I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB1374 and HB1377. These bills are clearly meant to attack one of the most unique and exceptional institutions in our nation. I am confident that VMI would prove its value and demonstrate recent improvements through the assessment proposed by HB1377, but find it an unnecessary distraction. In regards to HB1374, I find it absurd to strip a well-established and thriving institution of its BOV to be replaced by another institution’s BOV. Especially one which has minimal penetration or experience with a military ROTC program. If VSU BOV possesses perspectives and ideas that can benefit VMI, this should be engaged as a joint collaboration between boards, not as a government mandated takeover. In fact all Virginia public universities should be collaborating through the work of SCHEV as outlined in its intended purpose. (Virginia § 23.1-200) VMI consistently produces mature and well prepared men and women, many who go on to accomplish great things in service to their communities and their nation. This is done through a rigorous system that breaks students down to the same foundational level, regardless of gender, race, nationality, or whatever other identifier applies. From this foundation, cadets are built up into structured and disciplined individuals who respect authority, support each other well, and handle adversity with wisdom and self-control, something our world desperately needs more of right now. Cadets learn to value the most basic privileges as they are earned through time and opportunities to demonstrate excellence. From the first day at VMI, students are engaged in an intensive student leadership structure where cadets are given training and opportunity to teach, mentor, and lead other cadets, all under the guidance and oversight of staff leaders. VMI is a place where you will be corrected for disregarding rules, shirking responsibilities, and disrespecting others. Will there be mistakes along the way? Absolutely, as is true of any human being or human created organization. There are also clearly established resources to report wrongdoing and have issues addressed. Cadets learn through consistent and fairly applied consequences that inappropriate behavior is not tolerated. In recent years I have witnessed the VMI system in action through my involvement as the parent of a VMI cadet. I have seen a tight network of staff, alumni, parents, and cadets going above and beyond to support and encourage ALL of the student body. Students of all genders, races, and ethnicities are embraced into the “VMI family” and minority cadets are clearly leading their fellow cadets in official and unofficial ways, as can be witnessed by simply visiting VMI for a parade and seeing the diversity in the cadet leadership. The 2025 internal climate survey shows large gains in reform initiatives since the 2021 investigation that has been cited as an indicator of needed reform. To be specific 38 of the 42 recommendations stemming from the 2021 investigation have been completed. Why would our state choose to attack an organization with an outstanding mission and history of success as they are actively making impressive strides to grow and address concerns? VMI will not be a fit for everyone, but the students who accept the challenge, persevere, and graduate from VMI, enter the world drastically more prepared for any situation life may throw at them. I urge our state representatives to vote No to these bills.

I am a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute and a retired United States Marine with twenty years of service, most of it during a time of continuous war. I was a cadet during September 11, 2001. Like many VMI alumni, I lost classmates in combat and spent decades serving alongside brothers forged in Lexington. What VMI gave me cannot be measured by a study or replicated elsewhere. It gave me lifelong friends, comrades in arms, and brothers with whom I shared blood, sweat, and sacrifice. These relationships did not end at graduation. They carried into war, into leadership, and into life. VMI built character, moral courage, discipline, and accountability in a way no other institution could. Without VMI, I would not have attended college, served at the levels I was privileged to serve, or returned to Virginia to continue contributing as a citizen soldier. House Bill 1377 treats VMI as a cost center rather than a public trust. It questions the value of an institution that has produced generations of military leaders, public servants, and citizens who consistently give more than they take. VMI is not duplicative, outdated, or expendable. It is a forge that turns young Virginians into leaders of honor and responsibility. Undermining it through this bill targets not just a school, but the men and women who answered the call to serve during this nation’s longest war. VMI lives by Honor Above Self and deliberately chooses the road not taken. Those values matter, and they are worth defending. I respectfully urge the House Rules Committee to reject HB 1377 and affirm the continued public support of the Virginia Military Institute.

To Whom It May Concern, I have downloaded and read HB1377 and have written my thoughts on VMI and the bill in the attached letter. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I oppose the HB 1377 proposing the establishment of the Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force. VMI is a unique school. My father (class of '44) was grateful for VMI. He felt that VMI made him the man he became. My father, in a joking manner, used to say that VMI took average guys and made them above average and a few select Virginia schools took above average guys and made them average. In other words, my father thought that the VMI experience made everybody their best. My father and all of his classmates were sent to the Pacific at the end of their second-class year, in 1943. They were willing, as reserve soldiers, to fight for their country. Many never came home. My father loved this school so much that he endowed an athletic scholarship with a $100,000 life insurance policy. Can we please continue to have a school that produces the likes of George C. Marshall and Daniel Caine along with alumni (such as my own father) who feel that VMI made them more than they could have been elsewhere. Please let VMI maintain its unique characteristics and not be hamstrung by an advisory committee foisting its views on a school which the committee may not truly understand. VMI is an asset to this state and this country. If the Virginia government is unwilling to support VMI to the same extent that it supports other state schools (particularly when VMI does not receive federal funding like the land grant schools), then I can only say that I am glad that I can remember VMI as my father described it and as I saw it when a guest from the 1960's to the 1980's.

I stand by it!

I have read the other comments but I would like to address a point not so far discussed. That point is the dangerous world in which we live. Gen. Marshall was absolutely indispensable to the Allied victory in WWII. Does VMI still produce such men? Look no further than Gen. Dan Caine, '90. As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff he was the architect of Operation Midnight Hammer which defanged Iran's nuclear program. More recently he organized and coordinated the operation to remove Maduro from Venezuela. We have enemies (China, Russia, Iran, North Korea) that would love to weaken or destroy us. It would be foolhardy in the extreme to destroy an asset such as VMI when we desperately need the leaders such as Gens. Marshall and Caine. Most sincerely, Eldridge Blanton

I am writing on behalf of my husband, a Cadet from the Class of 1998 and my 17 year old son who is currently enrolled at Benedictine College Preparatory School with plans to attend THE Virginia Military Institute in the fall of 2027. We urge you to dismiss this bill in an effort to protect the institution and ensure that the caliber of cadets that graduate from VMI remains at the pinnacle of the historical leadership as has been for the past 200 years. My son has only ever wanted to attend this school and plans to join the military following his four years at VMI. Removing state funding from this institution would greatly reduce the impact this school has on the infrastructure in the geographical area as well as the experience of forming men and women in to true leaders of the next generation of leaders in our country. The Virginia Military Institute is a critical public institution whose mission of honor, leadership, and service has benefited the Commonwealth for nearly two centuries. State funding plays an essential role in sustaining VMI’s rigorous academic programs, cadet development, infrastructure, and affordability for Virginia families. Continued investment ensures that VMI can maintain high standards, support its cadets, and responsibly evolve while remaining grounded in its core values. Ongoing state support is vital to preserving an institution that consistently produces disciplined, ethical leaders who serve Virginia and the nation. Please dismiss this bill and continue to fund this exceptional institution.

I am writing regarding the establishment of a Task Force to study public funding of VMI. I agree with other comments, that accountability of our public funds is necessary and good, but it needs to be done across the board. Please don't single out this one school, that has done a good job of addressing prior concerns. VMI is #4 on the US News and World Report ranking of schools. This is nationwide! VMI has an outstanding graduation rate, as well as excellent outcomes after graduation-entering the workforce, military service, or further education. VMI is indeed a place like no other. As an alumnus, I can attest to this. When I matriculated, I came from a very rural and economically depressed region of Virginia. I met and became friends with people from all over the world, and received training in the classroom, on the sports field, and in the military aspect, that cannot be obtained anywhere else in Virginia. I can point to my VMI training as a main factor in my success as a pharmacist, a pastor, and a husband and father. If there is indeed to be a Task Force, please make it non-partisan and state-wide.

VMI should receive state funding. My husband graduated from VMI and we have followed the school for over 25 years. We made our home in the state of VA. VMI and the military made my husband an officer and gentleman. He has mentored young men of all races and political affiliations. VMI is an outstanding institution and represents all variety of backgrounds. Life is about being diverse and all state funded colleges should not be identical. It's what makes choosing a place of higher education exciting and based upon what school fits you.

VMI made me into the American and Naval Officer I am today. VMI emphasizes the concept of a citizen soldier; someone who is called to be more than a bystander, but an advocate and defender of city, state, country, and institutions of America. I would not be the successful submarine officer in the United States Navy, father and husband to a daughter and wife if VMI had not changed the direction of my life after high school.

I respectfully and strongly oppose HB1377. My son is currently class of 2027 and shares our belief that Virginia Military Institute is a great institution. He was drawn to the academic and physical rigor which VMI requires and the environment it provides for cadets to develop. I view HB1377 as an effort to interfere with and harm VMI and thus respectfully and strongly oppose HB1377. My wife and son share my strong opposition of HB1377.

I am writing to ask you to fight for the VMI family, and families around our commonwealth, families from all areas of the United States and from other countries as well who have a son or daughter who has been radically positively impacted by this expectational school. Fight to keep VMI open, to keep VMI funded and a wonderful tool used to grow extraordinary men and women who graduate and serve in our world with honor and training and resolve that is unmatched. Our son is a 1st (senior) at VMI. He visited several colleges after high school and when he stepped on "post" (campus) he said, it felt like home and he was drawn to the brotherhood that VMI is proud to be known for. He has kept a 4.0 despite the rigors of the military aspect and being a part (co-captain) of the boxing team as well as many other responsibilities he has gained due to rank promotions and other VMI tradition responsibilities. He entered the rat line in 2022 as a boy and will graduate this Spring with honors as a responsible young man who has grown in character, discipline, brotherhood, ability to overcome many hardships, integrity, upholding honor for himself and sharing it with his brother/sister rats all 4 years. The beautiful diversity of cadets coming in is seen yet unified as all are treated as one corps, one family, to be treated equally, and grow each cadet with an honor code and traditions that is a testimony to the past alumni who have gone before. This school, it's traditions, the VMI family bonds, the HARD that anyone who enters the rat line CHOOSES for themselves(no one is forced to attend), grows each cadet male and female and I cannot be more proud of the young man our son has become. God used the discipline and hardships and unity in the corps along with the citizen soldier training and exceptional academics, and honor code, the whole unordinary VMI experience that WE CHOSE, that my son sought after and thrived in, made him the exceptional, thoughtful, respectful, independant, well rounded, man of dedication and character that he is today. A few points to be reminded of what VMI is: 1. Equal standards are equity VMI’s strength is that every cadet is held to the same expectations. That model produces discipline, leadership, and resilience — regardless of background. Lowering or altering standards doesn’t create equity. It creates different outcomes. 2. VMI is a choice No one is assigned to VMI. Students choose it fully informed of the rigor. Equity includes respecting student choice — including choosing a demanding, military-style education. 3. Proven results for the Commonwealth VMI consistently produces military officers, engineers, business leaders, public servants, and educators who serve Virginia and the nation. If the goal is opportunity and impact, VMI is already succeeding. PLease rally with us, the VMI family, past, present and future to keep this school what it is and what is has been without changing it to appease lesser goals that others can find at other institutions of their choosing. No one is forced to attend VMI, we want it to remain an option for those young men and women who want the HARD, mixed with the beauty of family building each other to overcome more than they ever imagined they could with resilience, who thrive in the hard, are set apart for more than an ordinary college experience.

I am writing as an alumnus in strong opposition to HB1377. VMI has served the Commonwealth for more than 180 years by educating citizen-soldiers and leaders of character who go on to serve Virginia and the nation in the military, public service, and private industry. The Institute already operates with a clear mission, strong accountability, and a proven return on investment for taxpayers. Its graduates consistently demonstrate leadership, discipline, and a commitment to service that reflect the values Virginia has long championed. Singling out VMI for a funding review—when comparable institutions are not subject to the same scrutiny—raises concerns about fairness and politicization rather than sound fiscal oversight. State funding is not a favor to VMI; it is an investment in an institution that has produced generations of leaders who contribute directly to the security, economy, and civic life of the Commonwealth. Undermining that support risks weakening a unique public institution that plays a vital role in Virginia’s higher education system and its future leadership pipeline. I urge lawmakers to reject House Bill 1377 and instead reaffirm their commitment to VMI and its enduring mission.

Dear Members of the Committee, I write as a proud graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 2004, to respectfully oppose House Bill 1377 and the premise underlying its creation. I entered VMI in the fall of 2000, just three years after the admission of the first female cadets. I witnessed firsthand a Corps actively adapting to that change while remaining firmly committed to its mission of producing citizen-soldiers and leaders of character. Women in the Corps were held to the same standards, subject to the same system of shared hardship and accountability, and earned their place through performance and perseverance—not preference. During my time as a cadet, my class president was Jason Quash, an African American cadet elected on merit and trust by the entire class, who has since risen to the rank of Colonel in the U.S. Army. These experiences do not align with claims that VMI is defined by pervasive or systemic racism or sexism. This is not to suggest that VMI, like any large institution, has been without individual failings or isolated grievances. Every public university in the Commonwealth can point to painful chapters or cultural shortcomings. But governing public policy by elevating selective anecdotes over measurable outcomes is neither fair nor effective. Applied consistently, no institution would survive such a standard. VMI’s outcomes matter. Since its founding, the Institute has produced more than 285 general and flag officers, 13 Rhodes Scholars, and 7 Medal of Honor recipients, along with generations of leaders in public service, business, and government. Its alumni include General George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan, and Jonathan Daniels, a 1961 graduate and civil rights martyr who gave his life protecting a young Black woman during the Civil Rights Movement. These individuals are not anomalies; they reflect the leadership ethos VMI instills. Proponents of HB 1377 argue that VMI’s mission can be duplicated elsewhere or that its costs outweigh its value. I respectfully disagree. No other public institution in Virginia combines a full-time military environment, rigorous academics, and a leadership system built on shared hardship and accountability. ROTC programs and civilian universities serve important roles, but they are not substitutes for VMI’s model. Measured by the service, longevity, and impact of its graduates, VMI represents a strong return on taxpayer investment. Cost comparisons divorced from outcomes fail to capture the value of leadership development that consistently produces disproportionate service to the Commonwealth and the nation. VMI is not frozen in time. It is a living institution—aware of its history, accountable for its mistakes, and continually evolving. Oversight is appropriate for any public institution, but a task force charged with questioning whether VMI should continue to exist as a state-supported institution risks politicizing oversight in a way that undermines morale, mission, and public confidence. Virginia should hold VMI to high standards because it matters—but it should also recognize its demonstrated value and enduring contribution. For these reasons, I urge you to oppose HB 1377. Respectfully, Derek Wiley Class of 2004 VMI Alumnus

This may have been necessary many years ago, however, it is just not true today. I am assuming this is probably based on the study that was ordered by former Governor Northam (now on the Board of Visitors at VMI).  This study was completed by the law firm Barnes and Thornburg.  I was interview by them and read the complete report.  For the past several years, the recommendations made by the report have been mostly (34 of 38?) completed.  However, one must read the complete report and just not the Executive Summary of the report to make a complete evaluation.  The Executive Summary has items that are not supported by the complete report. This investigation was mostly started by a Washington Post article based on a basketball player who was expelled due to an Honor Code violation.  Investigation revealed months later, while in high school, he had issues with cheating.  Cheating is overlooked especially if the student is a high school athlete.  Thus begins a pattern of unacceptable behavior which unfortunately becomes the norm for this athlete thinking he/she is above regulations.  At VMI, cheating is not tolerated and it does not matter if the person is black, white, mix-raced, male, or female or social status.  On the matter of sexual assault:  The Barnes and Thornburg's Executive Summary report misrepresented the facts.  VMI gave the law firm all the reports on sexual assault and results of the investigation of those assaults that had been reported (5 ).  The law firm then randomly picked 5 other female cadets to interview.  The randomly picked female cadets reported they had not been sexual assault.  In the Executive Summary it was reported that 50% of the female cadets had been sexual assaulted.  As an applied mathematician with a PhD, statistically the Executive Summary conclusion is wrong. The value of VMI for the Commonwealth is very high.  Educationally, VMI has had more Rhodes Scholars per the number of graduates in the Commonwealth than other institutions of higher learning. Despite not doing the "ordinary" as most colleges, VMI graduates do extremely well in the world producing leaders in industry environment, government and in the military ranks.   I have taught at several colleges, both under graduate and graduate level.  I have lectured at VMI in the past.  I served two terms at VMI on their Engineering Division Advisory Council (EDAC) for accreditation for both regional and ABET.  I am very familiar with the culture within VMI.  I interviewed many cadets (Black, White, male and female) in several different social sittings and never heard any of them even mention sexual, racial, or the "lost cause" during some very long conversations. VMI teaches leadership, integrity, self worth, and honor.  This system is not for everyone; however, anyone who goes through the system is challenged beyond what they thought they were capable of accomplishing.  Other colleges in Virginia have had significant issues with racism and sexism, but I do not see those schools not being "called out" by the General Assembly.This bill is a recurring attacks following shifts in political leadership are detrimental to the cadets who are working tirelessly and deserve stability.  VMI has operated in good faith under both previous and current administrations, and Bill HB1377 and HB1374 feel like a direct punishment for recent leadership decisions made by the Board of Visitors. Please oppose HB1377 and start looking at all colleges in the Commonwealth.

Comments Document

Opposition to HB1377 **To the Members of the Virginia House of Delegates:** I write as a proud member of a generational VMI family to express my strong opposition to HB1377. My father (1988), my older brother (2018), myself (2019), and my younger brother (2022) have all graduated from VMI. All four of us are serving or have served as commissioned officers in the United States Marine Corps and Navy. Our family's experience demonstrates VMI's consistent ability to produce leaders of character who serve our nation with distinction. **VMI's Board of Visitors Must Remain Independent** The fundamental flaw in HB1377 is its potential to undermine VMI's independent governance. VMI is no ordinary college—it is a specialized military institution rooted in deep understanding of its unique mission: "to produce educated, honorable men and women, prepared for the varied work of civil life... and ready as citizen-soldiers to defend their country in time of national peril." Any attempt to place VMI's governance under another institution's oversight, particularly one not sharing VMI's military mission or culture, misunderstands what makes the Institute successful. The current Board of Visitors has overseen remarkable achievements. According to VMI's Office of Institutional Effectiveness (Summer 2025): - 76% six-year graduation rate, consistently outperforming peer institutions - 81% first-year retention rate, exceeding the 80% target - 50.5% commissioning rate (Class of 2025) **The Risk of HB1377** This bill creates unnecessary uncertainty that will undermine cadet morale and damage the alumni network that is fundamental to VMI's success. VMI's alumni association provides more than 30% of the Institute's operating budget through private donations, directly reducing taxpayer burden. More importantly, alumni provide scholarships and career opportunities that transform cadets' lives. I personally received alumni-funded scholarships to play soccer and study chemistry - and forever grateful for their contributions. This network also opens doors for recent graduates that would otherwise remain closed. Undermining VMI's independent governance by questioning the Institute's future will erode alumni confidence and threaten this irreplaceable support system. If Virginia's General Assembly believes systemic issues exist in state higher education, why target VMI—a small, exceptionally successful institution with unparalleled alumni support—rather than examining the entire system? **Conclusion** My family's generations of service represent what VMI provides to Virginia and America. VMI's current Board of Visitors has overseen consistent success. There is no evidence supporting the need for HB1377's proposed task force. I strongly urge you to reject HB1377 and reaffirm Virginia's commitment to VMI's independent governance. Respectfully, Cecilia Keppeler Lieutenant, United States Navy VMI Class of 2019

As a member of your district and a Virginia alumnus of VMI I urge you to please support the Virginia Military Institute and to oppose HB 1374, HB 1377, and SB 494. The allegations that have been built upon to dismantle a venerable institution are false and misguided at best. The public should be informed by VMI’s record alone. VMI’s contribution to the Military and Civilian efforts alike, the USA, Commonwealth of Virginia, your Legislative district, public and private business enterprises too numerous to name is a matter of record that should not be sullied by uninformed partisan assumption. House Bill (HB) 1374 would strip VMI of its independent governance and place it under the control of another university’s Board of Visitors, removing its autonomy and diluting its authority. House Bill - HB 1377 The bill provides no clarity on the Institute’s disposition should that funding be withdrawn. House Bill - Senate Bill (SB) 494 would reduce diversity of thought and opinion, by policy and law. Hal Hamner VMI Class 1984 hal.hamner82@gmail.com hal.hamner@acibuilds.com cell 804-513-2853 office 804-222-3400

I never heard of VMI until last year. Our son was recruited by VMI to play a sport. I was fortunate to attend an Ivy League institution many years ago, University of Pennsylvania. I didn't realize it until recently, but that experience made me somewhat of a "snob" when it came to my kids' education. VMI changed my mind. Although smaller and less well-known, our son is learning things at VMI that I never gleaned while at Penn. He probably experienced more adversity in his first 5 months on the "Rat Line" than I did in my entire college career. He also showed more grit that I would have. And while my wife and I hope that we helped build the tough foundation within him, at VMI we have watched our son's perseverance grow to a level that brings a certain feeling of pride that only a parent can truly understand. When a co-worker of mine heard that our son was going to VMI, he told me he attended VMI for a year. He was an athlete, and transferred after his first year due to injury. He subsequently finished college closer to home. I asked him what was the biggest difference after he left VMI and his answer was simple: he couldn't believe the amount of cheating he experienced and saw post-VMI. He is a top performer in our office, and he credits much of it to his one year at VMI. The Institute is that type of place: it leaves an indelible mark on those it touches. VMI serves as an incubator of things this world - our world - need more of - not less. Honor. Service. Integrity. Fortitude. For our money there is no better investment in our collective future than funding the Virginia Military Institute.

I am writing as a Virginia resident, constituent and current Halifax County District 1 School Board Representative; to express my strong opposition to House Bill 1377 regarding the Virginia Military Institute. VMI has been an important institution in our Commonwealth for generations, developing disciplined, educated, and service-minded leaders. My family has personally experienced the value of this institution.  My husband (Daniel Runion) is a proud 2002 graduate, and my son (Jacob Runion) is currently a third-year cadet. Through them, I have seen firsthand the structure, opportunity, and leadership training that VMI provides to young men and women preparing to serve Virginia and our nation. House Bill 1377 threatens to undermine the independence, tradition, and mission of VMI. I respectfully urge you to consider the long-term impact this legislation may have on cadets, alumni, and future generations who seek the unique educational and leadership environment VMI offers. I ask that you stand with families, alumni, and supporters across the Commonwealth by opposing HB 1377. Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration of my perspective. Respectfully, Stacy Runion

I am writing today as a proud graduate of the Virginia Military Institute to express my strong opposition to HB1377. This bill proposes the establishment of a task force to question the very future of VMI as a state-sponsored institution, is an affront to the generations of citizen soldiers who have served the Commonwealth of Virginia and our nation with distinction. I owe all of my successes to the men and women of VMI whether that be faculty, my brother rats, educators, active duty service members, and the local Lexington community. I chose to attend VMI knowing that I was in desperate need of direction. What I found at VMI was courage, fortitude, humility, an unparalleled education, and a community that I would call home for the rest of my life. I am forever indebted to this institution that provided me with structure, guidance, and every tool to be not only successful but to be a person of character fit for exactly what the world needs now. Threating to defund or strip governance from VMI a punitive measure that would not harm only the institution but also the Commonwealth and the nation, which benefit from the leaders of character VMI produces. I urge you to reject HB1377 and instead, to embrace VMI and help to continue its vital mission. VMI is a source of pride for Virginia and a national asset. Let us not allow political agendas to tarnish its legacy or undermine its future.

I am writing to support the continued funding of Virginia Military Institute as a bastion of leadership and integrity, not only for our great state of Virginia, but also for the United States as a nation. We have known countless men and women who have graduated from VMI and gone on to become stellar members of the Armed Forces as well as productive and dedicated professionals in the private sector. To cut funding for this priceless institution would be a travesty for the future generations of leaders whose responsibility it will be to carry our nation forward in success and prosperity. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I am a recent alumna of VMI, and attending VMI was the most positive and impactful decision of my life so far. The VMI I arrived at as a rat was already in many ways an inclusive place, and it only continued to improve as my time there progressed. Both personally and academically, VMI prepared me exceptionally well for the next step in my education and career. I am currently a second-year law student at UVA, another wonderful state school. While I also love UVA, from my experience here I can honestly say that VMI was the most truly inclusive institution I have attended so far. VMI walks what many other institutions talk; at VMI what matters is not your race, gender, or personal politics, but how hard you are willing to work, and how well you treat your classmates and peers. Of course VMI is not perfect; no institution is. But I can truly say that in my experience as a woman at VMI, it is an accepting and supportive environment that creates exceptionally driven and dedicated public servants of both our state and our nation.

As the mother of a graduate from VMI who serves his community admirably, and the grandmother of a graduate and current student, I find the HB 1377 most disturbing. VMI has served the State of Virginia admirably in providing it with persons of character who use their knowledge, brotherhood and talent to serve their communities with integrity. How can you not value the mission and service of VMI where students are prepared to lead and serve while being held accountable for their actions?

I am the parent of a 2023 Virginia Military Institute graduate, a 2025 VMI graduate, and a current female cadet in the Class of 2028. My family’s long-standing connection to VMI reflects our deep respect for the Institute’s academic rigor and its emphasis on accountability, leadership, and character. My children chose VMI intentionally—drawn to an environment that sets high expectations, demands personal responsibility, and prepares graduates to serve the Commonwealth and the nation with integrity. VMI is a small but effective institution with a proven record of producing disciplined, educated leaders across many fields. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to table or pass by indefinitely HB 1377. This legislation unfairly targets a functioning institution that continues to serve Virginia families well and undermines the ability of parents and cadets to choose an educational environment aligned with their values and goals. Thank you for your time and for your consideration of my perspective as a parent with multiple cadets and graduates of VMI. I appreciate your service to the Commonwealth and your attention to this matter.

I am a Virginia resident writing to express my opposition to House Bill 1377. In addition to broader concerns about the direction and consequences of this legislation, I want to share its direct and personal impact on my family. My daughter is currently a cadet at VMI, and the effects of policies connected to HB 1377 are already affecting her negatively. As a parent, it is deeply troubling to see legislation advance that creates uncertainty and harm for students who are working extremely hard to serve, lead, and contribute to the Commonwealth. I am concerned that HB 1377 risks imposing unnecessary government overreach and unintended consequences. I believe this bill moves Virginia in the wrong direction and does not reflect the values of fairness, responsibility, and thoughtful governance. I urge you to consider the real-world impact of HB 1377 on Virginia families and students and to oppose its passage.

I am expressing my opposition to HR1377 on behalf of my grandson, who is a cadet at VMI in his junior year. He chose VMI based on a combination of his interest in serving his country and its affordability. My wife and I, and our daughter, are constantly impressed by the dedication, commitment, camaraderie, and bonding of the students at VMI, a bonding based on their shared challenges and determination to succeed together irrespective of their backgrounds. Further, we have observed the uniqueness of this bonding in the continuing closeness of the parents of many of the cadets, who have themselves graduated from VMI. As a former military officer, having receiving my commission through ROTC, I have a strong respect for the leadership values taught to the cadets, which is even stronger than I experienced. That is a part of the uniqueness of the education at VMI that my grandson is getting, an opportunity that he would not have without the financial support from the state of Virginia. I urge you to not pass HR1377, which risks reducing the continued financial support of VMI.

The results speak for themselves. 1) 97% of the graduates are employed or attending graduate school within 5 months of graduation. 2) The average graduate will earn approximately $77K in early career earnings vs the average Virginia salary of $62K. 3) VMI produces more Army ROTC commissioned officers than any other Army ROTC program in the country. 10 of these cadets ranked in the top 10% of the active-duty order of merit list. 4) VMI is the 2nd largest producer of Navy ROTC commissioned officers in the country. 5) VMI score #2 for Best Value Colleges in Virginia per the Niche 2026 Rankings. It is clear VMI is producing a great ROI for Virginia taxpayers. Vote NO for HB1377!

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. For well over a century, VMI has whole heartily been supported by the Commonwealth's elected assembly. Please support VMI with your resolve allowing VMI to continue its epic mission far into the next century. VMI, The Corps, We Graduates and Friends of VMI , ask you for your kind and unwavering support, please. With much sincerity and thank you, Joe Brown '77 joebrown321@gmail.com

I graduated from VMI 52 years ago. Served in the military and then worked for Fortune 500 company. I have attained degrees at several other colleges. Virginia, these United States and society need VMI. I don’t know of any other colleges or university that prepares young men and women to be successful in life as does VMI. VMI is unique in that it addresses the whole person - you are forced to learn time management, focus, attention to detail, how to follow and how to lead, and how to successfully maneuver challenging situations. And most importantly, you learn respect, how to work with and treat your fellow man or woman and the need to be honest and trustworthy. VMI’s single sanction honor code insures this. I have mentored many cadets over the years, and of all colors and I am not aware of any situations of racism. Are there one off’s - probably- but racism is not an issue or tolerated at VMI. We need more VMI graduates in society, not less. I would make the argument that VMI should be provided more funding so more students could experience this life changing VMI experience. Thank you.

I respectfully urge the House Rules Committee to Table or Pass By Indefinitely HB1377. I write as a Virginia taxpayer and as the mother of a current VMI cadet. My daughter is gay, graduated high school with a 4.1 GPA, chose VMI because she wanted to serve her country, and has earned rank while meeting every standard placed before her. She has never experienced discrimination or hostility at VMI. She has been evaluated solely on character. VMI's strength lies in its equal standards, accountability, and merit-based systems. Those standards are not exclusionary, they are unifying and they are central to why families like ours chose VMI. HB 1377 risks undermining a small, functioning institution of approximately 1,200 cadets that is already fiscally responsible and supported by substantial private alumni funding. Singling out VMI rather than examining Virginia's higher-education system more broadly, creates the appearance of targeting rather than objective oversight. VMI has served the Commonwealth and the nation for nearly two centuries by holding cadets to high, uniform standards and producing graduates of character. I respectfully ask that this bill be tabled or passed by indefinitely. Erin Tiede

I do not support the creation of a task force to determine if the Virginia Military Institute should continue to be a state-supported institution of higher learning. The long record of VMI graduates’ service to the Commonwealth and to the nation, as well as the clear success of its current educational system, should be sufficient to demonstrate its value to the state. I’ve spent over thirty years as a faculty member at a variety of higher education institutions, from the US Military Academy, where I taught for eight years, to regional master’s universities and community colleges in the Midwest. I can say with confidence that the fully immersive environment that cadets experience is absolutely unique, and it prepares VMI graduates for any role that requires intelligent, competent leadership. And leadership is perhaps the most significant component of that education. Here’s my example: this fall, when I was visiting VMI, I spent part of a Saturday morning observing cadet training on the parade ground. Hundreds of cadets were efficiently undergoing various service-specific ROTC tasks, all under the supervision of senior cadet officers. There were no regular military or Institute officers in sight. The training, which lasted until midday, was conducted entirely by cadets themselves. This is the striking difference between VMI and West Point—I would never have seen cadets there conduct such training entirely on their own. I would have seen regular Army officers and NCOs closely supervising the cadets to ensure nothing went wrong. You might well argue that any university student organization can provide similar experiences, but you would be wrong. I have been an advisor or faculty representative for many such groups, and none test every single aspect of their education in the same way—someone in authority always steps in to make sure nothing goes off the rails. Knowing they will get bailed out shifts students away from exercising initiative and learning from their experience. But at VMI, the cadets are trusted to carry out their duties without that kind of close supervision. Why? Because they are seen as honest, reliable, and intellectually capable. The cadet Honor system and the intense academic program that VMI offers prepares them to do so. That combination is unique in higher education. Its graduates testify to its success. I am not a Virginia resident (though I was stationed twice in the state during 27 years of Army service). I went to VMI from the Philippines, where my Navy father was assigned. My sister went to William and Mary from the same country. We both chose Virginia colleges because the Commonwealth offers a diverse group of exceptional institutions of higher learning that benefit the country as a whole. We are grateful the citizens of the state have chosen to support that endeavor for centuries. Please allow VMI and other public institutions in the Commonwealth to continue doing their difficult jobs, and give their new leadership the time and resources to remain examples to the country. Michael Burke Lieutenant Colonel, US Army, retired Associate professor of English Emeritus VMI Class of 1973

I am a 1965 graduate of VMI and all 3 of my sons are VMI graduates.I would to voice my strong opposition to bills 1374 and 1377. It makes me very sad to hear certain legislators say that VMI is no longer needed and that some of my 15 grandchildren and my 1 great grandchild might not have an opportunity to go there. My oldest son was forced to go to VMI by his mother as VMI was his last choice on his college wish list. He never knew until many years that he was accepted at other schools as she trashed all his other acceptances. This happened in the days before instant news such as cellphones and computers. His behavioral track was not very good in high school and he still thanks his mother for her influence some 38 years ago. He is now a practicing dentist in Petersburg,Va. I don't know of any school in the country that has the kind of bonding that VMI has. I could go own and own about the accomplishments of VMI graduates. VMI people really look out for each other and other people. I will cite just one example and believe me I could cite many. My oldest son just lost one of his classmates to a long battle with cancer and the family was left left hurting financially. Two of his other classmates stepped up and have pledged to pay for all of their children college expenses. I can think of many acts of kindness performed by VMI people but will close with just one more story. Jonathan Daniels was A 1961 graduate of VMI and participated in the civil rights movement of 1965. He was killed while protecting a 17 year old black girl in Hayneville,Alabama. There is an arch named for him at VMI. This country and the state of Virginia will always need VMI.

As a 1965 graduate of VMI, a former West Point Assistant Professor, and former Chief of the US Army's Communicative Skills Program, I owe my success in the military, in post-secondary education at multiple institutions, and in corporate and government sectors as a veteran-owned small business owner. It is puzzling that Virginia's legislature should consider reducing funding for the institution that produced George C. Marshall and other leaders. Any Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force must focus on additional funding and state support, not less.

Dear Members of the House, I am writing to formally express my opposition to HB1377. I am a proud 2015 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute. I did not come from a military family, nor did I originally intend, at the age of 18, to attend a military college. VMI sought me out and gave me an opportunity, one that ultimately changed my life. What began as a chance to pursue college athletics at a high level became something far more meaningful. VMI provided me with every tool needed to become a citizen-soldier prepared for the real world. It instilled in me a deep and lasting work ethic, resilience through adversity, and the mental and physical toughness required to lead and serve. Just as importantly, it taught me teamwork, empathy, and respect for others from backgrounds very different from my own. We were united by shared hardship and a collective commitment to excellence. VMI pushed me academically, mentally, and physically, giving me an edge in life that continues to serve me today, not only as a professional, but also as a father and a member of my community. The values and discipline I gained at VMI have shaped who I am and how I lead my family. VMI is a prestigious institution that stands apart from all others. Its unique mission and structure are essential to its success and should be preserved. I am proud to be a graduate of VMI, and I strongly believe it should remain true to the principles that have produced generations of capable, service-minded leaders. Thank you for your time and consideration.

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 am a mother whose 3 sons attended VMI classes ‘21, ‘24, and ‘25. All very different and attiVMI for different reasons. The school supported and encouraged honesty, integrity and accountability at a level they would not have been espoused to at any other institution. 2 of my 3 commissioned unit he Army and now serving. They were given the support at VMI to grow in thought and strength. As young men looking for direction and accountability they received it 100%. As a mother there are no words to express the gratitude I have for the staff, professors and students who were the direct impact on my sons. They found a strength at VMI for integrity and honesty that no other institution instills. America needs this school. Virginia needs the students who represent this fine institution. These are the best of the best! Everyone is treated fairly and the same. No student is different or less or better. All are expected to follow the rules and honor code. The students know what is expected and rise to it! This is a tried and true system that has worked for generations. There is value in different and VMI does not do Ordinary!

I am writing in strong opposition to both House Bill 1377 and house Bill 1374. I am a retired 28-year career Army officer and did not attend VMI, however my oldest son attended USMA in 2006 to 2008, and my youngest son graduated from VMI in 2024. Both of my sons grew up as military brats and experienced what leadership grounded in honor and integrity should look like within the military environment. My oldest son left USMA after two years because of the inconsistent accountability and poor adherence to their honor code. However, this was not what my younger son experienced at VMI. Had my oldest son attended VMI he would have remained there because of the positive leadership provided by the cadre and professors. I had served with both USMA and VMI produced military officers. The professionalism and ethics of the former was hit and miss while it was rock solid with the latter. I served with both GEN Peay (Desert Shield/Storm) and MG Wins (Afghanistan). They were outstanding officers and leaders who were both put into a difficult position by political ideologues whose motives seem to have been self-serving rather than seeking truth and attempting to fix concerns that have already been addressed. I therefore ask that these bills be withdrawn motives behind them are neither honorable nor truthful.

I am a graduate of the VMI class on 1977. I served in the Army ROTC unit and commandants staff at VMI from 1983 until 1986. I have served on VMI adjunct faculty in the Civil Engineering and Environmental department from 2015 until 2025. I know much about VMI from the aspect of a former cadet, alumni, and faculty. My opinion is VMI should welcome the Task Force as long as the members assigned are objective and fair. This should not be a witch hunt. If the task force reviews VMI fairly, they will see an organization that prepares young men and women for a life of leadership and service better than most any other educational institute in the commonwealth.

As a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute I wish to share with this committee a formative part of the VMI experience that nobody outside of the Institute can fully understand. As with all incoming freshmen, I entered VMI from a society replete with divisions. These divisions were based on many factors including race, ethnicity, religion, and financial background. Suddenly, upon entering VMI all of these divisions were immediately and permanently ripped away and a society of total equality was thrust upon us. From that point on we, as individuals, could not possibly care less about our Brother Rat’s race or any other dividing factor so prevalent in society. We were brothers fighting together to survive and thrive in the difficult and regimented live of a VMI Cadet. Over the four years of our cadetship, this society of unity remained strong, and individuals rose to different levels of performance academically, militarily, and athletically based upon their individual talents and strengths and their willingness to work extremely hard. Of course there were a few sour apples in the mix, but most did not make it through the Institute. Today, many years after graduation, the bond of equal respect and admiration continues to hold not just our class, but all VMI graduates together. Naturally we all moved on and pursued vastly divergent paths in life but the simple bond of respect and honor has remained strong in all of us, and has played a major role in guiding our lives. Is this fundamental outlook of respect, dignity, and equality not exactly what our Commonwealth and our Country needs at this time? Do we not all benefit from having The Virginia Military Institute continue to produce men and women of high character who look at others for who they are, not for which societal grouping to which they belong? The only rational conclusion that can be drawn is that we need VMI now, perhaps more than ever, and it needs to be managed and overseen by individuals who can understand what VMI is and how VMI works. Even with the most positive of intentions, there is no way that a Board of another very different college that is on the other side of the Commonwealth can possibly and properly oversee VMI operations. I thank all members of this committee for your time and consideration, and I strongly urge all of you to vote against HB 1377. Protect and defend VMI as VMI graduates have protected and defended the Nation and this Commonwealth for generations. Sincerely, Arthur B. Nunn, III

Dear Members of the House Rules Committee, The below message is copied from another that has all the facts and details about your proposed changes to VMI. I’m just a blue collar working man that takes as much overtime given to me to help pay for my daughter’s education and dream to graduate from VMI. It’s a huge honor to attend this school and a bigger achievement to graduate from there. My daughter and the entire student body is upset and stressed at the thought of losing what they have worked so hard for. Very few have the strength and determination to even get through being a Rat. Please reconsider your vote to take this away from my girl and all her fellow Keydets! I respectfully write to urge you to Table or Pass By Indefinitely House Bill 1377. I write not only as a Virginia taxpayer, but as the mother of a gay daughter who has direct, lived experience at the Virginia Military Institute. My daughter graduated high school with a 4.1 GPA, pursued leadership and extracurricular opportunities throughout her education, and chose VMI because she wanted to serve her country. Since matriculating, she has earned rank, participated fully in the life of the Institute, and met every expectation placed before her. She is a stand-up  citizen, and she embodies the very standards VMI exists to uphold. In our family’s experience, those standards merit, accountability, equal treatment, and adherence to a single Honor Code are not exclusionary. They are unifying. My daughter has never experienced discrimination, hostility, or marginalization at VMI. She has been evaluated exactly as every cadet is: on character, performance, and conduct. That is not incidental; it is foundational to VMI’s mission. These standards should not be diminished. They are the reason families like ours seek out VMI, and they are central to the Institute’s success in producing capable leaders and public servants. HB 1377, as written, risks undermining a model that is demonstrably working. It is also important to consider proportionality and fairness. VMI is a small institution of approximately 1,200 cadets. If the General Assembly believes systemic issues exist across Virginia’s higher-education system, it would be more appropriate to examine outcomes broadly across all state-run institutions, many of which serve far larger student populations and face challenges of a much greater scale. Singling out VMI creates the appearance of targeting rather than objective oversight. VMI is also a fiscally responsible asset to the Commonwealth. Nearly 30% of its operating budget is supported through voluntary private alumni contributions, reducing the burden on taxpayers. Enrollment demand has rebounded in recent years, further demonstrating that families across Virginia continue to value VMI’s distinctive, high-accountability educational environment. If any review of the Institute is to occur, it should be balanced, measured, and informed by those who know VMI best, including alumni, parents, and recent graduates. As written, HB 1377 does not reflect that balance. VMI has served the Commonwealth and the nation for nearly two centuries by holding cadets to high, uniform standards and producing graduates of character. I respectfully ask that you prevent unnecessary disruption to a functioning and valuable institution by tabling or indefinitely passing HB 1377. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration. Fred Fenster Dumfries VA

As a mom of a VMI graduate, I grieve over HB1374 and HB 1377 that seek to transfer governance of VMI to VSU and set up an advisory task force. VMI is an exceptional academic institution. Not perfect, but we all can acknowledge no institution is. VMI forms exemplary citizens - the best of us - and this focus on them from the General Assembly is unwarranted, disruptive and punitive. Let VMI alone. My family has first- hand experience with a number of Va colleges and universities- including UVA, JMU, Radford and Ferrum. VMI stands alone in its ability to raise citizens who demonstrate character, responsibility, respect, patriotism. We should all have the opportunity to benefit from such an institution. Rather than tear it down, which would be tragic for all Virginians and our nation, we should all be lauding it. I respectfully ask that you recommend against these bills - with a loud, resounding NO!

I am opposed to HB1377. where to begin? My son is currently a Second at VMI. He attended Governors school in high school, played multiple sports, was truly gifted but needed direction. He needed structure. He needed VMI. The last 3 years i have seen an amazing transformation in my son. He stands a little taller, speaks a little more confidently, and shows purpose in his life. this is because of what VMI has taught him.....instilled into him. It is part of his core now. He is scheduled to Commission into the Armed Forces just like 50% of his Brothers. Yes, i said Brothers. VMI is about what can be accomplished by the group. White, Black, Christian, Atheist, male, female, straight, or gay.....they are all Brothers. I have witnessed this over the last 3 Years and could not be prouder of my son or the Institute. LEAVE POLITICS OUT OF IT. defunding VMI would go down in history as one of the worst decisions the state ever made. Cadets choose VMI to choose the hard road. The road that less travelled that makes the Destination that much better. i won't bother mentioning the graduation rates, salaries after graduation, or the #2 ranked liberal arts college in the Nation. Those are nice but VMI is so much more. it is a place young men and women go to hard. To do different. To be Exceptional.

I have no doubt that VMI would be able to continue as a private college but that would change the corps of cadets. I grew up in rural Virginia and when it was time to select my colleges I was accepted into several universities in and out of state. VMI being a state-sponsored institution allowed me to be able to not only afford higher education but an avenue to a career of service to our nation. The robust military atmosphere helped me to earn an ROTC scholarship and commission in the Air Force. I served as an Intelligence Officer for 6 years before switching over to the federal government. My love for Virginia that was cultivated at VMI caused me to move my family back with my second career in the federal government. VMI’s call has impacted my immediate family; my younger brother also attended VMI to commission in the Navy. Even my eldest daughter, after seeing everything VMI has taught me, has stated she wants to attend the institute. I support that knowing the positive impact it had on my life. VMI would give her a wonderful high quality undergraduate degree and a unique experience learning leadership and follower-ship skills. These rare experiences and skills would be ones that she would carry with her for her entire life. However, removing state sponsored status from VMI will make that a less likely proposition as we won’t be able to afford tuition. I am sure that there are many others who would be in the same position. Additionally, you will be removing one of the more unique schools from the repertoire of fantastic public universities and colleges our commonwealth offers. One that 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. Respectfully, Z. Tharp VMIClass of 2009

As the mother of a newly minted Virginia Military Institute Class of 2029 cadet, I want to express my deepest opposition to Bill 1377. In our short time at Virginia Military Institute, our experience has been nothing short of impeccable—not only for my son, but for me as a parent as well. From the very beginning, I have been amazed at how accessible and responsive the VMI staff have been. Even before day one, they took the time to understand and accommodate my son’s academic needs, providing a level of individualized attention that is both rare and commendable. The rich history of VMI, its honor code, core values, and the indisputable caliber of leaders it produces are well known. However, I believe it is equally important to share the perspective of a new parent. From scheduling and academic trajectory to future planning, the staff have been consistently approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested—not only in answering our questions, but in supporting my son directly. When my son chose VMI—declining several other college opportunities—it was immediately clear that he understood exactly what he wanted and needed from his education and personal development. His confidence in that decision has been reinforced every step of the way. What I did not anticipate, but have greatly appreciated, is how positive and reassuring this experience has been for me as a parent as well. I also have two younger sons currently in high school who now have a strong interest in VMI for their own futures, based entirely on what we have witnessed firsthand. That speaks volumes about the institution and the environment it fosters and why there is no legitimacy behind the intentions of this bill.. For these reasons, I strongly oppose Bill 1377. VMI is fulfilling its mission with integrity, discipline, and excellence, and it deserves to be supported—not undermined—by legislation that fails to recognize the value and success of this institution. Respectfully, Lori Kreckman

As a 2002 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute and father of a current third classman I write in opposition of House Bill 1377. VMI produces men and women like no other school in the Country. As the president of a business here in Virginia, I would welcome any graduate of VMI to become a member of my staff. VMI has provided a positive pathway in my life that I would not have achieved without the experiences I had there. VMI made me the person I am today and I encouraged my son to attend the school in hopes he would have the same experiences. VMI teaches you to honor yourself, your country and your fellow man, I believe those to be traits that are lacking in today’s society. VMI teaches you to earn your way. VMI teaches you to be truthful. VMI teaches you to watch after your neighbor.

I strongly oppose House Bill 1377 and urge the committee to reject any effort that questions the value or public benefit of the Virginia Military Institute. VMI is not merely an academic institution; it is a proven leadership development system that has served the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States for nearly two centuries. Its mission to produce citizen-soldiers of character is reflected in the enduring and measurable impact of its graduates—both in uniform and in civilian life. VMI is nationally recognized for producing competent, honorable military officers who lead and defend our nation across all branches of the U.S. armed forces. Alumni serve at every level, entrusted with responsibility for people, resources, and national security in complex, high-risk environments where character and judgment matter as much as technical competence. The Institute’s emphasis on discipline, ethical decision-making, accountability, and leadership under pressure directly prepares graduates for these roles. At the same time, the majority of VMI graduates serve the Commonwealth and the nation in civilian capacities. They become engineers, educators, physicians, business and industry leaders, public servants, and community volunteers. They strengthen Virginia’s economy, infrastructure, institutions, and civic life, often serving in leadership positions where integrity, responsibility, and sound judgment are essential. This balance of military service and civic leadership is central—not incidental—to VMI’s mission. The rigor of the VMI experience is intentional. Cadets are challenged to develop resilience, teamwork, and moral courage—qualities that benefit both national defense and civilian leadership. The return on investment for Virginia taxpayers is substantial and well documented through alumni outcomes, national rankings, and decades of service to the Commonwealth. As a VMI graduate, my own experience reflects this broader value. The leadership foundation provided by VMI prepared me to serve as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy and also enabled success in civilian roles in engineering, industry leadership, and academia. The discipline, ethical framework, and accountability instilled at VMI proved equally essential whether leading in uniform, managing complex technical organizations, or educating future leaders. This dual preparation is a defining strength of the Institute. While no institution is immune from challenges, VMI’s leadership has been clear that harassment and uncivil behavior have no place at the Institute and are addressed decisively. Continuous improvement should be expected, but it does not diminish VMI’s demonstrated value or public benefit. Virginia is stronger—and the nation is safer—because of VMI. I respectfully urge the committee to oppose HB 1377 and reaffirm the Commonwealth’s commitment to the Virginia Military Institute.

Dear Members of the House Rules Committee, Support for Continued State Funding for the Virginia Military Institute I write as a proud parent of a current Fourth Classman (Freshman) at the Virginia Military Institute. The transformation I have witnessed in my son over the past Year as he went through the Rat Line is extraordinary. He entered VMI as a capable but uncertain student; he now stands as a confident, disciplined, and service minded young man ready to contribute to his community and profession. I am confident this growth will only continue over the next 3 years. VMI’s unique blend of academic rigor, military structure, honor education, and leadership development has shaped him in ways no other college could. The Institute continues to produce graduates who serve the Commonwealth and the nation with integrity and competence. I urge you to support continued state funding for VMI. The Commonwealth’s investment in this historic institution yields citizens and leaders of the highest caliber, and its removal would weaken a proven model of character-based education that benefits all Virginians and our country. I know I am an out of state person, but I thought my perspective on the issue was important enough to write you today. Respectfully, Michael Miraglia Pinecrest Florida Parent of Leonard Miraglia , VMI Class of 2029

Dear Members of the House Committee on Rules, I am writing as a Virginia resident and an active community volunteer who works directly with VMI cadets every week. For nearly a decade, my family has served as a host family for cadets, opening our home to them on Sundays as a place of rest, mentorship, and encouragement. My husband also leads a weekly Bible-based Sunday School class for cadets, centered on current events, ethics, leadership, and personal growth. Through these close relationships, we interact with an extraordinarily diverse group of young men and women. The cadets in our home include Black, White, Asian, and international students, from families across the socioeconomic spectrum—from very affluent backgrounds to those who have faced housing insecurity, foster care, or significant financial hardship. They hail from every corner of Virginia (Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, Richmond, Southwest, and beyond) as well as other states like Ohio and California. Many are Division I student-athletes in sports such as track, rifle, football, wrestling, swimming, and cross country. What unites these cadets is not privilege, ideology, or background, but a shared commitment to personal growth, service, discipline, teamwork, resilience, and accountability. VMI deliberately brings together young adults who might otherwise never meet, forging them into principled leaders who serve Virginia and the nation. As someone who sees these cadets not through reports or statistics, but in real-life interactions and ongoing relationships, I can attest that VMI is having a profoundly positive impact on a remarkably diverse group of young adults. The Institute is not merely educating students—it is shaping responsible citizens and future leaders for the Commonwealth. I respectfully urge the Committee—and the proposed Advisory Task Force, should it be established—to recognize this real and human impact and to support VMI's continued receipt of state funding. Any recommendation to defund or alter its status as a state-sponsored institution would overlook the evidence of its success in transforming lives across backgrounds. Thank you for your time, consideration, and service to Virginia. I am available to discuss my experiences further if it would be helpful. Respectfully, Leigh Ann Payne

I oppose HB1377. My son is a freshman Cadet and made the deciding to attend Virginia Military Institute because he share the core values embodied and promotes at the school; honor,integrity and character. My son embraces the challenges he will face at VMI's because he knows that he will emerge better and go further than he would at a trattoria school. He is a history major and plans pursue a law degree after VMI. He is eager to join the ranks of leaders who came through VMI. Leaders in military, public service and the private sector. VMI is a school that Virginia can be proud of. A top ranked school, #4 Top Public Sschool in the nation! It's graduation rate is in the to 10% in the nation. 97% of its graduates are employed with 5 months of graduation. VMI prepares is students as leaders in their fields. To defund a top performing school is senseless and wrong. VMI provides a critical role in Virginia's educational opportunities for our young adults. Those who, like my son, want to push themselves further. Who want to be extraordinary. Please do the right thing and reject HB1377.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB 1377. Before retirement, I worked as a Professional Engineer in Virginia for 46 years. For 20 of those years, I was employed by VDOT, and the remaining 26 were with an Engineering Consultant who performed services in multiple states. During this period, I managed, worked with and coordinated with many graduates of VMI. I was always impressed by the professionalism that they exhibited and the quality of their work. It appeared that they had attributes that many other engineers did not have. I could see it in areas such as time management, organizational skills and communication. I was also in the US Army Reserves for 22 years. In this capacity, I had the opportunity to serve with many VMI officers. Once again, they seemed to excel. The confidence the officers possessed and the leadership qualifications they exhibited were second to none. VMI is known and respected worldwide. Because of the unique experience that the cadets receive in attending a college within a military setting sets VMI apart from civilian colleges. This benefits the cadets, the Commonwealth of Virginia and the country as a whole.

I am writing to respectfully oppose HB1377. I am the parent of a current VMI 2nd Class cadet. He will graduate in 2027. His experience at VMI since entering in 2023 has been nothing short of transformational. He chose VMI over Citadel and Norwich. From the moment we drove onto the campus, he was sold on VMI. I know that he would not be the man he is today if he had gone anywhere else. He went in as a shy Rat (first year) and for his third year he was selected to be Ops Sergeant in Charlie company. The boy that we sent to VMI, in 3 short years, has transformed into a brave, strong, young man, with confidence and integrity. He has chosen a path that not many choose. What he has learned at VMI is more than we could have ever hoped. He maintains a rigorous schedule that includes classwork, physical fitness, and cadre leadership activities. I firmly believe the honor code and brotherhood have been instrumental to shaping who he has become today. I agree that it's not a school for everyone, but when you visit VMI, you will meet young men and women who don't shy away, who are confident, ready to shake your hand and introduce themselves, and are proud of what they have accomplished. There are few other campuses where you could find that. We have several friends who have employed VMI graduates and they all say the same thing "we don't even need to call their references, they say they attended VMI, we know they are exceptional people." VMI is something that has touched our lives, too. We have met many other parents who are now close friends. Please do not take VMI away from these young men and women who choose to take the road less traveled. As a country, we are better because they chose that path.

To whom is digesting this. I am opposed to HB1377. VMIs 180+ year experiment is very much like Ray Bradbury Star fleet academy. Young men and women come from all over our planet and come together and form a bond that is unlike any other. Brother/sister rats. When my son visited VMI during the open house and stayed over night, next morning he said, “these are my people”! People who respect each other. People who lift each other up. People who don’t lie cheat or steal. People who do the right thing even when no one is looking. And People who don’t look like me ie a diverse corps of cadets. Yes, not every one who starts VMI finishes VMI because it’s rather different and at times difficult which makes the VMI experiment so exceptional. The commonwealth of Virginia has one the best learning institutions in the world, that has in fact changed the world. The future needs VMI The world needs VMI Thank you for your time

As a VMI family member we reject the idea of HB1377 on grounds that it would take away funding and education opportunities for many young men and women wanting to enter the United States Military through education first.

