject HB 1374 and instead pursue solutions that support reform without dismantling what makes VMI distinct. Thank you for the opportunity to share my perspective.

As a sister, wife, and mother of VMI cadets, I’ve seen firsthand what Virginia Military Institute makes possible. My brother came to the U.S. as an immigrant and was told college wasn’t an option. VMI gave him a chance that led to service as a Navy officer and now to senior leadership serving the Commonwealth. My husband was told the same. At VMI, he earned an excellent education while competing as a Division I baseball player. He went on to become a serial entrepreneur and inventor of a life-saving device protected by U.S. and international patents. My son thrived in the disciplined, structured environment at VMI—one where he may not have succeeded elsewhere. He is now a Navy officer and recently earned a combat ribbon on deployment in the Middle East. For over 150 years, VMI has produced leaders who serve—over 285 general and flag officers, Medal of Honor recipients, entrepreneurs, and public servants. VMI’s Army ROTC produces more officers than any other program in the US. At a time when strong leadership is desperately needed, VMI remains a proven pathway for opportunity, service, and impact. The reason they have strong alumni and endowment is because the alumni realize the successful impact VMI made on their lives. In a hyper-politicized environment, the true casualties are not a political group, but the future: young people stripped of extraordinary leadership opportunities and a military deprived of the exceptional officers it urgently needs. I hope those shaping our future will take time to understand what this institution has meant and continues to mean for so many.

January 24, 2026 Dear House Education Committee Members, I am the proud parent of a recent Virginia Military Institute (VMI) graduate. VMI is known as the institute, no ordinary college, is what they like to say. People don’t fully understand what it is to attend VMI. Students have responsibilities outside of academics, they are responsible for guarding the institute, shining their shoes, and making sure their roommates are up in time for breakfast roll call (BRC). VMI teaches their Cadets to support one another and their Honor Code is second to none. Roommates are assigned and no one knows until they move in on matriculation day who they will be living with for the next year. They have uniform inspections often and even if their uniform is in perfect order but their roommate’s is not, they are reprimanded for not supporting their fellow cadet (“brother rat”) to be their best. Virginia has many fantastic public colleges and universities. Virginia State University (VSU) is one of them and their slogan is “Greater Happens Here” inspiring a student to be their best. No institute of higher education in Virginia makes it a priority, other than VMI, to foster unity, instill the values of honesty, fairness, respect, inclusiveness, humility, patience, kindness, and a sense of community. Philosophically, Virginia State University and VMI could not be more different. Both schools are well respected but VSU celebrates individual student success and reinforces a sense of pride. VMI develops young men and women into citizen soldiers, emphasizing selfless service, discipline, and a unified cadet experience “One Corps, One VMI”. VMI is unique and should be allowed to continue to govern itself without any oversight from Virginia State University. For the reasons stated, I ask that you do not report and oppose HB 1374. Thank you for your consideration.

Virginia House Bill 1374 is a direct assault on the integrity, independence, and mission of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI)—one of the Commonwealth’s most distinguished institutions. Under the pretext of “modern oversight” and “inclusivity,” this legislation would dismantle the self-governance that has defined VMI since its founding in 1839. It treats the Institute not as a proud and evolving academy, but as a suspect institution deserving ideological correction from Richmond bureaucrats.HB1374’s premise is that VMI cannot be trusted to reform itself. Yet in recent years, the Institute has already shown it can modernize while preserving its values of honor, discipline, and service. The bill ignores that progress, assuming political supervision can succeed where leadership and tradition already thrive. This reflects a deeper problem: a belief that government knows better than the institution it seeks to “fix.”The most alarming feature of HB1374 is the level of political intrusion it invites. By granting broad new powers to state-appointed overseers, it effectively subjects VMI’s internal culture, curriculum, and leadership to ideological review. Framed as “equity and inclusion,” these provisions open the door to partisan enforcement and bureaucratic micromanagement. VMI’s military-style model—which unites cadets under a common code of honor—depends on shared standards, not identity-based distinctions. Recasting that model through political mandates risks weakening the unity and rigor that make VMI unique.This bill also undermines academic freedom. Once legislators begin defining institutional values and cultural expectations, higher education becomes a political instrument rather than an intellectual one. What starts as oversight could easily become censorship, with future lawmakers imposing their own agendas on colleges and military academies alike. HB1374 sets that dangerous precedent—one that erodes trust between the Commonwealth and its public institutions.What this proposal truly signals is a lack of faith in VMI’s people—its cadets, faculty, and alumni. From New Market to the modern battlefield, graduates have exemplified courage and service. To imply that their alma mater is incapable of self-governance insults that legacy. The Institute has never been perfect, but its ability to evolve without abandoning its mission is precisely what has sustained it for nearly two centuries.HB1374 is not about accountability; it is about control. It seeks to make VMI conform to current political fashions instead of allowing it to continue serving as a model of discipline and integrity. Reform should come from within—guided by the Institute’s own leaders and alumni who understand its mission—not imposed from above through legislative interference.VMI has always stood for producing citizen-soldiers who lead with honor, courage, and service to the Commonwealth and the nation. That mission is too important to be rewritten by politics. The General Assembly should reject this bill and reaffirm its commitment to keeping Virginia’s military institutions independent, principled, and free from partisan intrusion.

I do not support HB1374. The bill proposes to dissolve the existing Board of Visitors of the Virginia Military Institute and transfer governance authority to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University. This represents an unprecedented restructuring of higher‑education governance in the Commonwealth. Such a transfer would eliminate VMI’s independent governing body, disregard the institution’s unique mission and operational requirements, and place two fundamentally different institutions—each with distinct histories, cultures, and academic models—under a single board. No other public institution in Virginia is subjected to this type of consolidation, and no evidence has been presented to justify such an extreme measure. HB1374 would also create significant instability for VMI’s accreditation, leadership continuity, faculty recruitment, and long‑term planning. The bill introduces uncertainty that could harm cadet enrollment and undermine confidence among alumni, donors, and military partners. For these reasons, I do not support HB1374 and urge the General Assembly to maintain VMI’s established governance structure, which has served the Commonwealth for generations.

I oppose this wholeheartedly. If this wasn’t a real proposition I’d be laughing because it makes no sense. You are either jealous because you never got accepted into the school, or think you are better than everyone that’s gone. Nonetheless, it’s obvious you don’t know what you’re doing and someone is forcing you to do this as a political attack against a school you’ve only heard about and never been to. This being passed would have implications that you don’t understand. Michael Feggans, I’m sorry if you got your feelings hurt by an alum but you look like a joke and should fix the oceanfront first before you start another project. I’m glad to know that your true colors are shown and that you only served to be able to get into politics.

I’d like to be a voice in favor of maintaining VMI’s status as a state school. VMI is a well- respected school guiding and molding our country’s next leaders- in military and in civilian businesses and ventures. The discipline, adaptability and resilience that each and every cadet proves of themselves is what sets them apart- and is why they tend to be successful leaders among us. My son and all the corp (past and present) work and have worked very hard, pushed themselves beyond limits on a daily basis- to accomplishments that have grown them into more effective, educated leaders. They’ve pushed to make their way through the Institute and have earned their place of respect. They work With the community giving back in ways that are valued. They invite the local Community of Lexington and the surrounding area to be part of special events, parades, performances, holiday celebrations and are actively present for parades and special Ceremonies and events throughout the entire year. This is local and state wide. Many would not be able to attend VMI if it were not a state school. This has helped Open the door of possibility for so many who dare to achieve higher and do the hard work thereafter. This college experience is about taking a heavy load of classes, having ROTC and a very active schedule of physical fitness demands, continuous practicing of marching and parades and formations, learning the military life and all the expectations that go with that, maintaining strict uniform care for all Of their varying uniforms, presence as support at the athletic games and roles in leadership among the corp. All while living a very “humbled” existence of life in the barracks- without most of the basic comforts college students from standard colleges enjoy, or take for granted. I’m proud of my son and the very difficult path he chose to embrace and is conquering as a cadet. And I’ve seen how VMI’s structure and discipline have helped change and focus many young men and women of the corp. they’ve found new purpose and confidence in themselves and continue to strive for more and achieve new goals and standards for themselves. We need more leaders who have strong voices and presence. And this is what VMI produces. State funding is needed for VMI to maintain its legacy of creating the leaders of our future. I hope you understand the importance of keeping the VMI spirit and mission alive and thriving going forward for another 186 years and beyond. Thank you for standing for them.

The classroom or School Is not place for religion to be shared. No crosses, no Ten Commandments, no ideology of personal religious beliefs. It crosses a line and disrespects so many of either different religions than Christianity, some who aren’t religious at all. forcing religion down people’s throats to push own personal agendas is wrong. On every level. Pushing this country and our children to be Christians when the actual actions of these people are anything BUT the teachings of Christianity is wrong. It’s the ultimate hypocrisy and has no place in schools. We need leaders who stand for ALL. And thus needs to be rejected 100%.

The classroom or School Is not place for religion to be shared. No crosses, no Ten Commandments, no ideology of personal religious beliefs. It crosses a line and disrespects so many of either different religions than Christianity, some who aren’t religious at all. forcing religion down people’s throats to push own personal agendas is wrong. On every level. Pushing this country and our children to be Christians when the actual actions of these people are anything BUT the teachings of Christianity is wrong. It’s the ultimate hypocrisy and has no place in schools. We need leaders who stand for ALL. And thus needs to be rejected 100%.

I respectfully and absolutely oppose HB1374, This bill would put VMI under the control of Virginia State University wherein Virginia State University is located over a hundred miles away. Although Del. Feggans states that this legislation focuses on governance and not punishment, it appears that Del. Feggans has not provided any explanation on how this is focusing on governance. With lack of any explanation, this wholeheartedly gives an appearance of punishment. As reported by the Wichita Eagle, Del. Feggans is concerned that the current governance at VMI does not meet Virginia's higher education standards, so this implies that Viriginia State University has higher education standards than VMI. I ask the question: In what regards does Virginia State University have higher education standards? This House Bill is just whimsical and capricious. I ponder as to why even VMI was invited to the Inauguration Parade?

I am writing in complete opposition of this bill. This bill calls for the dissolution of the VMI board of visitors and governance of the institute fall under the BOV of Virginia State University. This bill can only be perceived as deliberate retribution against the oldest state sponsored military college in the nation. Despite the fact that the Commonwealth of Virginia fought on the wrong side during the civil war, VMI continues to be persecuted by the same political actors, smearing the reputations of cadets and graduates who have served the Commonwealth and the nation with honor throughout the Institute’s history - including the Virginians who died in battle on behalf of the commonwealth. Please vote NO on this political and utterly vindictive legislation.

