VT Named to Most Beautiful College Campuses List

VT Named to Most Beautiful College Campuses List

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the 54 Most Beautiful College Campuses in the United States. The university’s signature Hokie Stone buildings, Collegiate Gothic design, and sprawling green spaces are a testament to its stunning architecture and picturesque setting. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Virginia’s New River Valley, the campus offers a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and natural beauty.

Condé Nast Traveler is a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine known for its in-depth travel reviews, news, guides, and tips that inspire and inform discerning travelers. First published in 1987, the magazine has become a global authority on high-end, independent travel experiences.

Read the Condé Nast Traveler article here.

Discover the beauty that is Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Virginia Tech MIT Online Program Ranks Top 5 Nationally

Virginia Tech MIT Online Program Ranks Top 5 Nationally

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that the university’s Master of Information Technology (MIT) program is ranked No. 4 nationally in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings, reinforcing the region’s reputation for cutting-edge education and workforce development. Virginia Tech continues to elevate Virginia’s New River Valley as a hub for innovation and excellence with its highly ranked programs.

The program, a collaboration between the College of Engineering and the Pamplin College of Business, has consistently earned top national rankings and was also recognized as the No. 2 online program for veterans.

Virginia Tech was ranked out of 97 different colleges and universities and selected based on their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence. Read about how the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Master’s in Information Technology Programs are ranked here.

Discover how Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for top-tier education and talent here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

A professor and a student work together on a laptop in a classroom

Virginia Tech Honored with Federal Counterintelligence Award

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that they were honored with the Department of Defense’s 2023 Jack Donnelly Award for Excellence in Counterintelligence. This award highlights Virginia Tech’s exemplary security program and leadership in preventing foreign entities from compromising national security.

Virginia Tech was one of only five recipients among over 12,000 eligible organizations and marks their second time receiving the award. Virginia Tech has also twice received the prestigious James S. Cogswell Award for Outstanding Industrial Security. Earning both awards multiple times is a rare distinction among universities and underscores Virginia Tech’s dedication and exceptional contributions to national security efforts.

Read Virginia Tech’s full press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

VCOM Receives Department of Health Grant

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Montgomery County, VA – U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith recently announced that the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Blacksburg has received a $444,816 grant from the HHS U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support research and training in complementary and alternative medicine. This grant, awarded through the HHS National Center for Complementary & Integrative Health, will enhance VCOM’s capacity to pioneer new approaches in healthcare education and research.

Founded in 2003 through a partnership with Virginia Tech, VCOM has become a vital institution in the region, transforming healthcare by focusing on the needs of rural and medically underserved communities. Earlier this year, VCOM received a prestigious accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) in recognition of its dedication to high standards in healthcare education. This achievement underscores the college’s commitment to preparing future physicians who are ready to meet the evolving demands of the medical field.

With this new grant, VCOM is poised to make an even greater impact, bringing enhanced healthcare resources and educational opportunities to the New River Valley.

Learn more about education in the NRV here.

Read U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith full press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University has Dramatic Increase in Enrollment

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Radford, VA – WSLS 10 recently reported that Radford University has brought in more new students this school year than any year previously. According to the story, Radford recorded a 28% increase in freshman enrollment and a 39% increase in new transfer students.

Growth at the university is due to several new programs, most notably the Tuition Promise program. The Tuition Promise program’s goal is to make education at Radford University affordable. The program allows undergraduate students to earn their degree for free if the household makes under $100,000.

Radford University is a comprehensive public university located in the City of Radford that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 28 master’s programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 18 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate.

Watch the full story here.

Discover more about education in the New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Virginia Tech Ranks as Top University

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that they have been ranked as a top university by both the Wall Street Journal and the U.S. News & World Report.

The Wall Street Journal ranked Virginia Tech as the top university in Virginia the sixth best public school in the country, and nineteenth overall in their list of 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. According to Virginia Tech’s article, the list was composed of 500 universities and ranked on how much a school improves students’ chances of graduating and their future earnings as well as the overall student experience.

The U.S. News & World Report ranked Virginia Tech as tying for twenty –first on the list of the country’s top public schools. U.S. News & World Report releases annual rankings of bachelor’s degree institutions in the United States, providing guidance to high school students seeking their ideal college match. The publication looks at over 1,400 schools and classifies them into a variety of different categories. The ranking methodology differs by category. In the Top Public Schools category, 19 factors of academic quality are evaluated, including graduation and retention rates, affordability, post-graduation degree value, faculty resources, expert opinions (from presidents, provosts, etc.), financial resources, and test scores.