I write to you not as a lobbyist or an institutional insider, but as a parent who entrusted my son to the Virginia Military Institute. That decision was not made lightly. Like many families, we chose VMI precisely because it is not a typical state-managed university, and because its distinctive mission has served Virginia and the United States for nearly two centuries. VMI was founded in 1839 to produce “citizen-soldiers”—men and women educated in the liberal arts, grounded in discipline and honor, and prepared to serve in peace or war. This idea aligns squarely with Thomas Jefferson’s belief that a free republic depends on educated citizens of character, capable of self-governance and public service. Jefferson championed public education not as a bureaucracy, but as a means to cultivate virtue, responsibility, and leadership. VMI is one of the clearest living expressions of that philosophy in the Commonwealth. The Institute’s strength lies in its independence and clarity of purpose. The adversative method, the Honor Code, the absence of frills, and the emphasis on duty over comfort are not incidental they are the product of a tightly focused mission protected from shifting political winds. Placing VMI under direct state management risks diluting that mission, not through malice, but through standardization. VMI is effective because it is different. The outcomes speak for themselves. VMI consistently produces leaders who serve far beyond the Parade Ground: • Over half of VMI graduates commission into the U.S. Armed Forces or enter public service roles. • Alumni have included George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan; leaders in business, engineering, medicine, and education; and thousands of officers who have led American troops with distinction. • VMI graduates are overrepresented in service-oriented careers relative to peer institutions, a direct return on investment for Virginia and the nation. As a parent, I have seen firsthand how VMI transforms young people. Cadets arrive as students; they leave as adults with resilience, ethical grounding, and an ingrained sense of responsibility to something larger than themselves. This is not accidental, and it is not easily replicated within a conventional state university framework. Virginia benefits enormously from VMI’s current structure: a world-class leadership institution that attracts motivated students, produces disciplined graduates, and enhances the Commonwealth’s reputation nationwide all at a fraction of the cost of many public universities. Federal service commitments, alumni loyalty, and private support further multiply that value. Change is sometimes necessary. But in this case, the risk is clear and the reward is uncertain. Managing VMI as just another state institution would threaten the very qualities that make it exceptional, while offering little demonstrable benefit to taxpayers or students. I respectfully urge you to preserve VMI’s governance model and institutional independence. In doing so, you will be honoring not only Virginia’s history, but Jefferson’s enduring belief that liberty depends on educated citizens of character and on institutions courageous enough to remain true to their purpose. Respectfully, Matt and Carey O’Brien VMI Parents

I am not sure where to begin, but I have been disheartened by this recent House Bill and another Bill being proposed that seem to call into question the integrity of Virginia Military Institute. My son is a 2nd class (Junior) who enrolled at VMI to not only receive a degree in Civil Engineering but also to represent the Institute as a VMI starting wrestler. I was unfamiliar with the Institute prior to my son's exploration of universities, but my husband kept encouraging our son to put VMI at the top of his list. While our son, Patrick , was recruited by the US Naval Academy (and received an appointment) and the US Coast Guard Academy, once Patrick had an official visit at VMI, he felt like it was "home". VMI's positive reputation stood out to my husband and to our son. VMI has challenged Patrick in the most positive of ways. VMI has offered the structure and discipline that fit his lifestyle and has built a resiliency that he would not have been able to find through an ordinary education at other institutions. He has had the privilege of being taught by some of the best professors, learned with a cohort of dedicated students, and worked alongside great teammates for great coaches. Patrick has chosen not to commission into the military but has been exposed to the trials of those who do and has a new appreciation for those fellow cadets who are making that choice. Even though he will not be commissioning, he has continued to find the value of the regimental system and the rigor of VMI's education. VMI is not a perfect institution but neither is JMU where our oldest went or VT where our youngest is slated to go in the Fall. All are places where horizons are broadened, ideals are challenged, growth is achieved, and responsible citizens are molded. VMI does all of that to the highest degree with the impetus put on the individual to do the necessary work. Everything earned nothing given! Patrick understands that notion not only from the classroom but because of the class system. VMI afforded Patrick a mentor to guide, support and yet prod him to be the best he could be. He is able to take pride in his accomplishments because he knows what it took to achieve them. I am not sure what concerns are prompting these discussions around VMI but I can tell you that I joined the Parent Council for the Institution because I believe in the ideals set forth, the structure and support, and the unrivaled educational and employment opportunities offered. I sincerely hope that before judgements are made about VMI, that this committee and others will consider the thousands of stories that reflect the positivity produced from a VMI education. VMI should remain a State supported university as it's graduates benefit our state and our nation. VMI should remain independent from other universities as it is “no ordinary college” and should never be asked to be. Thank you for your time.

I oppose HB1377. The VMI is more than a line item in the state budget. It is one of the Commonwealth’s most distinctive public institutions and a proven source of leaders who serve Virginia and the nation with discipline, integrity, and a sense of duty. HB1377 frames VMI’s continued support as something to be questioned rather than something to be stewarded. That alone is damaging. Institutions like VMI depend on clarity of mission and confidence from the Commonwealth they serve. Casting doubt on that support weakens the Institute immediately, regardless of the outcome of any review. For nearly two centuries, VMI has prepared young men and women to lead under pressure. Its graduates have served in every major conflict and across public life, often at great personal sacrifice. That record reflects an institution that works, not one that needs to justify its existence. VMI’s value is not theoretical. It shows up in the character of its graduates, in their willingness to serve, and in the reputation Virginia carries because of them. Once trust between the Commonwealth and the Institute is weakened, it is difficult to restore. If improvements are needed, they should be pursued through responsible stewardship and existing oversight, not by placing the Institute itself in question. Virginia should stand with VMI.

I am writing to respectfully oppose HB1377. I read the proposed legislation and am at a loss to understand its disparate aims. What is the relevance of a study conducted in 1928, before the founding of Virginia institutions of higher education such as Old Dominion or George Mason? If duplicative courses of instruction are at issue, will these outgrowths of VPI and UVA be scrutinized as well? If such a study finds that VMI provides leaders to the Armed Forces of the United States at an advantageous cost or with advanced training and capability as compared to other institutions of higher education or other commissioning sources in the Commonwealth, will those other institutions be shuttered and their funding provided to VMI? Which other Virgina colleges or universities will be examined for their commitment to equitable treatment of students and faculty? Why is a study required to evaluate what is plainly obvious: the removal of Stonewall Jackson’s statue and of his name from Memorial Hall, and the purposeful shift away from celebrating cadets’ actions at New Market, elevating instead the contributions of graduates such as Marshall and Daniels. I oppose this bill as a resident of Fairfax County, an alum, and a retired Naval officer. VMI’s diversity of economic, ethnic, religious, and geographic backgrounds exposed me to a broad cross-section of society. This exposure was just part of the foundation that VMI provided before I earned the right to lead sailors from all walks of life. VMI’s academic rigor, spartan environment, and demand to place others before self are as relevant now as when I graduated. Having spent time with current cadets from every class, I am confident that they are even better equipped than I was to serve their communities, our state, and our nation. They are proof that VMI continues to evolve and improve to meet the challenge of producing diverse, well-educated graduates motivated by service.

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 1377, which would create a task force to study whether VMI should lose its state funding. 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 am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed bill HB 1377 and its related bill, HB 1374 , regarding the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). As the parent of a current cadet at VMI, I am saddened and appalled that these bills were even proposed. These bills seem to put the Institute in the position of a political pawn, causing fear and undo stress on cadets, parents, faculty, administration, and staff members. As you are aware, VMI has an historic role in Virginia's past, but more importantly, it has a role in Virginia's future as well. VMI has students from all over the Commonwealth, the United States, and a large number of international students. The impact the corps has extends well beyond Virginia. In the years that my cadet has been at VMI, he has grown the most diverse group of roommates, teammates, and indeed brothers, than he ever had in his entire time in Virginia's public school system. These young men and women chose this institution of learning because they finally had an opportunity in their young lives to make a choice in where and what they studied. Their decisions were not made lightly. In addition to their academics, VMI teaches young adults confidence, perseverance, and comradery. In their first year, the Rat Line breaks everyone down to the same level, regardless of their background. They then have the opportunity to rise to a level of leadership and involvement they are comfortable with or strive to. Many of the young people succeed and gain so much experience and skill, they are accepted to highly competitive roles and positions after graduation. These include roles in Fortune 500 companies and Virginia businesses, as well as in our U.S. military and government. In addition to the shocking move to dissolve the Institute in related HB1374, the very idea of putting its governance under a school that does not align with VMI's curriculum or way of life, is appalling. Statistically, 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%, & 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. VMI is recognized globally for the graduates it produces. To align the Institute with any other institution would ruin the reputation and value of a VMI education. I am asking each of you on this committee to do what is best for Virginia, and these young men and women who chose this path, and not what would move an individual's personal agenda forward.

Good Evening, I chose to come to VMI because I want to serve my country in the United States Military. I was coming in with a four year national NROTC scholarship with the USMC and had many different options of school to choose to attend with my tuition fully paid for. I initially decided to matriculate at VMI after meeting the NROTC instructors to understand the training environment at the school. I was extraordinarily confident that the training value I would receive from living my life in barracks in the military environment and participating in the NROTC unit would sufficiently prepare me to be an excellent Marine officer after graduation to make the scholarship worth the expense of the American taxpayer. The environment I found at VMI was a superior training environment to all the other programs I had considered, including other military schools. After arriving I realized this place was exactly what I needed to be held accountable by my peers and instructors to train hard and to have a high standard for my academics. I was introduced to my senior mentor and his roommates who all taught me the importance of attention to detail by constantly looking out for me, but remediating failures with physical training to motivate me to improve myself. I am still extraordinarily close with all of my mentors and I appreciate the effort they put into making me a better person and paying attention to the little details with instruction, schoolwork, and uniform standards. Throughout my time here at VMI I have been fortunate enough to interact with, and form connections with my peers and instructors from Ghana, Myanmar, Taiwan, Poland, Lithuania, Guam, California, Florida, Georgia, and New York. It can be extraordinarily challenging to get through the ratline, live life in barracks, balance clubs, academics, and ROTC and Regimental obligations, but I truly believe that the experience I am living here will effectively prepare me to be a good leader of Marines after graduation, and I could not receive an experience like this at another state university. The Brother Rat spirit is not just a slogan, or something to joke about, and it surely isn’t the ideology of the Confederate South. Rather it is the bonds we make between our classmates who go through the most challenging experiences of our lives so far and help us the whole way through. The Brother Rat spirit is when your roommate stays behind to help you fix your uniform even though you’ll both be doing pushups for missing the time hack. The Brother Rat spirit is when you literally push one of your Brother Rats up the hill to prevent them from falling out of the run. The Brother Rat spirit is when you stay up late even though you’ll both have to be up at 05:00 for PT in order to help your Brother Rat understand an academic topic. These relationships mean everything to me and I truly don’t know where I would be without the people here around me to help me through. The diversity of my class and people interact with every day has exposed me to new points of view I would not have otherwise considered. The ability to succeed here at the institute is not determined by one’s skin color or gender, but rather we exist in an environment where you can succeed by the effort you put forth and your cooperation. Thank you for reading my story and opposing HB 1377. This is no ordinary college, and I thrive here.

I have witnessed three years of life at VMI through my son, and offer these insights on how this school excels in leadership qualities. VMI uses a mentoring system called the “Dyke” system which pairs a first-year cadet “Rat” with a senior. This provides guidance, support, and accountability during the intense first-year training period. The Dyke acts as a mentor (big brother/sister) and role model for the Rat, and helps the Rat navigate the demands of life at VMI, teaching traditions, rules, and expectations of the Institute. Dyke from "deck out" refers to the assistance the first-class cadet provides the Rat in putting on and adjusting the, white-strapped ceremonial uniforms. Rats assist their Dykes with tasks like keeping their room clean, folding laundry, and uniform/equipment care. Despite the menial tasks, the relationship creates lasting bonds with Dykes providing a haven for their Rats in the barracks. A Dyke maintains this relationship beyond just this first year. As parents we got to know his Dyke’s parents, and built a relationship with them. The Dykeline is a lineage of mentorship, where the senior mentors a freshman, who in turn will one day mentor a future Rat, passing down the culture of the institution. After his Dyke’s graduation, my son attended his wedding, and met what is called his Grand-Dyke and Great-Grand-Dyke. The Dyke system provides opportunities for leadership, for mentoring, and for teaching a Rat how to follow which is extremely important in the military. After understanding this Dyke system I approached my schoolmates at USNA with a proposal to introduce this system at Annapolis. During my plebe year at USNA we had no mentor of any kind. VMI’s program is also superior to USNA and the Marine Corps for fitness, discipline, and good order. In the Corps, VMI-graduate officers stood out as outstanding. VMI simply stands out as superior in leadership compared to the federal academies. Similarly in Boy Scouts, there are four phases of development for a Scout. First, a scout learns how to follow as a Cub Scout and Scout Patrol member. Before one can become a good leader, they must be a good follower, which skill is essential for future leaders to learn. Second, a scout learns how to lead a patrol leader and troop. Third, a scout learns how to mentor other troop leaders as an Assistant Junior Scout Master. VMI follows this exact time-tested and proven method, developed by Lt. Gen. Robert Baden-Powell. Each cadet at VMI follows this same carefully planned course to learn how to follow, lead, and mentor. There is one final phase to leadership, the legacy phase, which occurs when a person has completed service in the US military, our institutions of defense and war, and civic community organizations. We, alumni of these institutions, lead our posterity by advocating for our way of life, rule of law, and those things that preserve our society, to leave a lasting legacy to endure for future generations. We are obligated and bound by duty to the Almighty Creator to ensure that our United States, and the Virginia Military Institute, remain strong, and a place that defends life and liberty under His watchful eye. I make an appeal to the Virginia General Assembly to continue support of VMI. It is essential that this institution remains independent of other universities in Virginia, and that it continues to support the endeavors of the United States of America.

I am writing in opposition to HB1377. For more than 180 years, Virginia Military Institute has produced leaders who serve with distinction across Virginia and the nation - in the armed forces, public service, business, education, and their local communities. The Institute’s focused governance model has been central to sustaining that record of impact. 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. 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. One of the reasons he selected VMI was its diversity and its emphasis on equal opportunity to succeed, no matter who you are or where you come from. From his experience, cadets are evaluated on performance, character, and effort. That merit-based environment is important to him and reinforces his belief that VMI has, and will continue to, push him to grow alongside peers from many different backgrounds. 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 1377 risks weakening that mission by introducing institutional uncertainty without clear evidence that such measures are necessary. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the General Assembly to oppose HB 1377 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, Susanna Thomson

I am a retired US Army combat veteran who served for 21 years as a Commissioned Officer. I practice the Army Values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. Our son is currently a 3rd classman Cadet (Sophomore) who completely decided to attend VMI on his own after we participated in a VMI Open House his Senior year of high school. Studying Engineering and participating in Army ROTC was in his college plans for a while. In fact, he was accepted at one of Penn State University’s Branch Campuses prior to the VMI Open House. His ability to speak with current Cadets, attend briefings and interact with multiple Cadets from multiple different cultures and backgrounds was a motivator for him to choose VMI over Penn State University for his Engineering and Army ROTC aspirations. The structure, camaraderie, challenge and Brother Rat lifestyle with an emphasis on working as a team and being inclusive of Brother Rats as a whole was a true inspiration for our son. One of my initial observations of VMI culture was the fact that all the Cadets I spoke with regardless of their race, gender or international background carried themselves with confidence, professionalism, focus and an eagerness to teach me about their own personal experiences while being a VMI Cadet. Furthermore, I have witnessed a level of leadership proficiency with Cadets in leadership positions within the Corps of Cadets that not only is impressive but exceptional. I see these Cadets living the Army Values I listed before and I have witnessed Cadets being inclusive of their Brother Rats regardless of race, gender, sex or national origin. VMI is a valuable asset for creating citizen Soldiers who excel in all branches of our Armed Forces as well as building exceptional leaders in our communities as civilians as well. I oppose HB1377 as it does not seem to be necessary or a valid use of legislative resources, time or Commonwealth expense. VMI is something the Commonwealth of Virginia and its legislators should be proud of as it is recognized internationally as a key asset in academics, leadership development and positive character development.

While I appreciate the need for legislative oversight on any state spending, including in state institutions of higher education, I am unclear why Virginia Military Institute is being singled out for a task force. If the legislature or committees would like to examine the funding to state universities overall, and with an eye toward outcomes, it seems this should be done across all state insitutions. I do not support the creation of a targeted task force for one institution, unless all are examined under the same circumstances and using the same metrics. VMI is quite successful in graduating its students overall, and in demographic subcategories, according to IPEDS, the federal database for higher education reporting. Additionally, Georgetown University's Center for Education and Workforce produces an annual report that tries to calculate the ROI for each public and private institution in the country. VMI is consistently among the top of programs nationally and typically the top or second program within the state. Graduates of VMI do well for themselves and for the state. They start companies, they hire workers and they give back. VMI is not a typical university, but it does provide something that very few, if any, provide. It is tough, it is disciplined and it instills purpose and clarity in its graduates. As a long time Virginia resident, former military officer, graduate of other fine state insitutions (UVA and William and Mary), and also a current higher education consultant, I urge you to look at the facts first and evaluate this school in the greater context of all others in state. It compares well. I am also a parent of a current VMI student. I can tell you first hand, that I have seen a life change in my child as he has embraced the physical, mental and academic challenges that VMI has presented. While I would not have selected this for myself, I respect the young men and women that want to try something hard and work together as a team. In a regular college, you can avoid people or circumstances that make you feel uncomfortable. You can pick and choose where you spend your free and with whom. VMI offers less of that choice, because it forces students to face uncomfortable situations and work with people that they may not have selected on their own. That is the difference and that is not something found elsewhere in the state. If you were to visit the campus. You will find young adults that look you in the eye (not at their phone) and shake your hand. You will find polite and respectful men and women walking to class (because no one cuts class). You will find young citizens committed to honor and service. It's not for everyone, but I don't like all the drama at the school over the last year. But, the Board is now full. Let them do their job and oversee VMI. IF you want to review funding, then do it, but do it for all the schools. Otherwise, let the kids go to class. Thank you.

I do NOT stand with HB 1377. I personally know several people who go to school at the Virginia Military Institute. They are the nicest people that you will have ever met. They enjoy being different from everyone else. They enjoy the leadership and the type of school that VMI is. I do NOT stand with HB1377. If you pass this bill, I feel that it will show the USA how much of a disgrace Virginia has become with the new leadership.

The Crucible of Character: My VMI Experience (1983–1987) During my four years at VMI, I witnessed a phenomenon that many today find hard to believe: a community where skin color truly became secondary to the shared struggle of the Corps. We didn't just coexist; we melded. In barracks rooms, on athletic fields, and within the military hierarchy, the Corps thrived on a seamless integration that felt natural because it was forged in the fire of the Rat Line. Bonding all together regardless of color. The Ring Design: A Turning Point The defining moment for the Class of ’87 wasn't a conflict, but a conversation. When we designed our class ring, the initial draft featured the Confederate flag as prominently as the Stars and Stripes. At the time, for many of us, it was simply a historical marker of the Institute’s past. However, a group of our Brother Rats spoke up. They didn't protest; they shared. They explained that to them, that flag wasn't a relic of "heritage"—it was a symbol of hate and the legacy of slavery. As a class, we faced a choice. We held the majority; we could have easily "steamrolled" the design through. Instead, we chose the path of leadership. We sat down for an honest, raw discussion. That dialogue was the first time I truly understood the weight that symbols carry for others. We reached a compromise: the flag remained, but its prominence was significantly reduced. That experience didn't just change a ring design; it matured my soul. Merit as the Ultimate Standard This lesson in mutual respect is exactly why I believe Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) frameworks are a step backward for an institution built to develop leaders. The VMI Way: We learned that respect is earned through grit, competence, and character—not through administrative quotas. The Risk of DEI: By centering skin color, these programs inadvertently belittle the very individuals they claim to help, suggesting that their merit alone isn't enough. True leadership development requires a level playing field where rewards are based on performance. Anything less is a disservice to the Cadets and the legacy of the Institute. At VMI, we didn't need a department to tell us how to be a "Brother Rat"—we just needed to look at the person bleeding and sweating next to us.

Comments Document

I am a first-generation alumna of the Virginia Military Institute Class of 2021 and a Hispanic woman who completed the Ratline and full cadetship. In my attached letter, I explain that perceptions of sexism at VMI often arise from misunderstandings of its gender-neutral military training model, which reflects conditions common to other military training environments rather than civilian universities. I also outline substantive reforms implemented during and after my cadetship, including expanded Title IX training and enhanced safety and accountability measures, many of which I directly advocated for during my fifth year. Based on my experience and continued contact with current cadets, I respectfully request that Virginia House Bill HB1377 be withdrawn as unnecessary, given the documented and ongoing reforms at VMI.

I have had the pleasure of serving as a faculty member at VMI for 22 years. For context, I went to a small liberal arts college in Pennsylvania, not a military school, and I had never envisioned myself teaching at a military school. When I first visited VMI, however, I was blown away by the excellent facilities for cadet research, small class sizes, bright cadets, and talented faculty (most of which have PhDs or other advanced degrees), and friendly staff. VMI quickly won me over. Many cadets that I have had over the years have said that they needed the structure and physical challenges that VMI provided, and that they would have been distracted or bored at a traditional college and would never have succeeded there. Also, unlike at a large school, cadets at VMI are taught in small classes by faculty members themselves. VMI is truly unique in what it provides. Furthermore, asking whether VMI’s programs could be duplicated by other state schools is not a fair question to begin with. Many Virginia schools have pre-law programs, pre-med programs, chemistry majors, economics majors, ROTC programs etc. This is not a logical criterion on which to evaluate whether a school should continue to receive state funding.

As a parent of a Virginia Military Institute (VMI) cadet, I am deeply disheartened to hear that these bills are even being discussed. I support VMI. My child is a proud member of the Class of 2029. During their high school years, I realized they needed the structure and the physical rigor that VMI offers to succeed in college. Students know what they are signing up for from the start. As a parent, I am reassured knowing that VMI cadets hold each other accountable for their behavior both inside and outside the classroom. The student government is effective and fair, operating under clearly written rules and regulations, and supervised by the college administration—similar to other institutions. I greatly value VMI’s Honor Code: A cadet will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do. In a world where artificial intelligence and plagiarism are rampant, VMI’s commitment to integrity and accountability is refreshing and necessary. The student body encourages new cadets to seek spirituality and positive community connections, creating servant leadership opportunities. While not required, these opportunities help students who may be missing their families. The phrase “Nothing Ordinary” is often heard around VMI, and it rings true. We send our young adults to college to become productive members of society, and VMI instills qualities such as accountability, integrity, dependability, and strong moral values—traits employers consistently seek. These principles are introduced during the first weeks of training, known as “Rat Life,” and reinforced throughout their education. Academically, VMI is on par with, if not superior to, many state-funded and private colleges I have visited. I am impressed by the rigorous course load, academic standards, and the emphasis on overall student well-being. The success of VMI graduates is evident in their high employment rates, and I am confident the Class of 2026 will be no different. My cadet is pursuing an engineering degree, a notoriously challenging major, and I am equally impressed by the diversity of programs offered, including international languages and political science—fields critical to future global stability. Our decision to send our young adult to VMI has been an extraordinary experience. The growth in maturity and responsibility we have witnessed is invaluable. These opportunities would not have been possible without the support of the state, federal government, and VMI’s alumni network. VMI fosters diversity and unity, creating a “One Damn Team” culture that is rare and remarkable. The campus environment reflects a beautiful blend of backgrounds and perspectives, preparing cadets for leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. In no other college of this size have I encountered such a well-rounded student body capable of communicating with professionalism and confidence. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you and your colleagues to make a bipartisan decision to allow VMI to maintain its individualized Board and funding. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Subject- Please Protect VMI and the Students Who Serve Virginia Dear Delegate ,  I am writing to you not as a lobbyist but as a parent of a current Virginia Military Institute cadet—a young man of strong character, honesty and integrity who chose VMI because of its mission of service, discipline, and leadership training. Quite honestly, my son was disappointed in the culture of other college campuses. After only one visit to VMI, he knew that this school was a challenge he willingly wanted to endure. If you asked him today if he regrets his choice, he would tell you that he is having the time of his life bonding with other cadets from all walks of life and forging lifelong friendship's. He has managed to get through the infamous RAT line with a 4.0 GPA and has scored in the 96% percentile for his Physical Readiness score. Bills HB 1377 and HB 1374 place that mission, those experiences he earned through discipline and hard work as well as 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 create a task force to question VMI’s continued public support—despite existing oversight, accreditation, and ongoing reforms—sends a troubling message to current cadets: that their sacrifice and commitment are conditional and politically fragile. Even more concerning is the proposal to dissolve VMI’s independent Board of Visitors and transfer governance to another institution with a fundamentally different mission. 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 1,400 current cadets just like him—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. My son will be a US Marine after graduation and will serve with honor. 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 1377 and HB 1374 and support a veto of these bills. Protect VMI. Protect its students. Protect the principle that Virginia’s institutions are judged by facts and outcomes—not politics. Thank you for your time and your service to the Commonwealth. Sincerely, 
 Nicole McFarland 
Parent of a VMI Cadet

I write to you today inn opposition to HB 1377. I am a 1982 graduate of VMI and want to tell you the difference that those 4 years made in my life. While I like to think I was an honorable person when I arrived in 1978, the character building that we went through during those years did more than solidify those positive traits of honor, integrity and character. Those traits served me well during my time of military service, and well beyond in the business world... where I have been able to build a 40 year career in the manufacturing world. I was better prepared for those trials and tribulations because of the training I received at VMI. The thought of that resource no longer being available to the youth of the Untied States and the Commonwealth of Virginia makes me ill. I know level heads will prevail and the Commonwealth will continue to serve its citizens by continuing to provide the Virginia Military Institute!

Dear Delegates, I write in opposition to HB1377. This task force is the first step in the process of trying to eliminate state funding to VMI. As a 2014 graduate, I owe a debt of gratitude to VMI. VMI has made me into the leader that I am today. Virginia provided me with numerous leadership opportunities to make a difference around the world. My sister saw the benefits of a VMI education, and she decided to go to VMI as well. Both of us are now engineers working to make Virginia a better place. This task-force is suppose to determine whether VMI deserves state funding. Well let's look at the results. 1) 97% of the graduates are employed or attending graduate school within 5 months of graduation. 2) The average graduate will earn approximately $77K in early career earnings vs the average Virginia salary of $62K. 3) VMI produces more Army ROTC commissioned officers then any other Army ROTC program in the country. 10 of these cadets ranked in the top 10% of the active-duty order of merit list. 4) VMI is the 2nd largest producer of Navy ROTC commissioned officers in the country. 5) VMI score #2 for Best Value Colleges in Virginia per the Niche 2026 Rankings. It is clear VMI is producing a great ROI for Virginia taxpayers. Please note NO for HB1377.

I am writing to express my opposition to HB 1377 and request that it be voted down. My experiences at VMI challenged me to become the best version of myself. It was hard but in the end VMI taught me that there are no shortcuts to success and that good things are achievable through hard work. VMI engrained in me the Honor, Integrity, and Character that I guide all aspects of my life some 30 years later. During my time at VMI, from 1993 – December of 1997, racism wasn’t an issue and wasn’t tolerated. There were no women at VMI when I started in 1993, and it is true that the vast majority of students and alumni did not want women to attend the school. That said, following the United States v. Virginia case in 1996 directing VMI to admit women, I witnessed the school pivot and wisely forge ahead to ensure the success of women at VMI. Similar to the integration process at other schools, the process wasn’t perfect but VMI has continued to improve, and I believe today offers a co-ed experience free of sexism. In the Fall of 2021 my daughter was a senior at Loudoun Valley High School and exploring colleges. She expressed interest in attending VMI and pursuing a commission in the Army. My wife and I took her to a Fall open house event and were blown away with 1) the support VMI provides to the female students and 2) the mutual respect the cadets showed each other, regardless of sex or race. My daughter matriculated into VMI one year later in the Fall of 2022 and will graduate in May of 2026 and be commissioned as a 2ndLieutenant in the U.S. Army. As a protective father I have been on the lookout for people (administrators or students) treating her poorly because she’s a woman. There have been zero issues. In fact, I have been blown away by the respect that all have shown her. This year she has the honor of serving as her Company’s Executive Officer where she is in charge of training for the Rats (now Class of 2029) and discipline for the Company. This is not an easy position. This is not a position given to placate. This is not a position that she is appointed to if VMI is systemically sexist. My son graduated from Woodgrove High School last June and matriculated into VMI in August, 2025. Like his sister, he was awarded an Army ROTC scholarship and plans to commission upon graduation. Unlike his sister, he originally planned to attend another VA school but VMI’s Call to Duty scholarship accompanying the ROTC scholarship changed his mind over the Summer. While his journey has just begun he commented over Thanksgiving break that “I’m thankful to be at VMI because while it is really hard and not always fun, I know that I wouldn’t have grown as much this year if I had gone to another school. VMI is absolutely making me the best version of myself.” As a parent, I couldn’t be prouder of my children and their choices to attend VMI. Not because I’m an alumni, but because of the exponential personal growth I have seen in both of them. My story is not unique to the VMI community. VMI is a pillar of the Virginia education system and one that should be celebrated, not torn down out of spite and identity politics.

I only attended VMI in 1970 for one year, my rat year, however, it was the best thing that ever happened to me coming out of DS Freeman high school in Richmond. In fact, it was my salvation from the self-centered lifestyle of the hippie generation (anyone old enough to remember that?). My grades in high school had dropped so badly due to experimentation with marijuana that I couldn’t get into any of the colleges I applied to, except VMI, and only because my father had graduated from there in 1942. But thank God for VMI. Was I harassed? You betcha. Even though I had tried about everything you could do in life prior to entering VMI, that narcissistic pride didn’t last long in ranks, where a third classmen immediately picked up on my attitude and went to work on me. That resulted in me being sent up to the RDC several times at 3 AM. Had not my Dyke got involved, I may not have made it through my Rat year. But I think the experience taught me a good lesson about humility. There’s not many chances in life past the age of 18 where an individual has the opportunity to be knocked down several notches. I can’t emphasize enough, the importance attached to dying to our selfish nature in life and VMI at that time of my life was the perfect vehicle. It’s not for everybody, but it sure helped me and I am eternally grateful. PS: I went on to finish my BSEE degree at UVA and later on after I was married started a multimillion dollar business as a DEA surveillance contractor. So now I can honestly say I’ve spent all of my life involved in drugs, from both sides of the coin. Also, I’m not in favor of the DEI initiative that prompted this House Bill. VMI has no race, religion preferences already so the diversity/equity/Inclusion is just a disguise for promoting a Democratic agenda that pushes to erase history, truth, and God given sex boundaries. It’s tough to fight logical reasoning and science but good luck. Thanks, Merritt Keppel

Dear Delegate ,  I am writing to you not as a lobbyist or political actor, but as a resident of Virginia and 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. As a Gold Star family we know what it is to serve. We know what it is to sacrifice. And still, my son chose to continue his father’s legacy of military service by attending VMI. Bills HB 1377 and HB 1374 place 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 create a task force to question VMI’s continued public support—despite existing oversight, accreditation, and ongoing reforms—sends a troubling message to current cadets: that their sacrifice and commitment are conditional and politically fragile. Even more concerning is the proposal to dissolve VMI’s independent Board of Visitors and transfer governance to another institution with a fundamentally different mission. 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 him—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 1377 and HB 1374 and support a veto of these bills. PLEASE Protect VMI AND its students AND the principle that Virginia’s institutions are judged by facts and outcomes—not politics. Thank you for your time and your service to the Commonwealth. Sincerely,
 Michaela Smithley Mother of VMI Cadet Smithley

Dear Delegate ,  I am writing to you not as a lobbyist or political actor, but as a resident of Virginia and 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. As a Gold Star family we know what it is to serve. We know what it is to sacrifice. And still, my son chose to continue his father’s legacy of military service by attending VMI. Bills HB 1377 and HB 1374 place 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 create a task force to question VMI’s continued public support—despite existing oversight, accreditation, and ongoing reforms—sends a troubling message to current cadets: that their sacrifice and commitment are conditional and politically fragile. Even more concerning is the proposal to dissolve VMI’s independent Board of Visitors and transfer governance to another institution with a fundamentally different mission. 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 him—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 1377 and HB 1374 and support a veto of these bills. PLEASE Protect VMI AND its students AND the principle that Virginia’s institutions are judged by facts and outcomes—not politics. Thank you for your time and your service to the Commonwealth. Sincerely,
 Michaela Smithley Mother of VMI Cadet Smithley

VA delegates- Please support VMI and strike HB1377. If legislators have concerns about the school then please meet with the Board of Visitors as a first step. It is unfair to create a panic to current students and families without civil discussions as a first step. Thank you for your service and careful consideration. Very respectfully, Ken Howerton

I graduated from VMI in 2023. It was the best decision of my life. I cherish my Brother Rats and can’t wait to see them on our 5 year reunion coming up. The reason why the State of Virginia should not cancel state funding is because The Virginia Military Institute is unlike any other college, university, or institution in the state. This school not only teaches hard work and discipline, but how to interact with and respect others. Other state funded colleges and universities claim to do this yet have 10-15 fraternities and sororities that only interact amongst themselves. On top of that, the process is exclusive. Students fight for bids and aren’t guaranteed a spot. Where does VMI differ? We are a fraternity. Our foundation is built upon THE WHOLE DAMN TEAM. It doesn’t matter if you’re black, white, rich, or poor. Everyone gets their head shaved as a Rat and everyone has to go through the Rat line. No one is special. That what makes VMI beautiful. A perfect example of this is an experience I had. I graduated from St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, VA. A prestigious school that I’m very proud to be an alumni from. A Brother Rat of mine went to Armstrong High School a public school in a notoriously rough part of town. We met each other in Bible Study and became good friends. He is my Brother Rat and I am his. If it weren’t for VMI, I wouldn't have ever met him. I probably would’ve stayed in my bubble, but VMI took me out of my comfort zone. I’m forever grateful for that. The State would be making a grave decision to cancel funding to VMI. If the issue is DEI, I just presented an example on why VMI doesn’t need such a thing. It’s built on the principle that NO ONE is special and that we operate as THE WHOLE DAMN TEAM. RVM ‘23

I am writing to respectfully request your opposition to HB 1377. VMI was founded in 1839, making it the oldest public senior military college in the country. The Virginia Military Institute is a treasure for the Commonwealth. You will find no better system of higher post-high school education in the Commonwealth; few institutions are comparable nationwide. A simple review of the leaders of this nation that were developed and trained at VMI will illustrate this point. Little, to no, effort is required to find such a list of distinguished leaders. Graduates of VMI prove to be men and women of strong uncompromising character. In a time of declining morality, VMI produces leaders who have been battle tested to eliminate any concerns over ethical or moral standards. The honor system at VMI is not just words on paper; it is a lifestyle. Anyone who questions the level of education provided at VMI has never met a graduated cadet. Anyone who has witnessed the quality of man/woman formed through the brotherhood of VMI recognizes a quality employee, a strong citizen, and a leader within Virginia’s communities. To consider removing funding from VMI would be a disgrace to public service and a condemnation on today’s moral standards. I ask that you, as an elected official of presumed high character, immediately put a stop to HB 1377. Recognize this proposal for what it is… a sad commentary on political bias. Do not allow political agendas, no matter the party, compromise one of this nation’s finest institutions, one that we are blessed to have in our backyards.

I’d politely like to ask that you take the time and the unbiased eye and evaluate VMI. The people it takes in, builds, and then sends out into the private sector and civil service are perfect examples of VMI history, mission, and culture. I strongly urge you to use our government resources in a manner that would benefit our commonwealth rather than trying to strip it of an institution built on moral strength and dignity. VMI has and will continue to make a positive impact and should remain an institution that is fully backed by its people, town, and state.

Mr. Helmer 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

HB 1377 should not move forward because it risks tying state funding to broad or inflexible requirements that could unintentionally penalize public institutions such as the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). If enacted, the bill could place schools at risk of losing critical funding not because of educational failure, but due to disputed compliance standards, political interpretation, or administrative ambiguity. This threatens the stability of long-standing institutions, undermines their ability to serve students, and diverts focus from their core educational missions. Legislation that endangers funding for schools like VMI ultimately harms students, faculty, and the Commonwealth as a whole.

I am writing to express my opposition to HB 1377 and request that it be voted down. I am the proud parent of a current VMI cadet and an active member of the VMI community. I have had the opportunity to interact with many current cadets, alumni, and aspiring cadets over the years. 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. I encourage you to take the time to do that, meet them, and hear their stories of perseverance. Their college experience is like no other and should be lauded. 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. He is on the Dean's List for International Studies and Arabic. In addition to his rigorous schedule, he works a part-time job in the library on post and is an Arabic tutor in the learning center. 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. I urge you to oppose HB1377 and to consider the tremendous value that VMI has in the lives of the cadets and subsequently, their communities and country.

VMI is a school that shapes boys and girls into productive and positive members of society. My brother had the pleasure of attending VMI and it has positively changed him for the better. The way VMI has been operating for years is the reason for this. Any changes made to VMI and their process would negatively impact all the future students it could help shape into men and women.

I am a 100% disabled United States Navy veteran. My son chose VMI for mechanical engineering. We are a regular middle class family and him being able to use chapter 35 benefits to attend VMI is life changing for him. This school has a very successful program and not allowing children of disabled veterans the ability to attend because they can’t use their benefit is heartbreaking. Please don’t make these. Holders education a political issue. Thank you from a concerned mother and veteran.

Comments Document

Please refer to attached PDF file for comment.

As an alumnus of Virginia Tech and its Corps of Cadets, I am very concerned by the introduction of this bill to the Virginia House of Delegates. As I lifelong Virginian, I also recognize the avenue VMI provides to in-state students that is alternative to the traditional college route. Without state funding, this will be yet another (of many) blows to Virginia’s public education system over the last 10 years. It will harm Virginians, most of all. While a student at Virginia Tech over the last several years I visited Virginia Military Institute for many supplemental learning/training experiences. The program at VMI is high quality in education, military training, music, and most importantly, in my opinion, produces leaders of character. This is increasing difficult and is only possible through the strong traditions and culture established on the campus of a Senior Military College. VMI is not a hinderance to Virginia, but rather one of its unrecognized strengths. I worry about the future of other SMC programs if this bill is considered.

As a parent of a VMI cadet I am writing to address the need to establish this Task Force. Like any establishment that has existed over 180 years we have a long and distinguished history that has developed many outstanding military and citizen leaders. But that is not what I see as a parent. I do not see VMI living in the past. I see it leaning into the future. VMI may develop its cadets on the traditional principle of the "rat" year like many other military colleges. But this process helps to grow leaders based on a premise of "we" versus "me" which is needed in a civilian or military leader to understand their team and working together for success however that is measured in today's society. As a parent I see VMI teaching cadets how to move forward in their lives. I see VMIs culture of honesty and integrity. Cadets do not lie cheat or steal. And I have seen my cadet own his grades where students at other Virginia colleges would just ask a friend things like what's on the test.(And I have a student at another Virginia college). A cadet knows they are honor bound to be truthful and not cheat in anyway. I have been at VMI and seen laptops and phones just sitting on a table or desk. They do not walk away. These students understand that stealing is not acceptable behavior. Tell me where in the US at a college you would see that?. My son has grown in leadership, team building skills, integrity, honesty and compassion as well as his ability to attack his academics with an honest approach and the support of leadership in his department where they take a very personal and invested approach to all students. These instructors are giving him opportunities to participate in regional engineering events as the future of the industry grows and changes. He has also built relationships with multiple alumni who are willing to talk with him and mentor him regarding his future career path. VMI is a gem in Virginia and the United States. Students from around the world come to VMI where they can choose whether or not they want to go into the military and what branch, if any. This is a unique business proposition. Students meet people from all walks of life with all types of career interests and in this newer global world make connections with people from Virginia, the Nation and the world. This is a unique opportunity in comparison to our nations military academies. I have seen articles ranking VMI competitively to the academies in college ROI in value and post college success. Considering the competitive nature of the academies it speaks well for Virginia and VMI that it is compared to our nations top schools. I do not believe this Task Force is necessary. Virginians need options like VMI where leaders with honesty and integrity are developed. Thank you.

As an American, Patriot, Virginian, Democrat, Woman, and Alumna of the Virginia Military Institute, attending VMI was the most important thing I have ever done. At 18, I was not on a path to success, but I wanted more and did not know who or what could make me the woman I wanted to be. VMI gave me the conditions to become that woman. VMI instilled in me discipline. VMI made me care about my appearance and how I present myself to the world. VMI made me fall in love with serving my community, even as a civilian. VMI allowed me to attend and excel at the University of Oxford. VMI introduced to me the most important people I have ever known. VMI gave me a family when I felt like I had nothing. VMI gave me the confidence, foundation, and overwhelming desire to make the world a better place in any way I can. VMI taught me that it is, in fact, my responsibility to contribute to my community and serve. VMI is a flawed institution, with flawed people, but so is every university or organization. VMI is unique in that it undoubtedly provides some of the finest young men and women the great United State has to offer. VMI has also appropriately responded to prior task forces and investigations finding systemic racism and overt passion for the confederacy. VMI was four of the hardest years of my life, but I would do it again in a heartbeat. I would change nothing about my experience. I owe VMI my life and whatever someone could call success for a 22 year old girl.

I'd like to note my strong opposition to HB1377 as it is written. In short, despite the fact that I wholeheartedly believe VMI needs a cultural change, I don't think evaluating state funding is an appropriate or morally correct position to take at this time. I think that revoking state funding is politically volatile and is a dramatic overcorrection to the past four years, and I think a more measured approach is appropriate.  I have four main qualms with the concept of revoking state funding:1. VMI is not entirely unique in having a complicated relationship with history and the Civil War. Are we going to pull funding from every school in Virginia with a Kappa Alpha fraternity chapter? William & Mary had to close for seven years because so many students had enlisted in the Confederate army. Every school in Virginia founded before the Civil War, aside from HBCUs and historically minority serving institutions, continues to grapple with the impacts of the past on current students and culture. Unfortunately, in VMI's case, I believe the school got caught up in national culture war issues that have prevented real progress.  2. If state funding is pulled, the school would become fully reliant on alumni funding to be operational. I believe that groups like the Spirit of VMI would only gain influence over operations & that the culture would get worse with time for women and minorities at VMI. That feels like tossing your hands up at a problem because it's "too hard." Isn't it worth the time to see if a different political climate (one where state officials aren't proclaiming to the entire faculty that "DEI is dead") can lead to better results at VMI? 3. VMI ranks better academically than several other state schools. Further, the bill mentions determining "whether educational services rendered by VMI are duplicated" - aren't all state schools a duplication of each other in a sense? I don't think this is a meaningful criteria for a decision like this. 4. Lastly, pulling state funding would deal a significant financial blow to Lexington. With the loss of the promise of pensions, I am sure several families would have to uproot themselves to move to a new state supported institution. This would likely have devastating impacts across the local economy & school districts. Again, I'd like to reiterate that VMI does need a cultural change. But that change will never happen if the funding is left up to private sources. VMI provides unique value to Lexington and to the Commonwealth, and I believe it is worth the effort and the money for the state to tackle the problem.

Comments Document

I, like so many others, am indebted to VMI. It transformed, making me want to be more and do more for others. VMI gave me the courage and moral direction to make tough decisions when faced with ethical dilemmas and challenges – and live with myself. I would only be a fraction of the individual I am today, had it not been for the Institute. Please see attached oped on VMI's Honor System published in the RTD. It is unique and its effectiveness has not been duplicated in higher education in Virginia and nationally. VMI is a 24/7 education – a system-of-system – focused on developing young men and women mentally, physically and morally. The results are individuals who are “others-centered,” rather than self-centered – citizen-soldiers – ready to help their community, state, and nation in peace and peril. Moreover, VMI teaches what AI can’t do – empathy, courage, leadership, cooperation, integrity, trustworthiness and adaptability. Virginia and America need individuals with such abilities in a post-disruption world, facing radical uncertainty. VMI’s educational services may exist in disparate pieces across Virginia’s higher education landscape, but their sum cannot equal VMI’s synergy. Sadly, for America, VMI is unique. In my opinion, America needs a lot more VMIs for the future we face. Lastly, the language of HB1377 about racism and sexism does not match what I and others see at VMI. I live in Lexington and frequently visit VMI. The cadets are phenomenal, far surpassing those when I was there over 50 years ago. Their academic achievements, character and egalitarianism are extraordinary, relative to others in their general age group. I say that currently teaching in the U.S. Naval War College. Notably, VMI has leveled the playing field and female cadets repeatedly outperform their male peers. Regarding race, the president of the first (senior) class (a big deal at VMI) is an African American. The fact that he is elected is evidence that he is highly respected by his class. Taxpayers have every right to know where their taxes go. However, due diligence is warranted before tax dollars are spent on an 11-person task force, that will expend considerable time and effort on such a study. The bill’s sponsor should “put boots on the ground” and spend more than just a day at VMI and talk with cadets. They are the big sell for VMI. My bet is, the findings will save taxpayer money – which includes mine.

Graduating from high school in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania and taking the road less traveled to attend The Virginia Military Institute, I can say now that I can attribute everything that I have achieved to my time at VMI. The work ethic, the honor code, and the rigor and challenges have helped me through every obstacle. I have met graduates form many "similar" programs, yet they all say themselves that we are not the same. VMI is unique in every way and challenges like no other and allows you to grow like no other. VMI is unlike any other school, where no one can help you through the challenges that you face in your four years; the only way you make it through is self-determination. You have to make up your own mind. Every year has challenges...not just your first year. Every year has obstacles, and it is the only place to hate to be at while you are a Keydet and yet you miss it every day. I can say that the Engineering Professors while I was at VMI taught such a well rounded curriculum that after graduation you are able to keep growing and do anything you put your mind to. All the professors are Professional Engineers, with a broad realm of real-world working experiences. I have kept in touch with them 30 years on from graduation. VMI is not obsolete. We are not your normal school, but that is ok. It is not for everyone...but everyone that goes to VMI has the same chances to battle through the school, to make it to the end and call yourself a VMI Alumni. I would do it all over again, the only regret that I have is that I can't do more for the Commonwealth and VMI. "My colleagues and friends, I wish you the joy of a purposeful life. I wish you new worlds and the vision to see them. I wish you the decency and the nobility of which you are capable." - Jonathan Daniels VMI '61 “We must stop setting our sights by the light of each passing ship; instead we must set our course by the stars.” - Gen. George C. Marshall VMI 1901

I have had several co workers that have attended this school as well as my nephew attending this year. It has a substantial role in making leaders and contributing members of society. Please keep this school as it is and has been for many years!

VMI does not need a study to see if it should continue to be state funded. We need VMI to remain state funded. Part of what makes higher education in VA world class is our variety of institutions so that we serve all students. VMI provides a uniquely affordable, quality education in small, very structured, college setting. When you talk about providing this education elsewhere, I believe you are talking about the VT Corps of Cadets. I am a long time Blacksburg resident, and there is a big difference between a large university like VT, where many engineering students are forced to spend 5 years to get a degree due to too few classes and too many students, and a small college like VMI where a 4 year degree takes 4 years. Also, please look at the amount of debt VMI students leave with versus other Virginia schools and the number of graduates who enter public service of some kind. VMI is worth funding.

VMI is a tremendous institution that undoubtedly deserves continued state funding. 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. The education I received there enriched my life beyond calculation. Therefore, I respectfully express my opposition to HB1377. Thank you very much for the opportunity to provide feedback on this bill. It is my hope that you take these words to heart when voting on VMI's future.

As a proud graduate of the class of 1997 of the Virginia Military Institute, I would like you to vote NO on HB1377, Establishing an Advisory Task Force 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."

I grew up in Hampton Va, spent 4 years at VMI and then served 5 years in the USAF before moving to Richmond and starting my company. First, I applaud you for creating a task force to study whether the Commonwealth’s dollars are a good investment spent on VMI. If it’s an honest approach, I think you will find it is the best money the state spends on higher education. Obviously, I’m biased. As a taxpayer, I would also encourage you to create a task force to study money spent on every college in the State. VMI is a weird unique place. But for some reason, that little school of 1500 students puts out some of the most successful people in every walk of life. From engineers to military officers to Hollywood actors, to lawyers and business leaders, VMI graduates seem to succeed at an unusually high percentage The state and this country need more places like VMI not less. Please, for the good of every young African American,Hispanic,Asian and Caucasian female and male in this state and country, do not tear VMI down by defunding or changing its oversight Board. The majority of the people is this State that know anything about VMI will thank you.

Comments Document

I am attaching a letter in opposition to HB 1377.

As the parent of a VMI grad, any defunding or dismantling of this institution would be an abomination. Our son graduated in 2011 and has gone on to have an amazing career as an army aviator and a special operations officer. VMI is the reason for his success as well as numerous other brave men and woman who serve our country. I implore anyone involved in the governance of Virginia to rethink any actions that would hamper VMI from continuing its rich history of shaping our young people into the very best this country has to offer. We all reap the benefits of the rewards this institution generates.

Members of the Committee: I am writing in support of VMI. I graduated in 1974, spent 21.5 years active duty in the USAF, and then 21.5 years as a pilot for Southwest Airlines. VMI provides a unique education based upon discipline, character, personal responsibility, accountability, and most importantly, an umcompromising adherence to personal honor. - concepts so lacking in our society today. The tenets of the VMI experience is why our alumni are so sought after, and so sucessful. In our entire 186 year history only some 26,000 men and women have graduated from the Institute. In that group number 8 Medal of Honor recipients, a nobel Peace Prize winner, Chiefs of Staff of the US Army & Air Force, two Commandants of the Marine Corp, dozens of general and admirals, state and national Senators, Congressmen, and Governors. General George C. Marshall, the man Winston Churchill called "The architect of victory" in WW II, author of the Marshall Plan, General George S. Patton, Admiral Richard E. Byrd and too many other distinguished alumni to mention here are among our alumni. President Franklin Roosevelt praised VMI graduates as the "ideal citizen soldiers", and called the Institute "a national treasure". VMI is a true treasure. The track record of our graduates shows it to be so. If you tear it apart, you are doing our Nation a grave disservice, and you are failing in your duty.

Why is VMI being singled out for reconsideration of state higher education funding? I do not support singling out a particular institution unless there has been some clear harm to the entire higher education community. If the standards for higher education institutions are being violated by VMI, what recourse currently exists for carrying out consequences? Has that been utilized already? How does this bill protect students at VMI now?

Virginia is always home to me since my days attending VMI and multiple Army assignments there. I am currently the Volunteer Alumni Historian at VMI, and a registered democrat. Like many, I am disturbed that various bills in the Virginia House seek to investigate or remove aspects of VMI. Few know our school as well as I do having served at VMI in the Army with an office in barracks and for over 20 years serving on the Alumni Board. I have written dozens of articles on VMI history focusing on the 20th and 21st centuries which has been our focus for some time going back well before General Peay’s resignation. I have experienced first hand how our system turns young VA men and women into leaders not just in the military but as leaders in their communities. Our statistics regarding incidents of sexual assault or hazing are unmatched as the lowest among Virginia colleges. We train our cadets as leaders and more importantly we have a 24/7 staff assisting and supervising them. No college student receives more training, discipline, and supervision as VMI cadets do. Young leaders make mistakes and at VMI you are disciplined for them, held accountable, and are better because of it. No college demands as much from students as we do between military training, athletics, and academics. I urge the House of Delegates to talk with VMI cadets and you’ll see what I see….the finest that Virginia has produced. Our system has produced more successful graduates for our size in any school in the country. Honor is our mantra. VMI doesn’t glorify the lost cause as some say. That is ancient history. We do glorify men like Major Charles Ransom ‘01 of Midlothian who served four combat tours between Iraq and Afghanistan before giving his life for our country. No one loved VMI more. Look him up. Look at our stats then come talk to Cadets. Thanks for reading.

Please vote NO to HB 1377. I am the proud daughter of a VMI alumnus Class of ’64 and the mother of two alumni ’21 & ’23. My husband and I also served on the VMI Parents Council as Recruitment Committee Co-chairs. Our sons were at the Institute during the last investigation. Nobody wants any cadet to feel discrimination. One of the things I loved telling prospective families about was that all cadets are equal regardless of heritage or economic status. They all start off as Rats and work together as a team to get through the many difficulties they encounter. This shared adversity builds young men & women who have strong minds, bodies, and characters. My oldest experienced a stark difference in colleges from taking a few classes at the local community college as part of his high school year. He left behind his brand-new ($80) English book in class as he rushed off to his next class. When he returned an hour later, the book was nowhere to be found. The professor said he had not seen it. To his credit, my son sought out the lost & found from the security officer in the building. There was dust on the top of the lost & found bin. He was so upset that someone KNEW it was not their book & took it anyway. In contrast, we went to an Open House at VMI. The cadets do not lock their doors, and they leave their computers and school bags without any fear that someone will take anything. After experiencing the Open House weekend observing the academics, the military training, and the personal ethics, my son’s college decision to attend VMI was solidified. The world needs more people who choose the hard road. I have heard employers say, send me more VMI grads please! They know they can count on the quality of the VMI brand. Please allow VMI to continue producing quality graduates for our beloved Commonwealth by voting NO to HB 1377. I have two more children who are eager to attend!