Delegate Feggans, I do not support HB 1374. Your intent creates a direct and distracting friction with the intent of the Governor to stabilize each board for Virginia’s colleges and universities. Removing a Board does not appear to meet the Governor’s intent. VSU is an excellent civilian university but lacks sufficient and relevant experience with any military oriented activity. The VSU Board would be required to split its attention between two significantly different colleges between two distant locations. This bill has the high potential to detrimentally impact both schools with the students of each school suffering the most significant consequences from a disjointed management structure.

Virginia Military Institute shaped me into a disciplined, resilient, and accountable person in ways that extend far beyond academics. The rigor of the VMI system taught me time management, leadership under pressure, and the importance of personal responsibility. Living within a structured environment pushed me to grow mentally and emotionally, even when conditions were uncomfortable. The shared hardships at VMI built lifelong bonds and a deep sense of mutual respect among cadets. The Board of Visitors plays a critical role in preserving these traditions, standards, and the unique mission that makes VMI distinct. Removing the Board of Visitors would undermine the governance structure that ensures accountability while protecting VMI’s identity. Transferring oversight to Virginia State University would dilute VMI’s military-focused culture and compromise its specialized educational model. VMI is not just another public university, and treating it as one ignores the purpose it was founded to serve. Such a move would erode alumni trust, cadet morale, and the institutional integrity that has been built over generations. Ultimately, weakening VMI’s governance would diminish an experience that has proven transformative for countless graduates, including myself. Some of the finest individuals of our country, Supreme Court Justices, Noble Prize Winners, Chairmen’s of the Joint Chiefs of Staff would be rocking in their grave.

I am an Alumnus of VMI and a retired U.S. Army Colonel. Growing up in Radford, VA, I can honestly say that VMI shaped my success. VMI governance needs to remain within the purview of an independent VMI Board of Visitors. The VMI experience is unique, and not one that can reasonably be overseen by another civilian university. The Governor has the ability to shape the BOV to her liking, and is doing that. Political vengeance is unnecessary. I believe this bill will effectively end the majority of Alumni donations, and decrease the quality of the education, experience and ability to create future leaders. I also believe that just the introduction of this bill, and the apprehension over VMI’s future, will already negatively impact enrollment this coming Fall semester. VMI’s reputation goes beyond Virginia. Politicians and Military members from other countries know of and respect the leadership and quality that VMI produces; I have personally experienced this. This reputation will not survive with the changes that this bill demands.

As a Virginia Beach resident, I strongly oppose House Bill 1374 and am concerned by the Delegate’s decision to support it. I am neither a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) nor the parent of a VMI student ; however, I greatly admire the institution and its long-standing mission. I have worked in public education for over 30 years at both the PreK–12 and collegiate levels, and I know from experience that the most effective leadership comes from those closest to the institution and its unique culture. The proposal to shift governance of VMI to another Virginia state college is unwise.

I'm a 1990 Graduate of VMI and a 20 year veteran of the US Navy. My VMI education prepared me well for both my military and civilian careers, and the experience probably was the single greatest influence in shaping the man I am today. My son graduated from VMI in 2019 and is currently serving in the US Army, VMI had a similar effect on him and as a father I can thing of few things that made me prouder than the day he walked across the graduation stage. VMI is not perfect and unfortunately has made errors in past years. However I'm more than confident that the Institute is in good hands under the BoV members appointed by Governor Spanberger. They deserve the chance to oversee the Institute and make needed changes without political interference or excessive, biased oversight. I oppose any attempt to restrict VMI public funding or diminish the authority of its BoV.

I strongly disagree with this bill. VMI is a unique and powerful school and excels at creating leaders in all areas of life.

VMI is a unique, life changing institution. To disrupt this great school would be a shame. To disband VMI's BOV and move governance under another school would be a major mistake and disservice. VMI is unique and unlike any other regular university, and governance that doesn't understand VMI's model and mission would fail miserably. Your proposed bill gets it backwards. VMI boasts one of the highest returns on investment (ROI) of any school in the country. Most schools fail when it comes to providing an economic return. If anything, other schools should be placed under VMI's governance and learn a few things about how to improve their mediocre education and standards. VMI dramatically changed my life for the positive. I left the Midwest to attend VMI because of its stellar reputation, rigorous academics and physically challenging environment. It enabled me to become a highly effective Naval officer, a successful entrepreneur and CEO that built large companies and created jobs for thousands of people. VMI not only provides a world class education, but it also instills strong personal skills and attributes, such as grit, determination, honor, creativity and a civic minded duty, rarely found at most colleges. Other schools should be learning from VMI. I am opposed to this attempt to alter VMI's governance. VMI is a premier, world class institution of which Virginia should be proud.

As a resident of Virginia Beach and the parent of a Virginia Military Institute (VMI) "Rat," I am writing to express my profound opposition to HB1374. This bill, which proposes to dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors and transfer its governance to another institution, represents an existential threat to the mission of VMI and the future of the young men and women who serve in its Corps of Cadets. VMI is one of only five Senior Military Colleges in the United States. Its core values —defined by the Rat Line, the strict Honor Code, and a rigorous military structure—are a highly specialized educational model. This model requires oversight from a board that intimately understands these unique traditions and the specific demands placed upon the students. A college must be allowed to oversee itself because no outside institution can truly grasp the intricacies of its specific culture. Moving the governance of a military institute to a non-military university board would effectively dismantle the unique leadership pipeline that has served the Commonwealth and our nation for nearly two centuries. Governance without cultural understanding is not oversight; it is a recipe for the destruction of the Institute’s core identity. VMI provided my son an opportunity when other Virginia colleges would not. He fell in love with the small class sizes, the accessibility of professors, and a sense of brotherhood that unites cadets of every background. He worked tirelessly to meet VMI’s physical standards, adopting a personal creed that stems around brotherhood and service. Currently, a "dark cloud" hangs over the Post. The milestones and traditions my son has worked so hard to earn are being overshadowed by the uncertainty and instability created by this legislation. If VMI’s independent governance is stripped away, Virginia loses a vital pathway for students who thrive in this disciplined, merit-based environment. I respectfully ask our leaders to protect the integrity of this historic institution. Please oppose HB1374 and allow VMI to maintain the self-governance necessary to fulfill its unique and vital mission.

Good afternoon, Del. Feggans, I am writing in response to House Bill 1377 and House Bill 1374 regarding the Virginia Military Institute which proposes the creation of a Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force to reassess VMI’s status as a state-sponsored institution and its continued receipt of public funding along with the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors which places governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. I write as a proud mother of a 3rd class VMI cadet that has earned his place at VMI through hard work, discipline and dedication. He has thrived in the VMI culture, brotherhood, structure and leadership opportunities. As a Marine Corps scholarship recipient, he plans on serving his country as a future Marine Corps aviator. For my family, and for many others across the Commonwealth, VMI represents opportunity, service, and the formation of character. It is not simply another public college; it is a unique institution with a distinct mission that has served Virginia and the nation for 186 years. VMI is consistently ranked 4th among public colleges in the U.S. placing it just behind the federal service academies. VMI maintains a 77% six-year graduation rate and a first-year retention rate of 82%. VMI consistently commissions more than 50% of its graduates in the U.S. Armed Forces each year which equates to over 170 new officers annually. VMI has produced nearly 300 generals, 7 medal of honor recipients and more than 80 Distinguished Service Cross/Navy Cross recipients throughout its history, a number that exceeds any other ROTC program in the United States. As you consider these House Bills and associated legislation, I respectfully urge you to weigh VMI’s demonstrated value to Virginia and the country. VMI demonstrates that it delivers return on the Commonwealth’s investment – in leadership development, public service, military commissioning, and civic contribution. VMI is a worthy school, and it welcomes a serious review that should strengthen its legitimacy, not weaken it. Respectfully, January Gilley

I am a Sophomore at the Virginia Military Institute and I am against the bill HB 1374. I came to VMI to become a better individual and I was attracted to VMI's rigorous academic and military environment. VMI has positively impacted me as a person and as a woman. It has offered me many academic and leadership opportunities that I would not have been able to experience at any other school. Its discipline oriented system has increased my self discipline, and time management skills. It has made me more resilient and aware leader that will be ready to lead others in the civilian world. If VMI disappears or is merged into another college, that action would destroy my future, all that I have worked towards in my life and towards my diploma and it would destroy VMI's legacy. VMI's rigorous honor system raises honorable men and women of character ready to serve the country in the military and private sector. As a student who has worked so hard to get into this college and has worked tirelessly to stay here, I plead with you to not dissolve the board of visitors and let the VMI legacy continue. I am opposed any bill that would destroy VMI and the value of a VMI diploma.

I respectfully oppose HB 1374. I am not a graduate of the Institute but am a very proud grandparent of a 3rd class Cadet. As a lifelong Virginia resident, I was unaware of the impact that Virginia Military Institute has on their students and alumni prior to my grandson's matriculation. The life lessons that are already ingrained in my grandson will serve him well as he commissions into the Marine Corps. This is the life journey he chose as a Cadet at VMI, not because of family legacy or outside pressure but the cultivated desire to serve his country and his fellow citizens that he learned at VMI. Do not try to change what works at VMI but be an advocate for the Institute to make it stronger.

I urge rejection of this proposal / just the signal if would send to current and prospective cadets would be harmful to VMI . This is a school so different in mission and how it is run and the issues it has it would be very hard and time consuming to run without deep knowledge of VMI that the mistakes that would be made would be many and impactful

Honorable delegates and members of the committee reviewing this bill- I have been fortunate to have a long relationship with, and graduate from VMI. The men and women I have met, and continue to meet impress me as graduates and citizens of the commonwealth, the United States and the world. I was challenged in every aspect of the four years, and I rely on this experience in times good and bad. I work in local government, and the lessons learned of ethics and the treatment of others have uniquely prepared me to work as a civil servant, doing what is right for the people even when it is hard. The last few years have been a challenging time for VMI and (rightfully) questioning its relationship with the confederacy and the history of Virginia. VMI has its faults, as any institution does. This bill calls into question the progress that has been made, the track VMI is on and its new leadership. The Institute continues to produce men and women of character, prepared for the varied work of military and civilian life. I write this remembering a lesson I learned at VMI- transparency, truth and honor will never fail you, and you must lean on those values in challenging situations. In the hands of our new board, I believe this will continue to be true. VMI is in great hands with LtGen Furness, along with the recently added BOV members. With new leadership, this bill wrongfully calls our new governors appointments into question, in addition to the work done by former superintendent MG Wins. This bill will not allow VMI to continue progressing on the right path, bettering VMI graduates and the state. Very Respectfully, Allen McCown VMI Class of 2011

VMI changed my life, I am Strongly opposed to this HB1374. This bill is terrible and in no way needed. An action of this nature would weaken VMI in many ways and not strength it.

