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August 25, 2020
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D
LTE: A new year calls for a new perspective ear Hokies,
Like many of you on January 1, 2020, I looked forward at the new year with great optimism and excitement for what would come. Within a few months life had changed significantly across our world and altered the day-to-day of our lives around the country. And, just when we thought life could not get harder we were again reminded of the deadly nature of racial injustice in our society. Collectively, it is all too much for any one of us
to handle – even more so as a community. While things are hard and challenging … and will be for some time … it is important to remember what the late Dr. Shane Lopez offered us all: “Hope matters. Hope is a choice. Hope can be learned. Hope can be shared with others.” This is so important to embrace even in the fatigue of working through insufferable news and so many constraints on our lives right now. Collective hope can offer a pathway towards life getting better in the days and months to come.
In doing so, we do not look past the reality of a growing divide in our society over equity and access for all. Pandemics, acts of injustice, etc., simply underscore for us that the work continues towards a “more perfect union.” I think we can all choose to be with each other as we do this work and live our life with enduring values like: humility, kindness, generosity, empathy, hope, grace, and compassion. So, as you start this new academic year please remember that community calls on us to be obligated to each other. I count this as one
of the many lessons that 2020 is teaching us. I do not expect life to return to what it was before this, but we should certainly carry into this new season of life our connections to each other and the bond of hope that holds us together. Take care and be well. Byron Hughes, Ph.D. Dean of Students BYRON HUGHES • Ph.D., Dean of Students
Distancing blame: Students are not responsible for mistakes made by the university and government
T
Administrators and government officials shift rise of COVID-19 blame to students regardless of their own incompetencies.
o call school reopenings across the country “disastrous” would be a gross understatement. A school district in Georgia that barreled toward reopening saw over 900 students and staff infected. Elsewhere in the state, a teen was suspended for trying to hold her high school accountable for ignoring CDC guidelines. UNC Chapel Hill shut down after a single week of classes and an explosion of 135 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Yale is openly asking its students to prepare for death and pestilence. As schools and administrative officials try to claw their way back to normalcy, they are not only asking the world of their students and staff, but their reopening plans are written in a way that ensures that an inevitable outbreak can be blamed on these same students and staff. Every plan and email update from university administrators has a litany of the standard refrains of “social distancing” and “maintaining small
pods,” but it fails to account for inevitable and unavoidable close contact as students move in, live in dorm halls, travel to class, or try to work and attend lectures. For all of our bluster and anger toward students violating CDC guidelines, we must remember that all of this could have been avoided if universities went online-only at the start of the semester. The resentment and exasperation for those who will not follow directions is absolutely justified, but we need to understand that much of these headaches are entirely self-imposed. The will of an institution is far greater than that of any individual or set groups, even if those groups attempt to collectivize, because everyone else’s choices are still ultimately centered around what the institution decides on. Employees have to eat, students have to go back to keep their scholarships, people’s healthcare is tied to their work and tuition
Voice your opinion. Send letters to the Collegiate Times. All letters must include a name and phone number. Students 365 Squires Student Center must include year and major. Faculty and staff must include Blacksburg, VA, 24061 position and department. Other submissions must include opinionseditor@collegiatetimes.com city of residence and relationship to Virginia Tech (i.e., alumni, parent, etc.). We reserve the right to edit for any reason. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Letters, commentaries and editorial cartoons do not reflect the views of the Collegiate Times. Editorials are written by the Collegiate Times editorial board, which is composed of the opinions editors, editor in chief and managing editors.
has already been paid. Universities are making their decisions based on a need to secure funding so they can continue their research programs and pay their employees. As we all barrel toward reopening, we need to remember that this all could’ve been avoided had the proper federal and state officials taken the virus seriously
to begin with. The will of our academic institutions are tied to the economic and political conditions of their communities, of their states and ultimately, of the country’s. There’s always a bigger fish. BRANDON NGUYEN • senior • national security & foreign affairs
COLLEGIATE TIMES NEWSROOM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231-9865 Editor-in-Chief: Ashley Long (editor@collegiatetimes.com) Managing editors: Emily Hannah and Tori Walker Design editors: Celina Ng and Heather Trobridge Copy editors: Abby Evans and John McBride News editors: Adiah Gholston and Ben Walls Lifestyles editor: Emily Carter Sports editors: Claire Castagno and Devin Shepard Assistant sports editor: Amber Williams Opinions editors: Donya Momenian and Lexi Solomon
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The Collegiate Times, a division of the Educational Media Company at Virginia Tech, was established in 1903 by and for the students of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The Collegiate Times is published every Tuesday of the academic year except during exams and vacations. To order a reprint of a photograph printed in the Collegiate Times, visit reprints.collegemedia.com. The Collegiate Times is a division of the Educational Media Company at Virginia Tech, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit with a mission to provide educational experience in business and production of mass media for Virginia Tech students. © Collegiate Times, 2020. All rights reserved. Material published in the Collegiate Times is the property thereof, and may not be reprinted without the express written consent of the Collegiate Times.