As a parent of a VMI graduate as well as a current cadet, I am writing in defense of the Institute and the experiences of our family. VMI had provided much needed structure and stability for both of my sons. The oldest developed tremendous leadership skills culminating in serving as a Cadet Captain. VMI provided him with the opportunity to serve in the US Coast Guard where he currently is. My younger son selected VMI over other VA universities because he desired the structure and the close bonds created through the small class sizes and military structure. VMI is not ordinary as it advertises. Not being ordinary makes it both challenging and rewarding. It has impacted both of them extremely positively. They understand respect, and how to adapt to the world outside of college. Our family is Jewish and this fact was positively received in the VMI community. Unlike a multitude of other VA and nationwide universities, antisemitism was not a problem amongst the Corp of Cadets. They are taught to respect differences and educate themselves. Having a state funded military academy in VA has been positively impactful and the funding should continue. Not every student qualifies for ROTC scholarships or signs contracts. The USCG auxiliary program at VMI made a commission possible for our son. At a time when so many of our youth are not serving their country, limiting funding would unfairly and negatively impact those VA students who desire that path. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I respectfully submit this letter opposing House Bill 1377. I am a VMI alumnus, Class of 1981. I was accepted to several excellent universities but opted to attend VMI due to a rigorous program that provided the necessary structure for achieving self-discipline, honor, selflessness, accountability, ethics, and the citizen soldier concept. I received a BS in Electrical Engineering and later continued my education to obtain a Masters in Nuclear Engineering as well as numerous certifications in an array of Homeland and Physical Security technical disciplines. My VMI education uniquely prepared me to take on these endeavors and excel. VMI instilled a level of motivation in me that I would likely have never achieved had I attended any other school. Some (but certainly not all) of my personal results include embarking on starting up two businesses, a 40+ year career as an engineer and engineering manager, patenting a technology used in international nuclear safeguards, publishing nearly 100 technical and educational articles, developing and teaching a Graduate course in Homeland Security technology at Tulane University, teaching electrical and mechanical engineering courses at the university level, and developing a BS Electrical Engineering (BSEE) degree program at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA). I modeled the new USCA BSEE degree program largely on what I had experienced at VMI. Industry feedback on, and acceptance of, the program has been excellent with many reviewers noting that important subject areas, dropped in most electrical engineering curricula, were included and addressed the needs of industry. My VMI experience has impacted hundreds of engineers and engineering students to date. None of this would have been possible if it were not for the well-rounded education and experience obtained from VMI. As an engineering manager I hired many engineers from a diverse array of colleges and universities including VMI. My VMI engineers were the “high performers”; far exceeding those hired from “big name” and Ivy League schools. I did not have to babysit them. I knew I could count on them to get their jobs done, which is a luxury many managers would like to enjoy. In summary, VMI provides a unique and powerful educational experience that benefits cadets, the State of Virginia, and the Nation as a whole. VMI’s system undeniably works. Kindest regards, Ray Lawson, Adjunct Professor of Engineering, USCA

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.

Hello I am a mother of a second, at VMI. My son is class of 2027. We have gladly paid full tuition for 3 yrs - no sports or ROTC scholarships. The tuition and unique leadership training has transformed our son from a high school senior to a respectable educated young man while attending VMI. Nothing is easy about this school from classes to dorms to early rising, to physically fitness. However this environment has prepared our son for the work force and being citizen leader. He has spent two summers interning for a large construction company with high praise from the employer. My 88 yr old father has commented often about the change in my son. My father even came to the Ring ceremony in Nov. Please come visit the college and interact with the students. You will be amazed at the comradery among the men, women, and different ethnic groups. They respect each other and their common journey. Please do not take money from the school and investigate first hand the high level student this college is producing. Let VMI Leadership and Board continue to run a wildly successful program. Thank you .

As the parent of an out of state cadet that graduated in engineering in 2024, I oppose HB1377. 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 shine 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. Since its inception, VMI has been a proud part of Virginia . 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. Again, I oppose HB1377.

I am writing as a parent whose son is planning to attend the Virginia Military Institute this fall. After careful consideration of many colleges and universities, he chose VMI deliberately and with conviction. He is drawn to VMI for its culture of brotherhood, discipline, and shared purpose. He seeks an environment that will challenge him to grow into a strong, capable, and principled man, one who understands responsibility, accountability, and service to others. VMI’s rigorous system, emphasis on character, and commitment to developing leaders were central to his decision. Equally important to our family is VMI’s long-standing reputation as a stellar academic institution. The Institute consistently produces graduates who are highly successful, respected in their professions, and prepared to support families and contribute meaningfully to society. VMI’s alumni record speaks for itself: men who lead with integrity, competence, and resilience in military, civilian, and community leadership roles. My son is not looking for the easiest path. He is intentionally choosing a demanding one, because he believes, as we do, that VMI prepares young men for future leadership by instilling discipline, perseverance, and honor alongside academic excellence. For these reasons, our family believes that the state should not alter VMI’S public school designation. It would be a shame for our Commonwealth to turn its back on and remove a 187 year old institution from public school access.

VMI was an extremely positive and life changing experience for my niece, a 2019 graduate. VMI provided the structure she needed and taught her the self discipline she lacked to get through college. She most likely would not have been successful at any other 4 year college. The VMI experience is unique and life changing. Please do not move ahead with these bills that may rob young women like my niece of the growth and self confidence that a VMI education gives.

I am writing to share my enthusiastic support for the Virginia Military Institute and respectfully provide context related to House Bill 1377, which establishes an Advisory Task Force to evaluate the future role of VMI as a state sponsored institution. I would like to highlight the experience of my son who is a current cadet that is slated to graduate in 2029. He chose VMI not only for the opportunity to play baseball at a competitive level, but also for the lasting bonds, leadership training, and character development that VMI provides. These advantages extend far beyond the four year tenure of enrollment. Despite opportunities to attend Ivy League universities, he believed that VMI would better prepare him for a purposeful life and career over the next forty years. My cadets choice underscores what makes VMI unique: Holistic development- the blend of athletics, academics, and military inspired discipline contributes to enduring personal growth. Life long community- VMI alumni bonds foster mentorship, leadership networks, and civic engagement for decades. Value to the Commonwealth- graduates like my son often serve in the military, public sector, and private arenas-an outcome directly aligned with Virginia’s workforce and leadership needs. VMI has a 6-year graduation rate of 82%, significantly above the target of 71%. Retention rate is 84% also exceeding the 80% benchmark. The commissioning rate is 55% this showing VMI’s continued mission as a leading producer of citizen soldier leaders for our state and nation. VMI has made sustained strides in diversifying the Corps of Cadets. It now matches or exceeds diversity benchmarks at comparable Virginia universities like JMU and CNU, and outpaces similarly sized private institutions in admissions and representation from under-represented backgrounds. Thank you for your consideration. Please feel free to contact me at (540) 400-5254 if I can further clarify the positive influence that VMI continues to have on students and our Commonwealth as a whole.

Comments Document

Virginia Military Institute is not simply another public university. It is the Commonwealth’s only full-time public military college, and its value must be evaluated based on its distinct mission, not civilian benchmarks alone. For more than 185 years, VMI has produced educated, honorable citizen-leaders through an integrated system of rigorous academics, military discipline, physical training, and an uncompromising honor code. This full-immersion model is not duplicated anywhere else in Virginia. While other institutions offer ROTC programs, none replicate VMI’s continuous four-year leadership laboratory, where character development is not an add-on but the core of the educational experience. VMI is the nation’s oldest state-supported military college and the only institution in Virginia where every student is immersed full-time in a military, honor-based leadership system. Unlike ROTC programs embedded within civilian universities, VMI’s model integrates academic rigor, physical discipline, ethical formation, and leadership development into a single, continuous four-year experience. VMI consistently ranks among the top public liberal arts colleges in the nation and is the US News & World Report #4 Public Liberal Arts college/university in the nation. VMI graduates more generals than any ROTC program and, outside of federal academies, more Army generals than any other U.S. college. VMI, also, serves a direct state and national interest. It commissions a significant number of officers into the U.S. Armed Forces and produces leaders critical to national defense, emergency management, cybersecurity, and infrastructure. At a time when leadership deficits and global instability are increasing, Virginia benefits from maintaining an institution explicitly designed to develop disciplined, ethical leaders. Concerns about accountability and culture deserve to be taken seriously. However, VMI has already undergone state-directed investigation and oversight, resulting in documented reforms to governance, training, reporting, and cadet support. Continued scrutiny beyond demonstrated compliance risks creating a moving standard of legitimacy that is not applied consistently across Virginia’s public institutions. VMI’s traditions, particularly its Honor Code, single-sanction system, and disciplined environment, are not relics of exclusion but rather foundational mechanisms for ethical leadership. Reforming culture while preserving mission is responsible stewardship of a 185-year-old public trust. Eliminating or diluting that mission in pursuit of uniformity would destroy the very value the Commonwealth derives from VMI. Periodic accountability is appropriate for any public institution. However, framing VMI’s distinctiveness as a liability rather than an asset risks converting mission-driven governance into political micromanagement. I urge the committee to consider that Virginia’s strength in higher education lies in institutional diversity of mission, not forced uniformity. Evaluating VMI using civilian models risks misunderstanding its purpose and diminishing the very outcomes the Commonwealth relies upon. Virginia Military Institute is academically strong, mission-unique, publicly accountable, and strategically valuable. Any evaluation under HB1377 should lead not to erosion or consolidation, but to reaffirmation of VMI as a distinct public good worthy of continued support. Laura F. Poe, Ph.D. --letter attached

I am submitting my written comments regarding HB 1377 and urging you to not support it. The Virginia Military Institution is one of honor, service, and a creator of great leaders throughout our nation. We have had the pleasure of seeing our son transform in his time at VMI, from a boy into a man of discipline with respect for the honor code and truth above all. These values should be instilled in other institutions and at the core of all education. We are thankful to live in Virginia and have the opportunity to pay full tuition to send our son for, not only an education, but skills that will serve him in his professional career and sisters and brothers that will stand by him throughout his life. The Virginia Military Institute is like no other college and that is what makes it special. Testimony against the school is being told without the full truth and circumstances revealed. I am a 25-year public servant in local government, and my husband has worked as a Navy contractor for the same amount, both of us striving to improve communities and security for future generations. I urge you to vote again HB 1377 and support the institution that is striving to do the same.

To whom it may concern, My name is Faith Webb and I have a current cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. We are from Indiana, and while our son was accepted to a Big Ten school in our state, he chose to go to VMI. We are an Army family and I have been a military spouse for over 30 year's and my husband is U.S. Army (Ret) served this country for 32 year's. Our oldest son is currently an officer serving in Korea. As you can see, the bonds of the military run strongly through my immediate and extended family. Our son wanted a unique and driven collegiate experience based on military bearing and leadership. One that would simply not be attained at a regular college with just an ROTC program. What he has found at VMI is opportunity. Opportunity to expand and grow. To lead and learn and know that your honor and character levels the playing field amongst all cadets at VMI. No one cares where you came from or your legacy or socioeconomic status. The brotherhood among cadets is forged in shared struggles and life lessons while leaning on each other with full support. My son has 3 roommates from minority backgrounds and they are as close as a blood brother. This is what VMI builds. This is what VMI stands for. Not some lost rhetoric ideology. No one talks about any of these thing's on post as there is mutual respect towards everyone and everything is earned. A true meritocracy which rivals any military academy in its most sincere effort. I urge you to visit VMI and feel the energy on post. The commitment of the cadets to each other, their academics, athletics and overall comraderie they share. It's truly amazing to witness and as a parent, I am able to witness much of it. As an out of state parent, VMI is expensive. Our son earned the 4 year Army ROTC scholarship and chose to take those dollars to VMI instead of staying in state. Honestly, without that scholarship, he would have not been able to attend and this crossed off the affordability piece for our family. We trust VMI with our son and what he is learning. He regularly takes anywhere from 19-20 credit hour's each semester, is a double major, triple minor cadet and a member of the Institute Honors at VMI. Last summer he completed Air Assault school and a JAG internship all through VMI. I do not believe that those opportunities would have been afforded to him through a regular college ROTC program. That's what makes VMI special and prestigious. The honor, the leadership, the character of a VMI cadet is an asset to any military branch or civil position upon commissioning and graduation. VMI is a GEM of an Institution for the Commonwealth of Virginia. As an out of state parent, I can see this. My only hope is that those on this committee can see that as well. I encourage you to visit, talk with cadets, get to know more before casting a vote that could be detrimental to the continuing operations of one of the premier Senior Military Colleges in the United States. This state is fortunate to have the Institute representing it. VMI brings honor and recognition to the Commonwealth. I hope that you all can recognize that before your vote. I thank you for your time.

Please oppose HB 1377. My son is a 3rd class cadet at VMI on a 4-yr Nat'l Navy ROTC-Marine Option scholarship & a VMI Call-to-Duty scholarship.  VMI is a jewel in the crown of the Commonwealth's higher education system. It provides priceless opportunities that cannot be achieved through attending another institution. VMI provides a better experience for Marine option midshipmen than even the USNA with its extraordinary Marine Corps training.  VMI having a path forward for commissioning in all branches of service is unparalleled.  VMI expects ROTC participation, that is unmatched by other state-funded military schools. Many Virginians serve in every branch, & this multi-service approach is an asset to its citizens. Please visit so you can see firsthand the value of the unique education, & the welcome that all experience there. VMI has elevated my son's sense of self, ethic, and morality.  He now pushes himself beyond limits, & with a high degree of success.  The system of the Corps is entirely the reason, as he had already experienced advanced academic & athletic rigor in high school.  The senior mentor program at VMI is one of its greatest features & his mentors provided him stability, structure, & discipline to excel. The ratline & adjusting to college created a challenge in resiliency & grit that developed his emotional, psychological, physical, & intellectual maturity.  He made Dean's list in a challenging degree of International Studies with an emphasis in Chinese, & Asian Studies.  He was selected as corporal in the Cadre & EMT.  He is now a state & nationally board certified EMT, which only occurred due to the dynamics encouraging corps-led programming.  He has befriended cadets from Chesapeake, Shenandoah, Richmond, Georgia, California, Taiwan, Myanmar, & beyond.  Through the ratline, he learned the value of the brotherhood, not defined by sex, gender, race, religion, creed, culture, or status, but by a greater uniting force that we are made stronger through diversity & unity.  This culture actually has provided a more impactful awareness of the strength of diversity better than any classroom. There is absolutely no way my son could receive the education that he has were it not for VMI, & respectfully, he would not have considered the highly regarded VT Corps of Cadets: it is not the same as living & breathing military & academic life infused together at VMI. It does not benefit taxpayers to spend more money on a study when a study already has been completed, & honored. The unique nature of regular & methodical leadership in the Corps, coupled with the valued Honor Code create an educational classroom environment that cannot be duplicated.  Traditional ROTC/university models fail to provide the qualitative or quantitative opportunities for military & leadership development.  Resources are finite, & ROTC units are being consolidated into regional units precisely because it is not advantageous to cost to have redundancy. VMI is transparent & welcoming. I have observed the impressive rigor of discussion & engagement, & knowledge of faculty, & the Honor Code upholds academic integrity. In my many opportunities to visit post, and witness parades, classes, sports events, & roll calls. I have never seen or experienced any emphasis whatsoever on any "Lost Cause" narrative. VMI is a draw to Virginia, as evidenced by the fact that my son, & many others like him, come from all around the country and world to attain this education.

As the parent of an out of state cadet, and administrator of a school that encouraged three other recent graduates to attend VMI, it is disheartening to see proposed legislation aimed at undermining the viability of the Institute. It is difficult to see this as anything other than politically motivated, and seems to completely disregard all of the hard work and dedication the young men and women at VMI have committed to the Corps of Cadets. Perhaps there were issues in the past. Those issues have been addressed and the school has moved forward brilliantly. Today's cadets do not deserve to pay the price for allegations of the past. What's more, there is an implication that VMI is alone in facing challenges. That's simply not the case. No school is perfect from top to bottom, but I would argue the Institute has done more than others to address and work to remedy issues. To undermine the school now, especially under new leadership, would send the problematic message than none of that work mattered. Suffice to say, we are strongly opposed to this legislation.

I am writing as a concerned mother of a VMI Cadet, graduating class of 2015. VMI changed his life with the opportunities it provided for him. My son was never the best student and lacked confidence in his studies. He had many offers for baseball and football scholarships and we were concerned with him managing sports and college level classes. Under the guidance from prospective VMI coaching staff and alumni, we formulated a plan of him attending Fork Union Military Academy to prepare. He felt the VMI staff believed in him and it motivated him to reach his goals and graduated FUMA with a 4.0 gpa. He saw himself being successful and part of something bigger than just a college education. At VMI he became focused, determined and disciplined. He would have never received this type of structure, support and education in another college or university. VMI provides an environment where students learn that they can do so much more than they ever thought possible, not just scholastically, but physically and mentally as well. The cadets form lifelong bonds with their teammates and company. While VMI may not be for everyone, it is a challenging and rewarding place for those who choose it. How can a school that prides itself on a proud history of Cadets who serve our country and protecting our freedoms, be removed from state funding? VMI is the only military school that can wear red on their uniform because they lost cadets in the Battle of New Market. VMI produces graduates with integrity and strong code of honor. It’s a hard place to be, but a great place to be from. The alumni care for each other and remain a family for life. I am proud of my VMI Keydet and his time at the Institute. Now is not the time to limit funds to VMI. Now more than ever the world needs courageous leaders with strong moral values. Go Baseco! Rah Virginia Mil

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.

As the committee considers this bill, I strongly encourage delegates to put aside partisan obligations and to consider the impact that defunding VMI would have on opportunities for young people. This bill purposes inquiry into VMI's academic, athletic, and military programs with the insinuation that somehow the Institute is no longer needed or relevant. This is most definitely not the case. VMI is known for its STEM programs, specifically engineering, and you will find VMI graduates successful in all fields. In addition, this bill proposes an investigation into whether or not VMI is working to "reduce racist and sexist acts" within its students body. As the parent of two current cadets, I believe the image being created of VMI couldn't be further from the truth. My oldest current is currently a second class cadet. She holds the highest rank a cadet can hold in her class- Regimental Sergeant Major. She has academic stars for her 4.0 GPA in a competitive International Studies program, she is in her third year of Arabic, she was selected for another highly competitive program- the National Security minor, and she is a Division 1 track athlete. When I look at her, I don't see sexism. My younger daughter is a fourth class cadet. Her mentor, a first, is an openly gay female who is a company commander, a STEM major, an athlete, and will be commissioning as a Navy officer. Again, I don't see discrimination. Truly, both of my children are surrounded by diverse characters. VMI is a place where everyone fits in. It is a hard life, but it is hard for everyone. Women like my daughters choose this life because they believe they are up to the challenge. As to the allegation that VMI celebrates the Confederacy, I have never heard something sillier. The Confederate legacy is absolutely irrelevant to today's cadets. They simply don't think about it. That isn't the Institute's identity anymore. The last class to be able to select a Confederate flag for their class ring graduated 26 years ago. That is before the kids currently attending were even born. This is a case of those with a political agenda punishing today's students for the perceived crimes of the past. Or worse yet, it is those who are willing to sacrifice opportunities for young people to make a political point. Finally, I encourage the delegates considering this bill to consider how closing the school or forcing it to go private and shift down to D3 sports would actually affect kids. In the interest of "promoting diversity" you would rob kids, many of whom are actually people of color, of 100+ scholarships that allow them to attend college. Please, please think carefully before pursuing this line of inquiry. Regardless of whether the bill makes it past committee, continuing this will do irreparable damage to the school's ability to recruit, and that would be a loss for Virginia and its young people.

I wholeheartedly disagree with this continued witch hunt against VMI. Reviewing a 5-year old report and using that as the basis for dismantling VMI is appalling. The VA assembly did not renew Winn’s contract so what is the problem. Do you understand that the leader of the VMI Keydets is African American? Stop looking behind you and start looking forward and do better.

Dear Mr. Austin, I am from district 37. I am a Lexingtonian. I write in support of the Virginia Military Institute, a gem of the state of Virginia and the United States. If bill HB 1377 passes it will further damage the reputation of the Institute as it is once again dragged through the media. The bill proposal alone hurts staff, cadets, alumni, the city of Lexington and the state of Virginia. It is an unnecessary expense. VMI has been investigated for "systemic racism" and found not guilty. Since I was child I remember meeting cadets and alumni from Iran, the Philipines, Thailand, and Taiwan, Bulgaria and Sweden. VMI's brother rat system alone expels nationality, class, race and gender on day one. What other college in the state of Virginia can make that claim? If this bill passes, VMI's applications will surely fall again as they did the first time a task force was put in place. Virginia has recently and wisely invested in VMI structurally, as it is one of the only schools in Virginia that will never become an online school. Please, I ask you ask my representative, do not vote in favor of 1377.

To the Members of the House Rules—Studies Subcommittee, Commonwealth of Virginia: Gentlemen and Ladies, I take the liberty of offering my sentiments upon House Bill 1377, which would establish a task force to consider whether the Virginia Military Institute ought to remain a state-sponsored institution. In every age, the safety of liberty depends not only upon laws and arms, but upon the character of the citizen. Institutions that cultivate discipline, honor, and a habit of service do not merely instruct the mind; they strengthen the republic itself. It is in this view that VMI has been valued by many Virginians: as a public school of duty, leadership, and devotion to the Commonwealth. Oversight is proper; reform, when warranted, is prudent. But to place the Commonwealth’s sponsorship in doubt—without strict neutrality of purpose and clarity of standards—invites uncertainty where steadiness is required. A study should never be fashioned as a scaffold for a sentence already resolved. If the Legislature seeks improvement, let it define the measures of success, require transparency, and hold the institution to account; but let it not weaken the public good by treating dissolution of support as a casual instrument. I respectfully encourage the Subcommittee to ensure that any review is fair, evidence-driven, and oriented toward strengthening what serves Virginia, and to maintain VMI’s public support.

Good afternoon, I am writing in opposition to HB 1377 and am in support of Virginia Military Institute (VMI) continuing to receive funding as a state institution and ultimately remaining under its own BOV. The removal of state funding is completely without merit. If you look at the young men and women who chose to matriculate at VMI and subsequently return to their communities as leaders and business owners, it's difficult to understand why this institution would be singled out to have their funding removed. The students who choose to attend VMI make the decision to attend a college that will challenge them mentally and physically and allow them to grow as individuals and leaders. The State of Virginia only benefits from having this institution that holds dear the values of hard work, integrity and leadership. Our son, who is a cadet at VMI, graduated Summa Cum Laude, with over 32 college credits earned while in high school, graduated not only in the top 10% of his graduating class, but was #5 student academically with a GPA of 4.5. He received over $900,000 in scholarships both academically and athletically from other colleges and universities, was admitted to The Citadel, and Norwich (both other Senior Military Colleges) but chose to attend VMI due to their honor code and that it was the most challenging of all Senior Military Colleges. He has known since he was in kindergarten he wanted to be a U.S. Naval Officer and he felt that despite his other options for schools, that VMI would be the one that would most prepare him for his future. He has been challenged academically, physically and as a leader while at VMI and has only benefited from the experience. The thought that this is not appreciated by the State of Virginia and that the current legislature wants to remove the opportunity for further cadets to experience the growth and challenges that VMI provides is disheartening and should be stopped immediately. I am requesting that anyone who reads my comment, take heart to think of the VMI graduates they have encountered and recognize the institution as a valuable and integral part of Virginia, and vote "No" to stopping state funding to the college. When people learn our son is currently at VMI, they are in awe of the challenges he chose to accept while earning a degree and only have positive comments of others they know who have graduated from VMI. Again, I request you take note of the value the college, its alumnus and current students bring to the state and vote to continue funding such an amazing institution.

Unquestionably, if not for VMI, I would not be a college graduate. VMI provided the structure, challenge and motivation I needed to achieve my college degree. After graduation, I was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps and retired 22 years later as a Lieutenant Colonel. Post military, I became a successful small business owner. I attribute much of my life's success story to the sense of honor, duty and service instilled in me at VMI. Since its founding in 1839, VMI alumni have contributed and continue to contribute significantly to our great nation. I respectfully ask all committee House members to vote against HB 1377 and HB 1374.

To the Virginia House of Delegates Rules Committee Kindly consider my personal experiences as a VMI cadet and 1980 alumni as you deliberate HB1377, 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 experiences 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. 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 students and embrace them as their own. The big picture - 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 academic life, business life or raising and supporting a family and community. I urge you to consider the 186 years legacy of unique cadet education and the Institute's service to our Commonwealth and continue as a Legislature to support VMI fully. Respectfully, Stephen M. Andrews, PhD

vote against the House Bill 1377 and against the house Bill 1374 calling for the dissolution of the VMI Board and placing it underneath the VA state Board of Visitors. Virginia Military Institute (VMI) stands out as an exceptional college due to its unique combination of military training, academic rigor, and a strong tradition of leadership and camaraderie. VMI is a school with a long tradition of preparing cadets to become leaders in the military and outside of it. Those that chose to take on a college that is not easy come through it well educated and articulate cadets who provide to continue to better our country. There is diversity among there ranks and these cadets come from all walks of life to enhance the entire student body. I am asking that you see the overwhelming benefits VMI provides and allow this institution to continue as it has. Having our own Board of Visitors is necessary to continue the high standard of this unique school and not trying to combine it with others who are unique in there ways. VIM has many assets to it and I would ask you allow it to continue as it has. I am very aware they are continuing to uphold and make the necessary changes to make it in compliance with the recommendations it was given several years back. I am proud that the VMI community is looking forward to make it a better school holding on to the essentials to keep the high standard it seeks to obtain. Here are some of many things VMI has to offer which compared to other schools are excelling in. Military Training: VMI provides a comprehensive military training program that instills qualities such as discipline, honor, and respect. Academic Excellence: VMI offers a challenging four-year core curriculum with 14 nationally recognized majors in engineering, the sciences, and the humanities. The college boasts a student-to-teacher ration 10-1 Strong Alumni Network: VMI has a strong alumni network that provides graduates with career opportunities and networking contacts. The college also has a career services department that assists students with job search strategies and resume writing. High Graduation Rates: VMI has a high graduation rate, with over 80% of students graduating within six years. Tradition and Camaraderie: VMI has a strong tradition and camaraderie among its students and alumni, creating a sense of community and pride in being part of the college. Unique Educational Experience: VMI offers a unique educational experience that combines a rigorous academic curriculum with military training. This combination prepares students for leadership roles in various professions and societal contributions. Preeminent Senior Military College: VMI is recognized as a preeminent senior military college, producing leaders of integrity and honor. The college is ranked #5 in the nation for return on investment by Money Magazine. Innovative Programs: VMI offers one of only 14 Coast Guard Auxiliary University Programs in the nation, providing cadets

I write to support VMI. As the parent of a graduate, I have seen firsthand how VMI has successfully prepared our son for all facets of life. If you look at the outcomes of employment, service, and other measures of success, VMI has proven results. Thank you, Betsy Reid

I write to attest to the strength of the VMI that has been established and maintained by their Board. As the parent of a graduate, I have seen firsthand how VMI has successfully prepared our son for all facets of life. VMI is different, and sometimes that can cause fear from people who have limited knowledge about the structures within it. If you look at the outcomes of employment, service, and other measures of success, VMI has proven results. Please let VMI continue to function under their strong and effective leadership structure. Thank you, Betsy Reid

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.

For those of us who had the privilege to attend Virginia Military Institute, we now understand why it’s advertised as “no ordinary college”. While other schools tout about their academics, opportunities, and accomplishments; VMI has graduated walk away with more than just a degree. I was initially drawn to the school for its top ranking ROTC programs and the promise of a challenge. While I attended I grew in strength, knowledge, confidence, and I believe mostly importantly character. VMI is the ONLY truly single sanctioned honor code and is completely corps run by elected representatives of each class. This is something I fear outside entities will eventually destroy. VMI honor code is what makes the students bond so closely with a school wide sense of trust and integrity. It’s why employers who know VMI, actively seek out graduates to hire. I owe a lot to VMI. As a female attending I can attest that even though I was in an 11% minority, I never felt discriminated against or disrespected in anyway by my peers. The exact opposite happened as I leaned on my Brother Rats for motivation to get me through the physical and mental rigor of the rat line and afterwards the tribulations of academics. In a short four years I had the opportunity to do research an publish two academic papers, gain a commission in US Navy, become a manager for one of the four jobs I worked on post, become the CO of my Navy battalion my senior year, study abroad in the Balkans, play an undefeated season with the women’s rugby team, and make lifelong friends and memories. VMI gives every cadet the tools and opportunity to become the best version of themselves. VMI isn't meant for the everyone and that’s alright. It’s long days followed by longer ones. The rules on top of rules isn’t what most people look for in a college. However, just because it’s not for everyone does not mean it should be dismantled and reduced to and other college. There’s a reason why year after year students from across the country apply and attend VMI and it’s because there no other schools other like it. I’ve heard outsiders compare it to the military academies and other ROTC programs. When they do I instantly know they’ve never been. It’s no where near the same experience and closeness you get at the institute. At one point I knew everyone in my graduating class. You don’t get that sort of bond anywhere else. What VMI has to offer and the product of character is irreplaceable. Virginia would be loosing a valuable asset if they pull funding from VMI. The state does not have a single other state college that produces the caliber and amount of upstanding citizens that VMI does. Stop trying to make the institute into just “any other college”.

As a Virginia resident, a female veteran, a proud mom of an active duty US Navy Sailor and a Cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, I am writing to express my strong opposition to bills HB1377 and 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 HB1377 and 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 to Cadet Andrew Lindquist

I am writing as a Virginia parent, taxpayer, and strong supporter of the Virginia Military Institute to express my firm opposition to HB 1377. This bill is not a minor administrative adjustment; it is a direct threat to the integrity, mission, and long‑term stability of VMI. My son has earned the privilege of attending VMI through years of discipline, sacrifice, and academic excellence. He chose VMI because it is one of the few institutions left in this country that still stands for honor, accountability, and the development of principled leaders. HB 1377 undermines that mission by inserting political control into a system that must remain independent to function. VMI’s Board of Visitors is not a ceremonial body. It is the backbone of the Institute’s governance, responsible for preserving the Honor Code, the military structure, and the leadership training that make VMI unique. HB 1377 would shift that authority away from those who understand the Institute’s mission and place it into the hands of political appointees who may have no connection to VMI, no understanding of its culture, and no commitment to its values. This bill does not “modernize” VMI. It destabilizes it. It threatens: The independence of the Honor System The continuity of leadership training The ability of VMI to remain a mission‑driven military institution The confidence of current and future cadets and their families VMI has already undergone extensive review, oversight, and restructuring in recent years. The Institute has complied with every mandate placed upon it. HB 1377 is not about improvement; it is about control. As a parent, I want my son to attend a school governed by leaders who understand its mission, not by political appointees who may change with every administration. As a Virginian, I want to preserve one of the Commonwealth’s most historic and respected institutions. And as a taxpayer, I want to see legislation that strengthens our schools, not legislation that weakens them. I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1377 and protect the independence, stability, and mission of the Virginia Military Institute. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Monica Hatcher Parent of an Incoming VMI Cadet, Class of 2030

Delegate Helmer, I write to share again comments I wrote to address the initial subcommittee hearing re: HB1377. I am a faculty member in VMI’s history department, and I write to oppose HB1377. Let me begin by addressing §3.4b-c, which suggests that the narrative of the Lost Cause and a veneration for the Confederacy still animates VMI. Since arriving at VMI in 2022, I have taught upper-division courses on the history of slavery and abolition in the United States, the origins and legacy of the Civil War Amendments (the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution), and 19th-century U.S. history. I have directed independent studies and honors theses on this history of racial violence in the U.S., the legal history of school desegregation following Brown v. Board, Indigenous people’s resistance to settler colonialism in 18th-century Virginia, and on the history of enslaved and free Black labor at the Institute. I also direct VMI’s emerging program on the history of the U.S. Constitution. As part of those duties I teach a course each semester on U.S. constitutional history (which will soon be a graduation requirement for all cadets) and organize co-curricular events on both important historical and timely constitutional issues. This program daily challenges cadets to civilly and critically reckon with all of the most controversial issues in American life—religion, sex, privacy, racism, civil rights, executive power, and much more. Outside of VMI, I am currently the Associate Editor and the incoming Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the Early Republic, the leading academic journal on United States history through the Civil War. Since 1981, the JER has published countless articles by leading historians that challenged an older, Lost Cause, narrative of southern and antebellum history. Put simply, nearly every part of my job at VMI contributes to efforts that §3.4b-c questions whether VMI is invested in doing. And all of this has been encouraged, supported, and funded by Institute leadership. Moreover, my experience is not unique. I have the privilege of working with accomplished colleagues who are leading experts in the history of labor and civil rights, the intersection of US foreign relations and global movements for social justice, immigrant experiences in the American military, the origins of civic education in the U.S, and the everyday lives of Virginians—Black and white—during the Civil War. These colleagues teach courses on the history of the Civil Rights Movement, the diplomatic history of American Empire, and of colonial, revolutionary, Civil War and Reconstruction, and southern history. All these courses highlight the full diversity of experience that characterizes American history. To place this in the context of §3.3a of the proposed bill: I would put our history curriculum up against that at any other university in the Commonwealth or the nation. This is just one set of data to show that VMI offers a cutting-edge and rigorous academic program. And this is without accounting for the intangible ways that my colleagues embody the ideal of liberal arts college faculty members—accessible, student-centered teacher-scholars. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Mark Boonshoft, PhD Conrad M. Hall ’65 Chair in American Constitutional History Associate Editor; incoming Co-Editor, Journal of the Early Republic

Good afternoon I'm a proud supporter of VMI. My son, William, is a 2024 graduate and currently serving in the USCG on the Cutter Seneca. I can't say enough good things about VMI and its positive impact on him . It is not an easy school to attend. Rules, discipline, character, perseverance all come into play. VMI is a diverse environment and everyone follows the same rules and treat each other with the same respect. There are consequences for not doing this. Will came into VMI a young male and came out a man. Confident, upstanding, and holds his classmates and peers in the highest regard. Please do not destroy this gem of an institution. Virginia should be proud to call VMI one of its own. Thank you for your time. Proud VMI mom, Amy Longacher

I am a proud parent of a VMI cadet and a former professor. I am very passionate about higher education and diversity and equity in the higher education. I have spent nearly 2 decades in a career focused on both. VMI is my son’s choice of college, because he is pursuing a career in service, but also because it was his most affordable option, with minimal u subsidized loans and a high likelihood of paying those off quickly, after graduation. 97% of VMI graduates are in jobs, commissioning, or pursuing graduate school within 5 months of graduating. That alone is a statistic worth considering. The job placement rate is even higher than it is for Virginia Tech, which is in our hometown and where I formerly worked in Engineering Education. VMI is ranked by Forbes as #306 of the top 500 colleges nationwide. And the median 20 year salaries are $10,000 higher than those of Virginia Tech graduates. US News and World Report lists VMI as #174 nationwide for Social Mobility. Why we as taxpayers fund higher education is because of the benefits that it promises to us in the future. An educated workforce raises the tax base of the future. And VMI excels at that. But what is more is that I have seen the transformation of my son into a future leader. He is far more dedicated, responsible, capable, diligent, and committed to broader service than his peers outside of VMI, owing to his VMI experience. This bill threatens to undermine his hard work and that of all of VMI Cadets and robs future hardworking and dedicated Cadets of the future of those same opportunities.

Comments Document

To the Honorable Members of the House Rules Committee: Attached is a letter for the Committee's review. For reasons stated therein, we respectfully urge the Committee to table HB 1377 indefinitely. Sincerely, John & Kristin Rosan

I have worked in higher education for 14 years and at VMI for the last several. I have never seen a better institution and there is a reason I am here. Our cadets are amazing; our institution produces some of the best outcomes in the state and country. And we are a gem for the commonwealth. To suggest otherwise and to threaten funding based on outdated perceptions is a detriment to society as a whole. Please do not continue with these threads to our mission. We have and continue to make progress in the areas you deem lacking. We are not ground in a “lost cause” but are instead a top producer of your military. Our ROTC programs produce better outcomes than other ROTC programs. VMI produces well qualified leaders and our outcome measures prove just how successful we are. I encourage you to look at reports from SCHEV, to look at our outcomes, and to visit post. Our cadets will inspire you as they are some of the finest young men and women I have ever had the privilege of serving.

I oppose this change to the structure of VMI.

As an alumnus, I strongly oppose HB 1377 and the creation of a task force to re-evaluate VMI’s status as a state-sponsored institution. This bill relies on the flawed logic of a nearly century-old report from 1928 to question the viability of one of Virginia’s most prestigious and unique schools. The suggestion that VMI’s services are "duplicated" elsewhere ignores the reality of the Citizen-Soldier model. VMI is not merely a college; it is a leadership laboratory that produces graduates with a level of resilience, integrity, and public-service orientation that is rare in modern higher education. VMI alumni are not only found on the front lines of our nation's defense but also in our local school boards, town councils, and state agencies, where they apply the Institute's values to the benefit of all Virginians. There is no “duplicate” system within Virginia that provides a miliary atmosphere 24/7. It was because of that atmosphere that I was successful. I would NOT have graduated in four years at one of the “duplicate” schools in engineering. VMI taught me discipline, time management, service above self, and most importantly integrity from the Honor Code. Virginia should be investing in and championing its unique institutions, not seeking reasons to defund them. I urge the committee to reject this study and maintain the Commonwealth’s commitment to VMI.

I would encourage Helmer and this committee 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; progress has been made and the new leadership is eager to make change. Please listen to LtGen Furness; take a minute to actually look into the institution instead of relying on rumor and preconceived notions. Give the institute a chance to continue to prove themselves, to heal from the last witch hunt, and to continue to prove their value to this state without another investigation. 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 opposition to HB1377. While oversight and continual improvement are important for all public institutions, this bill represents an unnecessary and potentially harmful intrusion into the governance and mission of VMI. My opinions are based on my experience as a parent of a current cadet and soon to be a 2026 graduate. My cadet would not have been successful at a “traditional” university. The expectations at VMI are so high but you are expected to meet them. There is no doubt. There are no excuses. You must do it. This is what our state needs and what our country needs. Stop making excuses and giving allowances. I am a civilian employer as well, and the next generation does not want to work. BUT the VMI students do and they know how to do hard things. The sole basis of this school is discipline, honor and integrity and service to others. This proposed task force does not appear to be focused on an objective evaluation or the educational quality, but instead, it is born out of politics and direct overreach by some members who have chosen to listen to negative media and let their personal emotions overshadow what is right. The creation of this task force threatens to undermine confidence among cadets, alumni and any potential applicants at a time when stability and transparency are essential. This bill sends a message that VMI and its mission are under question. The General Assembly should support VMI and its efforts to improve where needed within its existing governance structures. Virginia should be proud of Virginia Military Institute and all that it offers in the Commonwealth. I encourage the General Assembly to prove you are operating with honor and integrity and serve with discipline and actual guidance. Please vote down HB 1377.

The Honorable Delegates of Virginia, We are writing on behalf of our son, a current 3rd class Virginia Military Institute (VMI) cadet, a student of color, a VMI NCAA football player, and the class of 2028 president. After many college visits and recruitment opportunities, our son chose to further his education at VMI. It is with great pride that he represents VMI in all that he does, and we, as proud parents, have embraced the Institute and are active members of the VMI Parents Council. It is with a heavy heart that we learned about HB 1374 and 1377, and we strongly urge you to reject this legislation that targets VMI. During the recruitment process, we met with many representatives of VMI and were consistently impressed with their interest in our son as a whole person - not just as an athlete. Many colleges expressed interest in our son as an athlete, but VMI was different. VMI expressed interest in our son that exceeded athletic ability. They expressed how impressed they were with his character, leadership potential, and future beyond athletics emphasizing that he was destined to be a leader. The academic rigor and prestige of a VMI education are unparalleled among any other University in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is because of this prestige, along with the camaraderie and true investment in him as an individual, that led him to choose VMI. Has VMI always been easy? Of course not, but our son has embraced being a “rat” and cadet since day one. He made it his mission to rally his class of 2028, particularly NCAA athletes, to come together as a unified class where all cadets share fully in daily cadet life. It is vital to him that the athletes and non-athletes work together to build a strong, cohesive class. Because of this commitment, he was nominated and selected by his peers as class president in the spring 2025. Through these experiences, our son has found purpose far beyond the athletic field. He no longer identifies solely as a football player or student of color, but as a cadet, leader, and servant. VMI has helped our son grow in confidence, discover inner strength and endurance, refine his leadership skills, develop a servant’s heart, and strengthen his communication skills. It is because of VMI that our son currently sits as a 3rd class cadet serving rank as an S9 Corporal, serves on the General Committee (GC), served on the “Bluebook Committee,” and continues to play as a starting Division I football athlete, all while balancing a rigorous daily academic class load. No other college or university within our commonwealth can offer the opportunities and experiences provided by an education at VMI. Since VMI holds each and every cadet to the same and highest standards, and through shared hardships and cohesive unity, VMI regularly graduates students who are commissioned officers and/or prepared for work in the demanding professional environment. Our son has become a strong, independent, articulate leader who takes immense pride in being a VMI Keydet! To dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors, dismantle the Institute as a whole, or withdraw state funding (HB 1374 and 1377) would mark the end of one of Virginia’s oldest, strongest, and most prestigious institutions; an institution that consistently produces men and women of the highest caliber, who are prepared to serve with distinction both in military and civilian roles as disciplined, ethical, and resilient citizen-leaders.

I am a 2004 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), a former Army Officer, and an Iraq War combat Veteran. I am stringently opposed to HB1377 (and alongside it, HB1374). It's difficult for me to put into words the way in which VMI has positively shaped my life. When I arrived at VMI, I was a lost high school grad with little direction. VMI's unique blend of discipline, camaraderie, tradition, and the "sink or swim" culture that it exemplified helped give me purpose and direction, allowing me to complete my commission as an Army Officer, graduate college, make lifelong friends, and serve my country honorably. I truly don't know where I would be without VMI. VMI is not a typical college and cannot be treated as such. Assigning leadership and policy-making to a committee of people who have never stepped foot within its walls, and do not understand the type of place it is, is a recipe for dismantling the very essence of what makes VMI unique and different. Times have changed, but VMI's commitment to training and teaching resilient and disciplined Citizen-Soldiers has stayed the same, and we cannot dismiss its positive impact so easily, nor make the mistake of believing that fundamentally changing the institution is the right way forward. I vehemently oppose any decision to strip VMI of state funding, as well any efforts to turn over Governance of the institution away from the BOV. If you have any questions, I'm happy to talk more about my VMI experience, and why the Institute must continue to be heard from, now and forever.

I am writing as a Virginia parent and constituent to respectfully ask that you oppose HB1377. My son is a member of the VMI Class of 2029. This weekend, he completed his breakout. Watching him go through that process was one of the most powerful moments of my life as a parent. In a short period of time, I have watched my child transform into a young adult with confidence, discipline, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. He is a swimmer. He trains before dawn. He attends class all day. He upholds the demands of the Rat Line and the Corps. And somehow, he does it with pride. At VMI, he has forged relationships with cadets from backgrounds he never would have encountered otherwise. He has learned how to lead, follow, endure, and serve. We did not know what to expect when we sent him to VMI. But the Institute has surpassed every expectation we had. It is important to state clearly that today’s VMI is not the VMI of generations past. Much of the current narrative focuses on historical rhetoric rather than the reality of the modern Institute. VMI does not promote racism. VMI does not promote hate. VMI’s mission is to develop leaders of character, grounded in honor, accountability, and respect for others. Like any institution, VMI cannot control the isolated actions of every individual who may choose to violate its standards. However, the actions of a few individuals do not indicate a damaged or broken culture. They represent individual failures to uphold the Corps’ values. When behavior strays from the mission, it is taken seriously and addressed. That is evidence of a functioning institution, not a failing one. This is not a VMI-specific problem. No college, university, or organization can guarantee that every person will always act honorably. What matters is whether the institution sets clear standards and enforces them. VMI does. VMI is not perfect. No institution is. But it is exceptional in what it does: it develops leaders through structure, accountability, shared hardship, and purpose. My son is becoming the kind of young man who will make a positive and lasting impact on Virginia and his community when he graduates. HB1377 does not simply propose oversight. It places a cloud over the future of an institution that is actively producing officers, public servants, engineers, educators, business leaders, and community leaders for the Commonwealth. The damage from that uncertainty is immediate and real: to morale, recruiting, retention, donor confidence, and the families who have entrusted Virginia with their children’s education. VMI should be strengthened, supported, and held to high standards, not destabilized or placed on an existential path. Accountability and improvement can occur without dismantling independence or threatening continued state support. I ask you, as a steward of Virginia’s future, to stand with the cadets, the families, and the many Virginians who believe in the mission of the Virginia Military Institute. Please oppose HB1377 as written and help preserve VMI as the institution that has served the Commonwealth with distinction for generations. Thank you for your time, your service, and your thoughtful consideration.

I am writing to you as a concerned parent. My name is Sunny Wells. My son is currently a freshman cadet at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), where he is pursuing his education and personal development in International Studies in a rigorous, tradition-rich environment that has shaped leaders for generations. His decision to attend VMI came from his profound respect and admiration for his AFJROTC leader in high school who is a VMI alumni, Colonel Barrett Morris. 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 your efforts led by Governor Abigail Spanberger 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. 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 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 any measures that could endanger VMI’s funding or independence. Please preserve 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.

I strongly believe that the Virginia Military Institute should continue to receive state funding and remain an independent institution. I strongly disagree with any effort to end state support or to merge VMI into Virginia State University or any other school. VMI is a great school with a unique mission that works. My daughter, who is a person of color, has thrived at VMI. She has grown academically, professionally, and personally, and she has never once regretted her decision to attend. She has found opportunity, structure, and a strong sense of purpose here. VMI provides an environment that develops leadership, discipline, and character, and it is serving students like my daughter well. That is why its mission and funding should be preserved, not dismantled.

I am a mother of a current Cadet at VMI. I am not sure of the motivation behind this bill, but our family is 100% against the idea of defunding this institution. Our daughter believes it is an honor to be at the Institute! As a matter of fact, she actually just returned to VMI this semester after taking last semester off due to some challenges of the athletics department. She decided to return because she recognized the opportunities that VMI was giving her to lead, guide and support her fellow cadets. Her ultimate goal is to be commissioned in either the Army or Air Force. She also was motivated to return because of class size and her ability to have access to her professors. VMI is so much more to the student body than just a school, this is a family! I would appreciate that you consider families opinions to this matter before making any negative changes to the Institute!

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB1377, which proposes the creation of a task force that would place Virginia Military Institute’s state funding under investigation with the apparent intent of reduction or elimination. This legislation represents a deeply troubling escalation of political intervention into one of the Commonwealth’s most successful and mission-critical public institutions. The establishment of a task force singularly focused on VMI—rather than applying uniform, system-wide evaluation standards across all public universities—signals not objective oversight, but targeted action that risks undermining educational outcomes, national service, and Virginia’s long-standing reputation for responsible stewardship of higher education. Virginia Military Institute is not merely another public college. It is the oldest state-supported military college in the nation and serves a singular purpose: developing leaders of character for military, public, and civilian service. VMI’s model is intentionally demanding, highly structured, and outcomes-driven. Cadets are held to rigorous academic, physical, and ethical standards that far exceed those of most institutions of higher education. The return on investment for Virginia—and for the nation—is exceptional. VMI consistently produces graduates who: - Serve in the U.S. Armed Forces at disproportionately high rates - Enter public service, engineering, medicine, education, and industry as leaders - Graduate and gain employment at rates exceeding national averages - Deliver strong long-term economic and civic returns relative to state investment This is not theoretical. It is measurable. State funding for VMI is not a subsidy without return; it is a strategic investment with proven outcomes. HB1377 also raises serious concerns for current cadets. These students chose VMI knowingly and deliberately, committing themselves to an arduous path of discipline, leadership development, and service. They did not enroll in an institution whose funding stability would be placed in question through a politically driven task force. The uncertainty created by this bill directly affects morale, recruitment, retention, alumni support, and long-term institutional strength. Equally concerning is the precedent this legislation would establish. If the General Assembly can single out one institution—particularly a military college—for funding scrutiny driven by political disagreement rather than documented failure, then no public institution in Virginia can consider itself insulated from similar action. Oversight should be consistent, transparent, and applied across the system—not selectively weaponized. Virginia’s higher-education system is strongest when institutions are allowed to operate according to their missions, evaluated by outcomes, and protected from partisan escalation. VMI’s outcomes are clear. Its value—to the Commonwealth and to the nation—is undeniable. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to oppose HB1377 and reject the creation of a task force that threatens state support for one of Virginia’s most effective and nationally significant institutions. Thank you for your time and consideration.

As a lifelong Virginian, I am proud of the contributions of the Virginia Military Institute to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the United States of America and to the world at large. Fifty percent of VMI's 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 of VMI include Zachary Taylor 12th President of the United States, George S. Patton, George C. Marshall, John Jumper, Michael Watz, Mel Brooks, Dabney Coleman, and Dan Caine, current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States. To name just a few. To entertain the notion that a school which produces graduates such as these, does not deserve state funding (HB 1377) or is unable to govern itself (HB 1374) is absolutely ludicrous. Our tax dollars sent to VMI come back to us ten-fold and have for generations. Indeed, our tax dollars make contributions around the globe and contribute to society at large, through the undeniable success of VMI graduates . To place VMI under the auspices of Virginia State University makes no sense either if you compare the educational statistics of each school. VSU has an average SAT score of 910 and VMI has an average SAT score of 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 and sixth year students. VSU has an employment rate post- graduation of 68% and VMI's employment rate for students six months after graduation is 97%. Let that sink in. Now you tell me which is the better return on investment for our tax dollars in Virginia? There is absolutely no comparison. Virginia State University receives approximately $62.8 million annually from the State General Fund. VMI received just under $35 million from the State General Fund for 2026. The two schools are not even close in educational outcomes or in the return on investment that the Commonwealth reaps from each. I do not know what the motives are of the delegates that introduced either of these bills, but VMI's success and contributions to the Commonwealth and the world at large are undeniable. You waste the people's time and money by even entertaining these proposed bills.

My name is Kaylee Nase and I am a VMI alumna of the class of 2022. During my time at the Institute, I served on a committee within the cadet government called the Cadet Equity Association (the CEA). Our primary goal was to ensure the Institute was held to a very strict standard of ethics and equality. My job was to help hold my fellow cadets accountable for any actions that could have been deemed discriminatory in any sense. I worked alongside not only the commandant staff but also the title IV coordinator to accomplish our goal of equity and equality at the Institute. I took my position VERY seriously and I personally feel we accomplished everything we set out to do to protect my fellow cadets. As a woman, I never once felt discriminated against or disrespected during my time at the Institute. I felt empowered. I was given a position within the cadet government that I had to interview for against other male cadets. I was awarded a 3 year Army scholarship that I completed for against other male cadets. VMI gave me opportunities that I would've never received anywhere else. To take away state funding for the Institute would do no more than take away this opportunity from other young men and women. It would take away from committees like the CEA, further hurting the Institute and taking away from the minority groups currently in attendance. I come to you humbly asking for your reconsideration on removing state funding for the Virginia Military Institute. Thank you for your time and your consideration.

The Honorable Delegates of Virginia, We are writing on behalf of our son, Anthony ‘Tony’ W. Allen, Jr., a current 3rd class Virginia Military Institute (VMI) cadet, a student of color, a VMI NCAA football player, and the class of 2028 president. After many college visits and recruitment opportunities, our son chose to further his education at VMI. It is with great pride that he represents VMI in all that he does, and we, as proud parents, have embraced the Institute and are active members of the VMI Parents Council. It is with a heavy heart that we learned about HB 1374 and 1377, and we strongly urge you to reject this legislation that targets VMI. During the recruitment process, we met with many representatives of VMI and were consistently impressed with their interest in our son as a whole person - not just as an athlete. Many colleges expressed interest in Tony as an athlete, but VMI was different. VMI expressed interest in Tony that exceeded athletic ability. They expressed how impressed they were with his character, leadership potential, and future beyond athletics emphasizing that he was destined to be a leader. The academic rigor and prestige of a VMI education are unparalleled among any other University in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is because of this prestige, along with the camaraderie and true investment in Tony as an individual, that led him to choose VMI. Has VMI always been easy? Of course not, but Tony has embraced being a “rat” and cadet since day one. He made it his mission to rally his class of 2028, particularly NCAA athletes, to come together as a unified class where all cadets share fully in daily cadet life. It is vital to him that the athletes and non-athletes work together to build a strong, cohesive class. Because of this commitment, he was nominated and selected by his peers as class president in the spring 2025. Through these experiences, our son has found purpose far beyond the athletic field. He no longer identifies solely as a football player or student of color, but as a cadet, leader, and servant. VMI has helped our son grow in confidence, discover inner strength and endurance, refine his leadership skills, develop a servant’s heart, and strengthen his communication skills. It is because of VMI that our son currently sits as a 3rd class cadet serving rank as an S9 Corporal, serves on the General Committee (GC), served on the “Bluebook Committee,” and continues to play as a starting Division I football athlete, all while balancing a rigorous daily academic class load. No other college or university within our commonwealth can offer the opportunities and experiences provided by an education at VMI. Since VMI holds each and every cadet to the same and highest standards, and through shared hardships and cohesive unity, VMI regularly graduates students who are commissioned officers and/or prepared for work in the demanding professional environment. Our son has become a strong, independent, articulate leader who takes immense pride in being a VMI Keydet! To dissolve the VMI Board of Visitors, dismantle the Institute as a whole, or withdraw state funding (HB 1374 and 1377) would mark the end of one of Virginia’s oldest, strongest, and most prestigious institutions; an institution that consistently produces men and women of the highest caliber, who are prepared to serve with distinction both in military and civilian roles as disciplined, ethical, and resilient citizen-leaders.

Virginia has been blessed with many options for higher education. VMI has been an important part of that diversity for nearly 200 years, providing graduates of talent and character for state and national service. Virginia’s elected leaders should be maintaining or expanding the options and choices for the citizens of Virginia not reducing or restricting them. VMI has been an extraordinary value to the state, and while it has issues the same as any other state institution, the solution is proper and adequate oversight. On a personal note I have watched my son blossom at VMI and that growth was possible because of the generosity of the citizens of Virginia and because of the augmentation of that support by the alumni. Without that generosity of the state and the alumni my son would not have been able to afford the cost of any other state university. Please do not take this opportunity away from others. The solution is not to take away the opportunity but to have proper oversight of it.