To whom it may concern, I am no longer a resident of Virginia, however I regularly serve the people of Virginia as a nurse in Sullivan County TN. I am a proud VMI alumni and would not be where I am today without VMI If you transfer governance of the institute to an outside party, you present the opportunity to change everything about the place, to further weaken and remove the things that make it such a unique school. I am merely trying to appeal to your common sense. An institution like VMI should have minimal outside influence in its governance.

I strongly oppose HB 1374. This bill is nothing more than short sighted political malice. VMI is a significant source of public and private sector leaders all over the globe. VMI is unique and must remain unique and governed by a group of similar caliber and uniqueness.

I respectfully oppose House Bill HB 1374 regarding the governance of the Virginia Military Institute. VMI is unique because of its Honor Code, which is the strictest in the nation and central to the Institute’s identity, credibility, and national reputation. The Honor Code is not symbolic. It is absolute, rigorously enforced, and foundational to the character and discipline of its cadets. The caliber of individuals VMI produces is reflected in measurable outcomes. VMI maintains one of the highest graduation and retention rates in the Commonwealth, with more than three-quarters of cadets completing their degrees within six years, compared to significantly lower rates at Virginia State University. Additionally, over 97 percent of VMI graduates are employed, enrolled in graduate school, or commissioned into military service within months of graduation. These outcomes are rooted in VMI’s uncompromising standards and culture of accountability. Placing VMI under another institution’s governance structure, particularly one without an equivalent honor system or record of outcomes, would fundamentally diminish what makes VMI distinct. Such a change risks eroding decades of earned trust, leadership development, and institutional excellence built on the nation’s most rigorous Honor Code.

Dear Members of the House Education Committee, I am writing in strong opposition to HB 1374, which calls for the dissolution of the Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors and would place governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. I am a recent graduate of VMI, Class of 2025, with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Business. As an alumnus, I believe it is imperative that VMI be led by individuals who truly understand what it means to experience this institution firsthand. There is no other place on earth that has the same rigor, challenges, or culture as VMI. The adversative system is unlike any other educational model, and its impact on cadet life is profound. While VMI, like any institution, should always improve and evolve, it must be overseen by leaders who understand how the system works and how decisions affect the development, morale, and success of cadets. VMI has produced some of the nation’s most respected leaders and thinkers, including a Nobel Prize winner, a Pulitzer Prize winner, seven Medal of Honor recipients, eleven Rhodes Scholars, countless generals and flag officers, members of Congress, state senators, members of presidential cabinets, the current Acting Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, An Alabama governor, aTexas governor, and two Virginia governors. Most recently, Governor Ralph Northam—himself a VMI alumnus—was appointed to the Board of Visitors. This small school in the heart of Virginia consistently produces leaders who serve at the highest levels of government, military, and civil society. VMI should continue to be governed by a Board of Visitors composed of these individuals who still know the Inscription on the Parapet by Col. John Thomas Lewis Preston word-for-word, who remember the smell of cannon fire during evening colors, who will never forget the feeling of the stoop as they assumed the front leaning rest, who understand its mission, its culture, and its unique role in developing citizen-soldiers and civic leaders. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1374 and preserve VMI’s independent governance. Thank you for your time and consideration. Very Respectfully, Walker Garner VMI Class of 2025

I respectfully oppose HB1374. Moving the governance of VMI to another entity has no merit or reasoning and should be wholly rejected. I write to you as a proud mother of two cadets, one a recent VMI graduate, Class of 2025, the other current freshman at The Institute. Thank you, Emily Garner

Representatives of Virginia, I respectfully oppose the proposed legislation in bill 1374 to dissolve the Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors. As a proud Alumn, I have seen first hand the developmental potential VMI has for young men and women of all backgrounds. The strength of the VMI corps comes from a shared experience through the ratline, where each and every student learns that with the support of their peers, anything is possible. This shared experience requires only two things: that you believe you & your peers are capable of great things, and you have the desire to seek them out. I have seen what effect this experience has had on myself, in my close friends, in my siblings, and even in those I did not know personally. I have seen the effects of this experience in action where the women and men of VMI represent these, and countless other ideals and encourage others to continuously pursue them also. VMI ultimately teaches its' Cadets that each day is a constant decision to look at yesterday's shortcomings, and choose to be better today than we were then. Removing the BOV and placing the school under the authority of other collegiate organizations removes the ability for these opportunities to be cultivated and encouraged in this melting pot of education. The VMI experience cannot be pursued alone, and it cannot be created by another institution lacking the corps' history of personal sacrifice and depth of character. The VMI experience exists because the individual becomes the corps, and the corps is reflected in each individual. If everyone was identical, the corps would stagnate and no longer have the background to grow or challenge or support itself to push all its members towards excellence. Without the independence provided by VMI's very own Board of Visitors, Virginia would lose a very important asset for her citizens. An asset that unites and strengthens Virginia and the US as a whole by creating the quality of character recognized by so many across our nation. I encourage and sincerely ask all Virginia representatives seeking to vote on this Bill, to journey to VMI as an open minded and curious citizen, rather than with any, good or bad, preconceptions. I encourage you to walk amongst the Cadets, their families, the Lexington community, and see the people behind the uniforms and the parades. You will see the pride, the late hours of studying, the dedication, perseverance and most importantly the unity amongst the entire VMI community. These qualities of our Cadets are cultivated through the legacy of those who walked the Post before, and is upheld by those who will walk long after. Organizations seeking to absorb VMI will not accurately capture or sustain this caliber of Virginia's character. The decision to dissolve the Board of Visitors and place VMI under another college board is more accurately a decision on whether or not ideals such as those of the Corps are worth preserving within the youth of Virginia. I urge you to look deeper at the costs that removing this independence and autonomy would have upon the opportunities for these students' development into the young adults we need in Virginia and in the world around us. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to seeing you on Post with our VMI family.

First of all, thank you for the opportunity to voice opinions regarding HB1374. I'm not quite sure about the premise of this particular legislative effort, but I must say it seems extremely short sighted regarding higher education and frankly vindictive. Please do not support such an effort as it will have ramifications well beyond the Virginia Military Institute.

I want to offer a personal perspective as a current cadet and someone whose life was fundamentally shaped by VMI. When I arrived at VMI, I was an immature young man with a lot to learn about discipline, responsibility, and respect for others and for myself. The Institute challenged me in ways no other experience ever had. It demanded accountability, honor, and service, not as abstract ideas, but as daily expectations. These values are something that are rarely taught in current society, and a differentiating factor between VMI and other state colleges. Through that process, VMI helped turn me from a boy into a respectful, honorable man. The values instilled at VMI; self-discipline, integrity, resilience, and commitment to something greater than oneself, have stayed with me long after graduation. Those values guide how I conduct myself in my career, in my community, and in my civic life. I know many fellow cadets who would say the same. Like any institution, VMI is not perfect and should always be open to thoughtful improvement. But I am deeply concerned that HB 1374 could undermine an institution that has served the Commonwealth and the nation with distinction for generations. I respectfully ask that you consider the voices of current cadets whose lives have been positively shaped by VMI. Any evaluation of the Institute should be balanced, fair, and grounded in an appreciation of its mission and its long-standing contribution to Virginia. While some may have bad things to say - their conduct and disciplinary record at the Institute should be factored in, as many feel resentment and hatred towards VMI due to them not adhering to the rules and the system in place. At VMI, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse student body with a common goal. For example, I am a member of the One Corps Committee, which has the goal of fostering community and unity throughout the Corps. I have a Taiwanese military exchange student living in my small room for the spring semester. I have the privilege of being under the leadership of a diverse array of people - men, women, African American, LGBTQ, and anything else you could think of. I see a difference in maturity, intellect, exposure to diversity, integrity, and drive to succeed when I interact with my peers who chose to attend other colleges in VA. VMI truly is not what it is depicted as by emotion-driven individuals who have never stepped foot on campus nor have the grit to endure the system that shapes the nations leaders. Thank you for your time and for your service to the Commonwealth. I appreciate your consideration of my perspective.

I strongly oppose HB1374. Virginia Military Institute is a fine institution the produces educated and honorable citizens. Eliminating VMI’s Board of Visitors and allowing another state college to govern VMI would only weaken the unique educational experience and undermine VMI's core mission.

Please maintain the Virginia Military Institute governance in tact and DO NOT put it under Virginia State University Board of Visitors. Since the nature of VMI is unique and should be remain so, it makes no sense to ask a group of people who have nothing to do with the school or an understanding of its value to govern it. Each college and university has its own governing body, why would it be any different for VMI who is so beautifully unique? It appears this is a political decision and seems to be a way to force the destruction of an institution that has served Virginia and Virginians for so many years. PLEASE don't let this happen. Embrace the special nature of this school, embrace the opportunities it brings to our state and our students and allow it to continue to serve us. My son has flourished under the foundations set by VMI. You are trying to change something that is working well for what end? Don't let politics harm our young people - PLEASE.

VMI is an outstanding school! I know many, many VMI grads, they are if the highest quality individuals I’ve ever met. Why try “fix” something that isn’t broken !?

This simply not right. The institution is well known for producing excellent education. It gives our Students the ability to choose how they want to learn. In addition based on safety, and especially women’s safety at Universities, VMI has a culture that encourages and promotes an honor code, this honor code is upheld by all students against their piers. It promotes a great place to learn, and is possibly why the school ranks as one of the top rated Liberal Arts Universities in the Country. Please don’t allow the school to lose its traditions especially its honor code by falling under another jurisdiction other than the State.

I strongly opposed this "bill". Your shortsightedness and malice in proposing this not only seeks to destroy a well respected and highly institution, but imperil an important source of military and private sector leaders.