Eight of Virginia Tech’s individual College of Engineering graduate programs also ranked in the top 25 in the U.S. News and World Report. They are as follows:

  • Environmental: Tied for No. 5
  • Industrial and Systems: No. 5
  • Civil: No. 9
  • Biological/Agricultural: Tied for No. 10
  • Aerospace: Tied for No. 11
  • Computer: No. 15
  • Mechanical: No. 17
  • Electrical: No. 20

    • According to Virginia Tech’s website, they are the most comprehensive university in the Commonwealth and a top research institution, providing around 280 undergraduate and graduate programs to over 38,000 students, including undergraduates, graduates, and professionals, while managing a research portfolio exceeding $556 million.

    Read Virginia Tech’s article on their Wall Street Journal rankings here.

    Read the Wall Street Journal 2025 Best College in the US list here. (pay wall)

    Read Virginia Tech’s U.S. News & World Report article here.

    See the U.S. News & World Report rankings here.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Lane Stadium Ranks Top 5 Toughest Places to Play

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Montgomery County, VA – Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech was recently ranked as one of the top five toughest stadiums to play in college football by Bruce Feldman in The Athletic article “What is college football’s toughest stadium to play in?”. The Athletic, the sports journalism department of the New York Times, stated that “Lane Stadium comes alive like no other venue” and the stadium can be “ominous”.

Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium is known for its electric opening, “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, that has become synonymous with Hokie pride. The Hokies’ entrance is so impactful that it has been measured on a seismograph.

Read The Athletic article here.

Learn more about the Virginia Tech Hokies here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Forbes Ranks Radford University’s GIS Among Best of 2024

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Radford, VA – Forbes recently ranked Radford University’s geographic information systems (GIS) third on its list of Best GIS Certificates Online of 2024. GIS uses state-of-the-art technology to do computer-based mapping. According to Forbes, “well-paying GIS jobs can be found in all sorts of industries, including business, urban planning, agriculture, forestry, transportation, science and the military.”

Radford University’s geospatial intelligence online certification program (GEOINT) was selected by Forbes because it “aligned with national standards and the core competencies set by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation. The program caters to working professionals and has no prerequisites beyond a high school diploma.” Forbes continues to say that “Radford’s GEOINT program consists of five self-paced courses. You have eight weeks to finish each course but can finish in as quickly as six months. The flexible, asynchronous coursework is delivered through competency-based instruction, and students practice their skills through virtual remote labs.”

Radford University’s GEOINT certification is available through their IMPACT lab. Learn more about the program here.

Read Forbes’ list of Best GIS Certificates Online of 2024 here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University Receives Grant for Workforce Development

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Radford, VA – Radford University recently reported that they have received a $202,872 grant from the GO Virginia State Board to support the Developing IT & Cybersecurity Certification Pipeline (ITCCP) initiative.

According to Radford University’s press release, the ITCCP, “a partnership between the Radford University Division of Economic Development and Corporate Education and the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative Southwest Virginia, is a collaborative project with Radford University, Virginia Tech and New River Community College designed to increase the number of professionals with IT and cybersecurity certifications.” The partnership seeks to address regional talent gaps by creating a pipeline of students and graduates with IT and cybersecurity professional certifications.

The press release also stated that “a regional testing center will be established at The HUB at Radford for Economic Development to increase accessibility to certification testing for IT and cybersecurity certifications for students at partnering institutions and incumbent workers in the New River Valley.”

Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit” for businesses in software development, cybersecurity, IT support, digital creative, and other Information Technology subsectors. Thanks to outstanding education programs from local universities, the NRV is cultivating one of the nation’s top IT workforces. This skilled talent can thrive in a region that boasts an excellent quality of life and a low cost of living. Learn more about Information Technology in the NRV here.

Read Radford University’s press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New River Community College Announces Economic Impact

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Pulaski County, VA – WSLS recently reported on New River Community College’s economic impact study for the Fiscal Year 2021-2022. The report shows that the community college is having a large influence in the region, contributing more than $121 million to the NRV’s economy in 2022.

According to the Economic Value of New River Community College Report, “for every dollar invested in the college, students gain $4.50 in higher future earnings and taxpayers see a net benefit of $2.20 in added tax revenue stemming from students’ higher lifetime earnings and increased output by businesses and public sector savings.”

The study also profiles the college’s operations spending impact, student spending impact, and the alumni impact in Virginia’s New River Valley for the 2021-2022 fiscal year.

Watch the WSLS Story here.

Read New River Community College’s full economic impact study here.

Virginia’s New River Valley offers exceptional educational opportunities, featuring several world-class universities and colleges within the region. Learn more about the educational landscape of the NRV here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.