The bill would dissolve the existing Board of Visitors for the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and transfer governance authority to the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University (VSU), a historically Black public university.  I would argue the bill is unnecessary due to these points: 1. VMI already has longstanding governance and oversight mechanisms. VMI’s current Board of Visitors and statutory framework have governed the institution for over 150 years. I contend that existing governance structures can be reformed internally or through normal board appointment processes without wholesale dissolution and transfer to an unrelated university’s board. I argue this makes the radical governance shift unnecessary because “oversight and accountability” can be achieved without dissolving the established structure. The change is seen as politically motivated rather than addressing a clear institutional failure. The bill responds more to recent political controversies over leadership decisions at VMI than to demonstrable, structural governance problems that require such a drastic statutory change. This proposal is a political reaction rather than a governance necessity, and therefore unnecessary to address core educational or institutional issues. The choice of Virginia State University’s board as the new governing authority is questionable. I may point out that VSU is geographically distant from VMI’s campus and has a very different mission and historical role. They question why VSU’s Board of Visitors — with no current oversight responsibilities for a military college — should govern VMI, suggesting the bill creates new administrative disconnects rather than solving existing ones. I see potential risks to VMI’s autonomy and mission without clear benefits. Dissolving VMI’s board could undermine the institute’s historical mission and traditions, which are seen as core to its identity. Unless there is compelling evidence that existing leadership is incapable of fulfilling VMI’s mission, the bill’s governance restructuring is unnecessary. Existing performance or compliance issues are not universally documented as severe. While the bill’s sponsor frames the issue as one of oversight standards, I contend that there is insufficient evidence of endemic governance failings at VMI warranting this level of intervention — essentially arguing that the status quo doesn’t justify the proposed statutory overhaul. In summary, the argument that HB 1374 is unnecessary stems from the view that the governance issues it targets can be addressed within existing structures, that the choice of a new governing board lacks clear justification, and that the bill appears driven more by political context than by an objective need for statutory reform.

Leave VMI Alone!! All, 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. R, Sean Taylor

I am submitting this comment in opposition to House Bill 1377, which calls for a study to determine whether the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) should continue to receive state funding. I write as a VMI graduate and a constituent of the Commonwealth. VMI has had a profoundly positive impact on my life. The Institute instilled in me discipline, accountability, integrity, and leadership — qualities that have guided both my professional and personal life, and that I hope to pass on to my daughters as they grow in Virginia. The Institute’s focus on honor, character, and resilience is unique in higher education, and its graduates consistently serve Virginia and the nation as officers, first responders, educators, and leaders in both public and private sectors. While it is important to acknowledge that elements of VMI’s history reflected narratives no longer aligned with our modern values, that chapter has closed. Today’s VMI embodies principles of inclusion, service, and excellence, producing leaders who are grounded in ethics, character, and accountability. Targeting its funding for study risks sending a message that undermines an institution that has consistently delivered positive outcomes for the Commonwealth. I am concerned that HB 1377 contributes to political polarization at a time when our state needs unity and principled leadership. Efforts to single out VMI for scrutiny through a study on its funding do not reflect the Institute’s demonstrated value and could inadvertently threaten an institution that prepares leaders equipped to navigate complexity and uncertainty. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Committee to oppose HB 1377 and to continue supporting VMI’s mission, ensuring it remains a cornerstone for developing disciplined, principled leaders who serve Virginia and the nation.

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 who 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 have 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 has been proven to be successful. 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 a better friend. You learn humility, respect, honor, 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 first give thanks for the things I have been blessed to have in my life, but I also sleep easier knowing that I have treated 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. There is not a day at VMI where we had 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.

As an alumnus of VMI I am strongly opposed to Virginia House Bills 1374 and 1377, arguing that they unjustly question the value, governance, and continued state funding of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), a state-supported institution with nearly 186 years of service to the Commonwealth. I contend that, despite being framed as reviews or evaluations, the measures function as politically motivated attacks that undermine a proven institution without evidence of failure. VMI is a unique and rigorous educational environment unmatched in Virginia, integrating academics, physical training, military discipline, and a single-sanction Honor System governing all aspects of cadet life. Faculty, alumni, and military leaders emphasize that this system consistently produces graduates of integrity, discipline, leadership, and selfless service—qualities forged through shared hardship rather than abstract instruction. I am who I am today because of VMI. Other alumni testimony will highlight both personal transformation and institutional impact. VMI has and will continue to enable social mobility through merit-based opportunity. Further and more importantly, VMI has produced leaders who serve with distinction in the military, public service, business, medicine, and community leadership. Our alumni include Medal of Honor recipients, Rhodes Scholars, Nobel Peace Prize laureate General George C. Marshall, senior military leaders, jurists, explorers, and statesmen. VMI graduates continue to serve Virginia and the nation at the highest levels. VMI has evolved significantly since its Civil War–era origins and today reflects a modern, inclusive institution that welcomes qualified students regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or ideology. VMI’s strong performance metrics, national rankings for value and academic quality, and public testimonies and advocacy through the comments you will receive from alumni will affirm VMI’s value to individual cadets, to Virginia and our nation. I urge lawmakers to reject or table HB 1374 and HB 1377, and argue that Virginia’s interests are best served by strengthening and protecting proven institutions like VMI rather than subjecting them to unnecessary scrutiny that risks eroding a legacy of honor, service, and educational excellence.

vote against the House Bill 1377 and against the house Bill 1374 calling for the dissolution of the VMI Board and placing it underneath the VA state Board of Visitors. Virginia Military Institute (VMI) stands out as an exceptional college due to its unique combination of military training, academic rigor, and a strong tradition of leadership and camaraderie. VMI is a school with a long tradition of preparing cadets to become leaders in the military and outside of it. Those that chose to take on a college that is not easy come through it well educated and articulate cadets who provide to continue to better our country. There is diversity among there ranks and these cadets come from all walks of life to enhance the entire student body. I am asking that you see the overwhelming benefits VMI provides and allow this institution to continue as it has. Having our own Board of Visitors is necessary to continue the high standard of this unique school and not trying to combine it with others who are unique in there ways. VIM has many assets to it and I would ask you allow it to continue as it has. I am very aware they are continuing to uphold and make the necessary changes to make it in compliance with the recommendations it was given several years back. I am proud that the VMI community is looking forward to make it a better school holding on to the essentials to keep the high standard it seeks to obtain. Here are some of many things VMI has to offer which compared to other schools are excelling in. Military Training: VMI provides a comprehensive military training program that instills qualities such as discipline, honor, and respect. Academic Excellence: VMI offers a challenging four-year core curriculum with 14 nationally recognized majors in engineering, the sciences, and the humanities. The college boasts a student-to-teacher ration 10-1 Strong Alumni Network: VMI has a strong alumni network that provides graduates with career opportunities and networking contacts. The college also has a career services department that assists students with job search strategies and resume writing. High Graduation Rates: VMI has a high graduation rate, with over 80% of students graduating within six years. Tradition and Camaraderie: VMI has a strong tradition and camaraderie among its students and alumni, creating a sense of community and pride in being part of the college. Unique Educational Experience: VMI offers a unique educational experience that combines a rigorous academic curriculum with military training. This combination prepares students for leadership roles in various professions and societal contributions. Preeminent Senior Military College: VMI is recognized as a preeminent senior military college, producing leaders of integrity and honor. The college is ranked #5 in the nation for return on investment by Money Magazine.

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 often 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 extraordinary 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 different because it must be different. Efforts to reshape its governance or training framework for political aims would 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 unmatched distinction.

I am writing in opposition to HB1377. VMI graduates have served their country and their state for nearly two centuries. They have done so with honor and integrity. It is truly sad to see such a fine institution singled out for political purposes. I am a native of Virginia but such unfortunate and unnecessary nonsense does not make me proud to be a Virginian.

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 HB1377 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

The Virginia Military Institute is a wonderful college that prepares future leaders of our state and our country. VMI's graduates are some of the highest achievers of any college in the Commonwealth. VMI's graduates earn more than graduates of other schools in the Commonwealth. If there is any institution worthy of state funding, it is Virginia Military Institute. VMI instills their cadets with the values of honor, service and integrity. Please continue to fully fund VMI.

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 create a task force to question VMI’s continued public support—despite existing oversight, accreditation, and ongoing reforms—sends a troubling message to current cadets: that their sacrifice and commitment are conditional and politically fragile. 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 1377 and support a veto of these bills. Protect VMI. Protect its students. Protect the principle that Virginia’s institutions are judged by facts and outcomes—not politics.

I write in opposition to HB 1377. 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.

As the parent of a VMI graduate (Class of 2025) and a current cadet (Class of 2027), I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary impact this institution has on the development of young leaders. My daughter’s experience at VMI was transformational. She excelled academically, athletically, and as a leader. The leadership training, discipline, accountability, and character development provided by VMI are unmatched. These are qualities that benefit not only the individual cadets, but the communities and professions they go on to serve. Defunding VMI would undermine an institution with a long history of producing leaders of integrity and service. The Commonwealth should be proud to support a school that delivers such meaningful outcomes for its students and for society. I respectfully ask that you oppose Bill 1377 and continue to support VMI.

As a retired businessman, I understand the importance of continually evaluating the value of the investment in our tax dollars in education. I encourage you to dig deep with an unbiased eye to examine how VMI has and is continuing to educate the next generation of leaders. As only one of the thousands of graduates since 1839 who have contributed to the Commonwealth. I am sharing my life story to illustrate the value of a VMI education to me. My father was a soldier who served in WWII and Korea. During my formative years I traveled with him to duty stations from Okinawa to Europe with some brief assignments in the US. From him I learned the meaning of serving your country. But I was a renegade in high school. I made good grades easily but lacked the discipline of investing in real learning. I had choices when it came to attending college. My father and I took an inventory of my strengths and weaknesses. We agreed that if I attended a “traditional” college I would most likely fail. He introduced me to several VMI alumni. Based on those conversations I chose the path less traveled to maturity and an education at VMI. My life, my family, my community and my country have benefited. From VMI I learned that there are no limits to one can do except those self imposed. Early in my marriage, shortly after our daughter was born, my wife was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I was a debilitating disease that progressed for 24 years until her death. From my Rat year at VMI I learned that I had the emotional strength to endure great challenges. The MS was indeed the greatest challenge I have had. Other families in the same situation were devastated and destroyed. Ours continued in love and caring for 24 years. During that time we raised a daughter who has grown into a woman with a family of her own. The many communities I have lived in over the last 50 years have benefited from my service. I served in leadership positions in church and community organizations. Most recently after retirement and during the Pandemic I worked with the Small Business Development Center in Harrisonburg to help stand up 3 new businesses. And I advised several businesses on how to weather the Pandemic. Maybe most importantly I helped aspiring entrepreneurs not to start businesses now. In my early career as an engineer I developed a system for recovering used beverage cans and other metals for recycling. Later in my career as a sales and marketing professional I took a small business in Bridgewater from $5million in sales to $20million, doubling employment. The education and the military system of VMI gave me the intellectual strength and courage to make the hard choices in life. Those choices radiated outward to benefit those in my part of the world. And I served my country as an officer in the United States Air Force. I served four years during the Vietnam War a the headquarters of the Air Force Communication Command. Subsequent to my active duty I served 8 years in the Air Force Reserve as a unit commander. I served until my wife’s MS had progressed to the point she needed more of my attention. VMI gave me the courage to make the tough decisions in life. In the 56 years since I graduated and the 60 years since I matriculated the world around me has benefitted. You can ask my family and friends to confirm this. And I am grateful for taking the road less traveled to become the man who my family and friends admire and love.

I recommend strong opposition to this bill. This bill is explicitly hypocritical due to its singling out of the Virginia Military Institute. To be truly an equitable bill in the interests of Virginians, this bill should be amended to request a task force to study state expenditures for all state property and support costs that memorializes, preserves, maintains, publishes, benefits, markets, or otherwise attributes expenditures and revenue, or is otherwise state cost attributable to any real or tangible property that carries the name, reference, etc. of any slave owning individual from Virginia’s history as a colony and pre-emancipation state. Specifically, this recommended amendment should seek to fund a study and provide recommendations on the removal of all state funds from any matter regarding George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, George Wythe, John Marshall, and all other historic individuals that either enslaved or benefited from such enslavement in Virginia during their lives. This amendment should also specifically provide funding to study the renaming of the College of William & Mary, James Madison University, and the University of Mary Washington.

I am a 3rd generation graduate of VMI. The bill 1377 is very disturbing. VMI has a long history of honor, discipline, and integrity that has served Virginia and the United States very well. The product (cadets) VMI turns out is something needed more today than ever. If there is any doubt or questions about the validity of this statement I implore you to actually visit and talk with current VMI cadets. The values VMI embedded in me personally are too numerous to list. There is a determination, a persistence, a drive to overcome adversity that you learn and guides you for the rest of your life. There is a bond that you learn, working together to succeed is a lesson learned from day 1. I trust that VMI will maintain it's prestigious place in the education of young citizen soldiers, and that our state and country will continue to reap the benefits of this very special place of higher learning.

I am writing as a proud graduate of The Virginia Military Institute to oppose HB1377 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. After serving in the United States Air Force, I started a Bridge company. Some of our first hires were VMI Graduates. As a start up company we needed reliable employees with strong morals and the highest level of integrity. Obviously we turned to the men and women from VMI. It means something to be from VMI. Since 1839 VMI has been providing graduates dedicated to serving their Communities, their States and their Country. I am asking that you respect the positive contributions of VMI Graduates everywhere and reject HB 1377. Thank you for your time.

How do you create division? How do you create lack of character and poor performance? Start by telling people that they are different and by fabricating enemies and start accepting subpar performance and allowing poor behavior. Is this the formula that we want used in our schools? 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? Should this not be a school that the state of Virginia wants to support? 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. Please support an institution that uses a formula that creates excellence, leadership, equity, and integrity in our young men and women. Support VMI and strike down Bill HB1377. Thank you!

I write to vehemently oppose HB 1377. I wanted to take a moment to share how profoundly the Virginia Military Institute has impacted not only my son, but our entire family. VMI has played an instrumental role in shaping my son into a young man of character. Through his experience, he has developed a deeper sense of responsibility, care, and compassion, as well as a strong understanding of what it means to be connected to something larger than himself. The structure, expectations, and values instilled at VMI have clearly influenced his personal growth and maturity. As this was his first time living away from home, our family initially anticipated the challenges that often accompany such a major transition. However, I never found myself worried about his well-being. The tight bond among the cadets, combined with the unwavering support from faculty, staff, coaches, other parents, brother rats, and cadre, created an environment of accountability, encouragement, and genuine care. That level of support not only helped my son succeed, but also provided our family with reassurance during what is often one of the most difficult transitions for college students. The impact of the VMI experience has been so meaningful and transformative for our family that our youngest son has chosen to attend VMI next year. That decision speaks volumes about the values, leadership, and sense of community that VMI fosters. Our family will always be deeply grateful for the role VMI has played in our lives.

I submit this comment in reference to House Bill 1377, which calls for a study to determine whether the Virginia Military Institute should continue to receive state funding. I write as a graduate of VMI to describe the profound and lasting return on investment the Commonwealth has realized through my education and development at the Institute. I would not be where—or who—I am today without VMI. Through the generosity of an alumni donor, I received a full undergraduate education through the Institute Scholars program. Without that opportunity, I would not have been able to attend any undergraduate institution, much less VMI. That investment did not simply fund a degree; it fundamentally altered my life trajectory and enabled decades of service in medicine, public health, and leadership. VMI instilled in me a deep and enduring commitment to honor and integrity through its single-sanction Honor System. These were not abstract ideals, but daily expectations that shaped my character and professional identity. The lessons of accountability and ethical conduct learned at VMI have guided me throughout my career. Academically, VMI provided a rigorous, top-tier education in the sciences. I did not fully appreciate its value until medical school and residency, where it became clear that I had been trained to think critically, master complex concepts, and truly learn—not merely prepare for examinations. This foundation distinguished me from peers educated at many highly regarded institutions and continues to serve me to this day. Equally important, VMI taught resilience and perseverance. I learned that essential tasks must still be completed under stress, fatigue, and adversity. I learned to continue moving forward when circumstances were difficult and when others became uncomfortable. These habits have proven indispensable in both military and civilian leadership roles. Through the Corps’ rank system and class structure, VMI provided me with early leadership responsibilities and the opportunity to learn from mistakes in a structured, values-based environment. This experience prepared me to lead soldiers and professional teams effectively, without having to make foundational leadership errors when the stakes were higher. VMI also provided lifelong bonds. The Brother Rats I gained there became a family and a lasting support network. Physically, VMI transformed me from an overweight adolescent into a healthy, disciplined adult—a commitment to fitness and self-discipline that I maintain nearly thirty years later. It also taught me to live simply, to distinguish between wants and needs, and to delay immediate gratification in pursuit of long-term goals. VMI is not without challenges, and like all historic institutions, it must continue to evolve and improve. However, it is fundamentally a good institution that delivers exceptional value to the Commonwealth. For cadets who successfully graduate, the return on public investment is substantial, measurable, and enduring. I respectfully urge you to consider these outcomes when evaluating HB 1377. Continued state support for VMI is an investment in principled leadership, public service, and the long-term benefit of Virginia.

I arrived at VMI in 1973 as a young man full of juvenile ideas. The institution had no patience for me and immediately demonstrated my shortcomings and showed me the strength to overcome them. More importantly, I reinforced my belief in the absolute need for truth and honesty in a society made up of individuals from all over the world. VMI is an institution that needs to be championed.

Sirs : I am a VMI grad, former U S Army Captain and combat veteran of the 101st Airborne. i am trying to figure out any possible reason for eliminating VMI . The Institute has made me the man i am today, an effective combat leader and business owner. I do not need to tell you of the great leaders VMI has produced. GEN George Marshall comes to mind. I dont need to tell you of the high standing VMI enjoys. So please tell me what you aim to accomplish in the destruction of VMI. And, respectfully, cease and desist.

To the Honorable Members of the House Rules Committee, I am writing to express my strong and unwavering opposition to House Bill 1377, which proposes a study to determine whether the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) should continue to receive state funding. This bill represents a direct threat to an institution that has profoundly and positively shaped my family and countless others, and which stands as a unique and invaluable asset to the Commonwealth of Virginia. While I am not a VMI alumnus, I am the proud father of three sons who are. I have personally invested in their education at the Institute, utilizing my own resources and the Virginia 529 Plan, because I believe in the transformative power of the VMI experience. It is an education that forges not just scholars, but leaders of character, discipline, and unwavering integrity. The "whole person" education my sons received at VMI, which combines a rigorous academic curriculum with the demanding structure of the regimental system, prepared them for lives of service and success. Two of my sons are now serving our nation with distinction in the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army. My third son is a successful Data Scientist, applying the analytical and problem-solving skills honed at VMI to the private sector. Their achievements are a living testament to VMI's mission to produce "Citizen Soldiers" who contribute to our society in myriad ways. The suggestion that VMI's state funding should be questioned is deeply concerning. For many Virginia families, including my own, the affordability of a VMI education is made possible through the Commonwealth's support. Without this funding, VMI would be forced to become a private institution, and the cost would become prohibitive for many of the bright, dedicated young men and women who seek to attend. This would be a tremendous loss for Virginia, as it would limit access to this unique leadership training ground to only the wealthiest among us. The education and leadership development provided by VMI is a significant return on investment for the Commonwealth. The graduates who go on to serve in our armed forces, and those who become leaders in business, government, and their communities, all contribute to the strength and prosperity of Virginia and the nation. To initiate a study questioning the value of VMI is to question the value of leadership, honor, and service itself. I urge you to recognize the immense and positive impact of VMI and to reject House Bill 1377. The future of this historic and vital institution, and the future of the citizen-soldiers it produces, depends on your support. Thank you for your time and for your consideration of this critical matter. Sincerely, Drew B. Miller LtCol USMC (Ret.) Virginia Beach, VA

I am a mother of six sons and four have either graduated from VMI or are currently there. Our youngest son is a third year, on the football team, on Dean‘s list and achieves rank. Our sons became incredible young men graduating from VMI and contributing to Virginia’s future. One son has chosen to dedicate his life as an army officer and another with the Virginia National Guard. One is a mechanical engineering major who now works with nuclear subs. We are begging you to not change the education at VMI. My son currently at VMI called us in tears, wondering how he could afford his last year at VMI if it becomes a private institution! In the military world, everyone is equal! The rich history of VMI is a fact that cannot be changed. Please do not form a task force. Please do not remove the VMI board of visitors. Please do not implement DEI. Please do not use an HBCU college to oversee the decisions at a military college.

VMI had a profound impact and change on my life as a young man. The system is designed to change young men and women for the better. The values, habits, and skills I learned at VMI set the framework that allowed me to succeed in the military. VMI is an esteemed institution that ought to continue to receive state funding.

I am writing as a proud parent of a Virginia Military Institute graduate, Class of 2017, to oppose HB1377 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 am expressing my full support of Virginia Military Institute (VMI). I am a 1974 graduate who benefitted tremendously from my experiences at VMI. As a native Virginia, VMI provided the perfect opportunity for me to: 1) obtain a great education, 2) development of physical and mental capabilities, 3) a bond with fellow cadets which has lasted more than 50 years. VMI gave me the tools and confidence to enter the United States Air Force after graduation. My success in the Air Force for a 28-year career was a direct result of the experiences and education at VMI. I worked in, travelled to or visited 26 countries during my tenure in the Air Force. I commanded three units which supported critical national security intelligence gathering units of the U-2 and SR-71 operations at Beale AFB, CA; a mobile communications unit in Germany supporting United States European Command area of operations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East; and global Airborne Warning and Control Aircraft (AWACS) operations based at Tinker AFB, OK. In addition, I was a Director of Command and Control, Communications and Computer Systems in Saudi Arabia during Operation Southern Watch in Saudi Arabia and Operation Desert Fox. I was very successful at these and other positions in the Air Force because of the education and the development of critical thinking skills at VMI. The Virginia General Assembly should not do anything that would jeopardize the chemistry, focus and mission of VMI. VMI is a great model of what colleges should be doing -- giving each cadet the opportunity to excel, testing an individual under stress to build character and bonds with others, and providing a college degree that means something in civilian or military communities. Keep State Funding of VMI

To whom it may concern, I am the mother of a VMI graduate and wish to urge caution in the evaluation and next steps with VMI. I am a democrat, a recently retired professional working in IT big data center infrastructure and technology leadership. I understood and supported the removal of General Pea and the instantiation of General Wins and DEI program. My son was in his last year when that took place and the corps supported those moves. This school is vital for certain young people and there is nothing else like it which could replace its value. My son was forever transformed from an under achiever to a goal oriented accountable driven man. VMI showed him how to see the world differently, empowered him, breaking down his fear and building up his confidence. Now he is able to withstand the stresses and ups and downs unlike any of his peers from other institutions (which is a real challenge for young people these days). There is no excuse for racism and sexism and VMI needs to be forced to let go of the traditions celebrating the civil war, and retain what is unique and very valuable. If VMI failed to address concerns and furthers them, focus on the leadership there and force action holding them accountable. As a minority, it is more impactful to see accountability and change.

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 proud father of a recent 2024 graduate of VMI I encourage all delegates to embrace VMI and encourage each and every one affiliated with it as I personally know and believe that VMi has made great strides into the 21st century’s challenges and progress alike. My son matriculated during the summer of 2020 and the corp has already endured a great deal of scrutiny already at the hands of the Commonwealth of VA. Please plan your own visits and take in the VMI experience on your own, as a citizen, a parent or a delegate interested in meeting the great men and women that VMI is producing past and current. I personally believe that VMI deserves accolades rather than derision and further scrutiny at this current time. Your no votes on this and any further measure that could be perceived as a challenge to VMI’s mission of citizen soldiers and servants of the Commonwealth is appreciated. To look for racism and discrimination without end and to continue to entertain comment from students that could not accept its rigor and challenge has little value when you look at the greater overall good VMI provides. Please end the onslaught and attempts to slander what my family considers as the best value and option for anyone seeking a focused, spartan and satisfying experience as that can be found at VMI. Thank you for your consideration and your no votes on any bill that may come to challenge the existence and funding of this great Va Institution.

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.

To the Honorable Members of the House Rules Committee, I am writing to voice my strong opposition to HB 1377, which proposes a study to reconsider the state’s financial support of the Virginia Military Institute. As someone whose life was profoundly shaped by the VMI experience, I believe that withdrawing state support would be a disservice to the Commonwealth and future generations of Virginia’s leaders. The Value of the VMI Experience VMI is more than a college; it is a leadership laboratory that produces citizens who are uniquely prepared to serve Virginia in times of peace and crisis. My time at the Institute provided me with: -Unrivaled Discipline: The "Rat Line" and the regimental system taught me that resilience is built through shared hardship and accountability—lessons that have been the bedrock of my professional career. -The Honor Code: Living under a system where "a cadet does not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do" instilled a sense of integrity that I carry into everything that I do. -Civic Responsibility: VMI’s mission is to produce "citizen-soldiers." Whether in military service or the private sector, VMI graduates are historically over-represented in community leadership and public service roles within Virginia. State Funding Matters.The Commonwealth’s investment in VMI ensures that this unique path remains accessible to Virginians of all economic backgrounds. Accessibility: Removing state funding would force tuition to astronomical levels, turning a merit-based institution into an exclusive enclave for the wealthy. Economic Impact: VMI graduates populate Virginia’s engineering, tech, and legislative sectors. The state’s modest investment in the Institute returns ten-fold in the form of a highly skilled, ethically grounded workforce. Institutional Continuity: A study aimed at defunding is a study aimed at dismantling. VMI’s model requires a partnership with the state to maintain its status as a public institution dedicated to the public good. The "VMI experience" changed the trajectory of my life, giving me the tools to contribute meaningfully to our society. To question the state’s funding of VMI is to question the value of the very leadership and character that Virginia needs most right now. I respectfully urge the Committee to table HB 1377 indefinitely.

As a proud VMI alumnus, I must also address House Bill 1377, which seeks to establish the Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force. This bill, introduced by Delegate Dan Helmer and currently in committee, would create a group to study and evaluate VMI's status as a state-sponsored institution—including whether it should continue receiving state funding. While framed as a review, this measure joins HB 1374 in questioning the Institute's value and public benefit after 185+ years of service to Virginia. My story remains the same: I earned my way to VMI through grit—securing a Division I lacrosse scholarship and in-state tuition while paying my own way. The Institute forged me with unbreakable lessons in integrity and character that never waver. It showed how discipline and hard work open doors. Above all, the brotherhood born from shared hardship is a lifelong treasure stronger than most bonds. These principles weren't theoretical; they were forged daily in VMI's demanding environment. VMI's contributions extend far beyond individuals. Lt. Gen. David Furness '87 testified powerfully on January 23, 2026, before a House subcommittee, reaffirming our mission: developing leaders of honor, integrity, and selfless service. In response to these bills, the VMI Alumni Agencies are rallying support, including a full-page ad in the Richmond Times-Dispatch highlighting proven success metrics. VMI isn't merely an educational institution—it's a vital part of Virginia's military tradition and leadership pipeline. Yet these bills arise amid recent political intrusions. Over the past six years, external pressures have pushed DEI initiatives that, in my view, sometimes elevate ideology above VMI's core of merit, resilience, and tradition. This has complicated the rigorous, time-honored path to earning a VMI degree. Politics should not meddle in a state military college's operations. Rather than launching studies that imply doubt about VMI's worthiness for funding, we should safeguard its independence and autonomy to preserve its excellence free from partisan agendas. Why pursue this task force, Delegate Helmer? VMI has repeatedly demonstrated its value through alumni who serve Virginia and the nation with distinction—in uniform, public service, and beyond. Questioning state support without clear evidence of failure risks eroding a legacy that benefits the Commonwealth. Virginians deserve efforts to strengthen proven institutions, not scrutinize them unnecessarily. I'm profoundly grateful for my hard-earned VMI experience—it transformed my life. I urge the relevant committees to reject or table HB 1377 and focus on constructive support for VMI's mission. Protect what works so future generations can gain the same opportunities. I encourage reviewing the VMI Alumni Agencies' ad and Lt. Gen. Furness's testimony for the complete picture of VMI's impact. Thank you for considering this perspective. John J. Daniel Class of 2020

Dear Members of the Rules Committee, I write to you today with a sense of profound urgency to request that you Table or Pass By Indefinitely House Bill 1377. While the stated intent of this legislation may be to review state resources, the underlying framework of the bill appears to be a politically motivated strike against a unique and historical state institution. HB 1377 is built upon fundamentally flawed premises that risk inflicting irreparable financial and educational damage upon the Commonwealth and her constituents. The surge in market demand for a VMI education proves that the Institute is a modern, thriving model rather than an antiquated relic. Matriculation numbers for the Classes of 2027 and 2028 have rebounded significantly, proving that students and parents across Virginia are actively seeking the high-accountability, disciplined environment that VMI provides. These families are voting with their feet, choosing a school that prioritizes meritocracy, a strict Honor Code, and the "Spartan" lifestyle over more permissive environments found elsewhere. We should not dismantle a model that is clearly working and provides one of the few remaining alternatives to the heavily politicized university environments subsidized by ALL taxpayers, ~50% of whom are Republicans and also your constituents. There is immense value in ensuring that Virginia’s citizens have a diversity of educational options as diverse as the citizens themselves. It is also essential to correct the record regarding VMI’s history and governance, which have been unfairly characterized by inflammatory language in this bill. References to "treason" willfully ignore the federal legal frameworks—including the Amnesty of 1868 and Public Law 85-425—that reconciled our nation over a century ago. This narrative further discounts the thousands of men and women of exceptional character who have led this nation in the years following the Civil War. Furthermore, recent governance decisions by the Board of Visitors regarding the Superintendent were necessary actions to correct "mission drift" and ensure the school remains focused on its core purpose of producing citizen-soldiers through its unique adversarial system. This was not political posturing, but responsible stewardship of the Institute's rigorous standards. A simple, honest discussion with current Cadets would reveal that morale and institutional standards have improved significantly under the new leadership. Finally, the committee must recognize that for any oversight or investigation to be credible, the proposed task force must be balanced and inclusive. The current proposal lacks the necessary representation to reach an objective conclusion. Any review of VMI must include equal representation from across the political spectrum, alongside alumni and parents of current students or recent graduates. Without the input of those who live the VMI experience, the task force will lack the insight needed for a fair assessment, and its conclusions will be easily disregarded as partisan. VMI is a "hidden gem" of the Commonwealth—a unique asset producing high-earning graduates and military leaders at a bargain to the taxpayer. Please do not let partisan narratives dismantle a system that has served Virginia and the nation with distinction for 187 years. V/R, Paul Fraser SSGT USAF, Disabled Veteran, GWOT Father of Serenity Fraser, a female STEM Student and USAF Scholarship Recipient, VMI, Class of 2028

Our daughter is a proud graduate of the ‘14 class at VMI. She will pin Major in the United States Army next month. The VMI education was pivotal to her confidence and leadership skills. Furthermore, as a Father of a William and Mary and Hollins University graduates, the VMI learning experience is second to none. As a final note, the Coaches, Professors and Alumni I have had the pleasure to meet. are some of the finest individuals I have ever known.

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.

As a proud alumni of the honorable and respected Virginia Military Institute, I strongly oppose the bills to defund VMI and move the Board of Visitors to VSU. VMI has a long and storied history of producing men and women of character. It has produced numerous politicians, generals, Medal of Honor recipients, congressmen at the national and state levels, and so many more. Choosing to move money elsewhere will detract from their mission to provide citizen soldiers to the nation at a time when our nation needs it most. Please reconsider this bill.

Subject: Support for Protecting VMI’s Mission and Opposing Measures That Undermine It Honorable Virginia House Representatives , As a member of the Virginia Military Institute Class of 1980, I write to express my strong opposition to legislation that would impose additional state controls or restrictions on VMI’s mission, funding, or operations. VMI is a singular institution in American higher education. There is no other school like it—its rigorous military system, its academic excellence, and its uncompromising Honor Code have shaped generations of leaders in both the civilian and military spheres. I recently celebrated my 45th reunion, and the strength of the VMI spirit among my classmates reaffirmed just how deeply the Institute’s values endure. George C. Marshall, one of VMI’s most illustrious alumni, believed profoundly in the Institute’s ability to produce citizen‑soldiers who serve with integrity, discipline, and purpose. That mission remains vital today, and it depends on allowing VMI to operate according to the principles that have guided it for more than 180 years. VMI is not a typical state university. Its uniqueness is precisely why it must retain the autonomy necessary to uphold its standards and traditions. Any legislation that threatens its independence—whether through funding mechanisms, oversight changes, or mission‑altering mandates—risks weakening an institution that has served Virginia and the nation with distinction. The Commonwealth should be proud to have VMI within its borders. Rather than constraining it, Virginia should be doing everything possible to support and maintain this prestigious and historically significant institute. The values VMI instills—honor, service, accountability—are values our society needs now more than ever. For these reasons, I urge you to oppose this bill and to stand firmly in support of VMI’s continued independence and mission. Respectfully, Steven R. Roberts VMI Class of 1980 9106442032

As a 2019 graduate of VMI, the Institute had a very positive impact on my life. Firstly, VMI gave me the opportunity to receive a stellar education in a small-school setting, one where I was exposed to a wide variety of challenging viewpoints from gifted professors. I never felt like my education was in any way stilted, limited, or bound by the orthodoxies of any political creed. Secondly, VMI prepared me for a career in public service. No other institution in VA is as focused on preparing its graduates to shoulder the burdens of their communities and take an active role on the frontlines of whatever challenges may confront their country, state, or city. Many graduates have paid for this idealism with their lives. The Institute has had its faults, its challenges, and must continue to grow and develop as we all must grow and develop. It is still, however, a credit to the state of Virginia, and will be as long as it is allowed to be.

I would like to express my opposition to HB1377. I am a 1991 graduate of VMI. As someone who spent 4 years as a cadet at this institution, I can personally attest to the invaluable benefits afforded by the profoundly unique VMI experience. It is indisputable that VMI provides an education of a quality that is among the best in the state, and arguably in the nation, in terms of public colleges. A brief investigation of state and national college rankings will corroborate this statement. But what has made VMI a notable standout in Virginia’s educational landscape for over 185 years is what it provides cadets that is above and beyond academics alone. VMI’s core mission is providing a quality education while ALSO developing exceptional character and leadership skills. Through rigorous military-based training and team building programs, young men and women are instilled with the highest levels of integrity, honor, and self-confidence. They are conditioned to strive for excellence - to be the best they can be at anything they put their mind and hands to. They are also taught about the importance of teamwork; VMI men and women understand that a group of people has the best chance of achieving its collective goals when everyone is working together to support the group, each one contributing their part under the guidance of effective leaders. The ultimate result of the comprehensive VMI experience is alumni who are prepared to be effective leaders in the US armed forces, their communities, and industry. Companies and organizations in Virginia and around the country know the reputation of VMI. That’s why 97% of alumni are employed or accepted into graduate programs within 5 months of graduation. Before I matriculated at VMI, I had little self-confidence and never imagined that I could ever function in a leadership capacity. VMI helped me mature quickly and instilled within me a desire to persevere and never give up on anything. In less than a year, I went from being a young boy terrified of the world outside of my small Virginia hometown to becoming a man for whom failure can never be an option. This has served me well throughout my career spanning 35 years. I was commissioned into the Air Force upon graduating from VMI and served as a communications officer, rising to the rank of captain before transitioning to commercial industry as a military communications specialist. In my current place of employment, I have served as the lead project manager for multiple military airborne communications products, leading teams of hardware and software engineers in the development of communications capabilities critical to our warfighters. I know without a doubt that my ability and opportunity to lead these exciting endeavors would not have been possible without my experience at VMI. That there are state legislators hostile toward this institution and its mission is disheartening and unfathomable. No one can argue that our country needs strong leaders with exceptional integrity and character now more than ever. How can state leaders charged with securing the best possible future for Virginia consider in good conscience the removal of support of an institution that provides an enormous opportunity to build up leaders in our communities? How can such an opportunity not be considered a tremendous asset to the state? I respectfully invite the legislature to carefully consider the legacy they will leave behind as a result of their actions on this bill.

I am a senior at the Virginia Military Institute and VMI has had an extremely positive influence on my life. In the time that I have been at VMI, I have never seen racist, sexist, or anti-American behavior tolerated. Currently, our class president and regimental commander are both African American and they are two of the most beloved cadets in the corps. Most cadets do not even know what the "lost cause" ideology of the Confederacy is, and it is not something discussed or taught at VMI. Hearing that VMI is known for the "lost cause" is extremely insulting to all of the thousands of alumni who faithfully serve our nation and Virginia every day. We wear the American flag on our uniforms every day and we raise the American flag and the Virginian flag every morning. I have only been inspired to serve my country more since attending VMI and I plan on commissioning in the United States Marine Corps in May with our regimental commander, who is one of my closest friends. It only takes one look at our Hall of Valor or at the walls next to the Inscription on the Parapet to see the Purple Hearts and the names of prior VMI cadets who selflessly sacrificed everything for every American and Virginian. As a Purple Heart State, I know Virginia sees and recognizes the value of VMI as priceless and I pray that Virginia continues to allow VMI to produce exemplary men and women of character.

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 especially concerns proposed HB1377. 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.

Thanks for the opportunity to offer feedback on Bill 1377. I am neither a VMI alum nor parent of a cadet. My connection to VMI is as a volunteer docent in the VMI Museum system. I have served in that capacity for the past 6 years. In addition, I have a large number of friends and professional colleagues who have graduated from the Institute. Without exception all of the individuals I have been associated with over many years are among the finest individuals with whom it has ever been my privilege to work. That does not happen by accident. VMI instills the values, leadership lessons and skills through a unique environment that makes the young people who attend the Institute fine individuals. VMI has served the Commonwealth and the nation since 1839 contributing leadership to both military and private sectors. Continuing state sponsorship is vital to the ongoing mission of VMI and scholarship support for those who might otherwise not be able to attend. Those who attend VMI do so in pursuit of excellence. That commitment is one that deserves the support of the Commonwealth. Virginia benefits greatly from VMI graduates. Supporting VMI with state funds is an investment in our collective future.

I am writing to respectfully express my opposition to House Bill 1377, 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 Bills1377 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 opposeHouse Bill 1377 and to continue supporting Virginia Military Institute as a cornerstone of leadership, service, and excellence in the Commonwealth.

As a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, I find HB1377—establishing a “Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force”—to be offensive, factually wrong, and deeply misguided. This legislation is not a good-faith effort to improve VMI. It ignores years of documented reform and instead rehashes an outdated narrative that no longer reflects reality. It feels less like oversight and more like punishment. The premise of this bill rests on the idea that VMI has failed to change. That is simply false. Over the last several years, VMI has undergone sweeping and highly visible reforms under direct pressure from the Commonwealth: • The Stonewall Jackson statue was removed. • The New Market Parade has been renamed a Memorial Parade, explicitly reframed to honor sacrifice rather than glorify the Confederacy. • Cadets no longer take the oath at the New Market Battlefield. • Confederate symbolism, language, and traditions have been eliminated or fundamentally recontextualized. • Governance and oversight reforms have already been imposed. These were not symbolic gestures. They were controversial, difficult, and deeply disruptive to long-standing traditions. They happened anyway—because VMI complied with lawful directives and accepted accountability. HB1377 proceeds as if none of this occurred. That is not responsible oversight. It is willful disregard for facts. VMI is already one of the most scrutinized public institutions in Virginia. It answers to a Governor-appointed Board of Visitors, state funding controls, audits, accreditation standards, and federal law. Singling it out—again—for a special advisory task force raises an obvious question: why VMI, and why now? The answer appears political, not substantive. This bill sends a corrosive message to cadets, faculty, and alumni: that no amount of reform will ever be sufficient, and that compliance only invites further punishment. That approach undermines trust, morale, and the credibility of the Commonwealth’s own governance. VMI is not a conventional university. Its mission is to produce leaders through discipline, stress, and accountability. That rigor is not evidence of malice or discrimination—it is the institution’s purpose. Continued politicized oversight that ignores this reality risks undermining the very mission Virginia claims to value. Cadets today are not avatars of the past. They are young Virginians—men and women of all backgrounds—who chose one of the most demanding educational paths available. HB1377 treats them as presumptively guilty anyway. That is not reform. It is vindictiveness codified into law. Virginia can and should demand accountability. But it should also recognize progress. HB1377 does not. It reopens settled issues, disregards real change, and ensures that VMI remains a permanent political target regardless of its actions. That is why this bill is wrong.

VMI benefits the entire country and the world. It should be funded by the nation. Just look at the stellarproduct. Moreover, the Institute should not be restricted by the percentage of out of state students. Open it up by grades snd board scores from wherever in the US.

My name is Tim Hipp, and I am here to offer testimony based on direct, lived experience with the Virginia Military Institute. I am not speaking hypothetically. I am a VMI parent. I have one child who has graduated from Virginia Military Institute, one currently enrolled as a cadet, one who has been accepted and 2 more who fully intend to attend. That means I am not observing VMI from the outside—I have watched its impact unfold in real time, across different personalities, strengths, struggles, and stages of maturity. There is no other institution in the Commonwealth of Virginia that develops leadership the way VMI does. That statement is not about prestige or tradition for tradition’s sake. It is about outcomes. VMI does not merely teach leadership as a concept. It forges it through discipline, accountability, structure, and honor; day after day, under pressure, without shortcuts. Leadership at VMI is not theoretical. It is practiced when you are tired, uncomfortable, stressed, and responsible for others. That distinction matters. The Rat Line alone reveals something most institutions never touch: character is formed through standards that do not bend to convenience. Cadets learn quickly that excuses do not move systems, that personal comfort is secondary to duty, and that trust; once broken; has real consequences. These lessons cannot be simulated in classrooms or replaced with lectures on values. I have watched my children leave VMI more grounded, more self-aware, more resilient, and more capable of leading themselves before attempting to lead others. They carry an internal compass shaped by honor, discipline, and responsibility—qualities our society desperately needs but rarely knows how to cultivate. If the Commonwealth wishes to study leadership development, resilience, ethical decision-making, or long-term civic contribution, VMI should not be dismantled or diluted. It should be studied, protected, and emulated. The men and women who graduate from VMI consistently demonstrate: – A bias toward responsibility rather than entitlement – The ability to function under pressure without collapsing – Respect for institutions, hierarchy, and earned authority – A commitment to service that extends well beyond military careers These outcomes are not accidental. They are the result of a deliberately demanding system that refuses to lower standards in response to cultural discomfort. Leadership is not formed by comfort. Honor is not shaped by consensus. Discipline is not learned through accommodation. VMI understands this in a way few institutions still do. Bill 1377 matters because it recognizes that preserving an institution like VMI is not about nostalgia; it is about the future. It is about whether Virginia will continue to produce leaders who can shoulder responsibility, make hard decisions, and place duty above self. As a parent, as a citizen, and as someone raising the next generation of Virginians, I can say this without hesitation: weakening VMI would not modernize leadership. It would impoverish it. Thank you for the opportunity to provide this testimony.

Chairman, Members of the Committee: My name is Martin Fentress Jr. I am the proud parent of a current cadet at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and VMI Parents Council member. I stand in strong opposition to HB 1377, which proposes the creation of a “Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force” to study whether VMI should continue as a state-sponsored institution. VMI is not just a public college; it is a distinctive military leadership laboratory charged with producing disciplined, capable leaders prepared for service to state and nation. Its regimental structure, emphasis on merit over immutable characteristics, and time-tested traditions represent a system that works — evidenced by generations of successful officers serving in uniform. It is precisely these traditional values that make VMI an easy target for lawmakers seeking to score political points under the guise of “study” or “reform.” The timing and purpose of HB 1377 underscore its political nature. Rather than addressing tangible performance or mission-related deficiencies, this task force would open up VMI to ideological review and political second-guessing, including re-evaluating whether military education is uniquely valuable compared to other higher education options — a question no other senior military college or service academy is being asked to justify. Moreover, VMI has recently been swept into partisan conflict over leadership decisions. Last year, controversy erupted when Senator Jennifer Carroll-Foy was accused of attempting to pressure the VMI Board of Visitors regarding the extension of a Superintendent’s contract by tying it to potential budget consequences — an allegation that brought calls for an ethics investigation into political coercion. Although Senator Carroll-Foy denied these actions, the episode highlights how political agendas have infiltrated governance processes that should remain independent. HB 1377’s creation of a task force charged with evaluating VMI’s continued status effectively invites a political witch hunt rather than a sober, mission-focused review. It singles out an institution that stands for tradition, meritocracy, and structured leadership development, values that are sometimes at odds with contemporary political currents. VMI’s regimental system does not measure success by demographic quotas or ideological litmus tests — it measures up or down by performance, resilience, and character. This focus on merit over immutable characteristics is precisely what many parents — including myself — value and what makes VMI a national asset. Rather than subject VMI to a politically motivated study that could jeopardize its existence, this body should be working to support and strengthen its mission — not elevate it as a pawn in partisan battles. I urge you to vote no on HB 1377 and preserve VMI’s independent mission-orientation and value-driven service to the Commonwealth and the nation.

This proposed bill is based on false claims that VMI is not performing as an academic institution. First and foremost I share these metrics. As of 2026, a total of seven Virginia Military Institute (VMI) graduates have been awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration for valor. In comparison, Virginia Tech has produced eight Medal of Honor recipients. Both schools rank among the top non-service academies in the nation for producing recipients of this honor. 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. Alumni Earning Potential (Proxy for Executive Presence) • VMI: Ranked #3 in Virginia for the best alumni salary potential. Mid-career graduates (10+ years experience) earn a median salary of $145,300. • UVA: Historically follows closely; in some rankings, VMI has outpaced UVA in mid-career earnings (e.g., $108,000 for VMI vs. $97,100 for UVA in earlier comparative studies). • Virginia Tech: Consistently ranks in the top 25 public universities for "Best Value" and undergraduate engineering, leading to significant representation in technical and corporate executive roles, though often at a lower median salary than VMI in the first 10-15 years. The Virginia Military Institute (VMI) has produced 11 Rhodes Scholars. The scholarship program at VMI has a long-standing legacy, beginning with two cadets from the Class of 1921. Notable recipients include: • Gregory E. Lippiatt (2009): The most recent recipient, who studied History and English. • Michael N. Lokale (2003): Studied Biology. • Josiah Bunting (1963): Former Superintendent of VMI and author. • Samuel W. Washington & Henry H. Cooke (1921): The first two cadets from VMI to receive the award. For me personally, I place my military and business success on my experience at VMI, that includes twice being awarded the Bronze Star medal during two deployments and becoming a Cybersecurity Executive at the 3rd largest software company in the world.

Dear Members of the House Rules Committee: I write to express strong support for the continued state funding of the Virginia Military Institute and to share how my experience at VMI has impacted me, both in the personal and professional realms of my life, profoundly and quite indelibly. My time at VMI irrevocably shaped who I am today. The Institute instilled in me discipline, accountability, integrity, and resilience-all qualities that surpass both the classroom and the barracks. VMI did not just academics for me; it trained me to lead, to persevere under pressure, and to take ownership of my actions in every environment I enter. As a cadet-athlete, I learned firsthand how VMI's demanding structure develops well-rounded individuals who balance academics, military duties, and athletics with consistent time management, mental toughness, and teamwork. It is on the baseball field that I learned leadership, preparation, and accountability to something larger than myself. The same lessons guide me through my professional life and in the process of building my own business. VMI prepared me for the real world in ways that few institutions can. The emphasis on character, ethical decision-making, and responsibility has directly translated into my ability to lead others, make sound decisions, and remain disciplined in high-pressure professional environments. The expectations that are placed upon cadets at VMI equate to the expectations set by leaders in business, public service, and the private sector. The value of VMI is anything but abstract-it turns out graduates who are reliable, ethical, and ready to make constructive contributions in their communities and the Commonwealth. Serving as a driver in the preparation of leaders serving in the military and business, among countless industries, they carry with them certain values that stand for VMI. For me, personally, VMI was transformational. It provided the foundation to my success, the shaping of my character, and the tools needed both as a professional and entrepreneur. I am very grateful for the education and development accorded to me, and I strongly believe continued state support is necessary to preserve the mission and impact of this exceptional institution. Thank you for your time and consideration to this matter. Respectfully Matt Pita Virginia Military Institute Class of 19

I am Commander Conor Heely, VMI Class of 2005. I am an active duty Navy Commander and have been selected to Captain (0-6). I have commanded a Navy E-6B squadron of 600 people and eight aircraft for nuclear command and control. I attribute my leadership skills, discipline, and integrity to VMI. VMI, a merit-based institution whose core values align with our services, is a critical institution whose ROTC affiliation is cheaper than all service academies, but creates a stronger product than most schools. I choose to serve. VMI gave me the skills to flourish, and to espouse servant leadership to build our next generation and inspire those in my charge to mission success for America. Someday I hope my children, and others, have the opportunity to go to my beloved Virginia Military Institute. Thank you.

Honorable Delegate Phillip A. Scott and Honorable Senator Bryce E. Reeves, I am writing to voice opposition to VA HB 1377, which is exploring the efficacy of VMI receiving state funding. As a 1985 graduate of VMI, I can attest to the value of a VMI education and how this experience set me up for success. The academic rigor and leadership lessons I was exposed to instilled a solid work ethic that served me well during two decades of service in the United States Marine Corps and another 20 years in adult education. Virginia obtains an excellent return on investment when it supports VMI, a unique institution that produces graduates of character who understand service to nation and community. I would hope that any consideration of the utility of VMI would include a detailed, objective study of how many VMI alumni serve their country in uniform as well as how many work in critical jobs within the commonwealth.

I am writing to express strong support for the continued state funding of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). As one of the Commonwealth’s most historic and distinguished institutions, VMI plays a vital role in shaping future leaders, strengthening Virginia’s reputation, and contributing to both the state and local communities in meaningful, measurable ways. For generations, VMI has upheld an exceptional standard of academic rigor, leadership development, and character-building. Its graduates serve in the military, public service, and essential roles across the private sector, bringing honor and recognition back to the Commonwealth. Continued state funding ensures that these opportunities remain accessible to Virginia students from all backgrounds, preserving the Institute’s commitment to excellence and service. Beyond its academic and leadership mission, VMI provides substantial benefits to the local economy. The Institute supports hundreds of jobs, drives tourism, and brings significant economic activity to Lexington and the surrounding areas. The presence of VMI enriches the community, promotes civic engagement, and strengthens regional stability. Losing state support would have far-reaching consequences not only for the students but for the local businesses and families who rely on the vitality VMI brings. State investment in VMI is an investment in Virginia’s future. Maintaining strong funding safeguards the quality of its programs, protects affordability for Virginia families, and ensures that the Institute continues to elevate the Commonwealth’s national standing. I respectfully urge you to continue supporting VMI and to recognize the immense value it provides to our state, our students, and our communities. Sincerely, Jill Brishke

I oppose HB1377. I am a proud mom of a Second Class Cadet and a Navy Wife of 26 years. When our son chose VMI I was surprised. This was definitely not your typical college I had experienced. I was proud of his decision and nervous about how this would go. Within a few weeks after matriculation, I could already see major changes in him. A new found confidence, maturity, and already a love for VMI and his “brother rats”. He embraced VMI, the honor code, and all it stands for. This would NOT have been the outcome at any other school. He has made lifelong friends, learned to be mentally and physically strong in tough situations, and to top it off, joined the Battery Team and gets to fire a cannon (every boy’s dream)! I love to tell people “my son goes to VMI” because I always hear “wow, that’s impressive”. I ask that you oppose this bill and let these men and women who love their school continue on the path to become our future leaders.

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 1377.. 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.

As a 1962 graduate of VMI, I feel that attending VMI was one of the greatest decisions I ever made. I felt that way while I was there from 1958 until 1962 and over 60 years later I still feel the same way. My VMI education not only prepared me better for life but it prepared me academically to attend and graduate from MCV School of Dentistry. While at VMI I learned valuable lessons about integrity, self-discipline and perseverance. The high standards I learned while there are needed more than ever in today’s world and VMI is one of the few places that can instill these standards and qualities.

HB1377’s Threat to the VMI Mission BLUF: HB1377 calls for a formal study to determine whether VMI should continue to receive state funding, implicitly placing the value and legitimacy of the Institute under question. While framed as a neutral review, this bill reinforces a narrative that VMI is fundamentally deficient and risks undermining the standards, stability, and confidence that sustain the institution’s mission, culture, and long-term effectiveness. As an alumnus of VMI, I believe that HB1377 will be detrimental to VMI’s mission and I oppose HB1377 along with any effort to cast doubt on the legitimacy, value, or public benefit of a VMI education. 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. HB1377 places into question the very structure and purpose that make those outcomes possible. While framed as a “study,” the bill signals to the public that VMI’s mission, standards, and outcomes are suspect. That perception alone risks long-term damage by weakening institutional stability and encouraging external pressure to reshape VMI’s standards, culture, and identity to satisfy political narratives rather than mission effectiveness. 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 legislation driven by ideological narratives rather than lived reality will gradually pressure VMI toward admissions, discipline, and policy decisions that emphasize optics 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; singling out VMI for legislative scrutiny based on selective narratives is not responsible oversight—it is political overreach with long-term consequences for future cadets. VMI’s effectiveness depends on clarity of mission, rigor of standards, and confidence in its purpose. Weakening that confidence through legislative action will not improve outcomes; it will erode them gradually and irreversibly. I urge you to reject HB1377 and affirm the value of VMI’s mission and its continued worthiness of state support, while pursuing any necessary improvements through measured, constructive reform—not through legislative efforts that undermine the institution’s legitimacy.

My name is Brentton Fentress, and I am a Second Class Cadet and Hotel Company First Sergeant at the Virginia Military Institute. I respectfully submit this testimony in opposition to House Bill 1377. House Bill 1377 proposes the creation of a task force to reconsider whether VMI should continue as a state-supported institution. While framed as a study, the implication is clear: VMI’s legitimacy is being questioned, not because of performance or outcomes, but because of perception. That distinction matters. VMI is often portrayed as outdated or exclusionary by those who have never lived within its system. The reality is the opposite. VMI’s regimental environment is one of the most intentionally equalizing systems in higher education. Every cadet is stripped of external identity markers and rebuilt under the same expectations, pressures, and standards. Discrimination does not survive in that environment — accountability does. As a cadet leader and instructor to rats, I am responsible for mentoring individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. I teach them the same lessons I was taught: -Respect your fellow cadets -Uphold the Honor Code -Lead with integrity -Earn your position every day These values are not selective. They are universal. HB 1377 suggests that VMI’s mission, culture, or outcomes are sufficiently flawed to warrant reconsideration of its place in Virginia’s public education system. Yet the data tells a different story. VMI consistently produces graduates who: -Complete one of the most demanding undergraduate programs in the Commonwealth -Serve at high rates in the U.S. Armed Forces -Lead in government, industry, and community organizations That is a return on investment few institutions can match. If the concern is whether VMI reflects the Commonwealth it serves, the answer is simple: it does — through service, not symbolism. VMI graduates lead diverse teams in real-world, high-stakes environments where performance and character matter more than labels. HB 1377 does not seek to improve VMI; it places the institution under a cloud of suspicion. That approach risks weakening morale, destabilizing recruitment, and undermining an institution that has served Virginia with distinction for generations. This feels less like constructive evaluation and more like a full-frontal political challenge, made easier because VMI holds fast to traditional values, discipline, and a merit-based system. But those characteristics are not liabilities — they are strengths. I respectfully ask the General Assembly to oppose House Bill 1377 and affirm VMI’s continued role as a state-supported institution that produces leaders of character for the Commonwealth and the nation. Thank you for your time and consideration.