I strongly oppose HB1374. To imply that any one college board should control another is in and of itself offensive. Each college is unique and has different needs and realities based on lived experience and structure, mission and vision, and student needs. Would the Commonwealth suggest that the Richmond City School Board control the K-12 education in Arlington? That Arlington control Roanoke? That Roanoke control Williamsburg? Of course not. So why would that be even considered for a college or university? Taking this a step further – IF one did believe in such cross-control, should the controlling board not be the board overseeing the more successful and lauded of the two schools? One only needs to look at the official DOE scorecards for VMI and VSU to see this bill for what it is – a political performance based in bias and theatrics meant to belittle VMI and shame them for perceived political “crimes”. From the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (collegescorecard.ed.gov) --- Graduation Rate: VMI 80% | VSU 48% ---- Median Earnings of former students who received federal aid 10 years after entering college: VMI $77,369 | VSU $45,543 ---- Students who return after their first year: VMI 83% | VSU 72% ---- SAT Critical Reading: VMI 530-640 | VSU 420-543 ---- SAT Math: VMI 510-620 | VSU 380-510 Additionally, the text includes: “C. The Institute shall continue to demonstrate its commitment to contributing to the elimination of sexual violence in the military and shall develop reasonable policies and procedures to demonstrate such continued commitment.” Are all colleges and universities facing a bill to address the same issues on their grounds? Have the proponents of this bill read Annual Fire, Safety and Security reports for each college and university? Is VMI the ‘top offender’ amongst Commonwealth institutions? These reports are readily available online from schools and if concern for sexual violence victims is truly important to proponents of the bill, I encourage them to look at other schools reporting numbers and hold them to the same standard and have similar bills put forth regarding their policies and procedures. If the answer to the above questions is NO, how can anything other than anti-VMI bias be seen in this bill, even looking at just that one item?

I strongly opposed HB1374 and HB1377. VMI is an exceptional Institution that brings well educated citizen soldiers to our Virginia Militia. These bills are not designed to improve on the mission of the school . I ask that the Education Committee members vote resounding NOs to these bills.

To whomever this may concern for HB-1374, I am a 2nd class cadet (Junior) in the Virginia Military Institute Corps of Cadets. I hold rank as a Platoon Sergeant in Band Company and I am projected to commission in the United States Air Force in May of 2027. I will attempt to express briefly how this institute has influenced and changed my character for the better. During my first year, I was faced with many physical and mental challenges that forced me to step up and out of my comfort zone. I grew substantially in my resilience to adverse conditions in various ways. Little did I know that this would prepare me for the traumatic events which would lead to my brother and best friend taking his life the following year. The series of events and decisions which foreshadowed this tragic outcome were horrible. I had to make the difficult decision to stay home and support my family. Upon hearing of this, the Commandant, Col Havird, personally spoke with me and encouraged me to take all the time I needed. Institute leadership were profoundly supportive; further, my fellow cadets and closest friends were there for me in ways I never would have expected. Upon my return this past August, I was welcomed with open arms and empowered to pick up right where I left off. Our new Superintendent, Lieutenant General Furness, has already had a profound impact on my cadetship despite him just being appointed. Just within this month, General Furness invited a friend, who had extensive experience with trauma, to provide the Corps a seminar on how to cope with trauma in healthy ways and even leverage it as a leader to better support people through the dark trenches of their own trauma. General Furness even showed extreme vulnerability with the Corps by sharing his own trauma in his service to family and country. Although unbeknownst to the superintendent, this seminar and his testimony impacted me greatly and showed me how deeply he cared for our wellbeing as cadets and future leaders of this nation. I know for a fact that the Superintendent, Commandant, and other key leadership of the Corps have absolutely zero tolerance for racism or sexism. This institute, in no manner, has encouraged or systematically enforced discrimination in any form. There are no rules, practices, or traditions carried out that prohibit or isolate anyone on the basis of race, creed, gender, or sexuality. On the contrary, there is extensive training and strictly enforced rules in place against acts and behavior pertaining to discrimination. I could easily continue with countless other examples of the positive influence this institute, its leadership, and my fellow cadets have had on myself and my family; however, I am limited by a word count. I invite anyone voting on this bill to come to the institute and speak personally with the countless faculty and cadets positively impacted by VMI. Each individual this bill will affect has a rich background rooted in experience, cultural and ethnic identity, religious and personal beliefs, and the like. The institute has influenced us all in unique ways which deserve to be considered when making decisions that will directly change our way of life. There are many willing to share their stories if only asked. Thank you for your time in considering my story. Very respectfully, Cadet Joseph Reynolds '27 Band Company 2nd Platoon Sergeant DET880 AFROTC Training Group Commander Computer and Information Science

I have family and friends as well as co-workers to which several I have hired through the years! All these men and women were of the highest quality people i have ever had the privilege to associate . Change has occurred at VMI over the last 25 years but never to the extent of outside oversight to what is being sought. VMI is. Military school! Needs to governed as such. All Virginia’s have respect for this unique institution ! Please consider this when approaching this subject!

My name is Paul Oppedisano. I am a 2018 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute and an active duty officer in the United States Air Force. I respectfully disagree with the propositions contained within this legislation and urge the committee to dismiss Michael Feggans’ proposal to dissolve VMI’s board of visitors. VMI is a unique institution that provides a unique service to this country. Half of all alumni of the Virginia Military Institute go on to commission into the U.S. Armed Forces, while the other half serve this country as upstanding citizens within government, medical, legal, and other civilian sectors. In order for the Institute to continue to produce leaders who are prepared for the ever-changing landscape within our nation, VMI’s board of visitors requires agency in its decision making process. Stripping VMI of its agency would open the door to degrading and deteriorating its capability to produce high caliber civil-servants, like it has done over the last 186 years. HB1374 simply should not make it out of committee.

I am writing to voice my opposition of this bill. Any institution should have a board that has a vested interest in the school itself. Having an unrelated party make decisions for VMI and its future is a huge mistake. VMI has produced some of the nation’s best leaders and continues to develop young men and women across all walks of life. I am greatly disappointed that VMI has been singled out by this bill. I vehemently oppose this bill and the rationale behind it.

I respectfully oppose HB 1377. I write to you as a constituent and as the wife of a Virginia Military Institute graduate. From the outside, VMI may appear simply as a college or military institution, but from within a family shaped by its values, it is so much more. I have seen firsthand the kind of men and women VMI produces, and the lasting impact its principles have long after graduation. VMI teaches strength, not just physical or mental toughness, but strength of character. It teaches respect for others, the value of hard work, personal accountability, and the importance of honesty even when it is difficult. These are not abstract ideals; they are expectations that are lived daily and carried into families, workplaces, and communities across Virginia and beyond. In a time when integrity, discipline, and personal responsibility are increasingly undervalued, institutions like VMI are more important than ever. Its single-sanction honor system and unwavering commitment to ethical leadership set it apart in a way few institutions can claim. VMI does not simply educate students—it forms leaders who understand service, sacrifice, and the responsibility they owe to others. For nearly two centuries, VMI has adapted to a changing world while holding fast to its core mission: producing honorable leaders who contribute meaningfully to society. Reducing or eliminating its funding through HB 1377 would undermine an institution that consistently delivers exceptional value to the Commonwealth. The loss would not only be financial—it would be cultural and generational. As a wife, a constituent, and someone who believes deeply in the need for institutions that instill strong values and honest leadership, I urge you to oppose HB 1377 and continue supporting the Virginia Military Institute. Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully, Jennifer Skrzypek, Penn State Alumni and proud VMI Wife. Henrico, VA

I strongly oppose this bill. I have friends and family members who have attended VMI and have seen the leadership, discipline and moral values that the institution represents and instills in cadets and future leaders of both military and civilian futures. It would be reprehensible and a moral disservice to do away with this outstanding institution.

I strongly oppose HB 1374 and HB 1377, which represent partisan assaults on one of Virginia's most influential and beneficial institutions, the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). These bills threaten to undermine an organization that has positively shaped not only the Commonwealth but the nation as a whole through its rigorous focus on leadership, discipline, and service. As a former VMI cadet, I experienced an environment unlike any other—before or since—where personal merit and character were paramount. During my time as a rat and later as a cadet, backgrounds, socioeconomic status, or other superficial traits held no sway; what mattered was individual honor, integrity, and performance. This unique culture fostered personal growth and equipped me with invaluable tools for success that no ordinary college could have provided. VMI's emphasis on excellence has produced generations of leaders who contribute to Virginia's economy, military, and civic life, bolstering our state's reputation and prosperity. The claims underpinning these bills appear politically motivated, using VMI as a sacrificial lamb to score points rather than addressing a real issue. Proposing to dissolve VMI's independent board of visitors and transfer governance to Virginia State University (HB 1374), or establishing a task force to potentially strip state sponsorship (HB 1377), demonstrates a lack of understanding of VMI's proven model and its enduring benefits to the Commonwealth. Such changes risk diluting the institute's core mission without evidence of improvement. I urge lawmakers to withdraw these bills from consideration and preserve VMI's autonomy, ensuring it continues to thrive as a pillar of Virginia's educational landscape.

There is no clearer sign of government overreach than the attempt to insert itself into an Institution founded on principles of discipline, integrity, and honor — principles that both the world and the current state administration have too often failed to uphold themselves. Furthermore, an Institution that produces both military and civilian leaders. No one — neither family, friends, outsiders, nor even the staff at VMI — can ever fully understand VMI. It is a privilege and an honor that only those who have experienced and lived it can truly claim. I say this with utmost sincerity and urgency: there cannot exist one single board that supervises and dictates the actions of two Institutions of such fundamentally different missions, culture, and caliber of students. To do so would be a disservice to both schools, and to each and every individual who chooses to go to either one.

I strongly oppose this new bill. There is no justifiable reason for Virginia Military Institute to be investigated. VMI upholds exceptionally high academic, ethical, and leadership standards and already operates under extensive oversight. This proposed bill is unnecessary and unfairly targets an institution with a proven record of excellence and accountability.

I respectfully oppose HB 1374. Having carefully read through the proposed bill, I cannot determine any advantage of combining the Board of two very unique, yet vastly different, academic institutions. Should I be wrong and there is advantage to combining these Boards, I would recommend that we combine the Boards of all universities in the Commonwealth. I was very pleased to read the language inserted in the bill recognizing that “The Institute shall continue to demonstrate its commitment to contributing to the elimination of sexual violence in the military”. As a VMI alum and 30 year Navy veteran, I fully concur that VMI “continues” to demonstrate this mission in earnest and with integrity.

As a third generation VMI alumnus with family history back to 1930 i strongly oppose HB 1374, this bill stands as a slap in the face to both institutions VMI and VSU. There is no merit to strip VMI of its BOV just because the Delegate from VB doesn't agree with its Decisions.

VMI is both independent and unique, with a 187-year history of excellence within the Commonwealth and our nation. It enjoys a unique and stellar reputation in educational, military, and civilian sectors. It is one of a small handful of Senior Military Colleges in the country. It has new leadership and has evolved into a top-quality, diverse, and solidly reliable institute of higher education. It's unique nature sets it apart from other state institutions and its graduates' contributions far outweigh expected outcomes for similar civilian schools. The Board of VMI is comprised of experienced leaders including alumni who know and understand the unique aspects of VMI and the dynamics that drive its successes. To subordinate VMI to another college's Board that is different in every aspect is illogical and destructive. Leave VMI the way it is and let the new leadership guide the school into the future. This particular bill makes no sense whatsoever.