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 3
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7 students already suspended for unsafe behavior, administration asks students to be responsible Blacksburg ordinance strictly enforces face coverings and social distancing, failure is punishable as a misdemeanor. BEN WALLS news editor
Dean of Students Byron Hughes confirmed that seven Virginia Tech students have been placed on interim suspension for events that put the public’s health at risk during the pandemic. Hughes did not specify when the actions occurred nor the students’ actions that warranted suspension. “Virginia Tech remains steadfast in its commitment to expect all members of our community to follow all public health guidelines issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Hughes said in an email to WVIR-TV in Charlottesville. “Each and every one of us must do our part. In its simplest terms, it means always wear a mask. It means keep your physical distance to others and do not gather in large groups.
These are not only life-saving ideas, they are current behavioral requirements all students are required to follow.” The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Notre Dame made national headlines when both universities moved instruction online after spikes in coronavirus cases occurred on campus. Since Aug. 21, more than 600 UNC and 400 ND students and faculty have received positive coronavirus tests. As positive coronavirus cases are continuously reported at colleges, the Virginia Tech leadership have asked students particularly to keep themselves and others safe. “We love our university. We love our Town of Blacksburg and the entire New River Valley,” said Vice President of Student Affairs Frank Shushok Jr. in a July letter to students. “As we prepare for the fall, we must
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be unrelenting and uncompromising in our commitment to public health. ‘We’ means all of us — every single person who joins us in Blacksburg and on campus. We will succeed together — or we will fail together.” Shushok also stressed the importance of face coverings, social distancing and reducing large gatherings as means to support collective health. Effective Aug. 12, Blacksburg Ordinance 1942 states that failure to obey face covering laws are punishable as a Class 4 misdemeanor and failure to obey limitations on mass gatherings are punishable as a Class 3 misdemeanor. According to the Virginia Tech COVID-19 dashboard last updated Aug. 16, five coronavirus tests have returned positive from 3,663 students and employees. Meanwhile, Montgomery County has 362 total positive cases, last updated Aug. 23.
“Our biggest risks are likely to result from behaviors that individuals can control, such as off-campus gatherings and travel to and from hot spots,” said President Tim Sands in an Aug. 9 letter to the Virginia Tech community. “We will move to remote operation if public health considerations dictate.”
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PAGE 4 August 25, 2020
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Virginia Tech renames Lee and Barringer halls per Board of Visitors vote, receives positive response Lee Hall has been renamed Hoge Hall and Barringer Hall has been renamed Whitehurst Hall. BEN WALLS news editor
Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors unanimously approved the removal of Claudius Lee and Paul Brandon Barringer’s names from their respective residence halls Thursday. Under the decision, the former Lee Hall is renamed Hoge Hall in favor of Janie and William Hoge —an African American couple that housed engineering students when on-campus housing was barred from Black students. The former Barringer Hall is renamed Whitehurst Hall in favor of James Whitehurst ’63 —the first African American permitted to live on Virginia Tech’s campus. In a June statement recognizing the community’s concern over Lee Hall, President Tim Sands announced the Council on Virginia Tech History’s investigation of Lee and Barringer. Eventually, the council made recommendations
to Sands and the Board of Visitors for their approval. Preceding the Board of Visitors’ decision, a 1896 yearbook picture of Lee, who continued to have a major presence in the university’s engineering program, resurfaced in 1997 that listed him as the “father of terror” and president of the group “K.K.K.,” while Barringer, a former
Virginia Tech president in the 1900s, spoke pro-slavery and anti-Black rhetoric during his public appearances. “The previous names on these two residence halls —the temporary homes of many of our students of color in recent years —were inconsistent with the rich heritage and increasingly diverse community that is Virginia Tech,”
“The previous names on these two res-
idence halls – the temporary homes of many of our students of color in recent years – were inconsistent with the riceh heritage and increasingly diverse community that is Virginia Tech.