HB1377 runs counter to the core values and principles embodied by VMI. Values such as discipline, leadership, merit, accountability and service (to our nation, state and communities). VMI has a rich history of developing leaders of character who serve Virginia and the nation with integrity and commitment. VMI should be supported, not hindered by legislation that undermines their mission. Rather than imposing measures that deny state funding to VMI, we should be focused on preserving and supporting VMI, an institution that has proven its value for almost 200 years. Weakening or denying state funding to VMI risks eroding the the very qualities that has made VMI successful and respected.

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.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on HB1377. I am opposed to this bill. Establishing an advisory task force for VMI is an unnecessary action regarding this amazing Institution. I am a 1994 graduate and VMI has been a unique and positive experience in my life. VMI reaffirmed a strong moral code, independent thought, and leadership skills that had begun in my youth. My maturity was such that if I had attended a school other than VMI, I may not have had the discipline and perseverance to graduate. The structure at VMI provided a supportive framework for me. VMI taught me to stand for what I believe, support those that need it, and fight tyranny. Characteristics that I see in our State legislature today. Our goals remain aligned and I appreciate the opportunity to work shoulder to shoulder. HB1377 is contrary to our efforts together.

As a proud graduate of VMI, I can say the greatest decision I have ever made in my life is to attend VMI. During my cadetship, I learned valuable lifelong lessons such as integrity, teamwork, self discipline, perseverance, attention to detail and so much more. VMI truly prepares young men and women for the real world unlike any other college or institution this country has to offer. The VMI experience has paid dividends in my personal and professional life. I am a husband and father and feel VMI molded me into the man I am today. At work, I lead my team and have received multiple promotions. VMI was my foundation and I am eternally grateful for it and how it positively affected my life. I will always be grateful for the experience and for what it has provided me.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to House Bill 1377. As a parent of two students who have chosen to attend the Virginia Military Institute, I have seen firsthand the value and purpose of the education it provides—an experience that cannot be replicated in a traditional college environment. My older son is currently a sophomore at VMI. He chose the Institute not primarily for its military affiliation, but for its discipline, structure, and the personal accountability it demands. In just two years, he has grown remarkably as a student, an athlete, and a young adult. The rigor of the program has required him to develop a disciplined schedule that balances the demands of an engineering curriculum, athletic commitments, military responsibilities, and academic preparation. This environment has pushed him to mature in ways that would not have been possible in a typical college setting. We visited several other schools before he made his decision, but none offered the same sense of purpose, challenge, and community that VMI provides. While the Institute is not the right fit for every student, it is an exceptional option for those who seek a structured, demanding, and mission‑driven college experience—one free from many of the distractions common on other campuses. Our younger son, currently a high school senior, has also accepted an offer to attend VMI. He intends to pursue a military career after graduation, and VMI’s academic programs, leadership training, and culture of discipline align perfectly with his goals and aspirations. House Bill 1377 threatens to undermine an institution that has served generations of students who thrive in this unique environment. Limiting or reshaping VMI into something indistinguishable from a conventional college would be a disservice not only to my children, but to countless others who rely on its distinctive model to reach their full potential. The Institute’s values and priorities are clear, and those who have spent time on post understand the professionalism, respect, and accountability that define daily life there. I respectfully urge you not to take actions that would diminish or fundamentally alter VMI. For students who seek this kind of structured, purpose‑driven education, there is no substitute.

The Virginia Military Institute has been the real foundation for my family ever since my grandfather started there in 1958. The education he got didn’t just hand him a diploma - it turned him into someone who could serve proudly in the armed forces and then come back to Virginia and do solid work for the Department of Transportation, helping keep our roads and infrastructure going for everyone here. The things he learned at VMI, like loyalty, doing your duty, honor, and putting service ahead of yourself, stuck with him his whole life. He passed those on to us, and they shaped how our family thinks about responsibility and giving back. That’s why my brother chose to go there too - he wanted to follow that same path. He graduated from VMI and now he’s a captain in the Army, out there every day serving the country the way our grandfather did. VMI gave my family more than just memories; it gave us a way of living that’s carried through generations. It’s about raising people who understand what it means to step up and serve, whether in the military, in state jobs, or wherever life takes them. With everything going on right now about VMI’s future, like the talk around bills that could change how it’s run or who oversees it, I just want to say how much it means to keep the state’s support strong. This place has changed lives for nearly 200 years, including ours, and I truly believe it needs to stay the way it is so more young people from Virginia can experience what it offers. Thank you for taking the time to read my family’s story. VMI has meant the world to us, and I hope it keeps being there for the next generations.

This is shameful! Is there no honor remaining among the political class? This fine Institute has become a victim of political pinball through no fault of its on. House bills 1374 and 1377, each sponsored by military veterans, are attempts to destroy the Institute and its enduring, honorable mission. It continues to produce citizen soldiers today just as it has since 1839. Before any delegate considers moving forward with either one of these bills, look at recent history: By the time the attacks on our nation occurred on 11 Sept 2001, VMI no longer had mandatory commissioning as a requirement for graduation. Yet the percentage of graduates volunteering to serve their nation significantly increased after those attacks, when our nation was at war. Every time the elections in Virginia flip power to one party or the other, so begins another round of VMI political pinball. Both Generals Peay and Wins, each of whom are fine, honorable men, were scapegoated by the changing political winds. Meanwhile, the Institute continues to chug along, silently and continuously producing men and women of honor in its anachronistically unique way, prepared for life and ready to serve as needed. If you do harm to VMI, you do harm to Virginia and to our nation. RVM, Jack Emerson

I strongly oppose HB1377. Virginia Military Institute is an education facility filled with opportunity. I was exposed to numerous amounts of opportunity for education, travel, leadership, and more throughout my time at VMI. It has completely changed my life for the better. I am currently a 2nd LT in the United States Army, which is an opportunity that I would never have been able to explore outside of VMI while simultaneously competing in Division 1 athletics and rigorous academics. VMI produces the best leaders that this nation has to offer because it is the way it is. It is hard and makes each cadet thrive under pressure. I could not speak any more highly of this institution.

I am writing to voice my unwavering support for the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and my complete opposition to HB 1377 and HB 1374. My son graduated from VMI in May 2022 and is currently on active duty with the U.S. Army as an Artillery Officer.  He recently returned from a 9 month overseas deployment to Iraq. VMI is part of the reason he is the outstanding man and Army Officer that he is today!  I strongly urge the Virginia General Assembly to NOT support House Bill 1374, which calls for the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors and places governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors.  I also strongly urge you to NOT support House Bill 1377, which calls for a study to determine whether VMI should continue to receive state funding. If passed, both these Bills would be a disaster for VMI and the State of Virginia. 

Good Day Sir / Ma'am, My name is Travis Korhorn. I am not a constituent of Virginia, but I am an Alumni of the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 2018. I would like to express my support for HB 1377. I believe that VMI has offered me a extremely valuable education. I feel as the education I received has greatly benefit me for future development. Additionally, I feel the military structure, culture, and training had adequately prepared me for joining the military. However, I do agree that VMI has some culture issues relating to racism and sexism. I understand there was initiatives undertaken within the last few years to address these issues but I am not privy to successes or shortcomings. I think HB 1377 would be a good initiative to review the aforementioned initiatives and provide recommendations for further improvement to the school.

I am a proud member of the VMI Class of 1981. I matriculated from E.C. Glass High School in Lynchburg, Virginia. I did not WANT to attend VMI, I knew I HAD to attend VMI. As a young man attending high school in Lynchburg, I thought about my future. I wanted to go to college. Unfortunately, I witnessed too many friends & acquaintances from Glass that had gone before me to other schools in the State only to flunk out after one semester or one year because they fell victim to parties and social life and put their education and future last. I knew that I could fall victim to the same. I remember driving to VMI and interviewing with the Director of Admissions, Col William Buchanan...he was the former Commandant of Cadets. He asked me why VMI should accept me. I was an average student. I was not a scholar, nor was I a top athlete. I really had nothing to offer VMI. I told him that VMI didn't need me, I needed VMI. I wanted the VMI education. I wanted the discipline and rigor. I received y acceptance letter a few weeks after my meeting with Col. Buchannan. It took me 4 1/2 years, but I earned my degree and was commissioned as a 2Lt in the US Army Field Artillery. I took my VMI education and discipline and graduated with honors from the US Army Field Artillery Office Basic Course. I served In Germany and upon my return to the United States, was assigned to be an instructor at the US Army Field Artillery School. I was now teaching graduates from West Point, VMI, the Citadel and many other ROTC programs throughout the country. I was proud to be from VMI and was proud to see VMI graduates coming through the Office Basic Course. VMI graduates stood out among ALL other officers. They were honorable, confident and well rounded young officers. I served for over 20 years in the Army Reserve and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. I also served in the pharmaceutical industry on various positions of increased responsibility in field sales, field sales management, training and operations. I also earned a Masters Degree in Marketing. This skinny, non descript kid from Lynchburg, Virginia took his VMI education and experience and served my country for over 20 years. I have led teams of over 100 people and have won distinguished sales awards. How can you possibly question the mission and intent of an institution that has produced the likes of General George C. Marshall. My own roommate for the entire cadetship earned the Society of the Cincinnatus Medal upon graduation. He was top in his class, a scholarship basketball player and is one of the finest men I know. Is this witch hunt being performed across the State in other colleges or Universities or is VMI simply being subjected to political showmanship? It is a travesty indeed. VMI can continue to be an "adversarial" environment challenging young men and women and producing honorable graduates that go on to contribute to society in the field of medicine, law, business, academics and defense or it can be a slave to "woke" weakness and liberal politics. All it takes to attend a college or university in Virginia is a suitcase and an admissions check! It takes courage, resolve and purpose to attend the Virginia Military Institute. How many young men & women in Virginia high schools are just like me when I was young. They need VMI! The State legislature should be looking to increase its funding instead of investigating ways to stop its funding.

I do not want to see this bill be passed. This School has been around for 186 years and it's being run great right now. This bill will only bring division and discord. These students deserve to be able to continue with schooling and become the leaders this country deserves without people sticking their noses in things they don't understand or belong in. There is no better argument than to see the caliber of graduates that come VMI. As a Viginia resident and a Cadet Parent please say no to this bill!!!

I would like to express my opposition for HB1377. 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 waste of tax resources for the State. 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.

Comments Document

I respectfully submit the attached letter for your consideration regarding the matter of VMI. John Plunkett

We do NOT support HB1377. Our son graduated from the Virginia Military Institute and it was an amazing to see the transformation of a young boy into a responsible, disciplined, and stalwart young man. The principles of the Institute have transformed young men for over a century and is a credit to the state of Virginia and to the United States. We need to continue to support the Institute and its principles.

I am registering my vehement opposition to HB 1377. 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 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.

I oppose HB1377. I am a proud VMI Class of 1980 graduate. VMI provided to me and still offers a "complete" educational program that challenges, demands and generates excellence in the Corps of Cadets Honor and Integrity, high academic standards and a Brotherhood and comradery that continues for life. I was disqualified to serve in the military, so I entered the civilian work force immediately at graduation. Most of my career has been in the Concrete Pipe & Precast business where much of the work is directed toward highway construction and transportation. I am very proud of the contributions that my company made to Virginia's highway system (VDOT). VMI has produced several VDOT Chief Engineers and other dedicated public servants. I know that my 4 years at VMI prepared me very well to manage a successful business, employing over 700 people dedicated to public safety and transportation. VMI graduates are "shovel ready" for leadership positions and are ready to adapt and contribute to society in the Armed Forces or in Civilian Businesses. This is a very good thing that we should strive to preserve.

I oppose HB1377 because it threatens the mission, independence, and long-term viability of the Virginia Military Institute. 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. HB1377 calls for a study to determine whether VMI should continue receiving state funding. From my perspective as a graduate and Army officer, this creates uncertainty for an institution whose mission depends on stability and long-term planning. VMI is one of the nation’s largest producers of commissioned officers outside the federal service academies and consistently sends graduates into military and civilian leadership. Questioning its continued support sends a message that its mission is disposable at a time when fewer Americans are willing to serve. 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 HB1377 and to support the mission of the Virginia Military Institute and the young men and women who choose to challenge themselves there.

I am a VMI alumnus that grew up in Radford, VA. Although I no longer vote in VA, I want to tell you that defunding VMI is a terrible idea, and is obviously political retribution for VMIs policies to re-establish fairness, honor and merit-based success. I am a product of that environment, having retired as an Army Colonel. I know with all certainty that I would not have found the success that I did without VMI. A small college, with a regimented environment, an honor code that matters and purpose to become part of something greater than myself was exactly what I needed. As did many or all of my classmates. VMI is not just a Virginia institution, it is a globally recognized producer of leaders. I can’t count the number of international military and political leaders I have met in my career that openly respected the quality of VMIs reputation. I truly hope the Virginia legislature will choose common sense, and not approve this bill. Even the introduction of this bill is going to reduce applications and matriculation this coming fall semester, as it drives uncertainty. This bill hurts our nation.

Thank you for allowing the opportunity for feedback. I hope that it is actually considered in a democratic way and not turned down due to the blatant partisan acts that are currently happening. I am a class of 2014 graduate and couldn’t be more grateful for the experience I had at VMI. It’s turned me into the person I am today - hard working, able to work with others, and strong moral fiber. Just ask those I surround myself with. I haven’t always appreciated VMI the way I do now. After I graduated, I resented VMI for how hard it and strict it was. It didn’t seem fair. But as I got older and experienced the real world, I realized that’s what VMI was preparing me for. Now I’m not saying life is a breeze - because it isn’t - but I’m able to face adversity and challenges successfully because I learned how to do that through my experience at VMI. And I didn’t just do it alone - I did it with my class of 2014, and the entire corps of cadets. We faced the same challenges together and came out the other side successfully. I don’t believe, I know that’s what makes VMI so special. The bond it fostered is lifelong and unique to VMI alone. So I ask you one question, if VMI is such a place that needs “ urgent need for the Commonwealth to reevaluate how governing boards are appointed, ensuring they are composed of individuals dedicated to upholding the quality, independence, and reputation of our institutions,” then why and how has it produced such successful leaders and alumni for the past 187 years? It’s not by chance or luck. It’s because of the leaders it produces and those who are involved in the institution.

I am opposed to HB 1377. I am a 2005 graduate of VMI. 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. Ultimately, 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 the Institute the inclusive and honorable place it has shown it can be. For the cadets who truly need it, the VMI experience simply cannot be replicated with an augmented corps at Virginia Tech or other similar solution. Please preserve our state funding and help VMI reach its full promise.

I am writing to express my grave concerns of the partisan and spiteful views expressed in the authorship of HB 1377 and HB 1374. It is abundantly clear that the author and sponsors of the bills neither attended nor have spent any amount of time on post. VMI is a place that serves a clear and distinct purpose that is neither similar nor replicated any where else within the state or surrounding states. To embark down the path suggested in this bill is for a singular purpose, to shut down the Virginia Military Institute. To even suggest that the societal impact of an organization that has existed for nearly two hundred years could be determined in a matter of mere months is pure nonsense with a single outcome predetermined. As a graduate of the class of 2003, VMI prepared me for a lifetime of service to my community, business and family. Its focus on creating selfless citizen soldiers is neither a waste of time and resources nor a blight on the State of VA as this bill suggests. Please reject the partisan behavior of the author of this bill and instead focus your time on running the commonwealth of VA in a way that would bring benefit to all citizens of this great state.

VMI should continue to receive state funding. The institution builds leaders and strong citizens. My son learned the importance of sacrifice, dedication, and integrity during his four years at this institution. At the same time, he partook in many activities that build synergy, collaboration, understanding, and patience with the diverse experiences in preparation for military service.

I 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. His rigorous academics at VMI 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 ability 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- which means higher tax payers 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 We find it insulting to suggest that his degree should be tainted with insults and slander The fact that someone who was lucky enough to receive scholarship monies should slander the very school which would prepare them for an amazing future should they perform is insulting to every hard working student at or from VMI 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 excelled

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 1377. VMI has produced generations of honorable citizen soldiers whose contributions to the commonwealth and our nation are both selfless and above reproach. The Institute's specialized curriculum is designed for those who have chosen to pursue an out-of-the-ordinary experience and ultimately emerge as a strong, capable group of individuals unified by a mindset that transforms and effects positive change. This is the experience my son craved and received as a VMI cadet. He embraced the rigorous curriculum and physical requirements while playing a DI sport and preparing to commission as a US Navy officer. He made lasting friendships through shared experiences, chose opportunities to lead and mentor other cadets, and gained knowledge from the faculty and staff to prepare him for his next mission. This honorable Institution deserves to continue receiving financial support from the Virginia taxpayers based on the superior citizen soldiers it continues to produce after more than 185 years in operation. Please ensure you review and honor the inputs of other cadets and their families who have first-hand experience with the VMI experience and examine it on its own merits rather than comparing it to other "ordinary" colleges by those unfamiliar. The responsibility of ensuring that VMI is a place where all cadets are treated with dignity and respect remains 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 subjected to political whims, subverting its staff and cadets' stability which runs counter to the educational mission. Cadets choose to commit fully to VMI’s demanding environment that is challenge enough and anchors their future 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. I sincerely urge members of the General Assembly to oppose HB 1377 and instead continue to provide the appropriate support of VMI to ensure it continues to serve the Commonwealth and its cadets with integrity and honor for generations to come.

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 a VMI graduate of the class of 1963. I was also on the VMI faculty for 41 years and retired from that in 2008. After retiring I served as an adjunct member of the faculty for a number of years, so I have close to 50 total years on the VMI faculty and almost a 70 year association with VMI in one form or another. I grew up in a neighborhood in Richmond that was heavily populated with VMI graduates. My next door neighbor was Stanley R. Navas, president of the class of 1941 who later became the president of Concrete Pipe & Products, a very successful Richmond company. He also served in WWII and was seriously wounded at Anzio where he lost an arm. When I was a boy, he used to take me & his son to VMI often on football weekends, so growing up I visited VMI often and it was only natural that when it came time to choose a college, VMI was my natural choice. I came to VMI a very lackluster student with little direction for my life. VMI taught me how to study and succeed in an academic environment and barracks life taught me how to interact with all types of people. I think many people who don’t know much about VMI think that it is just a regular college with everyone wearing a uniform and taking ROTC, something easily replicated at another institution—it is much more. The combination of outstanding academics coupled with the physical and military demands creates a very demanding existence. The living in barracks for 4 years adds an intangible quality to the VMI experience that is replicated nowhere else— it is unique. The “whole” of the VMI experience is truly more than the sum of its parts. After my graduation I spent 4 years on active duty with the USAF. Some 63 years after my graduation and having observed several generations of cadets go through the process I can assure you that VMI still turns out young men and women of character and integrity who have contributed enormously to our state and the nation. The loss of state support would be a travesty for our state and nation.

Please do not allow the dissolution of the VMI Board of Visitors and places governance of VMI under the Virginia State University Board of Visitors. Lt. Gen. Furness has already stated, “Addressing and eliminating harassment and any form of uncivil behavior—challenges faced on campuses nationwide—remains one of our highest priorities. Such conduct has no place at VMI and will not be tolerated.” Give them a chance to take ownership of this and develop the character of present and future students to be strong citizens and leaders of our nation by making a difference from within.

I am opposed to HB1377 and I respectfully ask that this bill be removed for further consideration. As a VMI graduate and a parent of a student recently admitted to the Institute, I can say with certainty that VMI's has provided myself and many others a path for higher education that no other college or university can provide. No study is needed to determine the return on investment from the Commonwealth's funding of VMI. The evidence is conclusive. VMI produces honorable graduates who contribute in so many ways to Virginia, our nation and humanity as a whole and I would put VMI's record up against any other school that educates and prepares their students better than VMI.

I am writing as a proud graduate of the Virginia Military Institute to express my strong support for VMI’s continued state funding and to share how the Institute has positively shaped my life. I matriculated in 2003, at a time when women were still relatively new to the Corps of Cadets. We faced unique challenges, but those experiences forged resilience, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility. The Institute held us to the same standards as every cadet, and in doing so, it prepared us to lead with confidence and integrity. I have maintained a positive relationship with my Brother Rats and with the Institute since graduation, and over the years I have only seen continued improvement. VMI has demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt to changing times while remaining true to its mission. From navigating COVID‑19 and shifting to online instruction, to strengthening support systems for cadets, the Institute has shown that it can evolve without compromising the values that define it. That balance — adaptation with steadfast purpose — is one of VMI’s greatest strengths. The results speak for themselves. VMI continues to produce educated and honorable men and women who are prepared for the varied work of civil life. Its graduates serve in our government, military, public safety, engineering, business, and nonprofit sectors. They contribute meaningfully to communities across Virginia and the nation. These outcomes reflect a long-standing, measurable public benefit that directly aligns with the Commonwealth’s priorities. For these reasons, I respectfully oppose HB1377. A study questioning whether VMI should continue to receive state funding does not reflect the proven value the Institute provides to Virginia. Continued support for VMI is an investment in the Commonwealth’s future leaders and in an institution that has served Virginia with distinction for more than 185 years. Thank you for your consideration and for your service to the Commonwealth.

As a parent of a 2024 graduate from VMI I had the opportunity to see first hand the tremendous value VMI has in the higher education in Virginia and the US. VMI is well governed and establishing an advisory task force is only disruptive to the success of VMI and will not bring any value.

I am a 2011 graduate of VMI and I vehemently oppose HB1377. 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 looking into this. 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. Continuing forward with this bill would be a travesty.

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.

this proposition should be struck down immediately. As a 2017 graduate of this lovely institution, the board of directors was pivotal in creating a structured learning and training environment during my time at the institution. Decisions about the path forward for training and learning should be made by individuals who truly understand the values of the institution. My current success and the impact that I have on our country can be attributed to the many life lessons I learned as a cadet at VMI. This experience would be tarnished if VMI is not able to maintain some form of independence.

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 1377. 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 1377 and instead support targeted, constructive actions that strengthen VMI while ensuring it continues to serve the Commonwealth and its cadets with integrity.

Do not endorse this bill. The Patron is biased and ill informed.

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.

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.

As a 2018 graduate of VMI, I can attest to the values that VMI instilled in me in today’s world which is more polarizing than ever. VMI absolutely prepares young men and women to navigate the complexities of life after college with humility, integrity, honor, and leadership that isn’t found at any other college. VMI has a long history of producing leaders that our country desperately needs and it’s crucial that the state continue to fund it so future generations are prepared for today’s world.

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.

I am a member of the VMI class of 1990, and my oldest son is from the Class of 2016. I vehemently oppose HB1377 and feel it to be a partisan-based attack which will waste the money of Virginia taxpayers. 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. If every young man or women entering college in the United States had to experience the humbling effects and challenging experiences of the Ratline, our society would be much better for it. VMI has produced some of the finest friends, employees, military leaders, and business associates I have encountered. To propose the need to study the validity of VMI’s funding is a travesty and ridiculous waste of resources.

Leave VMI alone. 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.

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!

I moved to Lexington six years ago from New England. I first visited the VMI post then and was amazed at the buildings and the cadets that led the tour. I was so impressed with the explanation and Caracter that the cadet displayed during the tour I decided to get involved. I have helped during football and basketball games. I have for the past 3 years volunteered as a coach on one of the clubs. I worked directly with the young men and women and still amazes me the courtesy and respect they show me and others around me. I am 76 and I must put it simply, "If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It"

I fully agree that there is no place at VMI — or anywhere — for discrimination of any kind. Where failures have occurred, they must be confronted honestly and corrected. Accountability and reform matter. Protecting cadet welfare matters. On these points, I believe there is broad consensus. Like many long-standing institutions, VMI reflects the full sweep of American history, including periods that are rightly viewed today with greater moral clarity. VMI’s Confederate legacy should not be romanticized, nor be allowed to eclipse the Institute’s present character or guide its future. VMI today is not defined by the 19th century or by the choices of earlier generations; it is defined by the young men and women it educates now, the standards it enforces now, and the leaders it produces for Virginia and the nation. VMI is a state treasure. It has produced leaders of extraordinary character and consequence, including General George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan and one of the greatest soldiers-statesmen in history; Jonathan Daniels, the civil-rights martyr who gave his life protecting a young black woman in Alabama; and Captain James C. Edge, who gave his life protecting Marines in Iraq. These are enduring symbols of what VMI, at its best, produces. Our nation and the Commonwealth are now at a crossroads. We face deep polarization, declining trust in institutions, and a security environment defined by great-power competition and the growing risk of major war. At such a moment, the United States and Virginia need citizen-soldiers and civic leaders of impeccable integrity, honor, courage, and selfless service. Institutions like VMI do not merely transmit technical skills. They produce leaders accustomed to discipline, accountability, sacrifice, and responsibility for others — qualities that are rare and increasingly vital, both for our internal cohesion. I also believe that any state-supported institution must provide clear value to the people who pay for it. Taxpayers are entitled to transparency, accountability, and measurable public benefit. On this point, I do not shrink from scrutiny on VMI’s behalf. To the contrary, I am confident that VMI can demonstrate that it delivers exceptional return on the Commonwealth’s investment — in leadership development, public service, military commissioning, and civic contribution. Properly and objectively framed, a serious review should strengthen VMI’s legitimacy, not weaken it. Today, VMI continues to provide Virginia and the nation with men and women of character, discipline, and service. It commissions officers, educates citizen-leaders, and produces graduates who serve across the military, government, and the private sector. It remains a distinctive public asset with a mission not duplicated elsewhere in the Commonwealth. As you consider HB 1377, I respectfully urge you to weigh VMI’s demonstrated value to Virginia alongside any need for continued reform and accountability. Any review of the Institute should be oriented toward strengthening and improving it — not toward placing its legitimacy or continued existence as a public institution in doubt. VMI is a worthy school. It has stumbled at times, as long-standing institutions do. But it has also adapted, improved, and continued to serve the Commonwealth and the nation with distinction. Virginia should be proud of it, and thoughtful stewardship — not existential skepticism — should guide its future.

*Disclaimer: This is not representative of the views of the DoD* I am writing in opposition to HB1377. I believe this bill was proposed without a proper understanding of the culture and curriculum of VMI. This bill was proposed under the belief that VMI is entrenched in a “lost cause” ideology that promotes white supremacy; however, this assertion cannot be further from the truth. I studied history during my cadetship at VMI and several of my classes acknowledged the lost cause when it was relevant to the subject. These classes never glorified the “lost cause,” but rather explained the ideology and its impact on the southern US. Cadets were allowed to discuss the lost cause and there is not a single cadet that supported the “lost cause.” The claim that VMI promotes white supremacy is beyond absurd. I wrote my senior thesis on the racial integration of American public schools. This subject was not only approved by both the history department and honors committee, but promoted by the school. I was encouraged to study this subject throughout every step of the process. Additionally, VMI published my thesis and highlighted it through the school’s social media pages. I am also not the only alum that used their time at VMI to study subjects that promote racial integration and equality. Specifically, I remember a thesis being written on the history of slavery at VMI. If VMI did support the “lost cause” and white supremacy, then why would it also promote discussions and ideas that oppose these ideologies? These assertions demonstrate a lack of understanding of VMI. HB1377 has the potential to jeopardize one of Virginia’s most prestigious schools. I have greatly benefited from the opportunities VMI provides. I grew up as a very timid child, but the character building I received through VMI’s “leadership laboratory” has prepared me for the rigors of being an officer in the US Army. Few institutions can turn one of the most timid high schoolers one could find into someone prepared to lead a platoon as a combat arms officers. However, I (and many of my peers) are a testament to how VMI develops cadets into leaders within the military and civilian sector. Even other military institutions pale in comparison to VMI in regards to developing the character and leadership abilities of its cadets/midshipmen. Finally, several now alumni I have encountered were only able to receive higher education through the scholarships provided by VMI, most of which were first generation college students. Putting VMI in peril also risks depriving some less fortunate Virginians a college education, which in turn limits their social mobility. I encourage that HB1377 be voted down as it deprives many young Virginians a crucial opportunity to develop their character and receive an education on par or better than any other college or university in the state.

*Disclaimer:This is not reflective of the views of the Department of War nor representative of the DoW* As an alumnus of VMI and a commissioned officer in the United States Army, I would not be the soldier and US citizen devoted to service that I am today without my time at the Institute. Nowhere else can you earn the education on academics, military bearing and skills, and morals/ethics that you can at VMI. Nowhere else does an institution of higher learning explicitly instill values of honor, integrity, selfless service, and loyalty like VMI does. Especially in a contemporary society full of individualism and preaching such values of self-service, the calling VMI teaches of service to a higher purpose of one’s self is abhorrently needed. “A Cadet does not lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate those who do”. This is not just a marketing slogan or a surface-level phrase used at the Institute. This code, the VMI Honor Code, is ingrained in all Cadets from Day 1. It is a covenant, a lifestyle each and every Cadet holds themself to every day, long after their time at the Institute is over. The external accountability every Cadet, Professor, Faculty Member, and Alumnus provides in holding those sworn to the Honor Code to it is necessary, and should be welcoming, character development for the young adults who are soon expected to be leaders in our nation’s military, civilian sector, and non-uniformed government. While the Institute holds strong to traditional, service-centered values of honor, integrity, and loyalty, it, like many other southern institutions of higher learning, has developed and modernized in the Institute history it values and teaches the Cadets. As a 2024 graduate, my class is the initial and prime example of that. There was no saluting the GEN Stonewall Jackson statue, there was no reenactment of the charge at New Market Battlefield, there was no explicit teaching of the Institute’s Civil War history other than remembering the names of the Cadets who died at the Battle of New Market (teaching sacrifice for what you believe in, not teaching Cadets to hold resentment towards a by-gone era), there was the transition of teaching my Brother Rats and I more recent history of the Institute, but still instilling those same values of Honor, Integrity, Loyalty, and Selfless Service. This bill, as well as bill HB 1374, are baseless attacks on an Institution that has produced countless leaders for this nation. Just take a walk through the Hall of Valor in the Center for Leadership and Ethics, and you will see on display the Honor, Loyalty, Selfless Service, and Sacrifice VMI alums have led this nation with in its 186-year history. Bottom line, the values taught by the Virginia Military Institute are just as, if not more so, blindingly needed as an option for today’s young adults learning to navigate today’s unstable world as they were as the first Cadets took the Institute’s first guard shift in 1839. Very Respectfully, Devin S. Thomas Of Forest, Bedford County, Virginia Virginia Military Institute Class of 2024

Good Evening, I want to express disagreement in VSU having control over the VMI board. VMI is an institution that is difficult to mentally grasp unless having attended the school. Like many organizations, few bad apples gather the attention of the media. VMI is not a reflection of these bad apples. Below is the link to a recent LinkedIn post by the First-Class President (college senior) of VMI. The class president is elected by their classmates in their freshman (fourth-class) year. Nearly all, if not all classmates vote. The post can also be found by searching “Maximus Ankrah” on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/maximus-ankrah-7932162a3_vmi-breakout-activity-7420923602713243648-LzxJ?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&rcm=ACoAADAGIbEBvbqRWBUVYBzLO2ZHvx7ecUKys4E

I believe this bill is a step in the wrong direction for the future leaders of America. My experience at VMI has brought me nothing but close camaraderie with high achieving men and women of honor, a sense of belonging, and an overall improvement to my own character and will. My experience at VMI makes me stand out from my peers in a positive manner: I am cool and calm under pressure, I am very punctual and have a great work ethic, and my way of thinking when faced with a problem has become more enhanced. Without VMI, I would not be the Naval Officer that I am today.

I oppose this bill. VMI is the finest school in this country producing the greatest leaders and people I know. I was one of approximately 40 women to graduate with my class and I can never put into words the invaluable education and opportunities I had. I walked into VMI someone so worried about the challenges I would face and I can confidently say VMI changed me for the better. I was a leader, a captain of a sports team, an honor graduate and now an officer in the greatest military in the world. VMI gave me those opportunities I would have never had at any other school. I have experienced more sexism outside of VMI than I ever did living in those barracks for four years. VMI moulds men and women of the highest character and it would be a disgrace to see such an incredible school disappear for the sake of a political agenda. This college changed me and everyone else that has had the privilege to call themselves a cadet. Claiming that this school is attached to its civil war roots it not only a complete lie, but is a clear attempt to create a narrative that does not exist. VMI and its alumni deserve better than this.

I write in opposition to Virginia House Bill 1377 as the mother of a current Virginia Military Institute cadet. Like many families, mine takes seriously the responsibility of ensuring that VMI is a place where all cadets are treated with dignity and respect, and where the Institute lives up to its stated values. Oversight and accountability matter. However, I do not believe that creating another advisory task force is the most effective or responsible way to achieve meaningful progress at VMI. VMI is already subject to extensive oversight through its Board of Visitors, accreditation requirements, state reviews, and prior studies and reports. Adding 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. As a parent of a cadet, I am especially concerned about the instability this bill could introduce. Cadets commit fully to VMI’s rigorous environment, and their education and development should not be subjected to prolonged political or administrative uncertainty. Reform, when needed, should be focused, timely, and grounded in the institution’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 urge members of the General Assembly to oppose HB 1377 and instead support targeted, constructive actions that strengthen VMI while ensuring it continues to serve the Commonwealth and its cadets with integrity. Thank you for the opportunity to provide this comment.

As a sister, wife, mother, and friend 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. George C. Marshall, George Patton, and Chesty Puller are among those who benefitted from VMI's leadership experience. At a time when strong, principled leadership matters, 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.

I do not support the substitute version of HB1377. Several provisions of the bill raise significant concerns regarding duplication of oversight, politicization of governance, and the destabilizing effect such a review would have on a long‑standing state institution. Section 1 directs a task force to determine whether VMI should remain a state‑sponsored institution. This is an unprecedented mandate not applied to any other public college or university and introduces unnecessary institutional uncertainty. Section 2 establishes a task force composed entirely of political appointees, with no representation from VMI’s Board of Visitors, administration, or alumni. The absence of institutional expertise undermines the credibility and balance of any findings. Section 3 assigns responsibilities that duplicate work already performed by SCHEV, accreditation bodies, the Board of Visitors, and existing state oversight processes. These include: - Reassessing academic rigor and program alignment already reviewed through accreditation and SCHEV processes. - Re‑evaluating VMI’s commissioning role, despite its well‑documented and unique contributions to the Armed Forces. - Re‑auditing reforms implemented since the 2021 report, which have already been reviewed and documented by appropriate authorities. - Re‑analyzing admissions data that are already publicly reported and monitored. Finally, directing the task force to recommend whether VMI should continue receiving public funds places the Institute under a level of scrutiny not applied to any other public institution and risks harming enrollment, accreditation, and long‑term planning. For these reasons, I do not support the substitute version of HB1377 and urge reliance on the robust oversight mechanisms already in place. Thank you for your consideration.

As a native Virginian and graduate of VMI ‘21, this bill, to me, seems nothing more than a continuation of the dismantling of VMI out of a confused and vain retribution. VMI stands for everything that you all hate in Richmond. Conservative and Christian values that are engrained in our foundation for both the nation and military. Some of the best leaders this nation has had at the helm have survived the rigors of VMI and come out stronger for it. To name a few: George Marshall, George Patton, Gen Binford Peay, and Chesty Puller. I have no faith in your ability to lead us and I will remember this with my vote, mouth, and wallet.

Delegate Helmer, I do not support HB1377 and encourage all Delegates to reject it. One, the proposed task force is not a prudent expenditure of Virginia’s funds. Your effort appears to run counter to the intent of the Governor to stabilize each state college and university board by creating a costly and unnecessary distraction from the duties and responsibilities of the VMI Board, especially during the Governor’s first year in office. Two, after the Federal Service Academies, VMI produces the most U.S. Army and USMC officers and the third most U.S. Navy officers in the U.S. Military service is not a requirement for VMI graduates, and VMI offers the only opportunity for a student in Virginia, the U.S., and the world to undertake a military college experience without a corresponding military service obligation. Unlike the Federal Service Academies, VMI offers its students ROTC in each branch of the Armed Forces, which enhances the capabilities of the U.S. Joint Force. The other Senior Military Colleges (SMC) in the U.S. (Virginia Teach Corps of Cadets, the Citadel, Texas A&M, Norwich) each have either civilian-military blended student bodies or graduate programs for civilian students; VMI is the only SMC that requires all students to be Cadets and undertake a military college lifestyle. Three, threatening VMI’s future is not in the interest of our national security and Virginia’s economic productivity related to national security. Europe is experience its first major land war since WWII and China is building its military at a faster pace than Germany in the 1930s. The U.S. Armed Forces and the military industrial complex need now, more than ever, citizen-soldiers capable of service in both the military and civilian sector, often simultaneously as reserve status officers. VMI produces citizen-soldiers; the Service Academies exist to produce active duty officers. Approximately 20-25% of Virginia’s economic production is generated by national security activity within the Commonwealth. VMI is a participant in that 20-25%. The threat to negatively impact VMI as a participant in one of Virginia’s most significant economic areas, especially in the current period of diminishing Federal agency employment but increases in defense spending, is not in the interest of the Virginia economy. Last, the Federal Government has been highly reactive over the past year. Attracting avoidable attention to VMI from the Federal Government ensures there are no threats to move to other states or close the numerous military commands, installations, and activities throughout the Commonwealth that employ thousands and generate significant state tax revenue. Virginia lost one major Army command during the previous Governor’s administration; our Governor should not suffer more losses.

I WHOLEHEARTEDLY OPPOSE THIS BILL. Leave VMI out of your partisan politics!

I strongly oppose this bill. I was a cadet from fall 2018 to the spring of 2022. There’s lots of things to love and hate about a school like Vmi I love many other people that I met while I was there, I loved the food (surprisingly) I loved learning about Virginia’s history as there so much of it that involves Vmi. I love learning about my current profession civil engineering. I hated the highly regimented schedule even though I know it taught me to have a systematically succeed at the things I want to accomplish in life. I hated waking up early. I hated staying up late into the morning hours studying, I hated seeing brother rats leave. Among all these things I loved and hated about the school, I think the thing that I love most was that everybody no matter who they were, or where they came from, or what they looked like was treated equally. Everyone starts as rats, the lowest of the low and everything from that point onwards is earned. Racism and sexism was not present at Vmi while I was there and knowing the type of school, it is in the values it holds I know that it’s not there. It is clear to me the agenda that this Bill is trying to accomplish is strictly partisan and it deeply frustrates me that we live in a time where political agenda is being used to dismantle our states oldest and most honorable institutions. I encourage you to consider all the amazing accomplishments that have came from the Virginia Military Institute before destroying such a valuable asset not only to Virginia, but to the whole world

State funding for VMI should not be pulled because it supports a public institution that delivers proven value to both Virginia and the nation. VMI produces leaders who serve in the military, public service, engineering, business, and education at a disproportionate rate compared to its size. The institute’s demanding system instills discipline, ethical decision-making, and resilience—qualities that directly benefit the Commonwealth. Removing funding would punish current and future cadets who chose VMI specifically for its unique mission and structure. VMI operates more efficiently than many public universities, maximizing taxpayer investment through high graduation and placement rates. State funding also ensures access for qualified students who could not otherwise afford the experience. Pulling financial support would weaken academic programs, infrastructure, and faculty retention, diminishing educational quality. It would also signal that Virginia no longer values diverse educational models within its public system. Undermining VMI financially risks long-term damage to an institution with over 180 years of service to the state. Continued funding is an investment in leadership, service, and the enduring benefits VMI provides to Virginia.

To whom it may concern, I am the proud parent of two VMI students - a graduate who is now in the Navy and a current student who will commission into the Army in May. I wholeheartedly oppose this bill that will create a taskforce to study VMI and whether or not it should continue to receive state funding. VMI creates men and women who have HONOR, INGEGRITY and GRIT - all of which are greatly lacking in much of society today. VMI has had an incredible impact on both of my sons - who would not be where they are today if they had not attended VMI - and our entire extended family. There may be other schools with ROTC, or that have the same degree programs that are offered at VMI, but NONE of them can compete with the quality of individual, the discipline and connectedness that you see at VMI. I strongly urge you to dismiss HB1377.

The Virginia Military Institute is one of few colleges remaining in this country that consistently produce quality men and women of excellent character, and I am no exception. I am currently a junior, and I can say with confidence that every aspect of my life has improved since attending VMI. I am more confident in my leadership skills, I've set myself up for a prestigious Navy career after being rejected from an initial ROTC scholarship (no other college in Virginia will let you stay in ROTC without a contract), and I have made meaningful connections with cadets in each class. If it matters to you, these people are 'diverse' in both race, gender, and personality.

I am a 1983 graduate of VMI. I had the privilege to not only be a member of the corps of cadets, but I also played football and tennis. In addition to my athletic, military, and academic endeavors, I was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. the Monogram Club for lettering in a varsity sport( twice), and was heavily involved in advocacy with focus on cancer research. Today I serve with pride on the Board of Governors and the Executive Committee. In addition, I recently asked to be on the The brotherhood that is the foundation of VMI is unmatched anywhere else in the United States and is based upon one’s ability to navigate through the rigorous demands of academic, military, and athletics. From my Rat year to the day I graduated, the bond I experienced then, remains the same bond I have today. That bond was not reserved for certain members of my class. It applied to all members of my class, and extended beyond my class to my teammates, regardless of what class they were in. And this applied to ALL students, black, white , brown, yellow, it didn’t matter. I didn’t see a black classmate or teammate differently, because I didn’t see the color of their skin. What I saw was a young man going through the same rigorous challenges I was going through, and with a lot of determination and resolve, hopefully we all graduated together. VMI is one of the most respected schools not just in Virginia, but in this country. Every year we graduate outstanding men and women who either become officers in the military and serve our country or go on to great things in another profession. We have one of the highest salary levels for graduates, largely due to the employer recognizing the character, work ethic, commitment, and ability to navigate adversity. Instead of the General Assembly attacking our great school, they should be excited to have such a fantastic institution in the Commonwealth. The quality of education, character building, and honest environment is exemplary, but it is not for everyone . We do not lie, cheat, or steal, or tolerate those who do. Our honor is our bond, and this applies to every single cadet. No exceptions. Instead of using our school to drive your political agenda, why don’t you leave this fine institution alone, and go tackle serious issues like crime, Richmond city development, homelessness, and mental health? We have been around since 1839, and all we have done is produced outstanding Americans, who have gone on to do great things for this country . Let us continue to develop these fine young men and women and let’s leave the political focus on more important matters.

As a Hispanic cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, the academic and military system has provided an optimal environment for cadets of all backgrounds to grow at the individual and group level as leaders and scholars. VMI is an academic Institute before anything else; the main objectives are to create citizen soldiers who will contribute to the well-being of the state and nation. The citizens of Virginia are investing in the future of cadets who will lead at the state, national, and even global levels, with cadets coming from Virginia, states all over the United States, Europe, and Asia.

VMI is a unique, life changing institution. To disrupt this great school would be a shame. 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. VMI fulfills a valuable mission to both the state and our country that no other school can match. The claims that, as an institution, it is racist or sexist are completely not true and overblown. During my time at VMI I never once saw or heard of any 'isms' but what I did experience was a close bond that united every classmate from every background. I am opposed to this attempt to alter or shutdown VMI. VMI is a premier, world class institution of which Virginia should be proud.

VMI provides college graduates with proven leadership skills and academic excellence to all cadets regardless of race, gender, or religion. The unique experience cannot be replicated on any other college campus in the United States. Without VMI, prospective cadets will no longer have the ability to be a part of a school with a world renowned honor code, a Corp run by cadets, and the ability to be part of a institute that has produced some of history’s finest leaders. George C Marshall, Jonathan Daniels, J H Binford Peay III, James Hickey, Chesty Puller.

I oppose this bill. Do NOT let it go through.

My name is Riley Houtz I’m a sophomore at VMI. I would like this bill to be voted down. My understanding is that state funding makes up a majority of the funding here at VMI. This school has allowed me the opportunities to become a more professional, bright, and happier person. I strongly believe that passing this bill will take away the ability for other people to go through the challenging and rewarding experience which I am a part of. I have the goal of one day receiving a diploma from this school with the VMI insignia to continue the proud legacy of a school that creates young adults with bright futures. Thank you for your time.

Good Day, I am writing today as a female graduate of the Virginia Military Institute to offer my perspective on the unique value of this institution. VMI instilled in me the core principles of integrity, accountability, and an unparalleled work ethic. I graduated not only with the professional skills to succeed but with a lifelong commitment to civil service. VMI alumni are defined by their resilience and a 'never quit' mentality that is forged during their time as cadets. VMI's policy is to develop "leaders of character", and it delivers. It would be a profound loss to diminish a legacy built on brotherhood, service, and excellence. For these reasons, I strongly oppose Bill 1377. Thank you for your time.

Please do not deny future leaders their opportunity to learn and prosper. For many, including myself, VMI has provided the best foundation for self-discovery and growth that no other organization has come close to replicating. The opportunities that VMI provide are second to none and by pushing for this bill, ultimately we have cut off a means to allow future leaders to truly excel as they are. This is not an opinion, it is evident that over the past century, VMI has produced some of histories greatest leaders, whether they serve in the civilian or military sectors. Because of VMI’s long lasting history and exceptional standards, this is not a system that can be duplicated anywhere else. It is imperative that VMI remain the respected institution that it is so that it may continue to produce excellent leaders who continue to inspire those around them.

House Bill - 1377 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

My name is Angeline M. Castagna, and I serve as a First Lieutenant in the USMC. Although I am not a resident of Virginia, I am a proud alumna of VMI, and I am writing to express my firm opposition to HB1377. The young adults at VMI choose an extraordinary path of service. They train diligently for future military and federal service, as well as significant roles in the civilian sector. As a lifelong Pennsylvania resident, I applied exclusively to VMI because I refused to settle for an "ordinary" college experience. VMI's national reputation for excellence reached me even hundreds of miles away; the Institute maintains a powerful, rigorous legacy of developing leaders that transcends state lines. While I entered the school with a desire to serve, I was initially uncertain which branch suited me best. VMI provided a unique environment where I was exposed to all five ROTC programs as well as the Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program. Through peer interaction and this broad exposure, I transitioned from Air Force ROTC to Marine Option NROTC. VMI's Marine Option NROTC offers the best training in the nation; excluding the Naval Academy, VMI is the top producer of Marine Officers. Now, as I attend Naval Advanced Flight Training, I can say with certainty: I would not be a Marine Corps Officer today if VMI hadn't given me the perspective and opportunity to find my path. My academic experience was as rigorous as the military training. I graduated with honors in Psychology and a minor in Exercise Science. The Institute's intimate 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio provided an environment for individualized instruction and mentorship that is rare in higher education. I built genuine relationships with my professors - mentors I still reach out to today. The small class sizes and VMI's strict Honor Code created a foundation of academic integrity and personal accountability that is simply unmatched. During my tenure at VMI, I held rank every year following the Ratline. As a female cadet, I never felt marginalized or discriminated against; instead, I was afforded the exact same opportunities as my peers. My leadership positions were not given-they were earned through academic merit, physical fitness, and proven leadership ability. To hear the Institute characterized as being rooted in 'Lost Cause' ideology, racism, or sexism is deeply insulting. That portrayal is a stark contradiction to my lived experience. That narrative simply does not reflect the VMI I know, nor does it reflect the character of the cadets I lived and trained with every day. My time at VMI (2019 to 2023) gave me a firsthand view of the Institute's evolution before, during, and after the state-mandated investigations. I witnessed VMI proactively adopt several key reforms, most notably the relocation of the Stonewall Jackson statue to the New Market Battlefield and the renaming of the "New Market Parade" into a "Memorial Parade" that rightfully honors fallen VMI alumni from every war in our Nation's History. Even the Ratline has modernized; while traditions remain, the curriculum has shifted to focus on the contributions of our graduates from the 20th and 21st centuries. VMI has ensured its culture reflects the reality of modern military service while remaining a premier institution for developing 21st-century leaders. I urge you to recognize the progress the Institute has made and the invaluable role it plays in our National Defense by opposing HB1377. Don't Do Ordinary. RVM.

Please do not do this to VMI. VMI has been wonderful for my son who is a cadet at the institution. There are many wonderful young adults who attend of all races and beliefs. It’s not a racist institution. It’s a great place where kids of all backgrounds learn to live together and rely on each other. I really think it’s the least racist school I have ever been associated with.

As a Veteran, I have served alongside exceptional soldiers who graduated from Virginia Military Institute. I oppose HB 1377. I have both been led by VMI graduates and led VMI graduates in uniform. These individuals enter service disciplined, prepared, and fully committed to serving the Commonwealth of Virginia. HB 1377 would negatively affect this proven pipeline of capable leaders by undermining an institution that consistently produces service-ready officers and enlisted leaders. HB 1377 would negatively affect this proven pipeline by undermining an institution that has demonstrated, over generations, its value to Virginia’s defense and public service infrastructure. Any legislation that weakens VMI’s ability to operate as a disciplined, military-focused institution risks diminishing the quality of future leaders available to the Commonwealth. From the perspective of someone who has served under and alongside VMI graduates, this bill does not strengthen readiness, leadership, or service to Virginia. It threatens to erode one of the Commonwealth’s most effective leadership development institutions, with consequences that will be felt long after the legislation itself is forgotten.

As a VMI Alumnus and Air Force Veteran I am opposed to HB 1377. VMI is an institution that produces impressive graduates who positively impact society across the globe. Over the past many years VMI has made strong efforts to promote a more inclusive student environment while maintaining the important system and standards that make VMI cadets who they are and the graduates they become. VMI has a unique history and it is tied to the pride of the state of Virginia. Its funding model is dependent on state support, and I fear that the vast amount of positive benefit that the school produces will be lost to Virginia and society as a whole if it were not able to operate anymore. It would be a tragedy. I would recommend continuing to focus on ensuring VMI is delivering on a fair, diverse, and disciplined environment but not seek to send it into history based on the opinions of a minority who do not understand or agree with its purpose. There has to be a better way to continue to build VMI into a better place than to eliminate its existence.

I am a Sophomore at the Virginia Military Institute and I am against the bill HB 1377. 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. I finished my freshman year with a 4.0 which is a great achievement. I only reached that high of a gpa because of the work ethic that VMI instilled in me and the amazing professors that encouraged and helped me along the way. 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, towards my future 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. VMI has already help me start my career in literary field as an English major and it will continue to help me as I continue my education here. I am opposed any bill that would destroy VMI and the value of a VMI diploma.

Good afternoon, Del. Helmer, 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

The reputation of Virginia Military Institute is a glowing reminder of how our great country was founded. The fine candidates and their instructors are dedicated to discipline loyalty and respect. Our families need more people that put God and country first and VMI endorses this curriculum! I recommend they continue to be funded to achieve these high standards and goals.

As a VMI Alumni, I believe state funding is essential for the development of future leaders in the commonwealth and across the nation. Loss of state funding would be a detriment to the people of Virginia. The loss of state funding would lead to increased tuition and fees, reduced accessibility to scholarships and grants, and restricted access for middle- and lower-income Virginians. This would undercut VMI’s mission to educate citizen-soldiers from across the Commonwealth, not just those who can afford high costs. This would undercut VMI’s mission to educate citizen-soldiers from across the Commonwealth, not just those who can afford high costs. Funding cuts could weaken this dual-track mission and diminish VMI’s value as a commissioning source. Losing state funding wouldn’t just hurt VMI financially—it would erode affordability, academic quality, military readiness, and its public mission as a prestigious military institution.

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, and the track VMI is on. 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. I do not believe anyone opposing this bill fully opposes transparency, but I do not thing a task force calling funding into question in the avenue to do it. Existing FOIA law, relationships with the school's leadership, and meeting graduates and cadets, is a much better path. I would happily speak to anyone about my experience as both. 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

Comments Document

PUBLIC STATEMENT IN OPPOSITION TO VIRGINIA HOUSE BILL 1377 From a Virginia Military Institute Graduate, Class of 2021 As a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Class of 2021 who lived through the politically charged investigations initiated under Governor Northam, I express my unequivocal opposition to House Bill 1377. This bill revives the same disproven narratives, employs the same politically motivated tactics, and seeks to undermine one of the Commonwealth’s most historically significant and nationally impactful institutions. I have attached a PDF with my full statement.

I am a junior/2nd class at VMI and I wholeheartedly oppose this bill or any bill related to this matter. As an out of state student, I am often amazed at how supporting VMI's community is for those who travel long ways to attend. My experience mirrors that exact sentiment. Nowhere in the nation would the administration and parents pour resources to find ways for a student with financial difficulties like me to matriculate into the college. From day zero, I have received so much support and grace that I ultimately found that I made the best choice of my life to attend. Regarding the concerns of 'Lost Cause' sentiment, I find a distinction that I believe the state government of Virginia may not fully understand. Each year, we do hold a memorial parade honoring cadets who fought in the civil war. We do not celebrate the war's purpose but rather those cadets(who by the way, came from the north and the south) who bravely answered the call to fight as a state run militia. I am from the West Coast and to be honest, I did have doubts of VMI's history but the more I researched, the more I understood VMI's place in the history of America. We as an institute attempt, each and every day to enact on the premise that meritocracy is the currency of excellence. As noted in previous comments, cadets of every race and gender are in leadership roles. Just in the staff that I am in, diversity was not the reason our staff looks the way we do but meritocracy was the reason we were selected for these positions. Lastly, I would note that VMI is an instrumental institution, not just for the state but for the country as well. I am on a Marine Corps Scholarship and just this past summer at Camp Pendleton during my training, I was speaking to a Marine Captain from another college. He asked me what school I attended and when I denoted VMI, he was amazed at the fact that I willingly chose a difficult school while choosing a difficult branch to commission into. He joked but stated his agreement that VMI was really 'The Virginia Marine Institute' due to the number of high quality Marine Corps Officers from VMI.

VMI changed my life, I am opposed to HB1377. The structure, education, lessons, etc. that I learned at VMI cannot be, and are not, duplicated at any other institution in VA and almost anywhere else for that matter. I know that the path I was going down before entering VMI and it was not a great one. VMI helped me change my world while giving me a top-notch education. VMI has and continues to produce amazing individuals that the commonwealth can be proud of. As a teacher of over 25 years, I see a school like VMI as a necessity and a great investment in the future of our youth.

I moved to Virginia ten years ago not knowing much about VMI, and I started working at the Institute seven years ago. In my role, I have been fortunate to have many in-depth conversations with cadets about who they are, why they came to VMI, and specifically why they sought the challenge that VMI provides. I can say unequivocally that the cadets who come to VMI are head and shoulders above their peers at other colleges. They recognize the challenge VMI provides is unique, and they are here to tackle it because they know they will be a better person for it, and in turn be prepared for a better career. VMI is a unique and fundamental piece of higher education in Virginia. It takes young adults and turns them into leaders of character that everyone in the Commonwealth can and should be proud of.