I respectfully oppose HB1374. It is shocking that Mr. Feggans would waste the valuable time of other state Delegates to consider this outrageous proposal.

House Bill - 1374. I respectfully request this bill to be voted down My name is Lori Losi and my son is a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. He chose VMI because the Institute offers a unique, challenging, and highly structured four-year experience that builds unparalleled discipline, leadership, and character through a combination of rigorous military training and academics. As the VMI Parents Council Recruiting Committee Chairperson, I have spoken with hundreds of prospective cadets and their families by phone and in person over the past three years. Consistently, these students and parents express strong enthusiasm for VMI’s academic rigor, physical demands, and leadership development model. Their interest is rooted in VMI’s clearly defined mission, culture, and governance structure, which they view as integral to the Institute’s identity and success. For these reasons, Virginia Military Institute should retain governance through its own Board of Visitors. VMI’s unique military and academic model requires mission-specific oversight by a governing body singularly focused on the Institute’s purpose. Maintaining an independent Board of Visitors ensures clear accountability to the Commonwealth, preserves institutional integrity, and avoids governance consolidation that could introduce competing priorities without demonstrated benefit. From both a governance and stakeholder perspective, retaining VMI’s existing structure reflects prudent stewardship and respect for the factors that continue to attract high-caliber students to serve Virginia. Thank you for your consideration

I write as a member of the VMI faculty to share my perspective on HB 1374, and on the importance of independent governance for the Institute. In my years at VMI, I have seen firsthand how the Institute’s distinctive educational model shapes students into disciplined, thoughtful, and responsible leaders. VMI’s academic standards are rigorous and comparable to those of Virginia’s leading public institutions. Our cadets simultaneously manage rigorous academics and a demanding military experience. Having taught at other institutions in the Commonwealth, I can attest that this combination of educational and military training produces some of the best educated, resilient, honorable, effective citizen-leaders in the Commonwealth and the nation. This bill, which would dissolve VMI’s Board of Visitors and transfer governance to another institution’s board, raises serious concerns. VMI’s mission, culture, and governance needs are highly specialized. Effective oversight depends on a board that understands the Institute’s unique system and objectives. Altering governance in this manner risks continuity, cadet and faculty recruitment and retention, long-term planning, without offering evidence that such a change would promote VMI’s mission of producing honorable citizen-leaders. Like any effective institution, VMI must continue to evaluate itself and pursue improvement. As a faculty member, I have seen genuine efforts to adapt and strengthen the Institute while preserving its core mission. I respectfully urge the legislature to recognize VMI’s demonstrated value to the Commonwealth and to approach this bill with careful consideration of its potential long-term consequences. Thank you for the opportunity to provide these comments.

I respectfully oppose HB1374. I thought this bill was a joke or maybe a typo at first. What does VSU have to do with VMI? Does anyone at VSU even know what VMI is? How a structured and disciplined school functions? Uniforms and grooming standards? Physical fitness? Militaristic way of life? In terms of prestigiousness, Virginia State University is not even in the same universe as Virginia Military Institute. When you tell someone you're from VMI they show clear impression, captivation and desire to ask more. No one even knows what VSU is. "Hey nice to meet you, where'd you go to school"? "VSU." "Ok." To transfer the governance of the highest caliber institution this country has to offer to the level of VSU is just outright offensive. RVM 1-9

I am the father of five daughters, the oldest is VMI class 2003, and the youngest is VMI class 2028. VMI provides cadets a unique opportunity to become the ethical, moral, and outstanding citizen soldiers our country really needs now. Every time I am on post, I look at Gen. Marshall's statue and think to myself, which VMI graduate will be the next Gen. Marshall. Therefore, I am greatly opposed to each and every piece of legislation that would effectively destroy VMI.

This proposal (dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors, and placing it under the VSU Board) can only be the product of a misinformed or confused mind. While VMI may have issues, destroying a valuable institution rather than improving it is insanity. This proposal should be voted down immediately and unanimously.

I strongly oppose HB 1374 how can you give power to another organization that has no clue about VMI and is across the state. This bill needs to be done away with just like HB 1377. I mean honestly what sense does it make for Virginia State to control VMI.

I believe that VMI’s board should remain with VMI, I believe that they have her best interests at heart and treat the school as a place the educate the youth of America rather than a business transaction between their students like many colleges in America operate. I respectfully request that this motion be shot down. Thank you for your time.

I am a proud graduate (and former employee) of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). I was a wayward young man who was incredibly fortunate to have a VMI alumnus in my life during high school (my parents age), who, along with his wonderful wife, gently persuaded me to consider attending VMI. His reasons that resonated with me included self-discipline, intentional difficulty/tremendous challenge (mentally and physically), inclusive camaraderie, a strong alumni network and community and, honor above self (Cadets are not to lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate those who do). This fine, kind gentlemen attributed, in a great way, his personal and professional success to the lessons learned at VMI. Many decades removed now myself, I can safely say it has played out the same way throughout my adult life, and I am ever so (and increasingly) grateful. A step further, I would, without reservation, easily and comfortably send a son or daughter to VMI (I hope one of my own do choose to attend) and can sincerely recommend that anyone else do so as well. To those questioning the perpetuation of this Institution, I ask, how and to what extent have you engaged, directly, with the outstanding (but not always perfect) young men and women who have chosen a road less traveled? How often and to what extent have you engaged, directly, with the outstanding (but not always perfect) faculty and staff who work extremely hard in support of these remarkable young people who have chosen such a unique path? I'm quite confident doing so would engender strong affinity for both (and in turn, VMI). Our country's need for leaders of character in all walks of life is not yet sated. VMI has done an outstanding job of graduating, throughout its history, just that.

I oppose HB 1374. If Del. Feggans thinks that dissolving the VMI BOV and putting it under the VSU BOV is a good idea, then he needs to come to VMI, talk to the cadets and staff himself and explain his reasoning.

I strongly oppose HB1374. The legislation does not provide any justification of the proposed change. With the recently hired superintendent and new Board of Visitor members appointed by Governor Spanberger, think it is premature to look at this dramatic change. Finally, why anyone would want to transfer governance of VMI from a board which has over an 80% graduation rate to a board with less than a 50% graduation rate is ridiculous.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to transfer the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors to Virginia State University. VMI is a unique institution with a distinct mission, governance structure, and historical role within the Commonwealth. Its Board of Visitors has been intentionally designed to reflect and support that mission, ensuring continuity, accountability, and an understanding of the Institute’s military and educational framework. Transferring oversight to VSU would undermine VMI’s autonomy and compromise the governance model that has guided the Institute for nearly two centuries. This proposal risks politicizing an institution whose strength lies in its independence, tradition, and clear chain of governance. VMI and VSU serve different purposes, constituencies, and educational models. While both institutions are valuable to Virginia, their governance should remain separate and tailored to their respective missions. I urge you to reconsider this proposal and to preserve VMI’s existing Board of Visitors structure. Maintaining independent oversight is essential to protecting the Institute’s integrity, effectiveness, and long-standing contributions to the Commonwealth. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I strongly oppose the proposed Bill, HB1374 sponsored by Delegate Feggans to remove VMI Board of Visitors. As a citizen of Virginia Beach, Navy Spouse of 25 years, and parent to VMI Cadet, I strongly urge you to vote "NO" to any and all changes to funding and or governance of Virgina Military Institute.

Respectfully oppose HB1374. Moving governance to another entity that is even further removed from VMI makes no sense.

I strongly oppose HB1374. I also strongly oppose HB1377.

I respectfully oppose HB 1374 sponsored by Del Feggans. The VMI Board of Visitors is wholly capable of providing governance and direction for the Institute and all members of the BOV thoughtfully consider, discuss, and implement policies for the Institute. They understand the mission of the Institute to produce leaders of character willing to serve their communities. Transferring control of VMI to another college BOV not only places VMI in an untenable position, it also unfairly burdens the BOV of the other college. This bill does not best serve the interests of the Commonwealth, VSU, or VMI.

I strongly oppose this bill. The governor already appoints members to the VMI board as well as other boards. The VMI board members are of different backgrounds, alumni and non-alumni. They should be trusted to make decisions without undo political influence.

Dear Members of the Virginia House of Delegates, I write to express my opposition to House Bill 1374 and to the proposed transfer of governance authority over the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) to Virginia State University Board of Visitors. VMI occupies a unique and historic role within the Commonwealth. Founded in 1839, it is neither a conventional public university nor simply a military training program, but a distinct institution with a narrowly defined mission centered on leadership development, discipline, and citizen-soldiership. That mission has been preserved through an independent governance structure specifically designed to balance academic rigor, military training, and institutional accountability. Transferring governance of VMI to Virginia State University would undermine this carefully calibrated structure. VSU is a respected institution with its own mission, culture, and priorities, but those priorities are fundamentally different from VMI’s. Consolidating governance would not enhance oversight or equity; instead, it risks diluting VMI’s mission, politicizing its leadership, and introducing administrative conflicts that serve neither institution well. Good governance requires alignment between an institution’s purpose and its governing body. VMI’s Board of Visitors exists to provide that alignment. If there are concerns about transparency, accountability, or compliance with state law, those concerns should be addressed directly through targeted reforms—not through a wholesale restructuring that effectively removes VMI’s institutional autonomy. Moreover, this proposal sets a troubling precedent. If the Commonwealth begins reassigning governance of specialized institutions based on political or symbolic considerations rather than functional governance needs, no institution’s independence is secure. Stability in higher education governance is essential for long-term planning, donor confidence, alumni engagement, and institutional effectiveness. VMI can and should continue to evolve, but that evolution must occur within a governance framework that understands and respects its unique mission. HB 1374 does not meet that standard. I respectfully urge you to oppose this bill and to pursue any necessary reforms through means that preserve VMI’s independence while ensuring accountability to the Commonwealth it serves. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My granddaughter is engaged to a senior at VMI. I cannot begin to describe the tremendous level of excellence that I have observed upon each of my numerous visits to this campus. The level of patriotism, character, and unselfish desire to serve others stand out within the cadets there. It would be a shame for our country to lose what currently prevails at VMI. We have so few schools of this stalwart nature, so I encourage you to act judiciously with any changes.

