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 1377. HB 1377 proposes the creation of a Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force. 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 1377 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.

I applied to Virginia Wesleyan College for the Adult Studies Program to become a teacher. I was told I had to have a 2.5 GPA. The Director, Dr. Shannon, asked me where I went to school. I said--VMI. She asked me what my GPA was--I only had a 2.1 from VMI. She told me, "You're in" since you went to VMI. I completed the year program with a 3.4 GPA and became a high school teacher for 24 years. By the way, I had applied from Columbus OH and Dr. Shannon never saw or interviewed me. She accepted me--because I graduated from VMI in 1974.

HB1377 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. 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 and would be an embarrassment to our Commonwealth. HB1377 is unnecessary and should be rejected.

VMI is definitely relevant for today. VMI produces leaders in both military and civilian roles. DO NOT LET THIS HAPPEN ! This is just a childish way of ‘getting back’ at VMI for not renewing Gen Wins contract. VMI and our state should promote people and ideas based on merit, not skin color, gender identity, or anything other than ability.