I am asking that this bill is voted down. VMI has a long standing history of producing excellent leaders and members of the community who serve our nation and country. Unlike other college institutions they have an exceptional high graduating rate and continue to work on improving the institution. It would be detrimental to undermine the long standing traditions this school provides. There are many different colleges out there for students to chose from but there is only one school of this caliber for students to be a part. I ask you vote no and allow the institute to continue to serve in the unique opportunity making leaders. Thank you, Laura Cross

As a Virginia state resident, a career Army Officer and VMI graduate, I strongly oppose HB1377. Recognizing that there has been ongoing political discourse at VMI over the last few years influenced by both political parties, this Bill goes to the extreme. There is no other state-sponsored military college in the United States that offers the VMI "experience". It cannot be replicated anywhere in the state of Virginia or elsewhere. While there is most certainly need for change at VMI, discontinuing state funding does nothing to remedy these challenges. I would ask Represntative Helmer and other Virginia state representatives to take a more holistic and balanced approach to solving problems that VMI faces (just as every other college and university in Virginia do). Work with VMI's new Superintendent, LtGen Furness and the newly installed members (as well as incumbent) members of the BOV to address the issues that have brought us to this current state of affairs. Thank you.

To whom it may concern, I no longer reside in Virginia, however I am still regularly in service to the people of Virginia as a nurse in Sullivan county, TN. I would not be where I am today without VMI. I matriculated at VMI with the intent of commissioning in the army upon graduation, however I was deemed medically ineligible during my second year. While many would see this as a valid excuse to transfer, I stuck around. Now older and wiser, I know that I would not have been able to successfully make it through a bachelors degree if I had attended a regular state school. The rigid schedule, discipline, honor system, and lifestyle the institute affords its cadets were crucial to my academic success, and no doubt to that of many of my peers, those who came before me, and those who came after me. I carried many aspects of the VMI culture with me into the workplace immediately after graduating, and again later when I would go on to attend nursing school at VHCC in Abingdon. Being a West Point alum, I’m sure that Mr. Helmer can relate to me on some level. Our experiences at these unique institutions have no doubt guided our lives in adulthood, and shaped us into who we are. VMI, while a foreign concept to many of you, is critical to the success of those of us who have lived it. I implore you to listen to the testimony of the alumni writing you regarding these matters.

Since its founding, the Virginia Military Institute has striven to serve the Commonwealth of Virginia and to produce educated and honorable citizen-soldiers. In its 186 years, the Institute has been a loyal servant to the Commonwealth and has produced many leaders in the military, industry, and other areas of civil life. The sacrifices of its alumni have taken place around the world, wherever we have been called to serve. As has the entire nation and the Commonwealth, VMI has evolved to meet the challenges of the world from which it draws its cadets and into which its graduates return. The challenges have been turbulent at times, but VMI has met them with the standards which it expects of the Corps, the Alumni, and the Commonwealth itself. To cut the ties between the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Virginia Military Institute, as the oldest state run military school in the nation, would be turn your back on the corps of history and of the future which strives to serve and defend the Commonwealth itself.

As a retired Air Force officer and the parent of an instructor at VMI I wish to voice my concerns about the proposed changes and possible closure of this institution. My daughter has just started her career in teaching and chose to do so at VMI because of its unique combination of academic rigor and military history. I've seen the very positive impact this unique style of education has on young men and women. In a world where it is so easy for young people to get lost in the noise of the world, this institution offers structure and a path toward service to our country. We owe a debt to those that choose this path and go on to serve our country in the military, police, fire and other avenues. Part of that debt would be retaining the historic institutions like VMI that give choice and opportunity to these young people. The obsession by Democrats with obliterating any history they find objectionable does not mean it didn't happen. Obliterating choices, like VMI, for our youth will ensure there is not a next generation of people willing to take up the mission of defending them, our country and our way of life. Please reconsider this attempt to destroy even more of our history and instead celebrate the fact that Virginia has a unique opportunity to provide the foundation for our future military and community leaders. Celebrate VMI for its history and contributions, don't tear it down to suit some misguided sense of moral superiority. VMI and its graduates deserve our support. In closing, if you pursue this effort then as a female and Air Force veteran I would volunteer to serve on this panel and help come to common sense recommendations that strengthen this historic institution so it can be part of the bright future for our Commonwealth.

As a 2002 graduate of VMI I watched the Institute transition from an all-male school to a co-ed school. This transition was accomplished more successfully than any other institution of higher learning in the history of this country, including the service academies. VMI's mission is to produce educated and honorable citizen-soldiers. I have served our county for 26 years next week in both a civilian and military capacity with graduates from schools around the country and the world. None bring to the table what VMI graduates bring. VMI provides an outstanding education not just in academics, but in life and leadership that is sorely lacking from all other state college graduates. If you visit the Institute, you will immediately see the difference. Cadets will pass you with their head held high and a proper greeting instead of buried in their phone and a mumbled word for being in their way. It is no ordinary college and Virginia should be proud of the institute and willing fund an Institute that produces such a high percentage of graduates that impact the world, country, and state on a daily basis.

VMI has created American leaders, Generals, and all in all stellar citizen soldiers for almost two hundred years. These partisan attempts to destroy such a valuable institution to these United States will not only endanger but cripple the future of the United States and Virginia. Do not let your ego and need for power get in the way of our collective future.

I am a lifelong Virginian. The politicization of an American and a Virginian institution due to the Virginia administration’s uncanny inability to remember the history of our great nation is a pitfall. Erasing the legacy of VMI does not erase the facts in the nature of the Civil War. VMI exists outside of its relationship with the Civil War. If Virginia wants to be known as the state where business, talent, and education flees from, proceed. Virginia wants to attract the brightest minds and the brightest futures, face the facts head on and leave the Virginia Military Institute as a free and fair public institution ready to guide the nation’s future leaders.

I strongly oppose HB1377. I am a lifelong Virginia and a VMI graduate. VMI undoubtably enriched my life and prepared me for a future as an employee, father and husband. I also work for a Virginia based organization that routinely hires VMI graduates. We continually find these men and women to be well prepared for life in the private sector. If VMI were to no longer exist or exist in a form much different than it's current self, I believe that would harm our business as it would remove one of our strongest pipelines of employees. Please think carefully before voting for legislation to spend tax dollars on a study that would needlessly meddle with one of our strong Virginia institutions and would take time and energy away from the true challenges we Virginias face.

I am a 1/c (senior) at VMI, and I can say without a doubt that VMI is one of the best schools in the world. VMI is the only school in the nation with a single sanction honor system, and a class system centered and structured on self discipline and peer accountability. At night my roommates and I can prop our bedroom door open and go to bed, knowing with full confidence that no one will enter our room uninvited. I can leave my cellphone, laptop, and wallet on a very visible table in an academic building, walk away for hours on end, and it will still be there when I come back, untouched. The brotherhood and the bonds that are formed from our shared hardship during not only the ratline, but also our upperclassmen years, instilled in us a sort of bond that is greater than anything else you'd find at a regular school. What other school has entire organizations and systems to keep each other accountable and responsible? God bless the Institute.

VMI saved my life and gave me a future. I am a current cadet who is about to graduate from a place that has given me reason, put me on a right path and has given me and people who know me hope. Before this place, I had troubles with depression and substance abuse. I almost failed out of high school, didn't see a future for me and if I decided to go to another college (my 2 final choices were here and another school), I knew I would've failed out and probably hurt myself or those around me. Since coming here, it's given me purpose and a direction. I still don't like it, but I always find myself waking up on time and early and making it to our formations or on time to class to receive a top tier education looking proper because I want to look good as this place has instilled good discipline in me when I didn't think I had any. I have met some amazing people who I KNOW, I will always be close with and who will always have my back, even when I don't have my own. Our honor system is one that stands out across the nation and instills a sense of trust we all have with each other. I know I will have earned my degree from putting in the work and I know when someone tells me something, it is correct and they aren’t trying to hide something or work around it. I will graduate with a degree and commission I earned along with everyone else who helped me along the way because of this place.

As an employee of the Virginia Military Institute, I strongly oppose HB 1377. I have worked at VMI since 2021 as a single mother. I began my employment in the Physical Plant (Facilities Maintenance), transferred to one of the academic departments, and am now a part of the Admissions Team. If not for VMI, I would be unable to provide the life and home for my 5 children that I have created since becoming a part of the VMI family. Not only does VMI encourage and provide employees with the ability to gain knowledge, training and experience, the Institute does the same for each Cadet. I have had the privilege of seeing young men and women of all backgrounds enter VMI as children and grow into amazing, successful, well educated adults. VMI Cadets play a vital role in the local community as well. Not only do they provide monetary support to local businesses, they take pride in volunteering in any and every area possible in and around Lexington, VA. VMI's ROTC program is unparalleled to other colleges and universities, even to those outside of Virginia. VMI is one of the few that offers ROTC for each branch of the military on campus. Because of the training and opportunities received through the Institute, 50% to 53% of all VMI graduates commission into the military with 20% of the remaining graduates enlisting. That is a total of 70% on average entering the United States Military upon graduation. Other graduates use their degree and new connections to continue their education to become doctors, lawyers and other key professionals. Aside from VMI's graduates becoming successful, honorable, and well educated members of society, the Institute conducts valuable research for the Commonwealth in, but not limited to, medical, engineering, environmental, and defense and technology. To say that I am simply happy being an employee at VMI is an understatement. I am proud to be apart of this vital Institute.

Honorable Senators and Delegates, I appreciate your devotion of a substantial portion of your life in positions of public service, and you recognize how vitally important it is to encourage our rising youth to do the same. I have done the same, as a combat veteran of Desert Storm, as an inner-city high school teacher, and as Virginia’s only double-recipient of the Outstanding Faculty Award. The mission of VMI, to produce educated, honorable men and women possessing a high sense of public service, has rarely been more relevant to Virginia or the country than right now. Any decent university, of which VMI is certainly one, will provide a decent academic education. However, very few in this nation provide as excellent an education in *leadership*, or the drive to *devote oneself to public service*. For these reasons, I strongly oppose HB 1374 and HB 1377. If anyone questions the amazing value of a VMI education, I implore you to walk the main academic path at VMI one week after the freshmen arrive, and again one month later. The first time you will see worried recent high school graduates trying to make sense of their new surroundings, much as you would at any university. The next time you will see neatly-dressed young men and women, confidently walking past, looking you in the eye and greeting you with a sharp “good morning, sir (or ma’am)”. Their word can be trusted, and they will trust yours. These are the people who will contribute far more than their fair share of leadership to the state and nation in their lives. VMI is the system that trains them. Please do not underestimate the power this system has to change the world for the better.

As a female VMI alumni, I am calling to show opposition to HB 1377. As a low-income student, VMI made it possible for me to receive my undergraduate education and pursue a career in higher education. I was a recipient of the Gary Trinkle Memorial Scholarship that covered most of my tuition, room and board, uniforms, etc. Without that support, I would not have been able to attend college. VMI also provided me with opportunities I would not have had otherwise, including a scholarship-covered study abroad to Oxford University, two internships, and a Teaching Assistantship. The strong education, experience, and financial support I received made it possible for me to pursue graduate education, as I am currently in my Masters program at Wake Forest University. The professors I worked with also supported me throughout my graduate school application process, giving me guidance, insight, and writing multiple letters of support. VMI has also provided me with a graduate fellowship, the Peay Fellowship, that has helped cover some of the cost of my masters program and will give me an opportunity to return to VMI after graduation to become an Instructor in Residence for two years before applying to PhD programs. Having teaching experience at the four-year college level prior to a PhD program is invaluable to my career. Along with the strong academic support, VMI’s military system made me who I am today. I learned how to be resilient, support and care for those around me, work hard, step outside of my comfort zone, and trust my voice. I am more independent, confident, health-minded, and disciplined because of my experience in the military system. As a low-income student, the system also allowed me to make a name for myself equally, since we all wore the same clothes, ate the same food, lived in the same conditions, had the same transportation, had the same means of entertainment, etc. I built incredibly strong relationships with my friends and my now husband that would not have been possible without the unique experience that we shared. VMI losing state funding would take away the opportunities that I had from future generations. As a member of the female alumni community and a representative of the low income student experience, I wholeheartedly oppose HB 1377 and support continued state funding for this institution. I do want to add that while currently I am not a VA resident, I lived in VA for 24 years until a few months ago when my husband and I moved away for my graduate program. In a year, we will be moving back home to VA permanently. So please hear my voice as I advocate for an institution and state that I call home.

Delegates, Senators, and all Honorable parties of the Legislature: We write to you on behalf of the great VMI Class of 2023. We appreciate the time and effort taken to review the following comments and those of our fellow members of the VMI community. We were extremely disappointed and frustrated to learn of the position in which our state government has placed our alma mater, the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Learning that VMI may be placed under the governance of a board of individuals with no connection to VMI is confusing and deeply concerning. VMI’s 186 year history is defined by students from all 50 states and numerous foreign countries committing themselves to “confidence in their functions and attitudes of leadership,” selfless service, “love of learning,” “advocacy of the American democracy and free enterprise system,” and, above all, honor (VMI Mission). For those unfamiliar, many of these traits are derived from the the traditions and Mission Statement of VMI, a statement every member of our class and thousands of cadets past and present recite from memory during the Ratline—VMI’s rigorous first-year training. The words of the mission and dozens of other significant terms and phrases are not memorized for the sake of monotony or punishment, nor to make Rats lose their voices. Rather, they imbue in cadets the necessity for teamwork, cohesion, and accountability, and above all, honor. Placing stewardship of these traits under the governance and control of an unrelated institution would be fundamentally incompatible with VMI’s mission and structure. The Institute’s governance should only ever be developed within the VMI community and through its own Board of Visitors (BOV), which exists specifically to steward VMI’s unique mission of creating Citizen Soldiers. The importance of a BOV composed of individuals who have experienced VMI from a first-person point of view cannot be understated. Reassigning VMI’s governance to an unrelated institution’s board risks weakening that mission and sets a precedent incongruent with how specialized public institutions are overseen, regardless of intent. Our class graduated over 300 “citizens prepared for the varied works of civil life”; 300 Brother Rats (classmates); 300 “objects of honest pride to their instructors”; 300 “fair specimens of citizen-soldiers”; and 300 alumni “ready in every time of deepest peril to vindicate the honor of the Institute and defend her rights” (Inscription on the VMI Parapet, COL John T. L. Preston). Our Brother Rats stand ready to defend what is right and just for the future of VMI. That is what we were taught by the Institute. It is the request, hope, and prayer of the Class of 2023 that this viewpoint be considered in your deliberation of this issue. Though physically separated from the Institute, our class remains unified in support of our alma mater. We wish to see the legacy of VMI remain solely in the hands of the VMI community—a community whose foundation is built on honor above self. Thank you for your consideration. Mizpah, Denny Kelly, Class Agent Jake Sekerak, Class Agent Can Cavanaugh, President

I chose to attend VMI from 1992-1996 over acceptance to UVA and VT. I did so because it’s not an “ordinary school”. VMI should remain rigorous with the honor code left alone with the highest standards for admission and completion for a degree instead of diluting the pool with lower standards and selection based on demographics instead of merit. Merit is what makes us exceptional. It should be every cadet and cadet prospect’s goal to be exceptional. Don’t do Ordinary. Done plus One, The Road Less Traveled. These are all characteristics of the VMI I knew. I am afraid the recent governor that was an alum softened my school. And this bill seeks to kill what is left of the school. There is no racism or sexism - it has been thoroughly investigated without merit. There are 6 current cadet captains that are female out of the 16 Cadet Captain slots. 37.5% of the Captain slots are held by a demographic that is less than 10% of the senior class. All races have rank, are on the honor court and have class leadership positions. If I was a minority or female - I would want to know I was selected on MERIT (there’s that word again) rather than selection for a quota that is in and of itself true racism/sexism. VMI is unique. It is a stand alone institution of the state and always has been. That should remain the case and the top standard of rigorous merit for higher education in Va. VMI prepared me for a 5 year career in the USAF, more than prepared me for my MBA, and has been the proud standard and measuring stick for my business endeavors since.

Comments Document

Please see the attached statement explaining my opposition to HB 1377. C. Quinn Adams (VMI '12)

Dear Members of the Study Subcommittee of the House Rules Committee, I am writing in strong opposition to HB 1377, which calls for a study to determine whether the Virginia Military Institute should continue to receive state funding. I am a parent of a graduate of VMI, Class of 2025, and have a current freshman at The Institute. I can say without hesitation that VMI has had a profoundly positive impact on my children’s lives and on the lives of countless others who have gone before. VMI provides students with more than an education. It instills discipline, confidence, accountability, and a deep sense of pride in being both an American and a Virginian. The Institute challenges young men and women to become better individuals, not only professionally, but morally and civically. VMI graduates leave prepared to serve their communities, their state, and their country with integrity and purpose. I have witnessed this firsthand with both of our sons. VMI is a unique institution within the Commonwealth. Its adversative system develops leaders in a way that no other public college or university in Virginia does. The value it provides to the state far exceeds the investment made in it through public funding. I believe that VMI should continue to be supported, strengthened, and preserved as a vital part of Virginia’s higher education system. I hope that future generations - students from all backgrounds - will continue to have the same opportunity. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1377. Thank you for your time and consideration. Very Respectfully, Emily Garner

Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen concerning Bill 1377, I am a 2nd class (3rd year) cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. I've held rank for two years now serving with the Institute's Color Staff and have drummed with the Pipe and Drum corps my entire cadetship. I write to you today to express how much VMI has effected me and how VMI does not just affect just Virginia, but the United States and the world as a whole. Coming here, I was a very timid young man, I had a slouch and couldn't look people in the eye. I needed a change in my life and decided that VMI would be good for me. As a rat (freshman) I struggled, I didn't understand why they were hard on me but after months of this, I understood why. The hardship that happens here is character building. I walk more confident than any time previous to now. The bonding between my roomates and classmates also forged a brotherhood that I feel will last a lifetime. VMI to me stands as an institution that builds character. This place has excelerated my materity, confidence, and understanding of the world around me. We encourge open dialogue for all types of debates. My roommate and I just talked about our views of the left and right in a civil debate, where we both found even ground and even agreed on many things. The characters i've met here would've been unthinkable anywhere else, like Commander Kirk Lippold, the commander of the USS Cole when it was attacked. The lessons i've learnt from leaders with actual leadership experience in times of crisis are Immense. Nationally, VMI Alumni have shaped the country and the world. George Marshal; rebuilt Europe post WW2 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. George S Patton; Americas most aggressive and one of the most tacticlly sound Generals in WW2. Chestie Puller: The Most Decorated Marine in history. Sun Li-Jen: The "Rommel of the East" defended China from both the Japanese in WW2 and Communists in the Chinese Civil War. John "Razin" Caine: The current Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff Over 600 Alumni died in service to this country and 7 medal of honors were given to Alumni. This school means so much to not just me personally, but to the state, and the country. Virginia should take pride that it hosts a school that competes with schools like the Military Academy at West Point or the Naval Academy in producing leaders and noble citizens for the country. As someone who tends to lean left of the political spectrum, I can say that VMI is many things but racist and sexist is not one of those things. We have many systems and rules that explicitly prohibit these kinds of behavior. Even the culture of VMI cracks down on individuals that attempt to bring such beliefs here. I was actually quite suprised the acomadations made for minorities here. We have religous services for religous less popular in this country, groups for minorities to meet without fear of judgment, and a great system of confidential reporting of incidents, should any arise. I wish I had more characters to express how much I believe this school does for people. I truely believe that removing state funds would not only be a detriment to the Commonwealth of Virginia, but also to the United States and the World as a whole. Very Respectfully, Cadet Sasso, TA Class of '27 Color Sgt. Band Co. (757) 848-7372

I respectfully oppose HB1377. VMI has long provided — and continues to provide — a unique and transformative experience for every cadet who chooses to attend. The Institute consistently develops honorable leaders who go on to excel both in military service and in the civilian workforce. The opportunities and challenges VMI offers are unmatched, and it would be a serious loss to see its funding diminished or withdrawn.

I may not be a resident of Virginia but that should show just how far the reputation and character of VMI has reached not only across the state of Virginia but the Nation itself. I first heard about VMI from a Cadet who had attended the same Highschool as me, he encouraged me to come and visit VMI when I was trying to decide on where I wanted to go to college. I knew that I wanted to serve this amazing country one way or another and VMI presented me with so many opportunities to learn and grow as a servant and a leader for this country. HB1377 and HB1374 are both direct attacks on the only place I have ever felt truly spoke to my values and embodied ideals that I hold dear. Ideals of Honor, Duty, Integrity, and Respect. Ideals which this great nation was built on and that so many patriots have sacrificed for. VMI is not only integral to the state of Virginia but in my opinion, it is Integral to the nation itself. VMI has produced several medal of honor recipients, many fine officers who have fought and died in defense of the nation and many more leaders of character in the civilian sector. To suggest that it could be replaced or replicated anywhere else is honestly a laughable concept. Thank you for the opportunity to voice our concerns about these bills.

Representatives of Virginia, I respectfully oppose the proposed legislation in bill 1377 to remove funding from the Virginia Military Institute. 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 funding for the school removes the ability for these opportunities to be cultivated and encouraged in this melting pot of education. The VMI experience cannot be pursued alone. The VMI experience exists because the individual becomes the corps, and the corps is reflected in the 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 funding of the state, Virginia would lose a very important asset for her citizens. An asset that unites and strengthens Virginia and the US as a whole. 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. The decision to remove funding is more accurately a decision on whether or not ideals such as these are worth preserving within the youth of Virginia. I urge you to look deeper at the costs that removing funds 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.

Delegates, Senators, and all Honorable parties of the Legislature and Governor’s Office,   We write to you on behalf of the great VMI Class of 2023. We appreciate the time and effort taken to review the following comments and those of our fellow members of the VMI community. We were extremely disappointed and frustrated to learn of the position in which our state government has placed our alma mater, the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Learning that VMI may be placed under the governance of a board of individuals with no connection to VMI is confusing and deeply concerning. VMI’s 186 year history is defined by students from all 50 states and numerous foreign countries committing themselves to “confidence in their functions and attitudes of leadership,” selfless service, “love of learning,” “advocacy of the American democracy and free enterprise system,” and, above all, honor (VMI Mission). For those unfamiliar, many of these traits are derived from the the traditions and Mission Statement of VMI, a statement every member of our class and thousands of cadets past and present recite from memory during the Ratline—VMI’s rigorous first-year training. The words of the mission and dozens of other significant terms and phrases are not memorized for the sake of monotony or punishment, nor to make Rats lose their voices. Rather, they imbue in cadets the necessity for teamwork, cohesion, and accountability, and above all, honor. Placing stewardship of these traits under the governance and control of an unrelated institution would be fundamentally incompatible with VMI’s mission and structure. The Institute’s governance should only ever be developed within the VMI community and through its own Board of Visitors (BOV), which exists specifically to steward VMI’s unique mission of creating Citizen Soldiers. The importance of a BOV composed of individuals who have experienced VMI from a first-person point of view cannot be understated. Reassigning VMI’s governance to an unrelated institution’s board risks weakening that mission and sets a precedent incongruent with how specialized public institutions are overseen, regardless of intent. Our class graduated over 300 “citizens prepared for the varied works of civil life”; 300 Brother Rats (classmates); 300 “objects of honest pride to their instructors”; 300 “fair specimens of citizen-soldiers”; and 300 alumni “ready in every time of deepest peril” to vindicate the honor of the Institute and defend her rights. (Inscription on the VMI Parapet, COL John T. L. Preston) Our Brother Rats stand ready to defend what is right and just for the future of VMI. That is what we were taught by the Institute. It is the request, hope, and prayer of the Class of 2023 that this viewpoint be considered in your deliberation of this issue. Though physically separated from the Institute, our class remains unified in support of our alma mater. We wish to see the legacy of VMI remain solely in the hands of the VMI community—a community whose foundation is built on honor above self. Thank you for your consideration. Mizpah, The VMI Class of 2023 Denny Kelly, Class Agent Jake Sekerak, Class Agent Cam Cavanaugh, President

Dear Members of the Study Subcommittee of the House Rules Committee, I am writing in strong opposition to HB 1377, which calls for a study to determine whether the Virginia Military Institute should continue to receive state funding. I am a recent graduate of VMI, Class of 2025, with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Business. As a proud alumnus, I can say without hesitation that VMI has had a profoundly positive impact on my life and on the lives of countless others who pass through its gates. VMI provided me with more than an education. It instilled in me discipline, confidence, accountability, and a deep sense of pride in being both an American and a Virginian. The Institute challenged me to become a better individual, not only professionally, but morally and civically. VMI graduates leave prepared to serve their communities, their state, and their country with integrity and purpose. VMI is a unique institution within the Commonwealth. Its adversative system develops leaders in a way that no other public college or university in Virginia does. The value it provides to the state far exceeds the investment made in it through public funding. I believe that VMI should continue to be supported, strengthened, and preserved as a vital part of Virginia’s higher education system. I hope that future generations - students from all backgrounds - will have the same opportunity I had to experience the personal growth and transformation that VMI offers. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1377. Thank you for your time and consideration. Very Respectfully, Walker Garner VMI Class of 2025

It is important for VMI to remain a state-supported educational institution. The unique environment of VMI provides Virginia an option and experience that can not be found anywhere else. Why wouldn't we Virginians want to distinguish ourselves? This educational institution is vital for the development and success for many of our state's young adults. My son, recognizing that he would not succeed otherwise, chose the disciplinary regiment of VMI where he thrived. It was hard. He needed the hard and the opportunity that only this college could provide. This community not only gave him the kind of support that can't be found in any other college in Virginia, but led him to serve our country as a Navy officer. This choice was made on his own, after paying for his college education himself and with our help. Virginia is better having this college in our boundaries, Virginians are better with this school as an option for a better, stronger state. It would be criminal to change that. Why would you? What is the objection? It makes no sense unless your motives are strictly political and that is an absolutely terrible reason to make a decision that could hurt the future of our young men and women.

I am in vehement opposition of HB 1377 and the study questioning if Virginia Military Institute should continue to receive state funding. As a VMI staff member for over 20 years and a lifelong local resident, I have seen firsthand the quality of students that graduate from VMI. The leadership skills, respect, courtesy, and self-discipline taught to these cadets are essential. Over the years, I have talked to cadets who have told me that VMI has made them better individuals. VMI has graduates who routinely go on to graduate from some of the top graduate programs in the nation with roughly 50% of graduates commission into the armed forces. Those who don’t commission or go to graduate school are very competitive in the job market. By eliminating state funding, not only will cadets and the employees suffer, but the Rockbridge County community will suffer as well. The trickledown effect will be astronomical. I encourage Del. Helmer to visit VMI to see for himself the value of a VMI education before making judgements.

A prior comment on the bill shows Ex cadet Jeremiah woods thoughts on the state of vmi but it is important to recognize that leaving VMI was not due to alleged racial hostility. VMI is a highly structured, merit-based institution where success depends on academic performance, conduct, and adherence to strict protocols. Reports indicate that Mr. Woods struggled academically and also had penalties for failing to meet penalty tour requirements, both of which would normally have led to suspension under standard VMI policy. Despite this, classmates of multiple races, including white cadets, wrote letters of recommendation on his behalf to give him another chance. This demonstrates what VMI is truly about: supporting cadets and offering opportunities for improvement when peers and instructors see potential, regardless of background. Ultimately, Mr. Woods’ challenges were tied to performance and adherence to VMI standards, not race. His departure reflects the difficulty of navigating VMI’s rigorous environment, even with support, rather than systemic discrimination. For these reasons, the state should not support HB1377, which questions VMI’s value based on claims that do not reflect its merit-based system.

The Virginia Military Institute gave me an opportunity to play collegiate athletics at the highest level. Playing collegiate athletics was the original driving factor that led me to leave Kentucky and make Virginia my second home for the next four years. What happened throughout the next four years helped shape me into the professional I am today, as a national sales director at a publicly trading company. VMI taught me about discipline and doing the right thing by having integrity, which is hard to find these days when everyone wants a shortcut to success. The friendships I made can never be fractured due to the bond we made throughout our tenure. VMI helps develop citizen soldiers who showcase professionalism and leadership across public service and the private sector. Thank you for your time and I look forward to VMI continuing to maintain the honor and integrity our country needs.

Why does the subject of supporting The Virginia Military Institute arise when a certain political party is in power? The history and successes of its graduates are well known and have been expounded by many others in previous comments. Does supporting VMI, whos graduates are imbued with honor, character and integrity, threaten the status quo or have these virtues become passe'? The real question before us today is, can the General Assembly faithfully and impartially discharge their duties or are they merely minions? The Bios of these legislators is impressive and demonstrates that they were born with a brain. Their vote will demonstrate, whether or not, they were born with a backbone.

I deeply oppose HB 1377. VMI is a remarkable institution. I am a father of two current biracial KEYDETS whom are also athletes. The core value system is second to none. This institute is all about life readiness. It builds character and strong citizens. This bill should be focused on school that are failing and do not get students ready for life. Other places could learn something from the discipline and honor system that VMI instills. I strongly oppose HR1377!!!!

To whomever this may concern, 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 was profoundly supportive, and 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 welcome 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 burdens of 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 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.

I attended VMI, and worked there for almost 7 after a brief one-year hiatus following graduation. I’m writing this from a cell phone while I have a moment of pause at work, so my apologies for the lack of organization of my thoughts here. I’m upset that I even have to take the time to do this, but here we are… VMI is not perfect, but it is effective, and the proof is in the pudding with the fine men and women it produces. You will find more issues related to racism, sexism, sexual harassment, and more on the average college campus in one weekend than you will find in a year or more at VMI. There is not a college in the country that has as much interaction between ALL members of their student body as VMI does. We live in close quarters. We dine together. We attend small classes. We are forced to rely on people from all different backgrounds and affinities from day one. And we learn to collaborate and co-exist with all different types of people because of this shared experience. Are there one-off circumstances that require attention, sure. But you’d see more of it in the crowd to get into a UVA football game than you would in an entire cadetship at VMI. I would encourage you to speak with cadets, faculty, and alumni to hear about the positives of the VMI experience before you reduce it to a relic of the confederacy. VMI has outpunched its weight for years, and it could not do so without the support it receives from the state. And the state and nation would be worse off without graduates from VMI. Business leaders, community leaders, government leaders, and military leaders (our current highest ranking military officer), have passed through barracks and benefitted from the VMI experience. This bill stands to diminish VMI, and that is good for no one. VMI is good. Do your due diligence. Don’t play political football with VMI. There are 1500 cadets in Barracks, many of whom will do wonderful things in their communities, with their families, in business, in the military, etc. They deserve the support of Virginia. Tearing VMI apart at the seams by creating board conflicts and misunderstandings with our alumni, whose support VMI desperately needs does nothing but diminish the opportunities that are available to cadets. To what end? More red tape? More administrative bloat? More people who don’t understand VMI or its people that get to pull strings and call shots? Creating a college that resembles the BS we see at other “normal” schools across the country with meaningless degrees and incompetent graduates that go on to be a burden on society? The world needs more VMI’s, not less. RAH VA MIL.

First of all, thank you for the opportunity to voice opinions regarding HB 1377. I could write a screed as to why this piece of legislation is fraught with misconceptions and totally misses the mark regarding the Virginia Military Institute. However, I will simply say that in today's world, VMI has never been more relevant with its mission to produce educated, honorable women and men that are well prepared for civil life and military service. Our commonwealth and nation needs VMI.

My name is Cadet Andrew Ruocco. I am from out of state but chose to come to VMI from my home state of Massachusetts because of the character and quality of leader that VMI produces. I was drawn to VMI by the plethora of military leaders that have come from this school. Leaders like Chesty Puller and George Marshal. VMI has changed me and shaped me into who I am today. I have chosen it time and time again and I would lose a major part of me if the state dropped its funding. I was unsure if I was at the right place during my first year as a Cadet. During the Rat line, I reapplied for the Naval Academy and was accepted. The bonds that I made with my brother rats, the quality of leadership experience and the rigor of training, especially in the Marine Corps ROTC are what kept me at VMI over the United States Naval Academy. My story is a testament to the quality of training that the Institute provides. I was willing to give up a slot at a federally funded military Academy to stay at my beloved Institute because VMI matters. Today I am honored to serve as the vice president of the class of 2028. Our president is a mixed race African-American man and football player named Tony Allen. He is a testament to the leadership quality that is produced at VMI. He was elected by his peers for his standout qualities of kindness, honor, and athletic victory. At VMI, factors of race and religion are not important. Cadet’s see the character of the individual and know each other by one title, the title of “Cadet.” The state should continue to fund the Institute if it hopes to foster the same quality of leader that it has for over 150 years. If this is put into question, we could lose one of the greatest treasures that the Commonwealth has, an institute that shapes honor and leadership among Virginia’s youth. Cadets will continue to serve Virginia if Virginia continues to support the institute.

I am commenting on HB1337. I strongly support the continuation of state funding for VMI. I am a Professor of English at VMI with a BA, MA, and PhD in Rhetoric. VMI cadets, as produced by the VMI system, are a credit to the Commonwealth and are essential to the state of Virginia's, and the nation's, civic health in the coming years. In addition, I had a career in management before returning to academe, so I am able to see cadets and the VMI system as a vital contribution, not only to civic society, but to state and national productivity, by virtue of providing principled, disciplined, and highly productive leaders and workers for a range of sectors. Teaching at VMI for ten years has been and continues to be a profoundly rewarding experience for me as an instructor and researcher. My areas of expertise are rhetoric, democracy, and civic discourse. Every year, I am deeply impressed with cadets' commitment to learning these topics and their capacities for self-scrutiny, logical argument, and rational deliberative and bridge-building communication. Every year, teaching at VMI strengthens my commitment to democracy and gives me true hope for the future of Virginia and the nation. I just returned to my desk after teaching three classes. In each one, cadets arrived well-prepared for class, having done a series of long, complex readings and taken copious, handwritten reading notes. In all classes, cadets' contributions to discussion were reflective, insightful and/or keenly analytical, and cadets expressed themselves with care and respect for language. The exchange was scholarly and civil, yet dynamic and genuine. This, despite the pressures of external events and internal duties. This was a good day. Of course there are worse days. But the good days are unquestionably the norm here at VMI, which I have not experienced teaching at other universities (I taught at two, one large state, one large private) while getting my degrees), nor in the workplace. VMI cadets are head and shoulders above the students I taught elsewhere in terms of cadets' dedicated academic work, their independent thought, and their capacity to deliberate and work in groups. For myself, VMI has provided me with a rich, dynamic teaching experience--more than I imagined was possible--and, with their support of faculty development and academic freedom, has made it possible for my research to flourish. VMI is a credit to the humanities, the state, and the nation, and I am proud of Virginia for making this a public college and accessible to a wide range of students from different backgrounds, including international students, students from working-class backgrounds, and the sons and daughters of recent immigrants. I strongly urge ongoing state support for VMI and deeply contest its discontinuation.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB1377, and more crucially, my firm belief that Virginia Military Institute merits state funding. I have taught at VMI for more than twelve years, and it has been the privilege of my lifetime to work with students who are honorable, hardworking, generous, intellectually curious, and resilient. While I recognize fully that VMI is an imperfect institution, the work of creating an equitable learning community that celebrates diversity is never finished. Although it has been singled out by HB1337, VMI is hardly unique in its journey towards a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community, and the Institute continues to improve. It would be a grave mistake to forget that the Institute, however imperfect, continues to produce citizen soldiers who are unparalleled in their love for country and neighbor, for their commitment to service, and for their academic preparation and critical reasoning. I fear that in the years to come, the Commonwealth, and indeed the nation, will be in dire need of our graduates. A threat to VMI's state funding, and its very survival as an institution, is in fact a threat to all Virginians.

To Delegate Helmer and the members of the Study Subcommittee of the House Rules Committee, I am a faculty member in VMI’s history department, and I write to oppose HB1377. Let me begin by addressing §3.4b-c, which suggests that the narrative of the Lost Cause and a veneration for the Confederacy still animates VMI. Since arriving at VMI in 2022, I have taught upper-division courses on the history of slavery and abolition in the United States, the origins and legacy of the Civil War Amendments (the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution), and 19th-century U.S. history. I have directed independent studies and honors theses on this history of racial violence in the U.S., the legal history of school desegregation following Brown v. Board, Indigenous people’s resistance to settler colonialism in 18th-century Virginia, and on the history of enslaved and free Black labor at the Institute. I also direct VMI’s emerging program on the history of the U.S. Constitution. As part of those duties I teach a course each semester on U.S. constitutional history (which will soon be a graduation requirement for all cadets) and organize co-curricular events on both important historical and timely constitutional issues. This program daily challenges cadets to civilly and critically reckon with all of the most controversial issues in American life—religion, sex, privacy, racism, civil rights, executive power, and much more. Outside of VMI, I am currently the Associate Editor and the incoming Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the Early Republic, the leading academic journal on United States history through the Civil War. Since 1981, the JER has published countless articles by leading historians that challenged an older, Lost Cause, narrative of southern and antebellum history. Put simply, nearly every part of my job at VMI contributes to efforts that §3.4b-c questions whether VMI is invested in doing. And all of this has been encouraged, supported, and funded by Institute leadership. Moreover, my experience is not unique. I have the privilege of working with accomplished colleagues who are leading experts in the history of labor and civil rights, the intersection of US foreign relations and global movements for social justice, the origins of civic education in the U.S, and the everyday lives of Virginians—Black and white—during the Civil War. These colleagues teach courses on the history of the Civil Rights Movement, the diplomatic history of American Empire, and of colonial, revolutionary, and southern history. All these courses highlight the full diversity of experience that characterizes American history. To place this in the context of §3.3a of the proposed bill: I would put our history curriculum up against that at any other university in the Commonwealth or the nation. This is just one set of data to show that VMI offers a cutting-edge and rigorous academic program. And this is without accounting for the intangible ways that my colleagues embody the ideal of liberal arts college faculty members—accessible, student-centered teacher-scholars. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Mark Boonshoft, PhD Conrad M. Hall ’65 Chair in American Constitutional History Associate Editor; incoming Co-Editor, Journal of the Early Republic

To Delegate Helmer and the members of the Study Subcommittee of the House Rules Committee, I am a faculty member at VMI and write to oppose HB1377. In particular, I wish to address the language in subsections §1.4.b. and §1.4.c. I have witnessed many positive changes at the Institute in the years since 2020, beginning with the relocation of the statue of Stonewall Jackson, that confirm VMI does not engage in “celebrations or promotions of the Confederacy during the American Civil War.” From 2020-2022 I served as a member of the Commemorations and Memorials Naming and Review Committee, a sub-committee of the Board of Visitors, that reviewed all Confederate-linked imagery on Post and voted to remove or recontextualize items within the physical fabric of our Institution to ensure it is a welcoming, inclusive environment for all. Through an Inclusive History Certificate program funded by the Jessie Ball DuPont fund, I have also been involved in VMI’s Inclusive History project, which seeks to research and present our institutional past in terms of under-represented groups. I work regularly with our Office of Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion—still in existence, incidentally, unlike its counterparts at many other prominent Virginia state colleges—on cadet programming and events that recognize the diversity of human cultural experience in the United States. I believe that the legislature will discover that despite the fact that VMI, like the state of Virginia itself, did play a role in the Civil War, it is not an institution that “celebrates” its Confederate history but acknowledges it as a part of our past while working to instill in our Cadets appropriate values for citizen-soldiers of the future. Sincerely, Catharine Ingersoll, PhD

As a parent of a Cadet in the Class of 2027, I strongly oppose both bills, HB1377 and HB1374. VMI has had an overwhelmingly positive influence on my son. As an Asian family, we have seen nothing but respect, support, and opportunity at VMI. My son has thrived there, embracing the culture, discipline, and values that the Institute instills in every cadet. VMI has a long history of producing some of the finest leaders and generals in the U.S. military, and that legacy reflects the strength of the character and training it provides. The Institute does not judge anyone based on race, gender, or spiritual beliefs. Instead, it builds cadets into honorable, respectful, and resilient individuals who learn to rely on one another as part of a unified corps. My son chose VMI precisely because it is not a typical college. He is proud to be part of the Institute, and last year he earned his Class Ring — something he wears with deep pride. During school breaks, instead of focusing solely on personal time, he volunteers to return to his hometown to speak to students about VMI. He puts on his VMI uniform, stands in front of classrooms, and shares what the Institute has done for him. VMI has shaped our son into the responsible, dedicated citizen it promises to develop. For that, we are deeply grateful — and we stand firmly against any legislation that threatens the future of this institution.

In a world that lacks character — and institutions that uplift and develop character in our youth — it is essential that those that still exist like VMI are allowed to continue. I am a female alumnae, and more times then I could possibly count, I was told — not asked, but told — that I must have had a harder experience at VMI because of my sex. I can only speak to my own experience, but that assertion was absolutely untrue in every respect. What bothered me the most was not the statement itself, but the lack of faith it reflected — faith in the Institute's ability to uphold standards with integrity, and even worse, in the cadets and alumni. VMI stands as a beacon for discipline and integrity. We grew so tired of hearing the words, it is no ordinary place, but it is undeniably true. I feel confident that there was no better place I could have gone for college, because the lessons I learned and relationships I gained there far surpassed the value of any degree or academic instruction VMI — or any other educational entity — could provide. More than anything VMI taught me how to live: confidence, time management, leadership, followership, and how to be a reliable peer and teammate. The Virginia Military Institute was my home — a place I dreaded going back to every single time, yet a place I truly was heartbroken to leave. No other place could have developed me into the person I left as, in any amount of time, much less four years. I will forever be grateful for what that Institution gave me, in ways I can only partially express. As long as VMI exists as a place of integrity and discipline, the degree I fought for, sweat for, worked for, and cried for will continues to mean something. And to all of us — its alumni — the character and honor we recognize in one another will never cease to exist. I truly hope, VMI is able to continue to produce people of that caliber for generations to come.

I am strongly in opposition to HB 1377. I am a graduate of VMI. The VMI education experience is only comparable to the service academies. Everyone is required to be a member of the Corps of Cadets. Everyone starts out as a rat with no one having any advantage. A cadet learns discipline, honor and loyalty. Cadets are taught to be leaders. And those leadership skills are applied long after we leave VMI; not just in the military, but in municipal/state governments, private business, community groups, athletic organizations, and religious institutions. VMI consistently ranks among the top public colleges and universities in the country. It is an educational experience like no other and cannot be replicated at any other educational campus within the Commonwealth.

As a VMI alum, proud father whose daughter is an alum, and a 30 year retired Navy veteran, I respectfully oppose HB 1377. While I am always in favor of inviting scrutiny to any organization as I have found outside feedback to be instrumental to growth and improvement, I fear that the purpose and intent of this bill (and subsequent “investigation”) to be biased and lacks the integrity and neutrality required to offer honest and fair assessment. As such, it would be a complete loss of valuable tax payer dollars and tremendous loss of public time - not to mention any potential follow-on harm to the Institution as the result of a partial inquiry. I believe that HB 1377 would be a stronger piece of productive legislation if it was to recognize VMI’s invaluable place as an institution of leadership. More specifically, I am certain that VMI is better poised than any academic institution in the county to establish a national dialogue so desperately needed to provide vision of authentic community building on a national level. Now that would be a great asset to the Commonwealth and the rest of the nation and a piece of legislation that could make us all proud!

Comments Document

Please find the attached letter expressing my respectful opposition to Virginia HB 1377. I submit this correspondence in my personal capacity as a Commonwealth employee and as an individual who works in support of the Virginia Military Institute’s mission. The letter provides context regarding VMI’s unique role in developing commissioned military leaders, the substantive reforms implemented since the 2021 special investigative report, and why the Institute’s mission and structure are not readily duplicable by other public colleges or universities in the Commonwealth.

As an alumnus of the Virginia Military Institute I feel the premise of this task force is unfounded, there is no more a unique institution in the commonwealth than VMI. The leadership, academics, camaraderie, and Alumni network are second to none, and i do not know of another college or university that could compare in the facets provided at VMI. Anyone who has met an alumnus or spoken to one at any length would easily be able to identify this as well. This task force will be nothing but a waste of my taxpayer dollars and is clearly a pointed attack on an institution that has served the commonwealth and the nation as a beacon of honor and leadership.

Good Morning members of the Virginia House of Delegates. I am writing you as VMI is a place where hundreds of thousands of men and women found their path in life and found how they can serve not only their communities but their country. Taking away state funding puts many aspects of Cadet life and the ability of the Institute to shape these young men and women into model citizens in jeopardy. As a proud female alumni who is serving in both a civilian and military capacity, it was VMI that shaped me into the person I am, gave me the confidence to pursue whatever I wanted in life, and brought me to people who I now consider mentors and family. Please reconsider taking away funding, as that would not provide these opportunities to men and women in future generations.

I am writing to you today in support of VMI and the Institutes’ relevance to the Commonwealth. For over 186 years VMI has had one mission which is inscribed on the parapet; produce Citizen Soldiers which VMI has done and continues to do. I am the mom of a VMI graduate, I saw first hand the transformative experience for my son throughout his cadetship. He went from being a shy high school kid to a confident man who is now leading men and women in the U.S. Army. He received an excellent education at VMI but what he also received outside of academics is tremendous leadership training at the Institute which is serving him well in the Army. Cadets are given opportunities to lead at the Institute which sets them up for success in the military and the workforce. As an employee of the Institute , in my previous role in Career Services, I had the privilege of helping cadets connect with recruiters from various industries ranging from law enforcement and government agencies to insurance, engineering, non profit, etc.. the continual feedback I received from these recruiters is how impressed they were with the VMI graduates that they hired and they wanted to come back to post to recruit more of them to work for their organization or company. What they saw is what I saw in the my son, my husband, and my brother (who are all alumni) and all the cadets I have had the opportunity to get to know and work with while I have been at VMI. The quality, character, work ethic, discipline, rigor, honor code, everything that VMI teaches cadets and instills in them, after 4 years they are well prepared to step into leadership roles in the military and workforce and they are set up for success. Employers recognize that VMI produces quality young men and women of character who stand out above the rest. Because of the high demand to hire cadets, the Career Fairs on post were no longer able to accommodate all the employers who wanted to recruit so Career Services now hosts recruiters in the mess hall over lunch and in academic buildings. I encourage you to look on the Career Services page on the website and look at the outcomes over the past 5 years as to the % employed, starting salary, where they are employed.. etc.. I encourage any and all members of the Virginia General Assembly to visit Post as well and meet the cadets and faculty and staff of the Institute. Those of us who work there wholeheartedly support the mission of VMI and the corps. VMI is more than a school it is a family. The community is very supportive of VMI. We have countless people who serve as host families to rats and are there to support them throughout their cadetship. Life at VMI is a very different experience which is why we say, Don’t Do Ordinary. It is what sets us apart. When something is rare or unique in the art world or a precious gem, it is more valuable- in the collegiate world - that is VMI.

It is difficult for me to put into words how disappointed I am regarding HB1377 and its threat to the status and funding of VMI. I have been a staff member at VMI since 2010. I concede that while my comments are based on my own experience, they may be seen as biased or perhaps even dismissed by some as an attempt to protect my own job. I can understand that perspective. And why wouldn't I want to protect it? Speaking just for myself, this has been the best environment I've ever worked in. If you've ever dreaded getting up and going to work in the morning, if you've ever had a job you just couldn't stand, then you might understand how significant it is when I say I've never had that feeling in over 15 years here. The culture of respect and professionalism reaches all of us, and although I'm not an instructor leading a class, I know that in a small way I'm still teaching the young men and women that pass through this institution every time I interact with them. Leadership has always been clear to us that we ALL set an example through our own words and actions, and I take that responsibility seriously. I've gotten to know some of these cadets during their time here, and I'm still in touch with some of them after graduation. I'm proud of who they grew up to be - they're good people. While they were here, they were taught by good people, helped by good people. People who cared about them and wanted to see them succeed. HB1377 talks about revisiting an idea from 1928, suggesting that there's nothing VMI does that can't be done elsewhere. Maybe that's true. Maybe we could even close down ALL colleges and universities in the state, and build one giant mega-campus that does everything, and just send all of our students there. What do we lose with that sort of mindset, though? What unique and varied experiences will no longer be available? As for the criticisms of VMI and its culture - no institution is perfect, just as no human is perfect. We should always try to be a little better tomorrow than we are today. I welcome any good faith effort to make VMI a better place for everyone, and many of us here do our best on a daily basis to be a positive influence not just for the cadets, but for the institution itself. I can't support HB 1377 because I do not think it would help us continue toward that goal. It feels punitive rather than constructive, and that's what disappoints me the most.

Colleges do not exist in isolation from the community. This bill does not take into consideration what impacts any of their recommendations regarding VMI would have on the surrounding area. VMI employs over 800 people and is one of the two largest employers in the Lexington Rockbridge area. Discontinuing state funding for the institution or closing it would have drastic negative effects on the population of the southern Shenandoah Valley.

This is a troubling suggestion by the General Assembly and one that imperils the Commonwealth's leadership as a sovereign at the forefront of producing highly educated, well-rounded, men and women as future leaders of Commonwealth and the United States. The Commonwealth has been the pinnacle of leadership, forthrightness, and independence since its founding as one of the first 13 Colonies. Its leading position among the now 50 states is attributed to, in no small part, the independence of its individual institutions which have developed the Nation's leaders before and during the Nation's independence. A house divided cannot stand. Without the support of state funding for the Institute leaders to the likes of General George C. Marshall, often credited with saving all of western civilization after World War II, or Jonathan Daniels, who gave the ultimate sacrifice for those oppressed, would no longer be birthed by the Commonwealth. Most tragically, if leaders like those are not cultivated in the Commonwealth through the support of the state and the Commonwealth relinquishes its leadership position, our Nation must rely on the other 49 states to fill the void. That task is perilous in that those future leaders developed abroad may not meet the standards required, or worse, they may never develop them at all.

I respectfully oppose HB1377. A Task Force should be created for underperforming institutions and since VMI consistently produces exceptional graduates, strong commissioning outcomes, and an engaged alumni network that actively supports cadets throughout their careers I believe this to be a waste of public funds. Creating a Task Force to reconsider VMI’s status as a state supported institution risks undermining its funding and the proven model that drives these outcomes. VMI’s mission, military structure, and traditions are unique and cannot be replicated. Any action that jeopardizes its state support would directly harm current and future cadets — including my son — who have benefited from VMI’s rigorous and uniquely Spartan environment. Thank you for your consideration.

HB1377 feedback: Please note this is my personal experience and I am not seeking to speak for anyone else. I am a female cadet at VMI and would like to discuss the alleged "sexism" and "misogyny" at VMI. I have been at VMI for the last 3.5 years and the only time I have ever felt targeted or singled out for my sex is what those pushing this bill are saying about me. I have worked hard to earn my place and duties at VMI and now I feel as though I am being told I am seen as less than when I've never received that notion from a cadet here. I hope that was not the intention of the rhetoric being used in Richmond right now. I believe those of you voted in are doing your best to serve and respect us. Before you make any decisions, I hope you can come to VMI and visit Crozet, barracks, and academic buildings. I hope you all see us for what we are. I understand VMI Corps is far from perfect but we are honorable, respectful, and driven. I am not treated differently than anyone else because of my sex, race, ethnicity, religion, and/or sexual orientation. I know some of you may think that to be untrue but I can ensure you it is not and you can see for yourself. My only request is for you to come see VMI and leave all your preconceptions at the door. Thank you all for your time and your service to Virginia.

I respectfully oppose HB1377. As a graduate and a parent of a graduate, VMI has and continues to provide unique experiences for all who choose to attend the Institute. VMI continues to produce honorable leaders that excel in the military and the business world after graduation. The experiences VMI provides cannot be duplicated and it would be a tragedy to see funding reduced or removed.

I write as a member of the VMI faculty to share my perspective on HB 1377 and on the importance of continued state support 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 most thoughtful, honorable, resilient, effective citizen-leaders in the Commonwealth and the nation. This bill proposes a study to evaluate whether VMI should continue to receive state funding. Any such evaluation should carefully consider the outcomes VMI produces. VMI faculty are deeply committed to teaching, mentorship, and scholarship, and we work within a demanding environment that places high expectations on both students and instructors. The Institute consistently graduates students who go on to serve Virginia and the nation in the military, public service, education, and the private sector. Continued state funding supports an educational mission that yields clear public benefits and advances the Commonwealth’s long-term interests. Indeed, the Commonwealth would stand to benefit from more colleges like VMI. 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 strongly oppose HB1377

I am not a graduate of VMI, but I am an employee. It truly breaks my heart to hear the spiteful things being said unjustly about the Institute. This newest attack began with the non-renewal of General Wins' employment contract by the Board of Visitors (BOV). Certain members of the General Assembly stated when this happened that they would make VMI pay for this decision. It seems petty to punish a great institution of higher education for what is perceived to be an unfair non-renewal of an employment contract. I cannot speak to the reason for non-renewal, that information lies solely with the board. They made their decision and now all of the current cadets, employees and families are being punished for something we had no control over. To create a task force to focus solely on VMI is another unfair and targeted hit. If Barnes and Thornberg investigated other schools as they did VMI, I would find it hard to believe they would not find some of the same discriminatory remarks and harassment among their student body that were noted in our report. This newest attack on VMI feels like another retaliation by a select group of individuals bent on destroying VMI. If we are going to create a task force, let's create one to look at all the schools in the State, especially those with dismal graduation and student success rates. How effective are the taxpayer dollars going to those institutions? VMI produces honorable men and women fit for military or civilian service. We need institutions like VMI where leadership, honesty, and integrity are part of everyday life. These are qualities that help make good employees and productive citizens.