I oppose this bill. I am a 3rd generation graduate of VMI. I saw first hand how VMI shaped my brother, my brother-in-law, my father, my uncle, and my grandfather. This led me to attend myself which turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made. It led me to meeting my wife who also graduated from VMI. The Institute produces some of the best men and women in our country. They continue to move through the ranks in the military and in civilian life. They are taught so many valuable things that they carry with them everyday. To rip this school apart would not only hurt the alumni, it would hurt the world. I urge you all to not let this happen.

This is insane. I strongly oppose the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors. If the VMI BoV is dissolved, I think placing the school under the governance of VSU is objectively the wrong choice. Virginia Tech is half the physical distance from VMI and has a corps of cadets of similar size and structure; why on earth would VT not be the only BoV to consider for this (unnecessary) proposition? It seems to me that both HB 1374 and HB 1377 are bills proposed to push petty agendas with no direct knowledge or interaction with the communities or organizations they will affect.

I oppose this bill. I am a VMI graduate and earned an engineering degree. I went on to receive a PHD in engineering. I worked in education as a professor for the state of Virginia for 40 years. I served the commonwealth joyfully. VMI’s mission of educating men and women of integrity with leadership potential is very valid in our current society. This mission should be governed by the current structure. Guidance from the state legislature can be provided by thoughtful appointments to the BOV. Dissolving the BOV and putting VMI under another will create unnecessary bureaucratic levels of oversight. It will be more efficient to make changes if needed with the current structure. This proposal bill and its purpose is a detriment to lasting changes which can be accomplished with the current structure. I am opposed to this bill

The bill proposing an advisory task force for VMI feels less like support and more like unnecessary interference. Virginia Military Institute has a long-standing mission built on discipline, honor, leadership, and service—values that have shaped generations of leaders who serve the Commonwealth and the nation. Rather than creating new layers of oversight that risk politicizing the Institute, we should be protecting VMI’s autonomy, traditions, and proven governance. Reform, when needed, should come from within and be rooted in respect for the Institute’s culture—not imposed by external bodies with shifting political agendas. Supporting VMI means trusting its mission, defending its values, and ensuring it has the resources to continue producing leaders of character. This bill moves us in the opposite direction.

I strongly oppose House Bill 1374 and House Bill 1377, introduced in the 2026 session. These bills represent the most aggressive challenge to the Institute’s autonomy and state-sponsored status in nearly a century. These bills are not merely "structural adjustments," but a politically motivated dismantling of a unique educational model that has served the Commonwealth and the nation with unparalleled distinction since 1839. VMI was founded on a simple yet revolutionary premise: that the best leaders are those trained in a rigorous military environment who then return to civilian life to build, lead, and serve their communities. Over nearly two centuries, this model has produced a staggering roster of success. VMI has produced: George C. Marshall (Class of 1901): The architect of victory in WWII and the Marshall Plan, and the only career officer in the U.S. Army to ever receive the Nobel Peace Prize; Seven Medal of Honor recipients: Representing the highest levels of valor in combat; Nearly 300 General and Flag Officers: More than any other Senior Military College. Since the integration of women in 1997, female cadets have not only met the Institute’s standards but have excelled, proving that the VMI system is about character, not gender. Graduates like Kelly Sullivan (Class of 2001), a member of the first class of women, have gone on to senior executive roles in the private sector, demonstrating that the "adversarial" system of VMI builds a resilience that is highly sought after in the 21st-century global economy. The primary driver behind HB 1374 and 1377 is a political narrative that suggests VMI is a stagnant, exclusionary relic of the "Lost Cause." However, the data and the current cadet experience suggest a very different reality. The political rhetoric often ignores the fact that VMI has undergone significant reform. Today's Corps of Cadets is more diverse and inclusive than at any point in its history. The 2021 special investigative report, while critical, sparked a series of internal reforms that the current administration—under leaders like Lt. Gen. David Furness—has continued to implement. HB 1377’s call to re-evaluate the "duplication" of services at VMI misses the point of its unique pedagogy. A VMI education is not just about a degree in Engineering or International Studies; it is about the way that degree is earned. The cost-to-benefit ratio for the Commonwealth is actually highly favorable when one considers the rate at which VMI graduates enter high-demand fields like defense, cybersecurity, and public service within Virginia. Virginia House Bills 1374 and 1377 represent a shortsighted attempt to solve cultural tensions through legislative demolition. VMI has spent 186 years evolving from a small state arsenal into a world-class leadership laboratory. Its graduates have led the nation through world wars, civil rights struggles, and technological revolutions. To strip VMI of its governance or its state support would be a self-inflicted wound for the Commonwealth, removing a vital source of disciplined, ethical, and service-oriented leaders at a time when they are needed most. The General Assembly should focus on supporting the Institute's continued evolution rather than seeking its dissolution.

The person who sponsored and introduced this bill has to be out of his mind. This is a legitimate waste of taxpayer money to spend the time considering this bill, even in committee. There is no legitimate reason for this bill. There is also no legitimate reason why a no name college in one of the worst cities in Virginia should have control of the BOV of a school that is not only older but far more prestigious. This reeks of political pandering to a new leader to gain favor with her administration.

I oppose HB 1374. VMI, UVA and GMU have all been political footballs this past year. This bill is a political statement based on ignorance of VMI's mission to produce honorable leaders of integrity through its unique system. Why not choose nearby JMU or UVA to take over governance? Choosing VSU is purely political theater, and I am ashamed that the bill was even written. Virginia residents are exhausted by the political divisiveness in our country, and this bill is an example of a power grab by the left (the right did it as well) as soon as they gained power in Virginia. This moderate, independent voter is fed up and I hope you won't waste more than a few minutes in making this ill-conceived bill go away. VMI's cadets don't need or deserve this distraction and poor example of "leadership."

I am a proud alum of VMI, class of 2020. VMI is unique in many ways and has produced countless leaders in all walks of life. The foundational structure of VMI as it has existed is what allows VMI to continue its mission and to do so effectively. Fundamentally altering the structure of the executive leadership will have a trickle down effect, severely watering down the effectiveness of the Institute and its mission, thus reducing the quality of the leaders it produces. I humbly request that this bill be reconsidered to allow VMI to continue in its current form to continue contributing leaders to our state and nation, and to remain a beacon of strength and honor in our state.

HB1374 is a profoundly ill-advised and ill-considered bill. It would not solve any governance issues at VMI because there are no governance issues (fraud, waste, abuse, failure to follow federal or state law, etc.). To the extent the Governor of the incoming Democratic majority are unhappy with the Board's legitimate decisions, the Governor and the incoming Democratic majority will have the opportunity to appoint Board members more to their liking as vacancies open up during Governor Spanberger's tenure. This is the nature of boards. This process has provided adequate stability and oversight to Virginia's institutes of higher education for decades. This bill would create governance issues at VMI and most likely VSU as well as a single board tries to govern too wildly different institutions over 200 miles apart. This is a profoundly unserious bill at a time when Virginia and its institutions of higher education are facing serious problems and need serious leadership.

Placing one university under the governorship of another university is the same as destroying the first. There is no crisis to warrant such a drastic shift. This concept makes no more sense than placing UVA under the VMI BOV. If that doesnt make sense, neither does placing VMI under UVA make any sense.

I strongly disagree with HB1374. I believe it is incredibly important to note that each college in Virginia has its own distinct mission, and VMI's Board of Visitors governs a military college with a specialized focus on service and leadership development. Replacing the BOV with a board designed for a vastly different institution disregards these responsibilities and risks undermining what ultimately makes VMI and its cadets successful. Ensuring that the best possible candidates serve on the BOV is the way to improve VMI, not replacing the BOV with a board that does not meet the needs of this particular type of school. For nearly 15 years, I have had the privilege of working at VMI, and it is without question an irreplaceable institution that serves both the Commonwealth and the nation with distinction. There is no other school like it in Virginia. While other colleges may incorporate military elements, the VMI experience is unique and cannot be replicated. The work continues at VMI to improve policies and ensure cadets are prepared to be citizens of the world who are understanding, compassionate, and able to work together. And because of that continued work to improve itself, VMI remains a very special place that crafts leaders of the highest caliber. Politics aside (and for what it is worth, I am a Democrat), eliminating the BOV and bringing control of the institute under VSU's board would not strengthen VMI in the least. VMI needs board members who understand the importance and value of the VMI experience as a whole, as well as the work being done to continue building on and improving it for all cadets. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I strongly oppose this bill. VMI is a unique institution that supports and develops young adults into strong leaders. It should remain under its own separate Board of Visitors and not under a Virginia State board. Respectfully, Joyia Rinker

I strongly oppose any proposal to eliminate the Virginia Military Institute’s independent Board of Visitors and place VMI under the control of another university system’s board. As a 2017 VMI graduate, I can personally attest that VMI’s success is inseparable from its unique governance structure and mission. VMI is not a traditional public university, and it should not be governed like one. Its independent Board of Visitors exists precisely because the Institute’s military, leadership-based educational model requires specialized oversight, institutional continuity, and a deep understanding of its mission, culture, and traditions. Centralizing that authority under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors would fundamentally weaken what makes VMI effective. The education, leadership development, and lifelong professional network I gained at VMI were the direct result of an institution that is focused, disciplined, and mission-driven. That focus is protected by a Board of Visitors dedicated solely to VMI’s success and accountability to the Commonwealth. Removing that independence would not improve outcomes — it would dilute them. VMI has served Virginia with distinction for nearly two centuries by producing leaders of character across the military, public service, and private sector. Preserving its independent governance is essential to maintaining that record. I strongly urge opposition to any effort that would undermine VMI’s autonomy and the proven model that has served the Commonwealth so well.

I am writing to urge you to vote "no" on this legislation, as there is absolutely no need for this. As a current VMI employee, the child of a proud alumnus, and someone who has known hundreds of VMI alumni over many decades, I can tell you that VMI is a state and national treasure, each year producing graduates who work tirelessly to make the world a better place. When my father came to VMI, he was the first member of his family to go to college. He graduated with a degree in civil engineering and after a brief period of service in the U.S. Army, he began his career in the highway construction industry. In 2002, the company he founded, Lanford Brothers, was recognized with the Virginia Small Business of the Year Award. He also established a national scholarship to benefit the children of workers killed in highway construction zones. None of this would have happened without VMI: To the end of his life, he maintained that the values of honesty, integrity, and service to others that he learned at VMI were foundational to his success. Dad is not alone; there are thousands of VMI alumni in Virginia and across the country who are contributing to the betterment of their communities, states, and the nation, thanks to the timeless education in leadership they received at VMI. I have had the honor of working at VMI since 2012, and I can assure you I have never seen or heard of anything even remotely racist or sexist on post. I see cadets striving to become better each day, and staff and faculty working tirelessly to support them. Again, I urge you to vote "no" on this legislation. It is simply not needed.

As a constituent, husband, dad, business owner, active volunteer in the community and graduate of VMI, I wholeheartedly and emphatically oppose this bill. Whether as educators, soldiers, public servants, entrepreneurs, politicians, clergy, community leaders, physicians, corporate employees or stay-at-home parents, VMI graduates have a proven track record of excellence—not only within their respective professions, but within their communities. They are individuals committed to carrying forward the flag of civility and progress for the benefit of the greater good. They are quick to place others above themselves. If VMI stands as a holdout for anything, it is honor and integrity. It remains one of the only institutions in the nation with a single-sanction honor system. Where others may hesitate to uphold the highest standards, VMI and its leadership do not waver. The path toward unity, mutual respect, and civility as a nation cannot advance without integrity at its core; sadly, a waning value in our modern age. Without it, society will fall. The most important aspects of life are often the most difficult to achieve—and even more difficult to preserve. As a 186-year-old institution steeped in history and tradition, VMI has repeatedly answered the call to adapt to a rapidly changing modern world while preserving its most vital mission: producing leaders and contributors who do not merely fill gaps in society or the workforce, but who inspire progress and catalyze meaningful change for the good of all. VMI instills the enduring principle of giving more than one receives, in service to the common wealth of others. There is no institution like VMI to step in and fill the gap with the proposed deletion this, small but mighty incubator of our greatest citizens. The proposed dismantling will leave an irreplaceable void in the quality of leaders and contributors that enter society every year. Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. Respectfully, R. Caleb Boyer, VMI c/o 2011

I am concerned about HB 1374, which would dissolve the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors and place VMI under the governance of another institution’s board. While all public universities serve the Commonwealth, they do so with different missions and models—and VMI is intentionally different. VMI’s BOV exists to govern a military college with a highly specialized mission focused on discipline, leadership development, and the Corps of Cadets experience. Replacing that structure with one designed for a different institution overlooks those unique responsibilities and risks weakening what makes VMI effective. This feels less like thoughtful oversight and more like a one-size-fits-all approach that doesn’t fit. VMI deserves governance that understands its purpose, respects its traditions, and supports an institution that has served Virginia (and our nation) with distinction for generations.

I Oppose bill HB1374 VMI is not like VCU and shouldn’t be treated as such we have produced many great military leaders and great people I know alumni from the 70s and they tell me how VMI helped them and turned them into a great military leaders.

I strongly oppose House Bill 1374. The concept of moving the governance of Virginia Military Institute (VMI) to another Virginia state college is absurd. This is clearly a politically motivated bill sponsored by Delegate Feggans that defies logic. As a Virginia Beach resident and constituent I am extremely disappointed.

I reject HB1374 and efforts to place VMI's governance in any other institution. The governor has appointment authority, which directly impacts the governor's ability to restructure the board to ensure compliance with state policies. I fail to understand why current regulatory and governance measures provide insufficient oversight. This potential move jeopardizes the institution's mission and may lead to a decline in quality.

I strongly oppose this bill. VMI has a proud and well-deserved history of providing superb graduates whom history has shown make a significant impact in both the military and civilian world. Dissolving VMI's Board of Visitors and trying to blend VMI in another State college would only serve to dilute the VMI education and its overall mission.

I oppose HB 1374 because dissolving the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors and shifting its governance undermines nearly two centuries of dedicated leadership and institutional stewardship. VMI produces graduates who are consistently successful in the military, public service, business, and their communities — and that track record is tied directly to an honor-based system and a governance structure that understands the school’s unique mission. Respectfully, Frank Hargrove III VMI Class of 2015

While I served 14 years in the military, I had numerous leaders though those years. I will say that the best leaders came from VMI. Not only where they very knowledgeable in history, tactics, and many other aspects of military life but they also were the most fair and balanced individuals. When things got tough they always remained composed, professional and genuinely a strong backbone. VMI produces amazing men and women that are some of the best people, I have ever met. I have worked and looked up to just about every person that is a product of VMI. They were a driving factor in my military career because I never wanted to let my leadership down. I realized the type of great people they produced and decided that since I wasn't able to go to college there as an adult that I wanted to work there. I have spent over 5 years there. I have worked directly with the cadets and leadership. I served as a police officer as well a coach on the campus and really enjoyed working with the cadets. In the 5 years of working here I have noticed the VMI of 1864 is in the corner gathering dust. It's time that we look at the product VMI of today is polished and shiny, a beacon of hope. The current leaders and those of the recent years have moved VMI in a great direction and will continue to move in the right direction. Please leave this great institution alone as it serves more than just Virginia but our great nation.

I write in opposition to HB 1374. VMI, VSU, and all other institutions of higher education in Virginia share the common mission of educating students, but each institution pursues this mission in its own characteristic way and hence should be governed by its own Board of Visitors. To propose that two institutions be placed under the "supervision, management, and control" of one board is a disservice to both institutions and to the members of the board. The members of VSU community deserve to have a Board of Visitiors that is committed to serving them without the distractions of the concerns of another institution. The same is true for the members of the VT, UVA, VCU, JMU, VMI, etc., communities. Please continue the practice of each institution being governed by its own Board of Visitors.

Respectfully I oppose this bill. Efforts to improve the VMI BOV should not be the dissolution of that organization but rather an intelligent and nonpartisan process to select and approve members to the board. This may be asking too much in the current political environment of our day, so I challenge you to try and rise above this acrimonious situation and simply do better. Respectfully submitted, Paul T. Kastner

I oppose HB 1374. This proposed legislation makes no sense logically and makes me question if the individual proposing it did any real research. VSU's graduation rate compared to VMI's is a stark contrast which anyone can easily research. VSU's 6-year graduation rate is roughly 41% while VMI's is around 80%. The 4-year graduation rate for VSU is a measly 27% while VMI boasts nearly 70%. VSU is also not a military school, so what knowledge would the VSU board members have in regards to governing VMI? VMI's board members understand how this institution operates and needs to operate to be successful. If our board of visitors is dissolved and governance transferred to inexperienced hands I feel this institute will take a sharp turn for the worse.

My name is Mr. Joseph Bahadoor and I work here at VMI. I ask you to consider pulling this bill for this reason: I have been here for 3 school years and seen first hand how us the students and I are affected by the BOV and the leaders here at VMI. I have seen the transition from Mr. Wins to Mr. Furness. While I don't agree with how some of the BOV decisions went down. I ask you to consider this: Are you on site daily to see what goes on? Are you putting the STUDENTS first here? What does this serve purpose for? Is this in reaction for Mr. Wins being let go NOT FIRED from being the president of this College? Please I ask you to take time and understand the decision of putting real life decisions in the hands of other people that are NOT on the ground here daily to see what is going on! This does not just affect people like me who work here! This affects the Students and this is a COLLEGE first! So I ask you to put the students first here! I Thank You! Mr. Joseph Bahadoor

HB1374 should be struck down immediately. Virginia Military Institute is a nationally respected institution with a proven record of excellence. VMI is ranked the #4 public liberal arts college in the nation and consistently produces leaders of character and competence. Virginia State University does not rank anywhere near VMI and is currently the lowest-ranked Virginia university in the U.S. News Regional Universities South list. An institution that struggles to govern itself should not be advising or influencing a highly successful one. VMI graduates more generals than any ROTC program and, outside the federal academies, more Army generals than any other college. More than half of its graduates serve in the military. Its model works. There is no demonstrated problem this bill solves. HB1374 is unnecessary and should be rejected.

VMI's board of visitors, senior staff and key leadership does an outstanding job of running VMI and should remain in place. Placing VMI under the leadership of another state school makes no sense. VMI is consistently among the most fiscally responsible schools in the nation, always meets SWAM goals, deals with discipline fairly and produces a product unlike any other in the nation. Leadership at VMI enabled the school to rank among the top 5 in the state and top 100 in the nation annually in terms of graduate employment rates, graduate satisfaction, starting salaries, return on investment and mid-career salaries. Current leadership at VMI fosters an environment free of favoritism, racism and sexism. The Institutes record in areas of discipline and disciplinary issues is the best in the Commonwealth and the VMI Post is arguably the safest campus in America. This is due in no small part to the environment of civility, honor, and respect for good conduct created by VMI's current leadership structure. I urge our delegates to avoid "fixing something that isn't broke". Allow VMI leadership to continue to do it's job.

VMI has a longstanding tradition of producing both military and civilian leaders. Some of the militarys highest ranking officers are VMI graduates. Some of the largest companies in this country are lead by VMI graduates. There is not a better academic institution in this state let alone the country that does a better job of producing men and women for leadership. Introducing a bill like this is not only disrespectful and distasteful but it will cripple our country’s efforts to produce leaders to defend this nation. How can a school like VSU, who only commissioned 7 graduates into the Army last year know the first thing about how VMI operates? VMI had over 170 commission into the armed services last year. Imagine if the roles were reversed and the VSU board was dissolved and their leadership path was given to VMI. What does VMI know about how to lead and guide an HCBU? I respectfully ask that this baseless attack on VMI be stopped and this bill withdrawn.

To Whom It May Concern, I respectfully oppose any effort to restructure the Virginia Military Institute’s Board of Visitors to mirror that of Virginia State University. While both institutions serve the Commonwealth, they have fundamentally different missions, cultures, and educational models. VMI’s unique military system requires governance by individuals who understand and respect its demanding structure, traditions, and leadership-focused mission. Applying a governance model designed for a traditional civilian university to a military college risks undermining what makes VMI effective. Decisions about discipline, training, and institutional standards should be made by a board aligned with VMI’s purpose, not by one shaped for a completely different type of institution. Changing the Board of Visitors in this way would not improve VMI—it would weaken its ability to operate as intended. I urge you to preserve governance that reflects VMI’s unique role and continues to serve cadets and the Commonwealth effectively. Sincerely, Caleb Patterson

By any measure, VMI is a much more successful and highly regarded academic institution than is VSU. The idea of dissolving the VMI BOV and having the VSU BOV govern both schools is ridiculous. Based on their respective track records, it would make more sense to dissolve the VSU BOV and have the VMI BOV govern VSU!

I have worked for VMI for 15 years very Proudly. I've never heard of something so ridiculous as HB1374 & I 100% reject it and I ask you to do the same. VMI is a great school and should continue to operate with current leadership and BOV. Thank-you!