I am an alumnus of Virginia Military Institute. I respectfully submit this testimony in opposition to House Bill 1377. Section 1 states that the purpose of the Task Force is “to determine whether [VMI] should continue to be a state-sponsored institution of higher education.” That is not routine oversight. The bill does not presume continuation with recommendations for improvement; it authorizes an inquiry into whether the institution should continue to exist in its current public form at all. No comparable public institution of higher education is subjected, by statute, to an existential review of this kind. Section 3 authorizes the Task Force to evaluate an extensive and non-exhaustive list of issues, including: • whether VMI’s educational services are duplicated elsewhere (§3.1), • whether other institutions could replace VMI’s role (§3.2), • whether additional academic offerings should be approved should VMI remain state-funded (§3.3), • and whether VMI “possesses the capacity” to take certain actions related to its institutional culture (§3.4). The bill further authorizes the Task Force to explore “any other questions or concerns about VMI that may arise” (§3.6). This language establishes no limiting principle. It allows the scope of inquiry to expand indefinitely and subjects the institution to standards that are not defined, measurable, or temporally fixed. Section 3.1 directs the Task Force to “reevaluate the findings of the Commission to Survey the Educational System of Virginia in 1928.” That Commission is the historical basis for VMI’s modern public role. Reopening its findings nearly a century later, without any triggering deficiency identified in the bill, invites reconsideration of foundational decisions that have already been ratified through decades of legislative appropriations, accreditation, and governance. The bill provides no explanation for why this historical justification must be revisited now, nor why prior legislative judgments are presumed insufficient. Section 3.4 requires the Task Force to determine whether VMI “possesses the capacity as an institution” to take specified cultural actions. The phrase “possesses the capacity” is prospective and subjective. It does not ask whether VMI has complied with law or policy, but whether the institution is deemed capable of satisfying future expectations that are not defined in the bill. This introduces a standard that cannot be conclusively met or resolved. Section 3.6 directs the Task Force to recommend whether VMI should “continue to receive public funds as a state-sponsored institution of higher education,” based on the analyses described. This language links continued public funding not to objective compliance or performance benchmarks, but to discretionary recommendations arising from an open-ended inquiry. The bill therefore creates ongoing institutional uncertainty rather than corrective oversight. By authorizing a task force whose stated purpose is to determine whether a public institution should continue to exist as such, HB 1377 establishes a precedent that extends beyond VMI. If enacted, it signals that long-standing public institutions may be subjected to existential review absent any finding of failure, insolvency, or legal noncompliance—based solely on discretionary re-evaluation. Based solely on its text, House Bill 1377 does not provide neutral oversight, defined standards, or bounded review. It should be defeated. Thank you.

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.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to both HB1374 and HB1377. These bills appear to target the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). I am not an alumnus myself, but my son graduated from VMI in 2023 and now works here in Richmond. I also work alongside many VMI graduates and have the utmost respect for these individuals. When I visited my son at post, I was always impressed with how the Cadets handled themselves - very respectful, polite, honoring their parents, committed to their work, etc. Why would you want to negatively impact that spirit and training received? Many VMI alumni that I know continue to act the way they were taught at VMI. I often recommend VMI to other parents that I meet telling them the Institute will instill values that are much needed in today's world. Please either pull these bills or reject them.

Is there a better example of Government overreach than this bill ? The claims circulating online can be rejected by marginal amount of research. Let’s try and solve VA’s actual problems

Jeremiah Woods, a Black former cadet at VMI, shared that he experienced racial targeting, retaliation for raising concerns, and a hostile campus climate. Despite repeated efforts to address inequities, meaningful change did not occur. He highlighted systemic issues, such as exclusionary labeling of Black cadets, glorification of Confederate history through traditions, building names, murals, and class rings, and the omission of enslaved African Americans from VMI narratives. His research calling for a memorial was suppressed, and ultimately, he left VMI because it became unsafe and unsustainable. HB 1377 does not erase history or close VMI but asks whether Virginia should continue sponsoring an institution that tolerates racial hostility, suppresses scholarship, and glorifies Confederate identity. He urges support for the bill.

I am writing to express my strong opposition to both HB1374 and HB1377. These bills appear to target the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). I am not an alumnus myself, but my son graduated from VMI in 2023 and now works here in Richmond. I also work alongside many VMI graduates and have the utmost respect for these individuals. When I visited my son at post, I was always impressed with how the Cadets handled themselves - very respectful, polite, honoring their parents, committed to their work, etc. Why would you want to negatively impact that spirit and training received? Many VMI alumni that I know continue to act the way they were taught at VMI. I often recommend VMI to other parents that I meet telling them the Institute will instill values that are much needed in today's world. Please either pull these bills or reject them.

Should VMI continue to receive state funding? Well, if you care about educating a diverse group of students, developing ethical, honest, selfless behavior, and encouraging lifelong bonds between students of different races, and socio-economic backgrounds, then you'd be hard pressed to find a better example in the Commonwealth or at any State-funded institution.

VMI is a profoundly valuable and productive component of the Virginia higher education system - it MUST endure and continue to provide its unique value to the state. Suspension of state funding would be a monumental error; if anything, funding should be increased.

To the Members of the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate, My name is Denver Reese, and I am a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute. I stand in firm opposition to House Bill 1377, which would establish a Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force to determine whether VMI should continue as a state-sponsored institution of higher education.  I oppose this bill for the following reasons: 1. It Undermines a Historic and Successful Institution VMI has served the Commonwealth and the nation for over 180 years by producing disciplined leaders committed to service. Its mission and legacy are unique among Virginia’s colleges. This bill opens the door to questioning the value of that mission without clear cause. 2. It Politicizes Education and Military Leadership HB 1377 directs a task force to revisit a report from 1928 and subject the institute to broad evaluations that go far beyond reasonable oversight. It includes evaluation of curriculum, academic offerings, workforce needs, diversity metrics, and even historical traditions. These are subjective areas that cannot be assessed with neutrality by a political task force.  3. It Threatens VMI’s Autonomy and Stability Creating a commission to evaluate whether VMI should remain state-sponsored weakens confidence among cadets, alumni, and faculty. It signals a lack of support from the legislature and injects uncertainty into recruitment, fundraising, and long-term planning. 4. It Ignores VMI’s Track Record of Reform and Improvement VMI has undertaken efforts to improve inclusivity, academic quality, and student welfare. Continuous improvement should be encouraged through constructive engagement—not by questioning the institute’s existence. The legislature should support reforms that strengthen VMI, not threaten its future. 5. The Bill Appears Rooted in Partisan Disputes, Not Institutional Needs The timing and focus of this bill reflect political disagreements rather than evidence of failure at VMI. The institute already operates under state oversight and has the mechanisms to address concerns without resorting to an advisory task force with sweeping authority. House Bill 1377 in its current form poses a clear risk to the mission and future of the Virginia Military Institute. Rather than advancing the Commonwealth’s interests, it undermines an institution with a proven record of producing leaders who serve Virginia and the nation. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1377. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Denver Reese, VMI Class of 2013

I respectfully oppose HB1377. Virginia Military Institute is the oldest state military college in the United States. Rooted in tradition and it's tried and true methods producing the highest caliber men and women for America's military and civilian workforce. Virginia Military Institute has always been equal opportunity for all regardless of sex, color or creed. You get in what you put out. To think anything different and attack the Institute is extremely short sighted and senseless. VMI is the best decision I've ever made and has shaped me into the man, husband and father I am today. RVM 1-9

I respectfully and absolutely oppose HB1377. VMI has provided my oldest daughter with a most valuable degree. She graduated from VMI in 2003 and is now an emergency room pediatrician in the greater Houston area. She states today that she would go back again without hesitation. She is so confident in VMI that she talked her youngest sister into attending VMI. Her youngest sister, our youngest daughter of 5, ONLY applied to VMI. My youngest daughter would not consider any other colleges, was accepted, survived the Ratline with a 4.0 GPA, and is a proud VMI Cadet, class 2028.

I strongly appose this action. I am a VMI alumni, coast guard reservist, and engineer. I would not be any of those three without the funding that the state provides. I worked every year during school with the exception on my freshman, (Rat), year to help pay for school. In my opinion VMI uses their funds extremely well. They put the cadets first, in the most recent years they’ve made improvements to the security of the campus, quality of food in the mess hall, and have renovated extremely old buildings to meet today’s safety standards. They do all of that while being on of the best schools in the country at providing scholarships towards their cadets. I am lucky enough to have received multiple scholarships that made it possible to get a quality education. When I first interviewed for jobs before graduation, interviewers saw the value of my education and that VMI meant something to them, and most of my interviewers didn’t attend or have family members that went there. They recognized the reputation that the school has. VMI produces high caliber citizens and military members that recognize the importance of patriotism and respect of their fellow people. Reducing state funding will significantly hinder the aid cadets are receiving. I respectfully request that you please continue helping the school I love. Thank you for your time

Del. Helmer, As an employee of VMI for more than 10 years, I have witnessed young men and women truly benefit from the liberal arts education VMI provides. Cadets who otherwise may have entered the U.S. military with very conservative ideals, received an education that broadened their horizons and made them truly capable leaders in our very diverse armed forces. Removing state funding, or even proposing to remove state funding, hurts our efforts to market to incoming cadets, and new faculty and staff. VMI depends so much on state funding that it's very existence would be at stake. And in a small community like Lexington where half the population is employed by W&L and the other half--VMI, you would essentially be firing half the town. Do you really want less jobs available in rural Virginia? Jobs that bring well-educated, influential people to the reddest part of the state? Thank you for your time.

I respectfully and strongly oppose HB1377 sponsored by Del. Helmer. I have been blessed and privileged to graduate from and subsequently be employed by the Institute. I matriculated to VMI from Pennsylvania and grew up in a small town that was NOT diverse. Upon coming to VMI and experiencing life here, I encountered a diverse Corps that cared more about the effort you put forth than ANYTHING else. If you worked hard, you earned the respect of your peers--and that holds true through today, as seeing the interactions on Post (almost) always make me proud to call myself an alumnus. VMI is not perfect, but we consistently take stock of our flaws and evaluate ourselves as an institution more than our peers (I have worked at four different institutions of higher education and none has scrutinized itself as deeply as VMI does). I urge anyone with questions about the operations of the Institute to inquire with alumni, cadets, and employees of the Institute. You will quickly learn the valuable asset that VMI has been to the Commonwealth and to the United States for 186 years.

VMI consistently produces soldiers, leaders, entrepreneurs, and humanitarians that make positive impact in their communities, whether in VA or their home state. To remove the funding from this Institution, would be a setback for the State of VA and our Country.

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 alumni 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 strongly oppose HB1377 for the simple fact that Virginia Military Institute brings so much to many different people. VMI has foremost had its stamp in the history of the Commonwealth. The institute instills core values to its keydets whether academically as well as athletics. VMI should not be frowned upon because it asks more from its students. Society needs to get back to its roots and have a backbone. VMI has had a positive impact in my personal life as far as an employee I have no complaints whatsoever about this institute. The institute is not built like every other educational campus and that is perfectly fine, this place is to build leaders whether it be in the workforce or military. The call for defunding a place like this is most definitely not the right choice for this state. Thank you reading this comment and hope the committee makes the right choice.

I strongly oppose HB1377. I have worked at VMI for 22 years and I can tell you without a doubt that not funding VMI would be detrimental to our society as a whole. VMI develops disciplined and honorable leaders, who go onto serve our state, nation and world in various compacities. VMI has alumni of all races and genders that are military leaders, political leaders and business leaders around the world. VMI does not look at someone's race, gender, or spiritual beliefs when producing disciplined and honorable leaders. VMI is unique when it comes to our educational model that builds character and sense of duty that will not be found at any other institution. For these reasons I urge you to reject this bill and protect VMI and the leaders that it produces.

Dear Members of the House of Delegates, I am writing as a private citizen, a VMI alumna, and someone who has worked at the Institute for the past five years. I strongly oppose HB1377. Creating a task force to question whether VMI should continue as a state supported institution is unnecessary and out of step with what VMI continues to provide to the Commonwealth. In her majority opinion in United States v. Virginia, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg described VMI as an “incomparable military college” that offers “unique educational opportunities” not found anywhere else in Virginia. She emphasized that VMI’s training and mission are “not available anywhere else in Virginia,” and that the Institute’s purpose of developing “citizen-soldiers” is rooted in a distinctive model of education shaped by rigor, structure, and character development. Everything about my own experience reflects that truth. VMI is not like other colleges. During my time as a cadet, I formed lifelong friendships with people who have gone on to become incredibly high achieving leaders in many fields. These relationships were forged through a shared experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else. Recently, I celebrated the 25th anniversary of women at VMI with fellow alumnae. It was inspiring to see how far the Institute has come and how much progress and diversity have taken root since women were first admitted. VMI shaped me as a young professional in ways no other school could have. The discipline, resilience, and sense of responsibility that VMI instills stay with you long after graduation. And even though I did not commission, I am extremely proud that VMI is the number one producer of Army officers behind West Point and the number one producer of Marine officers behind the Naval Academy. That record speaks directly to the Institute’s continued success in fulfilling the mission Justice Ginsburg recognized. The idea that VMI’s educational model can be duplicated somewhere else ignores reality. Justice Ginsburg described VMI’s method as “pervasive training of a kind not available anywhere else in Virginia,” and that remains true. It is impossible to recreate the same environment, intensity, and culture by expanding a program at another college. As a Lexington resident, I see every day how deeply VMI is woven into the local economy and community. Casting doubt on the Institute’s future harms families, small businesses, and local institutions that depend on the stability and presence of VMI. If the goal is improvement or accountability, there are constructive ways to pursue that. But establishing a task force to reconsider whether VMI should remain a state supported institution is damaging, unnecessary, and dismissive of an institution that has served Virginia for generations. Thank you for considering my comments. I respectfully urge you to oppose HB1377. Emily Fulton VMI Class of 2018 Lexington, Virginia

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB1377. As an alumni who graduated in 2011 and as a lifelong Virginian, VMI has played a pivotal role not only in my education and younger life, but it continues to this day. My family has continued the tradition of Parents' Weekend for 15 years following my graduation with continued visits to Lexington and VMI. I chose to go to VMI over non-military colleges for the structure, rigor, and academic prowess it offered -- and I wasn't disappointed. While I admire a lot of things about other universities in Virginia, there is no experience like the one you receive at VMI. I also had the privilege of working in the VMI library archives while I was a cadet; part of my job was to document the military service of VMI alumni - primarily from WW1. It was daunting to see the sacrifice of so many VMI alumni as well as cadets that cut their academics short to serve. To end, while I was a cadet I only experienced and observed fairness and equality throughout every facet of VMI. The Commandant's staff and the cadet leadership put into place many organizations and policies with overlapping areas of responsibilities to ensure no one was unfairly treated. Please consider my experience as a Virginian and alumni when reviewing this proposed bill.

To Whom This May Concern, As a student, leader, and proud admirer of the Virginia Military Institute, I write on behalf of the legislation currently being brought before the House for discussion. I would like to share my personal experience and story from the beginning of my cadetship at VMI to where I stand today. When I was first accepted to VMI as a senior in high school, I was the only student in my graduating class of 750 to not only apply, but also to be accepted. I was constantly asked by my peers, family members, and others whether I was making the right decision. Was I choosing a path of suffering and discipline unlike that of any ordinary college in the country? When I matriculated in August of 2022, I had already heard about the various allegations and criticisms surrounding VMI. However, throughout my Rat Line experience, none of these claims were ever demonstrated or reflected in the environment around me. After breakout, I truly fell in love with the Institute and committed myself to growing as a man, a leader, and a future officer. I later served as a Squad Corporal for the incoming Rat Mass of 2024, where I formed some of the strongest bonds of brotherhood in my life. During this time, I lost many friends from home due to diverging life paths. Many chose lifestyles involving alcohol abuse, drugs, and other behaviors I could not be a part of. The brothers I gained at VMI became my true family and remain the greatest gift of my cadetship. The following year, I served as a Company Master Sergeant, participating in community service and representing VMI in parades and events throughout the Lexington area. Currently, I serve as a Company Executive Officer, responsible alongside the Company Commander for the leadership, discipline, and accountability of 146 cadets. We oversee uniform and grooming standards and supervise ratline activities to ensure they are conducted professionally and responsibly. These leadership positions have not only prepared me for my future military career, but have also taught me a fundamental truth: that people come from different backgrounds, races, lifestyles, and beliefs, and that true leadership is learning how to bring those differences together into a single, effective unit. I am currently on track to commission into the United States Army as an Infantry officer, an opportunity I am deeply grateful for and one I can directly attribute to VMI. To the Delegate from Fairfax, Virginia, Mr. Helmer, I respectfully ask that you seek to truly understand the VMI system and what it produces for the Commonwealth and the nation. We are different from many institutions, including your alma mater, particularly in our Honor System, which is unmatched anywhere in the country. VMI is an institution rich in history. That history should not be erased or dismissed, but understood and learned from. History, if ignored, is bound to repeat itself. I encourage you to see VMI firsthand rather than relying solely on external portrayals, including repeated reporting by the same journalists over many years. What VMI stands for, and what it produces, are leaders of character, discipline, and service for Virginia and the United States of America. I thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express why this legislation deserves thoughtful reconsideration and serious discussion. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Dariyan Behnam ’26 Virginia Military Institute

I oppose the proposed Bill HB1377 sponsored by Delegate Helmer which removes state funding for Virginia Military Institution. 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 Virginia Military Institute.

I would like to express my opposition to HB1377. VMI cadets are from all over the United States, and from all over the world. If you stop any cadet on Post and speak with them, you will understand how mature and accomplished many of them already are. They have selected a path that most college students do not choose, one of a disciplined and military lifestyle – something very challenging and unique for a young person. Nearly half of our young men and women are commissioned into the military, and the other half serve as engineers, chemists, or are pre-med. After the Barnes & Thornberg Report, VMI made progress. It continues to make progress, and examples are its participation in Universities Studying Slavery and its Inclusive History Project, which will allow cadets to research the enslaved, Irish immigrants, free blacks, and men and women who have each added to VMI’s story.

As a 2013 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, I can say with absolute certainty that the Institute has changed by life for the better. It is no exaggeration to say that everything in my adult life has been attributed to being a graduate of the VMI. A school who has created citizen soldiers for hundreds of years who have made positive impacts in all areas of our great nation. I have been a member of the VMI Club of Richmond dating back to 2015 and was the President of the club during the 24'-25' years. I have the pleasure of interfacing with a plethora of different alumni who shared varied political beliefs, backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, and races. The common denominator is there was a mutual respect of one another regardless of the circumstances that brought us to attend VMI in the first place. VMI teaches you about camaraderie and understanding for one another which is reinforced by the VMI system. As a rat, you are broken down into your base elements and built back up as a member of a team. I never once carried about any of the circumstances that brought my classmates to the Institute. The only thing that mattered is that I had their back and they had mine. I find it very frustrating that VMI keeps getting pushed into the spotlight by individuals that act like they care, but have no idea how the Institute actually functions. How can a bill brought forth that has such incredible ramifications be brought forward by somebody who did not attend the Institute. I strongly encourage you to think long and hard about what the second and third level effects of your actions could be. Regardless of any of this, VMI will continue to train the worlds best to handle difficult responsibilities within the military and beyond. These future graduates will encompass different creeds, religions, and beliefs, but they will answer the call as they always have, because somebody has to. It is ironic to me that the same school that is being attacked is that same school who's graduates keep our nation safe both domestically and abroad and allow individuals like Mr. Helmer to express their dissatisfaction freely and openly. Please do the right thing and stop this before it gets any further. If you make the decision to move forward with this without asking the questions of how this will affect our nation and state as well as gauging the views of current cadets and alumni, you will prove to everybody that this has nothing to do with doing the right thing but rather a push for power and control. I also think it is important to note that as a West Point graduate, Helmer certainly has a lot to gain personally by seeing this through. If VMI is forced to go private, tuition will be so expensive that individuals will look at other institutions (West Point) as a path for their military endeavors. I see this for what it is, and I hope others will do the same. RAH VA MIL!

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments related to HB1377. My name is Dale Hybl. I am a Virginia Military Institute graduate from the Class of 1994 and a retired Colonel in the United States Air Force. I also have a son, who is a graduate of VMI from the Class of 2023. My family believes in the VMI system, and I would like to provide personal feedback on the value that VMI provides. VMI has produced high-quality citizen-soldiers with a service-oriented mindset for the state of Virginia and the United States at large throughout its history. That includes famous graduates you may have heard of, as well as many thousands of graduates that you haven't heard of. While VMI has changed since I graduated, it has experienced a positive evolution in that time and continues to develop young men and women into productive, service-oriented leaders. The VMI experience is well known and appreciated, especially within the United States military. In my last deployment to Afghanistan serving our nation, that respect for VMI translated into immediate credibility for me, despite being a U.S. Air Force augmentee within a U.S. Army-heavy organization. That credibility enabled me to integrate and make a positive difference within that unit right from the start of my deployment. I have since retired from the military and moved back to Virginia, however that sense of service that I learned at VMI has not diminished. I now work in the education system in Virginia, attempting to mentor young men and women in the same way I was mentored at VMI. With that in mind, I believe this bill is unnecessary, as VMI is clearly continuing to develop graduates that are contributing and providing value for both our state and our nation.

I respectfully oppose HB 1377. VMI is one of a kind. The only remaining Senior Military College that requires all students to be a part of the Corps of Cadets and enrolled in ROTC, which builds students character and leadership skills. The state should fully support this institute and celebrate existence. This country needs more VMIs!

As a military veteran, Virginia resident, and mother of a female 2nd class cadet, I STRONGLY OPPOSE the defunding of Virginia Military Institute. 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, I urge you as a Virginia voter to retract this wildly unpopular proposed legislation.

I work at the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, and I feel compelled to speak up before this vote. I love my job, and I am proud of the work we do every day for our cadets and for the Commonwealth. VMI is not just a school—it is a cornerstone of the Lexington community and a public institution that has educated generations of Virginians to serve as leaders in the military, public service, and civilian life. If VMI were to shut down due to loss of state funding, the impact would be devastating not only to employees and cadets, but to the entire region that depends on the Institute economically, culturally, and historically. What makes VMI special is that it stands apart. It offers a rigorous military education combined with an outstanding academic experience that produces disciplined, thoughtful graduates prepared to lead with integrity. Our cadets work incredibly hard, and they deserve the opportunity to complete their education at an institution that has challenged and shaped them in ways few colleges can. I have always valued public education and have often aligned myself with Democratic principles. It is precisely because of those values—fairness, opportunity, and commitment to the public good—that I ask you to reconsider this bill. Decisions of this magnitude should not be driven by politics alone, but by the real and lasting consequences for students, workers, and communities across Virginia. I respectfully urge you to consider the people behind VMI—the cadets striving to serve, the staff and faculty dedicated to their success, and the community that will be deeply affected by this decision.

For the sake of Virginia’s future, continued state support of VMI is absolutely critical. The young men and women who graduate from the Institute will be the future leaders of the commonwealth.

As a proud alumnus and father of an alumnus, I strongly oppose HB1377. The VMI experience has strongly influenced my life and has led me down a path of public service. VMI is truly a national treasure and great resource to the nation, removing funding would be a tragedy for the nation and the commonwealth. I also strongly oppose HB1374.

I strongly oppose the introduction of this legislation. The shortsightedness and failure to recognize value in the VMIs mission and track record of producing community leaders for the state of Virginia is negligent. VMI stands alone as 1 of only 11 schools in the country that has graduated both a Medal of Honor winner and Nobel peace prize winner and is the only school in Virginia to do so. It is second in producing Generals for the US military only to West Point. And in today’s society where higher education continues to abandon values rooted in leadership, VMI stands strong and delivers a rare product in today’s college marketplace. I have worked at some of the highest ranked schools on the planet including Amherst College and Washington and Lee, the young men and women graduating from VMI are more prepared to handle the challenges and reality of adulthood than many of those students from elite private institutions. Their growth in areas of discipline, accountability, reliability, attention to detail, confidence, time management, and a selfless sense of service are not replicated by any other institution in the region. To rob the state of producing more graduates that excel in these areas is not in the best interest of the state of Virginia. It is serving one’s political goals to deny diversity of thought and values, an attempt to create and shape higher education to serve political agendas.

Dear Members of the Virginia House of Delegates, I write to express my opposition to House Bill 1377 and the proposal to remove state funding from the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). VMI is a state-supported institution created to serve the Commonwealth through a specific and demanding public mission: the education and development of principled leaders prepared for military service, public service, and civilian leadership. State funding is not a privilege extended conditionally at political discretion; it is the mechanism by which the Commonwealth ensures that this mission remains accessible, accountable, and aligned with Virginia’s public interests. Removing state funding would not function as a targeted reform or corrective measure. Instead, it would amount to a punitive action that undermines students, faculty, and the long-term stability of the institution without meaningfully addressing any underlying concerns. Cadets—many of whom attend VMI precisely because it is a public institution—would face increased financial burdens, reduced resources, and uncertainty regarding the value of their education. Defunding VMI would also weaken the Commonwealth’s ability to exercise oversight. Public funding brings with it public accountability, transparency requirements, and legislative authority. Stripping funding risks pushing VMI toward greater reliance on private donations or external interests, reducing—not increasing—the state’s influence over outcomes. If the General Assembly believes reforms are necessary, it has ample tools to pursue them directly: statutory changes, reporting requirements, budgetary conditions, or oversight mechanisms. Eliminating funding bypasses these tools in favor of a blunt approach that threatens educational quality, institutional effectiveness, and Virginia’s reputation for stable higher education governance. Finally, this bill establishes a dangerous precedent. If state funding can be withdrawn from a public institution as a means of expressing dissatisfaction rather than implementing reform, all public colleges and universities become vulnerable to political retaliation. Higher education policy should be guided by long-term public benefit, not short-term pressure. VMI has served the Commonwealth for generations and can continue to do so while meeting evolving expectations. That work requires engagement, oversight, and reform where necessary—not abandonment. I respectfully urge you to oppose HB 1377 and to preserve state funding for the Virginia Military Institute. Thank you for your consideration.

I respectfully oppose HB1377, sponsored by Delegate Helmer. I am a graduate of VMI and I am also fortunate enough to be an employee of the Institute. VMI, like other state institutions, produces men and women of honorable character, however, VMI produces men and women who are imbued with a dedication and appreciation for public service. I have dedicated my professional life to public service, first through a career in the US Army, and now, as a member of the staff here at VMI helping to train the next generation of leaders. VMI is a very good option for college students who seek to challenge themselves through a disciplined and tough environment. These students learn to put the group ahead of themselves. We have a diverse Corps of Cadets who represent every facet of American life here at the Institute. It is not a homogeneous culture fixated on the past. Cadets, faculty and staff, and other VMI stakeholders, seek to provide the Commonwealth, and this country with graduates dedicated to serving all Americans.

I am writing to you regarding HB 1377, patroned by Delegate Helmer, which would establish a task force to investigate 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 1377 risks framing VMI primarily through suspicion rather than understanding, and could undermine an institution that has served the Commonwealth and the nation with distinction for generations. I respectfully ask that you consider the voices 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. It truly is not what it seems like anymore. Thank you for your time and for your service to the Commonwealth. I appreciate your consideration of my perspective.

To whom it may concern: I come from a family with a limited military background and no prior experience with VMI. I was raised with the same values expected from leaders worldwide: honor, integrity, character, commitment, and loyalty. When searching for a college to help pursue a commission in the U.S. Armed Forces, I researched universities such as Virginia Tech, Univeristy of Virginia, James Madison, The Citadel, West Point, and more. In the end, I only submitted an application to one college: VMI. I chose VMI because this school offers an educational experience unmatched by any other institution of higher education. Academic classes are taught by world-class faculty who are leading experts in their field. Extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports, and others are lead by individuals with decades of experience in their activity. I have had the opportunity to listen to and learn from foreign dignitaries, high-ranking military members, CEOs, celebrities, and more. I have had opportunities to challenge myself in ways that I didn't know I needed, and was alongside young men and women from all walks of life who were judged not by the color of their skin or their socio-economic background, but rather by the merit of their character. This school - and the challenging system that we subscribe to - is built around the cadets. The heart and soul of VMI is the honor system and the class system, neither of which can be found in any other institution in the world. VMI is the sole survivor of a single-sanction honor system, and it thrives at the heart of all cadets. In my three and a half years of living at VMI, I have seen no semblance of the Confederacy. What I do see, however, is the challenges that cadets like me face every day. I see how cadets lean on each other for support and in turn support others. I see cadets of all backgrounds in our dining hall sharing fellowship and friendship. I see cadets working every day to better themselves and this great school. I see cadets becoming better leaders who value the contributions of others. There is no "Lost Cause" ideology present at VMI, nor is this school able to be under the supervision of Virginia State University. I implore the members of the committee and the House of Delegates to come visit VMI. You will not find any evidence of what you accuse VMI of. Instead, you will find a meritocracy built around personal honor, where people are judged by their character, not their skin. You will find cadets who work towards bettering themselves and who push their friends to be better. You will find the next generation of leaders in the military, commerce, and industrial sectors. You will find a school that has no equal anywhere in the world, populated by incredible young men and women who are truly inspirational. Sincerely, A Senior VMI Cadet from Virginia.

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.

My experience at Virginia Military Institute has been most impactful and influential part of my life behind only my Catholic faith and my family. There is no other institution of higher learning in The Commonwealth that produces the caliber of young men and women ready to lead after college. More important than leading, however, is that the graduates of VMI stand ready to sacrifice for the greater good, whether that be on a farm to feed their community, in a warehouse, the boardroom, their church, or - most importantly - their home, rearing the next generation, imbuing within them a sense of and value for virtues and character traits our contemporary society is severely lacking, such as: respect, dignity, honor, selfless sacrifice, loyalty, and INTEGRITY. Above all, as evidenced by the past 186 years, the graduates of VMI stand ready to answer the call of duty, willingly dying on the battlefield, laying down their lives for a higher calling leaving behind widows, fatherless children, and heart broken mothers & fathers. Why? Because The Institute taught them to humble themselves, serve others, work hard, and give it their all - even if that “all” is their life. Is any being perfect? No. VMI alumni fought on both sides of the Civil War during nearly 500,000 AMERICANS scarified their lives. Since then, alumni have fought and died in the hell of muddy European trenches, the scorching deserts of North Africa, the jungles of far off and nearly unknown Pacific islands, the blood stained beaches of Normandy, the snow-covered hills of Korea, the unforgiving jungles of Vietnam, and most recently the streets of Iraq and mountains of Afghanistan. The United States of America and the Commonwealth of Virginia have routinely called upon the graduates of VMI to serve. We have answered the call more than any school in the state; that is without a doubt. We will continue to answer that call. If not us, then who? To unravel the fabric that makes VMI VMI is to undermine the well being of our great state - the birth place of these United States of America.

I strongly oppose HB 1377. I have worked for VMI for 15 years! VMI is a special place that transforms boys and girls to men and women. It teaches not only academics but also teaches them integrity, leadership and good moral character! It is very obvious that this bill is nothing more then playing politics! If you truly cared about the well being of the kids in college you would propose a study for all state funded universities. I ask you please vote this bill down! Thank you for your time.

My granddaughter is engaged to marry a senior at VMI. I have visited this campus many times , & have always been in awe of the stalwartness & pride among the cadets. The history and buildings must be preserved for their original intent to train patriotic & unselfish young citizens who want to make their country even better!

As a proud alumnus, I strongly oppose this bill. The VMI experience has strongly influenced my life and has lead me down a path of public service. VMI is truly a national treasure and great resource to the nation, removing funding would be a tragedy for the nation and the commonwealth.

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.

As a graduate and the son of a graduate I wholeheartedly express my opposition to HB1377. VMI’s legacy as a bastion of Honor, service, commitment, and integrity has solidified itself through the countless leaders it has produced for the last 187 years. VMI does this better than any institution in the commonwealth of Virginia, and it does this by incorporating individuals from all races, backgrounds, ideologies, and creeds and transforms them into leaders who share the bonds of brotherhood for the rest of their lives. Nowhere else have I had the privilege of meeting and working with individuals of such a high caliber. The removal of state funds would be a crippling blow to not only the men and women who currently attend and work at the Institute, but also those who would come after them.

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.

I am against the formation of any task force to study if VMI is worthy of continued support by Virginia taxpayers. VMI has and will continue to produce leaders and good citizens for both Virginia and America . Setting up any legitimate task force to study this will send the wrong signal to all Virginians and will have an impact on recruiting the number and types of men and women we need. Virginia has invested a lot of money in VMI and has seen great return on this investment . That this investment should continue is obvious to most Virginian of both parties and to show them that you as a body can not see the obvious will weaken all you other important works and positions and faith in the state government

Don't defund my school. I attended and graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 2018 and have been serving in the US Navy since. The lessons I was taught in discipline, academic rigor, physical fitness, and leadership set the foundation for a thus-far successful career as a nuclear submarine officer. I take great pride in being an alum of my college. I made the closest friends of my life at VMI; friends I keep to this day. Obviously, there are those who wish to enact change through defunding the Virginia Military Institute. I would recommend a shift in perspective. If you want to enact long-lasting change, consider working WITH VMI to influence change you wish to see, rather than trying to kill a school that very many Virginians are proud of.

To whom it may concern, I came to VMI from Illinois, which I think allows me a unique opportunity to speak on the accusations against VMI. During my time here, I have never experienced any situation in which VMI has propagated the "Lost Cause" brand of ideology. In fact, I have yet to see any trace of the Confederacy at this school. What I have experienced is a school that (as you will hear countless times over the coming weeks and months), produces men and women that are unrivaled in comparison to that of any other school. What HB 1377 would effectively do is end VMI's sacred honor code, as well as the class system that so builds VMI cadets into the brand of person that has literally shaped the commonwealth over the past 180 years. I urge to to drop HB1377 in order to allow VMI to continue to do what it does in order to continue to build great men and women well into the future.

I am involved with the Virginia Military Institute in 3 ways. I am an alumni, and employee, and the father of a recent female graduate. I can say that the things I see at Post do not match up what is being portrayed in the news articles. I see cadets, men and women, black, white, and Asian, all different shapes and sizes, all walking, talking, eating, and living together. The Corps of Cadets do not care about the labels that this country seems to be obsessed about. They care about each other, seeing their classmates succeed. What they care about comes from the challenges that VMI creates for the entire Corps as each class begins and faces the very unique training and leadership system that VMI offers. VMI teaches you to think of more than just ones self and ones own needs, but to think of the needs of your peers. This thought process is what Virginia and the country needs more of. I know for me personally, I was pushed beyond what I thought my own limits were. VMI taught me leadership and gave me confidence. While each cadet and alumni story is different and unique, they are also very similar. There is, in my opinion, misreporting going on that is influencing these actions and proposed legislation. News articles routinely refer to the annual Memorial Parade as a celebration of the confederacy. It is not. For years and years, VMI celebrates the lives and actions of all VMI alumni or have served and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our great country in every conflict. Each year, all of the names are the fallen are read. As a veteran and as an alumni who has friends and classmates that are celebrated and remembered each year, I believe it is important for our country to remember these heroes and their heroic deeds. Each year, I see VMI and the Corps of Cadets support a great program, the College Orientation Workshop, that was developed by an alumni about 40 years ago. I've recently visited the website of this non-profit, I see all the positive comments and the changed lives from that program that takes place at VMI. Some of these folks go on to attend VMI for their college career before moving onto successful civilian or military careers. This is another data point that shows how VMI quietly but positively impacts the Commonwealth and the country. It should also be noted that the alumni who created this program and runs it each year was bestowed VMI's highest award for his service and impact. This award would not have been given if VMI is the type of institution that we are accused of being. In short, if VMI were to ever be shuttered, it would have a tremendous negative affect on both the Commonwealth and the country by eliminating a key source of ethical and courageous leadership.

Comments Document

Personal letter to the Study Subcommittee of the House Rules Committee on VMI

General George C. Marshall, a 1901 Graduate of Virginia Military institute in Lexington, VA and the Nobel Peace Prize winner in 1953 would roll over in his grave with this proposed legislation. This CAN NOT HAPPEN. The General Assembly in Richmond must realize the National treasure that VMI is. Please do not let this bill escape the committee. Craig Michael Carlock, VMI Class of 1974!!!

I strongly oppose HB1377. To retroactively pass judgement on a school for its actions under previous administration(s) leads the Commonwealth down a dangerous path of using higher education (and education in general) as a means to exact retribution against political opponents to 'score points' with one's own party. To not examine every college and university with the same microscope smacks of bias. The fourth item in the bill speaks to an audit of actions taken by VMI leadership to “determine if VMI (a) has initiated any substantial changes to its policies, values, and preventative, investigative, and disciplinary procedures to reduce acts within their student body that could be perceived or classified as racist, sexist, or misogynistic or as an act of sexual harassment or sexual assault;” Will every college and university in the Commonwealth be subjected to this type of audit? If the goal is to eliminate these acts, should that not occur at every school? Have the proponents of this bill read Annual Fire, Safety and Security reports for each college and university? These reports are readily available online from schools and if concern for sexual harassment and sexual assault 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 standards of audit. 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 am a current cadet at VMI, and I give massive credit to VMI for forming me into the person I am today. Throughout the last few years, I have been tested in ways I never would've imagined, and been able to take advantage of opportunities that I never thought possible. Between contracting to the Army, becoming an EMT, and meeting the people that I consider a second family, VMI has given me so much, and should continue to do so for generations to come. I wouldn't have gone to college anywhere else, and for all its hardships, VMI has taught me more about myself than I would've learned anywhere else; and through this unique process I have been able to set myself up for a great future. Rah Virginia Mil.

I oppose this bill. I am a VMI graduate. I earned an engineering degree then went on to obtain a PHD in engineering. I worked as an engineering professor for 40 years in Virginia higher education. I was a state employee and serviced the commonwealth joyfully. The education I received from VMI equipped me to obtain the tools necessary to be a quality educator in my field. The integrity and honor and discipline that was instilled in me by the VMI experience was critical to my success. Today’s VMI graduate still leaves VMI with the same fundamentals that I received. Thanks for your time. I am opposed to this bill.

I respectfully oppose HB1377. I am a proud alumnus from the class of 1990. I am also the proud father of a current cadet who will graduate in May. The lessons learned while at VMI have served me well throughout my life, both in my military and civilian lives. VMI taught me to face any challenge with grit and determination. VMI taught me to never give up in pursuing what I believed in. It's these same lessons that my son is learning 36 years later. VMI provides a unique educational experience unavailable anywhere else in the Commonwealth. I urge everyone to vote against this bill.

I am writing to voice my strong opposition to this bill. For over 180 years VMI has produced some of the finest men and women that this nation has to offer through a unique system focused on honor and leadership. VMI consistently ranks well above multiple other public universities and colleges within the state of Virginia, and if the intent of this bill is to evaluate underperforming colleges, there is a long list of schools that need to be evaluated before VMI. The fact that this bill cites a study conducted 98 years ago, well before anyone on this committee was born, should lead one to question the intent and validity of this bill.

I oppose any removal of state funds for VMI. VMI has continually produced great leaders for Virginia and our nation. VMI's adherence to an honor system, esprit du corps, and both academic and physical rigor are all things that our nation needs.

I am a current cadet at VMI, and I would like to voice my opposition to HB1377. The claim that VMI has not done enough to distance itself from the "Lost Cause" narrative, as well as the claim that VMI is a sexist and racist institution, is very far from anything I have experienced at VMI. 4 out of the 11 members of the General Committee (the cadet government body that is elected by each class) are African American, including the senior class president (who I know very well and can say is one of the most outstanding people I have ever met). The highest-ranking cadet is African American. 12 of the 28 cadet captains are female, despite VMI being only 14% women. None of these people got their positions based on race or gender, they got it because VMI is the greatest meritocracy that I have ever witnessed. VMI gives cadets so many leadership opportunities through cadet government, the regimental system, rat challenge, club and NCAA sports, various other clubs, and in our academic departments. No cadet gets their positions because of their race, religion, gender, or who their family is, they get the positions that they earn. There has never been a time in my cadetship when any professor, member of the commandant's staff, or any other VMI employee has come anywhere near defending the institution of slavery, the Confederacy, or Jim Crow. Every single time any of these issues come up in a class, it has always been clear that the professors and my fellow cadets agree that slavery was evil, the right side won the Civil War, and that Jim Crow was wrong. In our constitutional history class, we received an excellent education on the history of Jim Crow laws and how they came to be. In US history, I gained a new perspective on the particular evil that slavery in the US was, and the facts that made it worse than other forms of slavery throughout world history. We do not have a day dedicated to Stonewall Jackson and the Confederacy, rather we have a Memorial Day during the last week of school where we read the names of every VMI alumni who has died in service of our country, and the parade on that day remembers the conflicts in which VMI alumni have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our nation. We also have a day dedicated to Jonathan Daniels, VMI class of 1961 valedictorian (a position that is elected by the graduating class), an Episcopalian priest who marched in the Civil Rights movement. In 1965, he gave his life by stepping in front of a shotgun and taking the blast that was meant to kill a young African American girl. Stonewall Jackson did teach at VMI prior to the Civil War, yet Jackson and Lee both attended West Point. Both West Point and VMI have made every effort to remove Confederate symbols from their campuses, with West Point renaming Lee Barracks and VMI removing the Stonewall statue and the name of Jackson from Old Barracks arch and our chapel. I have never seen VMI fly a Confederate Flag or play any song like "Dixie" during my cadetship. I have never experienced anything in my cadetship to support the claim that VMI racist, sexist, or supports the Lost Cause, and I know several of my fellow cadets have already voiced this opinion. The House of Delegates should also look at the facts that it is because VMI is independent that we are able to maintain our unique system that produces leaders both in the military, government and private sectors that are highly sought after for the educational experience that is unique to VMI.

I am a graduate of VMI. Class of 1994. I have a son who graduated in 2024 and now another son in his second year at VMI. My sons chose to attend VMI because they wanted no ordinary college experience. They wanted to be challenged physically, mentally and academically and become the best version of themselves possible. They have seen the many VMI graduate leaders in the community and in military service thrive. They too are on their way to do the same. VMI is no ordinary experience. It is filled with great adversity and requires full effort daily. The honor system is the foundation of VMI and unparalleled in any college in Virginia or arguably the nation. VMI continues to produce men and women leaders of honor, discipline, and service. This is what Virginia and our country needs more now than ever. I believe when you look at the results, you will find VMI does a great service for our young women and men of the commonwealth and eliminating state funding at VMI would be a huge mistake.

I am writing this comment in opposition to HB 1377. I strongly oppose any bill that would remove state funding from the Virginia Military Institute. As a 2017 VMI graduate, I can say without hesitation that VMI provided the most rigorous, transformative education and leadership experience I could have imagined. The Institute does far more than award degrees — it produces disciplined, ethical leaders who go on to serve Virginia and the nation in the military, public service, engineering, business, education, and countless other fields. VMI’s academic rigor, leadership development, and unparalleled alumni network create measurable, lifelong value. The opportunities, mentorship, and professional connections I gained as a cadet continue to benefit me today, both personally and professionally. Few institutions offer the same return on investment for the Commonwealth: graduates who are prepared to lead under pressure, solve complex problems, and serve with integrity. Defunding VMI would not punish an institution — it would harm generations of Virginians who rely on VMI’s unique mission and proven results. VMI is a cornerstone of Virginia’s higher education system and a model of leadership development. It deserves continued support, not abandonment.

The unique VMI educational experience I received was and has been instrumental in my professional success. I served 10 years on active duty in the U.S. Army and transitioned to corporate life with tremendous leadership experiences. I owe a great deal to VMI and continue to serve as a mentor to current students through volunteer service at the school. These young men and women are head and shoulders above the caliber of students I interact with at other collegiate institutions around the Commonwealth when it comes to their maturity, intestinal fortitude, drive for success, and poise in the face of adversity. I realize the VMI educational experience is not for everyone, but those that chose the path benefit greatly and will continue to represent the Commonwealth and our Nation in positions of professional importance. I implore you to continue to fully fund VMI so that future citizen soldiers can chose this unique educational experience!

My name is Keith Kline and I am in my 21st year as a Professor in the Psychology Department at Virginia Military Institute. I believe working at VMI is one my primary purposes in life and I am grateful to the Institute for the opportunity to fulfill that purpose. I love VMI deeply and just recently told the cadets in my classes that I have never been happier to be here. VMI is an incredibly special place. Over 20 years ago, I left another Institution to accept a position at VMI because I wanted to go to a place where it was "all about the students." There is no institution in Virginia or beyond where that phrase "all about the students" is more true than VMI. VMI has been everything I was looking for and more. It has exceeded my expectations, and I am proud of the Institute for the considerable growth we have undergone over the years. VMI cadets are special people. For example, I am repeatedly impressed with how quick they are to serve or offer help when they see a need. I strongly believe that that our institution continues to have enormous value and that our graduates are uniquely prepared to make a difference in Virginia, the United States, and the world. Thank you for your time.

This is absolute insanity. There is absolutely no rationale for introducing this as a beneficial action for VMI or the proud/loyal alumni or currently enrolled students. This is nothing more than an attempt to uproot and eliminate the values and traditions we have maintained from the start. Respect our Institute and our right to decide what actions are and will be best, not have outside governance from a group of individuals who never took the path less chosen.

Mr. Helmer, Please note that we fully support the continuation of educational opportunities for young people at The VA Military Institute. For many, many , generations; the positive impact of its graduates and history of helping create model citizens is commendable and well recognized. Eliminating funding and this opportunity for our nation is not creating more positives ; only taking away positives for our young. Do not hesitate to call me if I can assist in any efforts to discover the tremendously positive compact we can share - that Virginia Military Institute has had directly with myself and family. Very respectfully, Ken Howerton

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

Thank you for the op portunity to provid comments on this proposed bill. My name is Spencer Williamson and I graduated from VMI in 1985 with a BS in Engineering. VMI alumni have also served our country well has government leaders, community leaders, doctors, attorneys, business leaders and more. VMI produces such great leaders because it teaches honor, service, team work and perseverance. VMI had a tremendous impact on my life. After graduation, I served in the US Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer for four years. Then I went into the healthcare business developing life saving medical technologies including pacemkers, defibrillators and drug delivery devices. As CEO of my last company, it was reported to the company that over 5,000 lives had been saved with the help of our products. My son graduated from VMI in 2023 and is an engineer for Kimley Horn. He was the 4th generation of my family to graduate from VMI. VMI is one of the finest institutions in the United States and continues to make outsized contributions to our country and the world. VMI should continue to receive funding from the State of Virginia. Though it is small in student body number, the Institute has produce an extraordinary number of US military leaders, Government leaders and business leaders. George C. Marshall class of 1901 was Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army, 1939–1945 (principal U.S. military leader who organized and expanded the Army for World War II and coordinated strategy with Allied leaders), U.S. Secretary of State, 1947–1949 (architect and public face of the European Recovery Program (“Marshall Plan”) to rebuild Europe after WWII) and U.S. Secretary of Defense, 1949–1950 (led the newly unified Department of Defense during the early Cold War period). He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953. Beyond Marshall there are many VMI alumni that have held significant leadership roles in the US miliary. VMI alumni have received seven Medals of Honor and 86 awards of the next highest decorations for valor - the Air Force Cross, Distinguished Service Cross and Navy Cross. General Dan Caine is the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest ranking military officer. VMI alumni have also served our country well has government leaders, community VMI is one of the finest institutions in the United States and continues to make outsized contributions to our country and the world. VMI should continue to receive funding from the State of Virginia. I am happy to meet with any of our legislators or state government leaders if I can answer any questions or be helpful in anyway. Thank you, Spencer Williamson VMI '85 tspencerwilliamson4@gmail.com

I am writing to express my ardent opposition to HB 1377. VMI is a unique place, and I understand why it is difficult for people not associated with the school to understand what we do here. What should not be difficult to understand is the great value of VMI to the Commonwealth and to the Nation. VMI alumni provide tremendous contributions to society in both military and civilian pursuits. The character of the vast majority of people associated with this school has always impressed me and was one of the major factors influencing me and others to attend here. Speaking from personal experience, attending VMI was the best decision I made in my life, and I am thankful for the excellent education I received, the fantastic people I met, and the shared experiences, both pleasant and unpleasant, I enjoyed here. I strongly urge all Virginia legislators and citizens to oppose this bill and continue to support this great institution.

VMI has consistently, for 186 years mind you, turned out young men & women of high moral character, sense of duty and responsibility to not only themselves to uphold the high standards taught at VMI, but their communities and the nation at large. The only people who benefit from defunding VMI are those whose political ideaology control their entire lives and seek to control others from freely thinking and reaching their own conclusions. They seek to indoctrinate, not educate, to teach young people what to think, instead of how to think, and they will gladly continue to fund other universities & institutions of higher learning, which do & have done far less in the service of this great nation than Virginia Military Institute. This is politics, pure & simple.

My son is currently a first Classman attending VMI. He is graduating this spring with an honors degree in civil engineering. He recently completed and passed his civil engineering national exam (EIT). His experience at VMI has been unique, disciplined, and rigorous. The institution has challenged him mentally, physically, as well as, academically. The traditions and history have proven to development students into strong, independent, and honorable young men and women. It provides the necessary foundation and tools for students to become successful leaders with an emphasis on honor. Honor! Something that is desperately needed in our current society and workplaces. My son has a very diverse living experience as his roommates have extremely different racial, economic and social backgrounds. They posses the tightest bond of loyalty and respect for one another. The process of developing the characters of the cadets should not be tampered with or changed. VMI is an upstanding institution that must continue to be held at high standards, supported, and praised. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Respectfully, Joyia Rinker Parent of Cadet Noah Rinker, Class of 2026

I am a proud employee in the athletic department of the Virginia Military Institute and have found a great place to work for the past 10 years. It is a pleasure for me to promote the cadet-athletes at the Institute because I see what great people they are and the military leaders and people of character they strive to be. VMI is a place of historical significance and the Commonwealth of Virginia should be proud to call it a state-funded institute of higher education. The staff and professors are world-class and cadets leave VMI prepared to defend our great nation or become leaders in their chosen profession and model citizens. Please do not take away state funding from the Virginia Military Institute.

I oppose HB1377. When a future cadet signs the matriculation book, they enter VMI with a clean slate. Everyone wears the same uniform, they all live in sparse barracks rooms for four years, their socioeconomic backgrounds don't influence their peers, and all have the same opportunities to learn and lead. There is no identity politics except in the rank and leadership positions earned by cadets. No other college in Virginia offers this environment. Others in these comments have submitted data about the quality of VMI that I don't need to repeat. I have worked at VMI for over a decade and am also a parent of a graduate. I think this bill is totally about politics and not about the students here at VMI. We have a new superintendent and several new members of the BOV that she appointed. What is the rush to judgment before any of them have had the chance to spend time on the ground here, listening to cadets and staff? I encourage all members of the committee to reject this bill and come to VMI and see for yourselves how our unique system produces leaders of honor, integrity, resilience and accountability.

I am writing to support continued state funding for VMI. I did not attend VMI but over my 33 years in the construction and engineering business with W.M. Jordan Company I have hired many VMI graduates. I have found the young men and women to have high character and an outstanding work ethic. I would hate to see a dilution of resources for these future leaders of industry and our armed forces. Respectfully, Kenneth W Taylor Executive Vice President

I am writing to urge you to vote "no" on this legislation. 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.

I respectfully oppose the proposed legislation affecting the Virginia Military Institute. My concern is that this bill fails to recognize the depth of VMI’s contribution to the Commonwealth, the nation, and our military. VMI offers an educational and leadership experience unlike any other public institution in Virginia. For nearly two centuries, the Institute has shaped leaders grounded in character, service, and responsibility. There are so many graduates who quietly and consistently serve Virginia and our nation in their communities, our government, and across a vast array of industries. This college education experience works, and should continue to be state-supported because it continues to produce outcomes the Commonwealth can be proud of.

I have worked for VMI for 33 years. From the outside looking in the system seems odd and tax dollars could be spent in a much more efficient manner. Come inside and look out and you will see the investment of state dollars is exactly where it should be. Producing outstanding citizens that are making the world a better place. Individuals that care and are making a difference. The world needs manners, chivalry, and most of all empathy. These things are instilled into each cadet. No campus can compare to the genuine caring that VMI has here on post. Your state dollars provide an education from people that care what happens to these young people. It is not an 8 - 5 job its 24/7 that we form these cadets and send them into a world that is harsh and void of true caring. You will not find another school that your tax dollars are used to the most efficient manner while producing what we can only call the cream of the crop. To change this by pulling funding to VMI will not be felt immediately you will have won the battle. BUT over time the worlds basic platform of caring individuals and educated citizens in this world will be felt. One must step back and look and think WHY did this happen? I for one know the character that is produced at this institute and to take the funding away would be like cutting the throat of society and watching the blood flow. Can we afford this? As a society we need VMI and the production of outstanding citizens that are changing the world for the better. All other elements fade to the final conclusion of quality individuals going out into the world and making a difference. I think as a state taxpayer I would support this. Cant imagine an argument that could withstand this reasoning. Thank you for your time.

As a strong supporter of VMI, I am strongly opposed to HB1377. This political attack that is being used against VMI’s funding needs to stop. With a husband and son who have both graduated from the Institute and are both successful citizen and soldier leaders, I am disgusted that this continues to be brought to the legislative body. The cadet standards are unequivocally high and unlike other public universities in the Commonwealth. From the words of Herbert Hoover “Older men declare war. But it is the youth that must fight and die.” This quote reminds us that the cost of conflict is often paid by those with the least power to decide it. Decisions made by leaders can shape the lives of younger generations in lasting ways. It calls for responsibility, wisdom, and restraint when choosing paths that affect the future of others. I ask for your restraint and vote against HB 1377.

Virginia Military Institute is an irreplaceable institution that serves both the Commonwealth and the nation with distinction. There is no other school like it in Virginia, and very few like it in the country. For nearly 15 years, I have had the privilege of working at VMI, and as someone who grew up in the surrounding community, I also have seen firsthand the respect cadets earn from Lexington residents and all who visit the post. These young people are exceptional; they are smart, disciplined, and driven by a deep sense of service. Many will lead in their communities, and some will dedicate their lives to serving our country. While other colleges may incorporate military elements, the VMI experience is unique and cannot be replicated. It is a rigorous, transformative program that continually evolves to produce leaders of character who strengthen Virginia and the nation. Politics aside (and for what it is worth, I am a staunch Democrat), VMI is a special place that deserves continued state support. Reducing or eliminating funding would not only undermine an institution that has served Virginia for generations, but also be a disservice to these cadets who have chosen one of the most challenging and honorable paths in higher education. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I live in the Ratline. The idea that VMI holds onto a Confederate/Lost cause ideology could not be further from the truth. The statues and mentions to Confederates are gone, not one soul has even uttered the word "Jackson" since I came here. On an institutional level, you wouldn't even know Stonewall Jackson was a prominent figure here unless you searched for it. What does remain, however, are the values that both sides of the Civil War stood for. Even the mundane parts of daily life are spent practicing integrity, discipline, and courage; values that remain ever invaluable in today's society. Interpersonal racism is not even a question. I came to VMI somewhat skeptical, as sources online claimed it to be x, y, and z. You can imagine my shock when my life in California, which champions its diversity and love for others, was the same if not better at VMI. What I ultimately found, was that through the interconnectivity of social media, one's upbringing and local environment is superseded by a generational or political identity. VMI breaks past the digital barrier and creates genuine bonds and camaraderie, forged not on old state indoctrination of a 165 year old war, but rather on the values past cadets fought, died, and will die for. To question VMI's value is an affront to greatness, and if this bill is built upon ignorance/misinformation, political retaliation, or a combination of either, then it needs to be stopped.