I would encourage you to actually look at the outcomes that VMI produces. The top four institution in the commonwealth; the only public institution in the commonwealth with a six figure return on investment for EVERY degree over a students lifetime (directly from SCHEV). This isn’t a question of all the right that VMI does, but a complete disregard for all the things that VMI contributes to the commonwealth, our country and our military. VMI is the top producer of second lieutenants in the army second only to West Point; but VMI officers are retained higher than all senior military institutions combined, including West Point. Is VMI perfect, no. But they are the perfect example of what all institutions should strive for. Outcomes, 97% job placement after graduation, an honor code that is unparalleled, and most importantly cadets who WANT what is offered. I encourage you to come to post, meet cadets, and see for yourself. Referencing a report from 1928 shows the lack of effort that was put into even understanding this institution. Another investigation is not needed; a merge of leadership is even worse and it will degrade everything the institution represents and offers. Progress has been made and the new leadership is eager to make change. Give the institute a chance to continue to prove themselves, to heal, and to continue to prove their value to this state. All these threats end up hurting not just the institution but Virginia as a whole. You claim you want students to come to our schools but your actions directly refute that. We should be united not divisive and the two bills pertaining to VMI are nothing but divisive.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed bills HB 1374 and HB 1377 regarding the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). As the parent of a current cadet, I am deeply concerned that these legislative efforts represent a political maneuver that unfairly targets the Institute and its students. The data does not support the logic of placing another institution in a position of oversight or priority over VMI. VMI maintains a 77% six-year graduation rate, a four-year graduation rate of approximately74%, and a first-year retention rate of 81-82%, which ranks 9th among Virginia public colleges. Furthermore, VMI manages an $800 million endowment. In contrast, the other institution mentioned has a four-year graduation rate of 26-28%, a six-year rate of 41-45%, a first-year retention rate of 62-71%, and a $100 million endowment. Given these figures, these bills appear to be a political attack rather than a decision based on educational or fiscal merit. These recurring attacks following shifts in political leadership are detrimental to the cadets who work tirelessly and deserve stability. VMI has operated in good faith under both previous and current administrations, and these bills feel like a direct punishment for recent leadership decisions made by the Board of Visitors.

This is ridiculous. 1. VMI is fine, leave it alone. 2. What does VSU know about running a military school. 3. This is a self serving bill for a minority of people on a mission. 4. 186 years of success and many high alum in important positions relates to success, leave us alone

Leave VMI alone. I write as a U.S. Navy service member, and the father of a current VMI cadet. He has earned his place at VMI through hard work, discipline, and dedication. For my family, and for many others across the Commonwealth, VMI represents opportunity, service, and the formation of character. It is not simply another public college; it is a unique institution with a distinct mission that has served Virginia and the nation well. Studies in a rigorous, tradition-rich environment that has shaped leaders for generations. I was deeply troubled to learn from a recent Washington Post article (“Virginia Democrats target military college’s funding after anti-DEI push,” January 20, 2026) about efforts led by Governor Abigail Spanberger and other Democrats to establish a task force that could question VMI’s relevance in today’s world and potentially jeopardize its state funding. This proposal, which includes a state inquiry into whether VMI has adequately addressed its historical issues with racism and sexism, threatens to undermine the institution’s status as a state-supported university. As a parent investing in my son’s future, I fear this could disrupt his education and that of every current cadet, casting uncertainty over their academic paths, scholarships, and career opportunities. VMI has long been a cornerstone of Virginia’s higher education system, producing distinguished alumni who serve our state and nation in the military, business, public service, and beyond. While acknowledging the institution’s past challenges, VMI has made significant strides in fostering an inclusive environment, including reforms following previous investigations. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to progress without abandoning the core values of discipline, honor, and leadership that define VMI. Dismantling or defunding such a vital program would not only harm the cadets who have chosen this path but also deprive Virginia of a unique resource for developing resilient, principled leaders. I urge you to oppose this task force and any measures that could endanger VMI’s funding or independence. Please advocate for preserving VMI as it stands today—a state-funded military college that continues to evolve while upholding its mission. The futures of dedicated young people like my son depend on it, and I believe maintaining VMI’s role benefits all Virginians. So I ask, just leave VMI alone.

I respectfully, but fervently oppose HB1374. Virginia Military Institute should be left under its own governance and SHOULD NOT be transferred to any other school. My son is a freshman cadet at VMI and chose this school because he knew it would help shape and develop him to be the best and most productive version of himself. He knew the path at VMI is rigorous and hard, easy does not produce the kind of man he wants to push himself to become. The Commonwealth of Virginia must respect the diverse needs of its college students, and VMI fills the need for students, such as my son and so many others, who want look back on their college experience and be proud of what they accomplished, knowing they fought through tests and trials that few others can or did. Clearly VMI is not for everyone, that is okay. Virginia has many wonderful schools to suit a wide range of needs. Please do not strip this opportunity for greatness from the students who have chosen the extraordinary. They do not want a diluted, watered down version; they want the rigor, academically, intellectually, physically and emotionally. VMI has a long history of sending leaders into the world. Leaders in service and industry. It's reputation as a top ranked school speaks to the success of its structure and programs. Rather than tear it down, I would think Virginia's leaders would celebrate the school and proudly promote it, not use it as a tool for political vindictiveness. I urge the committee to do the right, and reasonable thing, reject this Bill.

VMI should not ever be governed by VSU. Please don’t do this.

This bill should be struck down immediately and given no consideration. Virginia Military Institute is a highly respected and prestigious institution. VMI is the #4 public liberal arts college/university in the nation. What a devastation to have one of the best universities in the nation governed by the worst in VA. The lowest-ranked Virginia university in U.S. News & World Report's 2026 Regional Universities South list is Virginia State University. VSU’s inability to properly govern its own university should be automatically disqualifying for consideration in advising, governing, or influencing any other university. Legislators should applaud the success of VMI and its students. VMI graduates more generals than any ROTC program and, outside of federal academies, more Army generals than any other U.S. college. More than half of all graduates serve in our military. VMI has a successful model of military and academic integration to produce some of our nation’s finest. There is no need for this bill.

My name is Martin Fentress and my son is a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. He chose VMI—and we chose to support him—because of its singular promise: to forge young men and women into citizen-soldiers of exceptional character, discipline, and honor through a uniquely challenging environment. I am writing to respectfully but firmly voice my deep opposition to House Bill 1374. While I understand and respect the General Assembly's role in overseeing our public universities, this bill is not an act of responsible oversight. It is a reckless and punitive measure that threatens to destroy a valuable Virginia institution and sets a dangerous precedent for every public college in our Commonwealth. My argument against this bill rests on three core principles: 1. This Bill Is a Radical Overreach, Not a Solution. This is the most extreme and heavy-handed action a legislature can take against a public university, short of defunding it entirely. It seeks to resolve a political and cultural dispute by dissolving a 185-year-old governance structure and handing it to another institution. Instead, this bill uses a sledgehammer where a scalpel is required. It sends a chilling message: "If you disagree with the prevailing political majority, your very existence can be erased and handed to a rival." This political weaponization of university governance is a threat to the academic independence that all great institutions require. 2. An Outside Board Cannot Steward a Unique Mission. Virginia State University is a fine institution with its own proud history and vital mission. Its mission is not VMI's mission. VSU's board is composed of leaders suited to governing a traditional civilian university. They have no experience with, or inherent understanding of, the regimental system, the rat line, or the all-encompassing military lifestyle that defines VMI. The bill claims it will preserve VMI's military structure, but how can it? The very soul of VMI is its board's deep, personal connection to that specific military and academic model. An outside board, no matter how well-intentioned, will inevitably govern based on its own experience. They will be tempted to smooth the sharp edges and flatten the demanding culture that is the entire point of VMI. They will not know how to protect what they do not understand. In seeking to "fix" VMI, this bill will break the very machine that makes it effective. 3. It Punishes the Cadets and Guarantees Instability. My son and his fellow cadets are thriving in a demanding system. They are learning to lead, follow, and live with integrity. They willingly chose this difficult path. This bill insults their choice. It tells them that the institution they have poured their sweat and character into is so fundamentally broken that it cannot be trusted to govern itself. What will this do to the morale of the Corps? What will it do to the value of a VMI diploma, now overseen by a board with a different focus? This action guarantees years of chaos, resentment, and litigation. You will be trading a functioning, if contentious, institution for a fractured and demoralized one. I urge you, do not take this irreversible step. Reject this bill. Do not demolish the leadership of one of Virginia's most iconic institutions. Trust in a process of reform and collaboration, not hostile takeover. My son and his fellow cadets chose VMI for its promise of structure and honor. They deserve stability from their state leaders, not chaos.

VMI is a great school. Do not change its governance We need it to stay as is. It has great historical significance for the commonwealth,

I am writing to respectfully oppose HB1374 that would repeal the statutory Board of Visitors of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and transfer governance of VMI to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University. VMI occupies a unique and historic role within the Commonwealth’s system of higher education. Founded in 1839, it is the nation’s oldest state-supported military college and operates under a mission, culture, and governance model unlike any other public institution in Virginia. Its citizen-soldier tradition, adversative education system, and military command structure require specialized oversight by a board singularly focused on that mission. VMI’s alumni network is a critical component of its success and service to the Commonwealth. Graduates of VMI have gone on to serve Virginia and the nation with distinction in the armed forces, public service, education, engineering, business, and civic leadership. This enduring record is not incidental; it is the direct result of an institutional model preserved and guided by a dedicated Board of Visitors that understands VMI’s mission and holds it accountable to high standards of character, leadership, and service. The proposed transfer of governance would risk eroding the trust and engagement of this alumni community. VMI alumni provide substantial financial support, mentorship, recruiting assistance, and professional networks that directly benefit cadets and reduce long-term burdens on the Commonwealth. That support is built on confidence in VMI’s independent governance and mission integrity. Placing the Institute under the authority of an unrelated board would weaken alumni confidence, diminish engagement, and ultimately harm VMI’s ability to fulfill its public mission. From a governance standpoint, this proposal also undermines sound higher education policy. Boards of Visitors exist to provide focused fiduciary and strategic oversight. Transferring VMI to the governance of a board whose primary responsibility is another institution - one with a different mission, student population, and operational structure - would dilute accountability and create unavoidable conflicts in priorities and expertise. Finally, this legislation sets a troubling precedent across Virginia’s public higher education system. Concerns regarding institutional performance or culture should be addressed through existing oversight mechanisms, targeted reforms, or appointments to the appropriate board - not through the dissolution of an institution’s governing body. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Committee to reject HB1374 and to preserve VMI’s independent Board of Visitors. Doing so safeguards institutional integrity, honors the Commonwealth’s long-standing governance principles, and ensures that VMI and its alumni can continue to serve Virginia with distinction. Respectfully submitted.