Comment on HB1377 | Helmer | Establishing the Virginia Military Institute Advisory Task Force. I have worked at VMI for 15 years. I care deeply about my work and the school, and I believe the university offers something genuinely distinctive. VMI has areas that need improvement, and those of us working here are well aware of them. We do not shy away from difficult conversations internally. There are thoughtful initiatives underway to address these issues and effect positive change, and we are often more candid about our challenges than many peer institutions. I have worked closely on some of these initiatives at VMI over the past 13 years. That said, VMI excels in many areas. This is evident in the respect our cadets earn from the local community, the strong impressions they leave on employers through internships and careers, and the lasting character development we see realized when they return as alumni. Every employer I have spoken with who has hired a VMI cadet or alumnus wants to hire more VMI alumni because of their critical thinking skills, time management, strong work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure. Our students are deeply valued by the local community. They consistently step up when help is needed, demonstrate gratitude and reliability, and devote time to service despite demanding academic and training schedules. Their desire to contribute positively is sincere. They are also held to high standards. Our honor code is not merely symbolic; it is actively practiced. Students are expected to take responsibility for their actions, and they do. They acknowledge mistakes, learn from them, and work to improve. I would welcome the opportunity to provide further information illustrating why VMI merits your continued support.

IF the legislature is so inclined to pass this bill to study the value of public colleges, and as a potential money savings opportunity, then it only makes sense to include EVERY public college in the Commonwealth in the study. I think those conducting the study (if they can be truly objective) will quickly find that VMI's value to the Commonwealth far outweighs that of many other Virginia public institutions. For example, there are four Virginia public four-year colleges with very low six-year graduation rates below 50%, compared to VMI's rate of 74%. Ironically, separate legislation has been introduced to place VMI under the control of the Board of Visitors of one of these four institutions. This further shows that both pieces of legislation are solely based on political ideology rather than what is best for the Commonwealth and its citizens.

VMI is constantly ranked as one of the best Public colleges in the United States. It also produces more Officers for the Military than any other school in the country (with the exception of US Service Academies) through its ROTC programs, despite only having a student enrollment of around 1500. Sounds like an asset to the Commonwealth to me….

I strongly disagree with HB1377. VMI continues to this day to produce extraordinary men and women into the work force and into the Arms forces. Removing funding will hurt the financial state of VMI and affect kids such as myself that relied on a Scholarship to attend. Removing funding doesn’t just affect the kids but it trickles down to the communities that relay on VMI for work. How can you expect VMI to keep its vast amount of employees without this funding? In addition the alumni go on to do amazing things. I am one of 150 plus of my brother rats service my county in the military. Virginia Tech or any other college including West Point don’t create better leaders.

I have been employed by VMI for nearly 20 years and am a proud graduate of the Class of 1982. I am proud of my association with this great school and each year I am amazed at the quality of the graduates. These young men and women leave this school with a superb education which I know will enable them to do great things, as either a commissioned officer in the United States military or somewhere in the civilian work force, as they begin their professional careers. I believe the professional staff and faculty of VMI is well organized and is committed fully to the VMI mission in its entirety. To take this unique opportunity away from the Commonwealth of Virginia and from future members of the Corps of Cadets is a huge mistake and would have negative effects on the future leadership potential of the United States as we maneuver our way through the current political environment.

I am a faculty member in the History Department at VMI. I am proud of the educational opportunities that provide to our cadets and firmly believe that we are doing an excellent job educating the next generation of American leaders. The History Department offers a wide-ranging curriculum that addresses issues of race, gender, ethnicity, in addition to an emerging focus on Constitutional History and civic education. Our faculty have degrees from many of the top higher-education institutions in the country, including Harvard, the University of Texas, Ohio State University and other leading Ph.D. programs. Our curriculum is consistent with other liberal arts institutions. We require cadets to take World History, U.S. History, Constitutional History, and courses in the history of the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Our graduates enter leading Ph.D. programs and provide valuable leadership in the military, law enforcement, the national security establishment, and many other important outlets. VMI's impressive national rankings reflect an institution focused on providing the highest- quality of education for cadets, consistent with best disciplinary practices. Certainly we can be better; in fact we continue to strive to provide cadets with the best possible education. In that effort I firmly believe we are an asset to the Commonwealth, to Lexington, and to the thousands of cadets whom we serve.

I am writing as a concerned constituent to respectfully express my opposition to HB 1377 and 1374 and to urge you to carefully consider the long-standing legacy, mission, and contributions of the Virginia Military Institute. For more than 185 years, VMI has played a unique and vital role in the Commonwealth of Virginia and our nation. Its alumni include military leaders, public servants, business executives, educators, engineers, clergy, and community leaders who have distinguished themselves through service, discipline, and moral courage. From General George C. Marshall—architect of the Marshall Plan and Nobel Peace Prize recipient—to Jonathan Daniels, an Episcopal seminarian and civil rights martyr remembered nationally for his selfless sacrifice in defense of human dignity, VMI’s graduates have consistently demonstrated principled leadership in moments of profound consequence. Alongside them are Medal of Honor recipients, governors, legislators, judges, and countless officers who have served the United States with honor and distinction. Equally important are the men and women currently attending and graduating from VMI today. They represent a broad cross-section of Virginia and the nation, united by a shared commitment to leadership, service, and accountability. These cadets willingly subject themselves to one of the most demanding educational environments in the country—not for privilege, but for preparation to lead in difficult circumstances. Such legislation risks undermining the institutional independence and distinctive model that have made VMI successful for generations. The strength of VMI lies in its clear mission, its adversative system, and its emphasis on producing citizen-soldiers and principled leaders. Changes imposed without deference to this history and proven outcomes could weaken an institution that has consistently delivered measurable value to the Commonwealth. VMI does not exist in opposition to progress; it exists in service to Virginia and our nation. Its traditions have evolved over time, and its alumni and leadership remain committed to ensuring the Institute reflects the values of honor, equality under the law, and respect for all who are willing to meet its rigorous standards. That evolution is best guided by those entrusted with the Institute’s governance, not through legislation that risks politicizing its mission. I respectfully ask that you oppose HB 1377 and 1374 and instead support VMI’s continued ability to fulfill its historic role: producing leaders of character who serve Virginia, the United States, and their communities with distinction. Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration of this important matter.

This appears to be nothing more than political retribution. SCHEV already provides many of the services as requested in this bill. Section 3.1(a) - "...determine whether educational services rendered by VMI are duplicated..." If this were a legitimate concern, should the request to check for duplication not apply to all state-supported colleges and universities in Virginia? SCHEV lists 15, four-year public institutions; however, only VMI is targeted in this bill. How would a committee even substantiate that services are duplicated? Is the committee going to estimate the demand for public higher education in Virginia relative to the capacity to supply higher education for all existing institutions? Surely, our legislature has more pressing priorities to consider rather than to pursue an agenda that is not about promoting the advancement of Virginia and its citizens.

As an employee of Virginia Military Institute for more than five years, I see daily the positive impact this institution has on cadets, faculty, staff, and the Commonwealth. VMI is a place where leadership, ethics, and service are actively taught, practiced, and expected. Faculty and staff already operate under significant and demanding compliance requirements. We take that responsibility seriously, even when it makes our work more complex, because accountability matters. From the inside, additional review feels less like progress and more like a diversion of time, focus, and public resources away from education and leadership development. Continuing to single out an institution that is already under extensive scrutiny raises serious questions about priorities, especially when so much good work is already happening and so many broader challenges face the Commonwealth.

Every school year VMI brings together young people from all walks of life and molds them into leaders grounded in honor, service, and discipline. VMI has a long, proven track record of producing leaders who serve the nation in countless ways — in the military, in business, in public service, and in their communities. Cutting or questioning state funding through HB 1377 ignores the enormous value VMI provides to Virginia and the country. It’s a place that builds character, resilience, and leadership in a way no other school does, and that mission is worth protecting and supporting. Respectfully, Frank Hargrove III VMI Class of 2015

I am writing to share my perspective on HB 1377 and to express my strong support for the Virginia Military Institute continuing to receive state funding. The VMI experience has had a profoundly positive impact on my life and career, and I have seen firsthand how its graduates distinguish themselves in the workplace. Employers consistently seek out VMI graduates because they stand out among peers from other institutions. This distinction is not accidental—it is the result of VMI’s uniquely rigorous environment, which develops maturity, accountability, resilience, and principled leadership at an exceptional level. In my professional experience, VMI graduates enter the workforce with a level of professionalism and ethical grounding that is rare among early-career professionals. Their adherence to the VMI Honor Code instills trust, integrity, and personal responsibility, qualities that employers value deeply and increasingly demand. The combination of academic rigor, leadership development, and an uncompromising honor system produces graduates who are prepared to lead, serve, and contribute meaningfully from day one. These qualities make VMI graduates critically important to Virginia’s economy. The Commonwealth benefits when highly capable, work-ready graduates remain in-state and contribute to our businesses, public service institutions, and communities. VMI produces graduates who are not only highly employable, but deeply committed to service and leadership—factors that help retain top talent within Virginia’s workforce in an increasingly competitive national labor market. I have worked at other state institutions, and it is VMI where I have chosen to anchor both my career and my family. Those on the outside often have no understanding of how supportive, familiar, and values-driven this community truly is. My children spend their time surrounded by cadets and institutional leaders, and there are no better role models I could choose as they grow up in an increasingly uncertain national climate. The discipline, integrity, respect, and leadership they witness daily are lessons that extend far beyond the classroom or the barracks. I encourage the members of the subcommittee to remember that the positive experiences at VMI far outweigh the negative, even if those voices are quieter. Out of respect for the institution and adherence to its values, many who have benefited most from VMI choose to uphold it through action, integrity, and service rather than public criticism. That quiet commitment is itself a reflection of what VMI stands for and how it represents the Commonwealth of Virginia. VMI’s mission and outcomes provide clear value not only to its cadets, but to the Commonwealth as a whole. Continued state funding ensures that this unique institution can continue developing leaders of character who strengthen Virginia’s workforce, communities, and civic institutions. Thank you for your time, consideration, and service to the Commonwealth.

Not only do I not support HB1377, but I strongly urge our legislators to reject it as an utter waste of time and taxpayer money. I have worked at VMI for more than 11 years. I've hosted cadets through the Adopt a Rat program. I volunteer as a defense advocate. I work in communications and marketing at the Center for Leadership and Ethics, which provides me with a unique understanding of who we are as an Institute. Review the Institute's "VMI Leader Journey" publication, which clearly outlines our three-legged stool system. Listen to the long-form podcast interviews with cadets on the"VMI Leader Journey" podcast or any of the Alumni Association's videos featuring current cadets' stories of the impact an education at VMI has provided. You'll also get a clear understanding of what we teach and how we teach it. You'll learn firsthand how much our cadets value the education and environment here at VMI. I work alongside our Civil Debates Initiative faculty and staff - setting an example throughout the southwest region for bringing civil discourse to college campuses. I know both the kind of graduates we're producing and the institutional leadership development system that intentionally guides their growth and development over the course of their four years. VMI's proven system of leader development is BADLY needed in today's world... and I see no end to that need. Furthermore, I find this 'shot across the bow' maneuver petty and distracting to the men and women who invest their time, expertise, and knowledge in them. I fully support all the preceding comments and their respective data points as accurate and relevant evidence that VMI should not be dissolved.

As the mother of two VMI graduates I strongly support the Institute. My two sons have greatly benefited from their education and are supporting their community and our Nation with the education and skills they’ve learned and received at VMI. I do not want to see significant changes in either how the Institute is managed or organized. I fully support VMI and its new Superintendent.

To say that I am deeply disturbed by the recent developments concerning VMI is an understatement. As a female member of the faculty who works primarily with cadets in their first year at the institute, I am uniquely positioned to observe VMIs treatment of women, minorities, and those who might be at risk of abuse by power. Let me say unequivocally that I have received and observed nothing but respect, support, and encouragement. Every member of the corps and the many people tasked with supporting them have, in my experience, been as open minded and unified as it is possible to be. The very foundation of the culture at VMI insists that regardless of background or personal identity, we are united by mutual respect and a common cause. The process of becoming a cadet demands that you abandon your prejudice and selfishness, instead becoming part of the corp. There is no room for discrimination in this system, the cadets would not allow it. They forge bonds that last lifetimes. I have personally witnessed the lengths that “brother rats” go to to maintain their relationships, relationships that span nationalities, races, religions, sexual orientations, and genders. It’s not about what you were when you arrived, it’s about who you became while you were there. Further, I can attest to the quality and character of the cadets. At the end of the day, it is they who determine the character of the institute, and they who will be most impacted by these proceedings. Everyday I have the honor of watching them support each other, challenge themselves, and prepare themselves to serve their country and communities. To a person, they exhibit drive, conviction, and purpose. I am fortunate to call many keydet alumni my friends. Each and every one of them has graduated from the institute and gone out to serve; as national guardsman, marine corps fighter pilots, county engineers, and firefighters. I challenge you to name another institution of any kind that so consistently produces individuals with such value to their communities. I implore you to consider the real victims of this preceding. They have sacrificed time, money, sleep, comfort, and freedom to participate in something that they believe in. At the heart of the institute is the corps of cadets, and the corps of cadets is worth fighting for. Do not dismiss them because of a cursory inspection and unfounded assumptions. Their honor and character will speak for itself if you will listen.

To whom it may concern, I am currently a sophomore student at Virginia Military Institute and am pursuing a chemistry degree with a double minor in history and english. Before I came to VMI, I lacked discipline, focus, and a clear direction of what I wanted to accomplish in my life. Within six months of matriculating into VMI, my family and I could see a huge change in my life. I became mentally and physically fit, and I found the path that I wanted to follow. I am now focused on the goal of a career in patent law after graduating from VMI. Virginia Military Institute has taken thousands of young adults and has enabled them to become happy and productive citizens of the United States, whether they choose to serve their country by commissioning into the military or pursue careers in the civilian sector. VMI has been known for almost 200 years as the place where honorable men and women can be found. I would ask that you consider the good that VMI brings to so many lives and that you make a decision that allows VMI to continue what it does best, changing lives for the better. Thank you. Very Respectfully, Cadet Moriah Ann Delozier VMI Class of 2028

I am strongly opposed to HB 1377 and the proposed study questioning whether the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) should continue to receive state funding. I have worked at other universities and can state unequivocally that VMI stands apart in ways that deserve recognition and respect. While VMI, like many long-standing institutions, has a complex history that includes periods of failure and controversy, it is critical to acknowledge the substantial and sustained efforts that have been made to address those issues. Change has not only been acknowledged at VMI, it has been actively pursued. VMI cadets are held to standards that far exceed those of the average college student. They are educated in an environment that emphasizes leadership, discipline, accountability, mental toughness, and integrity. These qualities that are rarely developed to the same degree at civilian institutions. The difference between the average college student and the average VMI cadet is significant, particularly in critical thinking, academic integrity, personal responsibility, and resilience under pressure. The rigor of VMI’s academic and military systems produces graduates who are exceptionally prepared to serve the Commonwealth, the nation, and their communities. Notably, VMI consistently ranks higher than some large public universities, such as VCU, in national assessments of public institutions, further underscoring the value it provides to Virginia. To single out VMI for a funding review based primarily on historical shortcomings, while disregarding meaningful reform and current performance, sets a concerning precedent. Institutions should be evaluated on who they are today, the standards they uphold, and the outcomes they produce, not solely on past failures that have already been acknowledged and addressed. VMI plays a vital role in Virginia’s higher education system and in leadership development. I respectfully urge the legislature to oppose HB 1377 and to continue supporting an institution that demands excellence, accountability, and service at a level few others do.

Can we please stop pulling VMI into the political infighting in Richmond. This all started because Ralph Northam was caught wearing black face in med school and had to sacrifice GEN Peay and VMI to appease elements in the VA Democratic legislature in order to keep his job as governor. The Republicans under Glenn Youngkin then retaliated against Northam's VMI BOV appointees. Enough! This is not why you were elected, and it is not what the citizens of VA want you to be doing! VMI is an outstanding, academic institution that produces graduates in high demand in both the civilian and military sector - not only because of the quality of its academics, but because of the leadership skills learned in its military system that is unique amongst VA state schools (the VT Corps experience isn't even close!). Compare VMI's employment rates and graduate's salaries with other state schools and that should be enough to keep VMI in the state school system. Stop with the performative politics and focus on the things you were elected to do or the citizens of VA will find someone who will in the next election!

To say that I am deeply disturbed by the recent developments concerning VMI is an understatement. As a female member of the faculty who works primarily with cadets in their first year at the institute, I am uniquely positioned to observe VMIs treatment of women, minorities, and those who might be at risk of abuse by power. Let me say unequivocally that I have received and observed nothing but respect, support, and encouragement. Every member of the corp and the many people tasked with supporting them have, in my experience, been as open minded and unified as it is possible to be. The very foundation of the culture at VMI insists that regardless of background or personal identity, we are united by mutual respect and a common cause. The process of becoming a cadet demands that you abandon your prejudice and selfishness, instead becoming part of the corps. There is no room for discrimination in this system; the cadets would not allow it. They forge bonds that last lifetimes. I have personally witnessed the lengths that “brother rats” go to to maintain their relationships; relationships that span nationalities, races, religions, sexual orientations, and genders. It’s not about what you were when you arrived, it’s about who you became while you were there. Further, I can attest to the quality and character of the cadets. At the end of the day, it is they who determine the character of the institute, and they who will be most impacted by these proceedings. Everyday I have the honor of watching them support each other, challenge themselves, and prepare themselves to serve their country and communities. To a person, they exhibit drive, conviction, and purpose. I am fortunate to call many keydet alumni my friends. Each and every one of them has graduated from the institute and gone out to serve; as national guardsman, marine corps fighter pilots, county engineers, and firefighters. I challenge you to name another institution of any kind that so consistently produces individuals with such value to their communities. I implore you to consider the real victims of this preceding. They have sacrificed time, money, sleep, comfort, and freedom to participate in something that they believe in. At the heart of the institute is the corp of cadets, and the corps of cadets is worth fighting for. Do not dismiss them because of a cursory inspection and unfounded assumptions. Their honor and character will speak for itself if you will listen.

I am a Rat at the Virginia Military Institute. VMI has provided me with the opportunity to succeed in life that nowhere else could. The opportunity to experience the real stressors of life and overcome them with a bond that no other school could ever foster. The Brother Rat spirit is what makes VMI special and necessary. In no other place could you find better leaders and officers.

I am a current senior at the Virginia Military Institute, and one of many females who currently attends VMI. Though VMI, I have received many one-of-a-kind opportunities including opportunities to lead my peers, meet ambassadors from around the world, network with high level government officials and military officers, and mentor two female freshman. However, VMI has given me so much more than just a good education and an amazing network; it has instilled an understanding of what it means to be a person of honor and integrity. This in particular is something unique to VMI alone. As a female cadet, I have never felt discriminated against, dismissed, or marginalized. I have had the same opportunities as every other cadet before me, and applied myself in order to earn what I have received in the same way as my male counterparts. As a cadet, it is frankly insulting to be told that the institution I attend is steeped in misogyny and "lost cause" ideology when this is something I have seen no part of. By pulling funding from VMI in the name of fighting for women and people of color, you will directly harm the people who you claim to protect, many of whom receive generous scholarships from VMI. Generations of women have fought to allow me the opportunities and fair treatment I have received at VMI, please don't let that hard work go to waste.

I oppose this bill. VMI is a unique institution in our state that provides far more than a college education. The VMI experience produces young men and women with moral and ethical character, leadership qualities, and emotional intelligence beyond any other school in Virginia. This should not be criticized or disparaged, but encouraged and promoted by our state government. Society needs more young leaders developed with values and traits found in the current and future VMI graduates. Passing this bill will cause more harm than it could ever hope to achieve. Respectfully submitted, Paul T. Kastner

I have worked at VMI for almost 15 years now. All the cadets I have engaged with have been outstanding, honorable young men and women. We teach cadets how to be citizen soldiers and leaders with character. This is a unique contribution to our society, and I would be disappointed if VMI was forced to close its doors.

VMI absolutely should continue to receive state funding. VMI is highly ranked as one of the top schools in the region and the nation on a regular basis and ranks consistently in the top 5 in the state and top 100 in the nation in terms of return on investment, graduate employment rates starting salaries and mid career salaries for graduates according to Forbes, Kiplinger and US News data. VMI provides a unique educational model that can be found only a handful of other schools in the nation and offers prospective cadets an educational option that cannot be replicated elsewhere in the Commonwealth. As one of the nations five recognized senior military colleges, the Institute serves as a national resource for future military leaders. The record of the product VMI produces speaks for itself and is more than worthy of continued state funding - the return on investment simply cannot be overstated.

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. I respectfully ask that this baseless attack on VMI be stopped and this bill withdrawn.

To Whom It May Concern, I am a biracial cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, and I want to be clear about my experience: being biracial at VMI has brought me no disadvantages. I have been challenged, supported, and pushed to grow in ways that few other institutions could offer. VMI’s environment is demanding, but it is fair, and it has helped shape my discipline, leadership, and character. Efforts to eliminate or reduce funding for VMI would not improve my education—they would limit it. Without VMI, my options would be reduced to more traditional colleges that do not provide the same structure, leadership development, or preparation for military and public service careers. VMI is not just a school to me; it is the best fit for who I am and who I am striving to become. Defunding VMI would take opportunities away from students like me who have found a place where we can succeed, grow, and contribute. I respectfully urge you to consider the real impact such actions would have on our education and our futures. Sincerely, Caleb Patterson

I have Proudly worked for VMI for 15 years. I 100% reject HB1377 and ask you to do the same. VMI is a great school & should continue to operate with current Leadership & BOV. This school has been cast under a dark political cloud unfairly & unjustly. It should stop immediately it's ridiculous. Thank-you

Before I came to VMI, I wasn't a good student. I felt weak, undeserving, and I was afraid to fail. VMI has blessed me with the opportunity to strengthen myself, and to earn everything here. At VMI, nobody just gets anything they want. Everything down to the last thread on our uniforms is earned. When I matriculated with my brother rats, I never saw individuals. When I looked at the men and women right beside me during hell week, I saw unity. The biggest goal of the rat line is to unite a mass of people who one day have the privilege of calling themselves a class. There's no special treatment towards anyone. Everybody starts off the same, and they live to earn what they want to be at the institute. The thing that I love the most about this institute is that it is the best meritocracy that I have ever been a part of. Our General Committee President, Mr. Ankrah, has told the whole corps that everything at this school is, "Earned, not given." If there is one place that holds true in opportunity, equality, grit, and honor, it is Virginia Military Institute. My journey has barely begun here, but already this place means the world to me. There is no other place that could change my life more positively than VMI.

Dear Committee: Thank you for providing the opportunity to give feedback on this bill. I would respectfully request that the bill not go forward because of the tremendous value VMI brings to the Commonwealth and to the Nation. VMI produces men and women of character who have contributed greatly to our Commonwealth's prosperity. Many business and community leaders have graduated from the Institute. Alumni include two previous Governors of Virginia, the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, the current Ambassador to the United Nations, a Secretary of State, a Secretary of the Army, a Secretary of Defense, two Lieutenant Governors of Virginia, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, Pulitzer Prize winners, 13 Rhodes Scholars, Medal of Honor recipients, an Academy Award winner, an Emmy Award and Golden Globe winner, a martyr recognized by the Episcopal Church, Senators and Representatives, Governors, Lieutenant Governors, a Supreme Court Justice, numerous college and university presidents, many business presidents and CEOs and over 285 general and flag officers, including service chiefs for three of the four armed services. Furthermore, VMI provides an alternative to the dominant educational model in the Commonwealth. Among the 14 public universities in the VA higher ed system, only VMI blends the military atmosphere with academic instruction. The whole person is trained and taught at VMI in a way that distinguishes the Institute's approach to education from the other schools in the Commonwealth's system. Taking away funding from VMI is reducing the amount of choice citizens have concerning what type of education they send their sons and daughters for. Having taught at the Universities of Arkansas, Arizona, and Kansas as well as a university in France, I can declare without reservation that VMI offers a wholistic education distinct from the other schools where I have served. The men and women at VMI are challenged in ways that differ from these other public institutions. Based on my discussions with colleagues currently teaching in other public institutions in Virginia, the same holds true for these schools. The value of these distinctions is seen in the value VMI graduates bring to the Commonwealth. Ask yourselves what would be missing from our shared experience if VMI did not exist. Is it perfect? No. I would argue no institution of higher education in the state is perfect so if perfection is the standard for state funding, it would only be consistent to cut off funding for all such institutions. Obviously, that would be disastrous for the Commonwealth. There is no need to waste taxpayer money to discover that self-evident truth. Very Respectfully, Jeff Kendrick

This is an outrageous over reach. Trying to link VMI to a college with significantly lower academic achievements and graduation rates than VMI would be a great insult to every cadet current or former. VMI educates students for public service. Many high ranking military, government and business professionals have graduated from VMI. Can the same be said of this lesser college?

VMI should continue to receive state funding. As one of the few state supported military colleges, VMI provides a unique educational mission with structured and disciplined environment that many students specifically seek but cannot find in traditional public universities. It contributes to public service and leadership pipelines. Furthermore, VMI is an investment in producing future officers, civic leaders and technically trained professionals. VMI alumni typically earn higher than average salaries due to the institute’s rigorous academic and leadership training. Higher earnings translate into greater income tax contributions, meaning the Commonwealth recoups its investment many times over across a graduate’s career. When you factor in additional economic activity such as: spending, homeownership, and the jobs created by VMI trained leaders, the fiscal return becomes even more substantial.

VMI should continue to receive state funding. VMI produces graduates that rank equally with any of the other educational institutions in Virginia. I have worked for VMI for more than 30 years and seen many examples of cadets going on to success in whatever field they have chosen be it post education, military or civilian careers. The leaders and professors here care for the cadets and provide them with a stellar education through academics, military rigors and athletic participation. A number of cadets who have assisted in my office over the years are now back at VMI working to educate and assist current students.

My name is Mr. Joseph Bahadoor and I work here at VMI. I am a tax payer and while I do have concerns about the school. I do NOT believe that VMI should be dismantled or dissolved into nothingness. I came here to work and have for 3 years as a PC Technician. I work with all the students daily and see that this school helps them. This is a COLLEGE first! They chose to come here and earn an education. I believe that the tax payer money spent here is serving its purpose to educate the NEXT Generation of Leaders! If you pulling funding you will be taking hurting OUR next generation of leaders! I believe in the students and the purpose of VMI which is: To educate the next generation of leaders! VMI does need funding support I ask you to consider to NOT pull it! I Thank You! Mr. Joseph Bahadoor

Our son is Latino and a recent graduate. He is an Army officer. He reported to us that he found no more racism at VMI than any other institution he has been a part of. Changes were made during Superintendent Winns leadership to correct many structural issues and address legacy rules, regulations, and confederate symbolism. VMI is a vital institution with a long history of producing some of our nation’s finest leaders. It is hard and unforgiving, just like the military for which it prepares its students. I am gravely disappointed in the small number of loud and mostly old alumni who unfairly targeted Lt Gen Winns and his reforms. They are not the majority, nor are they recent graduates. Please do not continue the cycle of using VMI as a political punching bag. It is a good school that continues to improve because of the character of its faculty and students, not the vestiges of lost cause mythology and reverence held by odd factions with loud voices. Patricia Shields Falls Church City

I would encourage Helmer 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; progress has been made and the new leadership is eager to make change. Give the institute a chance to prove themselves, to heal from the last witch hunt, 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 oppose this legislation. I believe that the Commonwealth’s constituents see it plainly as an act of political retribution, driven by disagreements over the Institute’s governance rather than by concern for Virginia’s economic stability or the quality of higher education that VMI contributes. Nonetheless, my comments address §§ 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, and 3.6 of Del. Helmer’s bill. § 3.1: Any analysis—or resurrection—of a 98-year-old report suggesting VMI’s educational services are duplicative of other public institutions should assess VMI’s contributions, including toward national security, political diplomacy, and higher education, since the report’s publication. Consider the hundreds of VMI alumni who served as commanding flag officers in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Gulf War, and Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve (e.g., Generals George C. Marshall, J.H. Binford Peay III, John P. Jumper, Darren W. McDew, John D. Caine, David J. Furness, etc.). Consider also prominent alumni political figures (e.g., George C. Marshall, Lewis F. Payne, Jr., James A. Anderson, Steven J. McAuliffe, Ryan D. McCarthy, John D. Caine, Michael Walz, Thomas Clark, Ralph Northam, Erik Siebert, Thomas Norment, and Jennifer Carroll-Foy). Nor should one overlook the economic stability VMI has provided its nearly 700 employees, the City of Lexington, and the surrounding counties for over 187 years. § 3.2: Any assessment of whether VMI provides leaders to the Armed Forces must consider key factors. These include the extent to which the Institute commissions junior officers in the Armed Services in greater numbers than similarly sized or larger public colleges and universities, often second only to the federally funded service academies. VMI cadets compete and flourish at Reserve Officers’ Training Corps competitions (e.g., Sandhurst Military Skills Competition, the British Army’s 2025 Exercise Cambrian Patrol in Wales, etc.). Many other factors remain relevant to the General Assembly’s assessment and are specific to VMI’s co-curricular educational model. § 3.4: A review by a partisan commission is arbitrary and capricious if its findings rely only on members’ subjective impressions of racism, sexism, misogyny, sexual harassment or assault, Lost Cause mythology, or celebration of the Confederacy. Without a clear quantitative or qualitative framework, such a review undermines VMI’s responses to the 2021 Special Investigative Report to SCHEV. For instance, VMI’s Commemorations and Memorials Naming and Review Committee and the “Forging 21st Century Leaders” strategic plan are intended as constructive steps. By what standard will this four-person junta assess VMI’s compliance? The answer appears to be fiat. § 3.6: The bill provides for no legitimate analyses or evaluations. As written, it does not offer well-founded recommendations that the task force can provide to the General Assembly. If Del. Helmer—or the democratic majority—views the Institute’s progress since 2021 with the urgency the bill suggests, and outside the authority bestowed on VMI’s Board of Visitors (including Governor Spanberger’s recent appointees), then the General Assembly must appropriate resources to hire independent investigators. Only a third-party team can reasonably provide a measurable, actionable standard for the investigation and a detailed report of the findings.

For those interested, HB1374 - a proposal to place VMI under the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University - is presently referred to the Education Committee. You can comment on it there.

Barnes & Thornburg could not identify a single violation of federal or state law at VMI in its 2021 investigation. VMI’s situation has not deteriorated in the interim. Treating VMI as if it is under a civil rights consent order is unproductive and unfair to an institution that has consistently produced leaders of integrity for the Commonwealth and the nation. A better use of resources would be to transfer the prosecution of sexual or racial harassment to the local Commonwealth’s attorney and to provide adequate funding for them to investigate and prosecute such allegations. Institutes of higher education in Virginia (especially larger schools) have an abysmal track record of investigating and enforcing such complaints. It is time to let teachers teach and prosecutors prosecute.

It's instructive that not a single comment on this proposed bill is supportive of it. That should tell you something. It's also puzzling that Delegate Helmer, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point - a school to which VMI is almost identical in all aspects except for size - would question the institutional value of VMI. He should know better. Does he also question the value of West Point? As can be seen from reading Section 3 Subsections (4) and (5) in the bill's text, the real motivation here appears to have little or nothing to do with a sincere interest in the institutional value of VMI and everything to do with political posturing.

You should be ashamed of yourselves and as a Virginian and VMI parent I am disgusted to say I live here in the beautiful VA right now. VMI produces citizen soldiers and fine academic men and women who put in blood, sweat and tears to become a VMI cadet. The magnitude of commitment that these cadets put into their future far more outweighs your pathetic attempt to toss your liberal/socialist beliefs around. I look forward to watching over 150 years of alumni fight this tothe bitter end and win. Keep your WOKE out of our military! RahVaMil! God Bless our troops!

The proposal to establish a Task Force to reevaluate the state-sponsored status of the Virginia Military Institute is a redundant and potentially damaging measure. While oversight of public institutions is a core responsibility of the General Assembly, this specific bill appears to target VMI based on ideological criteria rather than objective educational or fiscal necessity. Disregard for Recent and Ongoing Progress: Section 3(4) of the bill mandates an audit of VMI’s actions following the 2021 special investigative report. It is important to note that VMI has already undergone significant leadership changes and structural reforms since 2021. VMI remains one of only two remaining state-supported senior military colleges in the U.S. (alongside The Citadel). Its model of a 24/7 military environment cannot be "duplicated" at a traditional civilian university, as suggested in Section 3(1). VMI’s state General Fund support typically accounts for a smaller percentage of its total operating budget than many other public institutions, largely due to its robust private alumni support. Threatening its state status could jeopardize this private-public partnership that saves taxpayers money. Diversity and Admissions Data: Section 3(5) focuses on shifting admissions away from "legacy status." While increasing diversity is a laudable goal, VMI has already seen measurable shifts in its demographics: Current Demographics: As of recent enrollment cycles, minority enrollment at VMI typically ranges between 20% and 25%. Retention: Focusing solely on "recruiting" ignores the unique challenges of the "Rat Line" and the military system, which requires a specific type of applicant regardless of race or background. Risk to Federal Commissioning Sources: The bill questions VMI's ability to provide leaders to the Armed Forces at an "advantageous cost." However, VMI is a major producer of officers for the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. Officer Production: VMI consistently commissions a higher percentage of its graduating class (often over 50%) than almost any other non-federal academy. Replacement Costs: Moving these commissioning programs to other public universities—as suggested in Section 3(2b)—would require massive capital investment in barracks, military staff, and specialized infrastructure that other Virginia schools are not equipped to handle. Conclusion This bill risks politicizing one of Virginia’s most historic and academically rigorous institutions. Rather than fostering improvement, the Task Force's mandate suggests a predetermined goal of defunding or privatizing the Institute. This would result in the loss of a unique leadership laboratory that has served the Commonwealth and the nation for 185 years. Recommendation: The General Assembly should continue to work through existing oversight bodies (SCHEV and the Board of Visitors) rather than creating a politically appointed task force with the power to recommend the dissolution of VMI's state status.

Dear Delegate Reid and members of the committee, I am writing to voice my firm disapproval of HB1377. This legislation appears to be a politically steered effort to undermine the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), an institution that has spent nearly two centuries serving as a cornerstone of excellence for the Commonwealth. VMI is not a failing experiment; it is a proven success. Its track record of producing resilient, ethical "citizen-leaders" is documented through generations of alumni who lead with distinction in both the armed forces and the private sector. The value of a VMI degree is rooted in its objective results: the high rate of commissioned officers it produces and the professional success of its graduates. These outcomes are not the result of administrative trends, but of a rigorous, time-tested system built on personal accountability and shared hardship. The push to penalize VMI following its decision to move away from DEI frameworks ignores the reality of the Institute’s success. VMI has a long history of graduating exceptional leaders from all walks of life by applying a singular, high standard to every cadet regardless of their background. By fostering a culture of meritocracy, the Institute achieves a level of unity and mutual respect that many other institutions struggle to replicate. Furthermore, HB1377 sets a hazardous precedent for all Virginia public universities. By making state funding contingent upon adherence to specific ideological preferences rather than educational performance, the General Assembly is inviting a future where any institution can be financially "punished" whenever political winds shift. This shift from outcome-based oversight to ideological enforcement threatens the autonomy and stability of our entire higher education system. Rather than targeting an institution that is demonstrably fulfilling its mission, the Commonwealth should be championing VMI’s unique and effective model. I strongly urge you to vote against HB1377 and stand in support of VMI’s continued pursuit of excellence and its vital role in the future of Virginia.

I am writing to share my perspective regarding my opposition to HB1377. Governance structures exist to preserve institutional mission, accountability, and historical continuity. Any proposed changes involving oversight or institutional realignment deserve careful consideration of long-term impacts on students, alumni, and the Commonwealth. I respectfully encourage a thorough review of how this proposal would affect governance effectiveness, institutional identity, and stakeholder trust before moving forward.

As a VMI graduate and officer in the United States military, I respectfully object to this bill. The objection isn’t based on politics but the impracticality of the bill. When considering placing the board of visitors under the supervision and control of VSU, there’s a complete disregard for the geographical, cultural, and environmental differences between Petersburg and Lexington Virginia. With these factors in mind, there’s bound to be a fracture in communication and vision on where the direction of VMI should be focused. It should be noted that while both VMI and VSU prioritize leadership and service, they both have entirely different missions and unique visions in applying leadership. This bill also precludes the ability to trust and see what the new Board of Vistors appointees are able to accomplish without placing them under new governance. Lastly, from a military and historical perspective, mandatory service is a direction that should be approached with much caution. To press graduates into a service that they’re not enthusiastic about will bring harm. Many students use the connections through alumni to get jobs that they enjoy and that contribute towards the good of communities. To force graduates into service elsewhere places them at risk of losing out on jobs that they actually desire. Not only do they lose time, but they are then forced to compete with other college graduates that are snatching the positions they want while they fulfill a commitment that they never fully wanted to do. From a military perspective, to press graduates into the National Guard is extremely dangerous. The military learned during Vietnam that highly unmotivated soldiers that were pressed into service not only performed poorly, but they were a liability to their comrades. If the Virginia National Guard is activated and deployed overseas, we need to consider the risk that the unit will have an officer from VMI who will lack the motivation and intensity to bring his or her soldiers home safely.

Dear Delegate Helmer and associates, I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB1377 and to urge you to reject this unnecessary and politically motivated legislation targeting the Virginia Military Institute. VMI is one of the Commonwealth’s most successful and respected public institutions, with more than 180 years of demonstrated excellence in producing leaders of character. Its mission—to develop disciplined, ethical, and resilient citizen-leaders—has remained consistent and effective across generations. The Institute’s graduates have served Virginia and the nation with distinction in both military and civilian roles, and its outcomes speak for themselves. The performance of VMI cadets is not theoretical or ideological—it is measurable. VMI consistently produces highly capable commissioned officers, and its graduates excel in demanding professional environments well beyond the military. Employers and communities value VMI alumni precisely because of the Institute’s rigorous standards, emphasis on accountability, and culture of shared responsibility. These results are the product of VMI’s proven system, not administrative programs layered on top of it. The suggestion that VMI’s value to the Commonwealth should be questioned because it has eliminated DEI initiatives ignores its long and documented history of graduating outstanding citizens of all races, genders, and backgrounds. VMI has achieved this by holding every cadet to the same high standards and by fostering unity through shared hardship and merit-based achievement. That approach has worked for decades and continues to work today. HB1377 represents a troubling shift away from outcome-based governance toward ideological enforcement. Conditioning state funding on political preferences rather than institutional performance sets a dangerous precedent for all of Virginia’s public colleges and universities. If allowed to stand, this bill invites future legislatures to single out institutions for punishment based on shifting political agendas rather than public value or effectiveness. At a time when Virginia should be strengthening institutions that demonstrably serve the Commonwealth, HB1377 instead threatens to undermine one of its most successful. The General Assembly should be supporting VMI’s mission—not subjecting it to a politically driven review process that solves no real problem and risks real harm. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to oppose HB1377 and to affirm Virginia’s continued support for the Virginia Military Institute and its proven record of excellence.

Virginia’s Military Institute is not just another public college. VMI is a historic institution that has forged leaders of character, discipline, and service for over 180 years. Its graduates have led soldiers into battle, served communities with honor, and upheld standards of excellence that few institutions can claim. VMI’s mission is clear: to produce citizen-soldiers prepared to serve the Commonwealth and the nation. That mission matters—now more than ever. HB1377 is an affront to that legacy. This bill represents a reckless and deeply misguided attempt to undermine an institution that has consistently proven its value. Rather than recognizing VMI’s unique role, its demanding culture, and its proven outcomes, HB1377 treats VMI as a political problem to be “fixed” instead of a public treasure to be protected. It disregards history, disrespects alumni and cadets, and shows stunning indifference to the importance of institutional integrity. VMI does not exist to follow political trends. It exists to build leaders through rigor, accountability, and shared sacrifice. Weakening or reshaping that mission to satisfy ideological agendas does nothing to improve education, equity, or opportunity—it only erodes one of Virginia’s most respected institutions. I fully and unequivocally support VMI, its cadets, its alumni, and its mission. I am equally clear in my opposition to HB1377. This bill is unnecessary, divisive, and harmful. The Commonwealth should be investing in institutions that demand excellence and service, not attacking them for political convenience. Virginia should stand for leadership, honor, and tradition—not legislative overreach that cheapens all three.

VMI graduates offers its cadets a Unique learning experience that is not available at any other college in Virginia- from General George Marshall to current joint chief of staff John Cain and many other thousands of high achieving graduates that are an integral part of Va!! If the delegate who proposed this “advisory” bill does not think so maybe they should attend Hell Week and encounter the Rat line while also attending a full schedule rigorous academics !!… I have never been to a school/workplace that the student body is so respectful and engaged!!- maybe some of the lower achieving colleges should have the fine tooth comb brushed through their archives and see what is found.. VMI’s core values emphasize honor, excellence, self discipline , courage, selfless service and resilience… I would challenge the current Governors Administration to read these values very carefully and ask themselves why they are so motivated to destroy something that tries so hard to produce engaged and respectful future leaders of Va.. I would suggest the current Administration focus on more important matters then trying to find flaws with an Institute the provides so many productive members of Va !!! VMI has been an integral part of Va for over 150 years and should be heralded for what it has provided and continues to provide!!! In closing let me reiterate that VMI provides a Unique experience for its cadets that cannot be duplicated !!!!

In response to the Delegate's bill: 1. VMI is the only educational institute in Virginia where every student starts from a completely equal position. That fact alone makes VMI unique. While other schools may have a Corps of Cadets or an ROTC program, no other school initiates you into higher education on the clean slate, equal footed position that VMI does. 2. VMI leaders are different. While other SMCs may commission more officers, VMI creates leaders at a rate that is not equaled by any other college in Virginia. If the delegate doubts that, he should wonder the halls of any state employer and see how many senior level people graduated from VMI. While ROTC commissions frat boys that are mostly ineffective and hated by their troops, VMI teaches respect and overcoming adversity that other colleges can't. 3. Simply look at the statistics of the number of students from VMI accepted to graduate programs, the number of engineering majors that have passed the FE exam that leave college as EITs, and the percentage of students engaged in research. The fact the delegate chooses to question VMI's academic rigor given the constant highly rated program vetted by 3rd parties is laughable and points to a politically driven decision to undermine a school that produces critical thinking individuals not party line voters. 4. VMI teaches the history that happened, without sugar coating it for feelings. Important leadership principles and tactical decisions were demonstrated by soldiers of both the Confederacy and the Union. VMI tries to teach the positives and the negatives of the history as a school that was uniquely affected by the conflict to better train the leaders of tomorrow for the realities of the world. Teaching history and understanding the effects of it are not celebrating the Confederacy. 5. VMI's stated purpose is to create leaders. Our sons and daughters deserve the best leaders, no matter who they are or where they come from. Entry into leadership programs should be merit based and focused on the quality of one's ability to lead, not on the color of one's skin or ethnicity. To convolute this sets our future generations up for failure.

As a resident of Virginia, parent of a VMI student and daughter of a Naval Officer, I ask that you please oppose this bill. VMI is one of the few military institutions in the United States that is raising our next generation of leaders. In our time at VMI we have not seen any racism or sexism in the student leaders that run the Corp of Cadets. Please do not let previous issues destroy the current institution.

I respectfully oppose HB1377. 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, HB1377 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 HB1377.

VMI is a unique experience for students of Virginia, United States, and other countries. We need to keep it strong in every way. To ensure their goal of creating citizen soldiers for the Virginia Militia they need to stay independent of other universities in the state with their own Board. I see this bill as threatening to VMI and the Keydets, as well as the alumni. I strongly opposed it and it's intent. As a citizen of Botetourt County, I call for it to never be reported out of committee and if it is to be strongly opposed by my representatives as well as a super majority of the General Assembly.

As a U.S. Navy service member and the father of a VMI cadet, I write to oppose House Bill 1377. VMI is a unique institution that provides an unparalleled opportunity for character development and service to the Commonwealth. I fully support ensuring VMI is free from racism, misogyny, and discrimination. Where there are failures, decisive action and accountability are essential. The welfare of cadets is non-negotiable, and I believe there is broad agreement on the need for reforms where warranted. VMI’s history, including its Confederate legacy, must be viewed with moral clarity, but it should not define the institute today. VMI's present character is shaped by the young men and women it educates now and the standards it upholds. This institution is a national treasure, producing leaders of immense character like General George C. Marshall and civil-rights martyr Jonathan Daniels. In an era of polarization and global threats, our nation desperately needs the disciplined, honorable, and selfless leaders VMI produces. This is not just about skills; it's about forging character, a quality vital to our national security. Any state-supported institution must justify its value. I am confident an objective review will confirm that VMI delivers a significant return on investment through its contributions to leadership, public service, and military commissioning. A review should aim to strengthen VMI's legitimacy, not undermine it. VMI consistently provides Virginia and the nation with distinguished graduates. As you consider HB 1377, I urge you to weigh this demonstrated value against any need for reform. While VMI has adapted and improved throughout its history, its fundamental purpose and value are clear. It has earned thoughtful stewardship, not existential skepticism. The focus should be on improvement, not erasure. Leave VMI alone.

Retired military officer representing veterans interests

My son is a current Cadet at VMI, Class of 2027. Not exactly sure what is going on with this bill. I do know my son chose VMI over the Citadel, he has learned so much about leadership and being a part of something bigger than himself, he loves the structure. I like that there are no sororities and fraternities to divide them. They are all brothers and sisters. Lifetime relationships have been formed not only among the cadets, but also the parents and families. The history runs so deep, I know a lot of times focus is put on the confederacy, but history is so much more than a side. Without history we make the same mistakes again & again. The current president and his administration is currently trying to distort history and our country doesn’t need more distraction or division. Thank you for your time. Concerned parent.

The continued outright political retribution against the oldest state military college in the nation is disgusting. Among other attributes, VMI is #2 in the nation for best value liberal arts school by US News and World Report. Has anyone recognized that the entire Commonwealth of Virginia was on the wrong side in the civil war? How is that something that this revered institution must now pay for? How is it that the author and supporters of this bill must continue to seek to tarnish the reputation of all who have served their commonwealth in good faith? This is a school of honor. I vehemently oppose this bill.

The continued outright political retribution against the oldest state military college in the nation is disgusting. Among other attributes, VMI is #2 in the nation for best value liberal arts school by US News and World Report. Has anyone recognized that the entire Commonwealth of Virginia was on the wrong side in the civil war? How is that something that this revered institution must now pay for? How is it that the author and supporters of this bill must continue to seek to tarnish the reputation of all who have served their commonwealth in good faith? This is a school of honor. I vehemently oppose this bill.

I have a son at VMI who is getting commissioned in the US Army as an infantry officer. I implore you to please stop this nonsense. It is unfathomable to me that grown adults are using these young men/women’s careers as political fodder. Please be an adult and do the right thing! My son is taking an oath at 20 years old to lay down his life for each of you and his country! Think about that, while you are using the Institute as a political football to make a point. I cannot believe our country has gotten here and our government leaders truly believe this is one of the most important issues facing our Commonwealth. Please use self-introspection and for once make an adult decision The Institute has served this state for > 100 years. Leave it alone!!! Truly your entire reason for doing this is to make a point to the previous Virginia administration and Trump!!!! Is it really that much worth it to you to destroy these young men/women’s careers? As a final point, each of the cadets at VMI is taught and live by a creed “…we do not lie, cheat, or steal or tolerate those who do!…” Please utilize your own personal character and rise above all this political rhetoric that is killing our country. Support these virtuous young men/women. They do not set policy, they simply want to serve the Commonwealth and our country to the best of their ability. Think about your actions and for once take the moral high ground. We HAVE to stop acting like children in this state and country or it is going to fall down around our heads!!! Respectfully Dr Jeff Neal DO, PharmD, FACC, FACOI djeffneal@hotmail.com

Dear Delegate Helmer and associates, I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB1377 and to urge you to reject this unnecessary and politically motivated legislation targeting the Virginia Military Institute. VMI is one of the Commonwealth’s most successful and respected public institutions, with more than 180 years of demonstrated excellence in producing leaders of character. Its mission—to develop disciplined, ethical, and resilient citizen-leaders—has remained consistent and effective across generations. The Institute’s graduates have served Virginia and the nation with distinction in both military and civilian roles, and its outcomes speak for themselves. The performance of VMI cadets is not theoretical or ideological—it is measurable. VMI consistently produces highly capable commissioned officers, and its graduates excel in demanding professional environments well beyond the military. Employers and communities value VMI alumni precisely because of the Institute’s rigorous standards, emphasis on accountability, and culture of shared responsibility. These results are the product of VMI’s proven system, not administrative programs layered on top of it. The suggestion that VMI’s value to the Commonwealth should be questioned because it has eliminated DEI initiatives ignores its long and documented history of graduating outstanding citizens of all races, genders, and backgrounds. VMI has achieved this by holding every cadet to the same high standards and by fostering unity through shared hardship and merit-based achievement. That approach has worked for decades and continues to work today. HB1377 represents a troubling shift away from outcome-based governance toward ideological enforcement. Conditioning state funding on political preferences rather than institutional performance sets a dangerous precedent for all of Virginia’s public colleges and universities. If allowed to stand, this bill invites future legislatures to single out institutions for punishment based on shifting political agendas rather than public value or effectiveness. At a time when Virginia should be strengthening institutions that demonstrably serve the Commonwealth, HB1377 instead threatens to undermine one of its most successful. The General Assembly should be supporting VMI’s mission—not subjecting it to a politically driven review process that solves no real problem and risks real harm. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to oppose HB1377 and to affirm Virginia’s continued support for the Virginia Military Institute and its proven record of excellence. Respectfully, Paul Koneczny Floyd, Virginia

I respectfully oppose HB1377. This bill singles out the Virginia Military Institute based upon political motivations and unproven social media statements. . VMI has been subjected to extensive oversight by its Board of Visitors, SCHEV, regional accreditation bodies, federal Title IX enforcement, and repeated review by the General Assembly. No other public institution or military institute such as The Citadel is subjected to a special task force empowered to question whether it should continue to exist as a public college. VMI fulfills a unique mission within the Commonwealth’s higher-education system. Its purpose is academic instruction coupled with the critical development of citizen-leaders through not only rigorous academics, but also military training, physical discipline, and character development. This system is not duplicated anywhere else in Virginia. VMI is consistently ranked as a stellar academic school, competing on par with the Military Academies and petticoat one of the highest employment for civilian graduates in the nation. Linking VMI to any other educational institutional greatly devalues the academic instruction and lowers the standard of achievement for students. HB1377 raises serious concerns about retribution and politicization. The task force is heavily composed of political appointees and lacks guaranteed representation from VMI alumni, military commissioning authorities, or experts in military education. This task forces remains mired in the past, rather than recognizing the gains. It does not rely upon existing legal, regulatory, and accreditation frameworks already governing these matters. It ignores the personal accounts from present VMI cadets and recent graduates, instead focusing upon emotional dismorphia of non grads. VMI consistently commissions one of the largest percentages of officers into demanding military specialties at a lower overall cost compared with other commissioning sources. Its graduates have served with distinction in every major conflict since the Institute’s founding. This achievement has yet to be replicated elsewhere! This bill sets the precedence for government run institutions reminiscent of communist controlled educational systems, leaving ALL institutions vulnerable to political manipulation. FHB1377 fails to acknowledge the significant reforms VMI has implemented since 2021 under state oversight. Hold all public institutions accountable - but not due to political and emotional based response to individuals or political parties. HB1377 does not meet that standard and risks unnecessary harm to an institution that has faithfully served the Commonwealth for more than 180 years. For these reasons, I urge the committee to reject HB1377.

To make any changes to the way the Virginia Military Institute provides education and discipline successfully for 186 years would be a travesty. To let politics trump common sense is short sighted and ignorant. This blatant attack on education is wrong. Those that wrote this bill know it. Those that support this bill know it.

I respectfully oppose HB1377. This bill goes well beyond routine legislative oversight and instead singles out the Virginia Military Institute for a politically driven reconsideration of its legitimacy as a state-sponsored institution. VMI has already been subject to extensive oversight by its Board of Visitors, SCHEV, regional accreditation bodies, federal Title IX enforcement, and repeated review by the General Assembly. No other public institution is subjected to a special task force empowered to question whether it should continue to exist as a public college. VMI fulfills a unique mission within the Commonwealth’s higher-education system. Its purpose is not merely academic instruction, but the development of citizen-leaders through a fully immersive model that integrates rigorous academics, military training, physical discipline, and character development. This system is not duplicated anywhere else in Virginia. Evaluating VMI as though it were interchangeable with conventional universities fundamentally misunderstands its role and value. HB1377 also raises serious concerns about politicization. The task force is heavily composed of political appointees and lacks guaranteed representation from VMI alumni, military commissioning authorities, or experts in military education. It invites subjective and ideological judgment - particularly by reopening historical and cultural issues - rather than relying on existing legal, regulatory, and accreditation frameworks already governing these matters. The bill further mischaracterizes VMI’s contribution to national defense. VMI consistently commissions a disproportionate share of officers, particularly into demanding military specialties, at a cost that is highly competitive with alternative commissioning sources. Its graduates have served with distinction in every major conflict since the Institute’s founding. The suggestion that this role can simply be replicated elsewhere ignores both evidence and experience. Equally troubling is the precedent this bill sets. If the General Assembly can establish a special commission to determine whether one public institution should remain state-sponsored based on shifting political priorities, then no institution is secure. This undermines institutional stability, donor confidence, faculty recruitment, and long-term planning across Virginia’s system of higher education. Finally, HB1377 fails to acknowledge the significant reforms VMI has implemented since 2021 under state oversight, including changes to policies, training, reporting procedures, admissions outreach, and campus culture. The bill proceeds as though no progress has been made and assumes institutional bad faith rather than measurable improvement. Virginia should continue to hold all public institutions accountable - but accountability must be even-handed, evidence-based, and free from predetermined outcomes. HB1377 does not meet that standard and risks unnecessary harm to an institution that has faithfully served the Commonwealth for more than 180 years. For these reasons, I urge the committee to reject HB1377.