”
Tim Sands President of Virginia Tech
Sands announced Thursday. “Because the Council sought input from existing groups, commissions, faculty, staff, students, and alumni within the university community, it helped us arrive, in a unified voice, at today’s decision.” On social media, community members primarily shared support for the decision on Instagram. The announcement post, uploaded early Friday, has nearly 15,000 likes. “This is awesome. I never knew this history about Tech at all. Great choices for the name changes,” said Ruby Johnson on Twitter. “As a Black woman who was able to live on-campus with no race restrictions on housing today, I’m proud to be a Hokie.”
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 5
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Professors work to transform their courses to virtual formats during the COVID-19 pandemic Classes that require hands-on experience are just one of the several courses that are difficult to conduct online. ADIAH GHOLSTON news editor
Virginia Tech released its plan in early June revealing that most classes would be held in an online or hybrid format. This meant professors had to drastically adapt their classrooms and teachings to these models. Traditionally, ECE Collegiate Faculty member Dr. Kristie Cooper’s Fundamentals of Digital Systems class is project-based. The class has sophomore engineers complete 15 hands-on activities using integrated circuit boards and case studies. The projects give the engineers experience working with coding, developing relationships with their peers and act as groundwork for their success in the major. “(Hands-on experience) is a key part of them being able to learn,” Cooper said. “Someone explains to you how to do something and it seems simple, and you go to do it and you realize, ‘Oh, I didn’t quite have all the pieces there.’ Actively trying out the new skills is critical for this class.” Hands-on experience is also a crucial component in several of multimedia journalism professor Jared Woolley’s classes: Advanced Multimedia Reporting, Digital Newsroom and Video Production Studio. These classes require students to frequently engage with each other and the equipment, giving Woolley a challenge on how to lessen contact and enforce social distances guidelines. In Woolley’s Video Production Studio class, the equipment is such a focus point of the class that it had to be canceled. “I decided to cancel (Video Production Studio) for a couple of reasons, one was just the uncertainty,” Woolley said. “Studio production class is 100% about hands-on experience. I didn’t want to take a chance because if we were to lose the semester half-way through that class would be effectively over.” For Woolley’s other classes, the level of
difficulty of adapting the classes has varied. His Visual Media class — a class he picked up once his video production class was canceled — was easiest because of his experience with teaching an online version of the class during the summer. Even though his Advanced Multimedia Reporting class is much more hands-on than Visual Media, he was still able to use his online Visual Media class as a model for Advanced Multimedia Reporting. Digital Newsroom is his hardest class to adapt, as it is very hands-on and uses the same studio space Video Production used. “It’s not quite as bad off as studio class because there are a lot of parts to Digital
online format a collaborative process. Dr. Nadine Sonni, associate professor of Arabic and director of the Arabic program, and her colleagues collaborated by practicing their teaching through Zoom to each other and brainstorming solutions to problems they encountered. “There was a lot of sharing going because we wanted to be on the same page, ‘’ Sonni said. “If I go through something and it works, I think it’s my ethical responsibility to let my colleagues know. ” For a lot of the professors, last spring’s surprise merger to online class acted as sort of a practice session for this fall semester. Throughout last semester, challenges like
“There’s a lot of community building that happens. Of course, we’re losing that, so it’s going to be more of a challenge to build that community.
”
Dr. Kristie Cooper ECE collegiate faculty member Newsroom that’s not just in the studio,” Woolley said.” Keeping in mind social distancing, it’s been a bit of a challenge to try to figure out how to still execute these news broadcasts, but I think I have a pretty good sense of it.” All of Virginia Tech’s colleges and departments align their guidelines with the Executive Provost office recommended guidelines. Professors had to structure their classrooms around basic guidelines like holding online office hours, having all assignments on one platform, providing lecture notes to students in advance if possible and more. Virginia Tech also hosted course design clinics which were offered by the Center of Teaching Excellence and Technology Enhance Learning to help teachers. Some colleges and departments, like the Arabic major, made adapting classes into an
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the lack of student engagement or figuring out the best way to give feedback were elements of the class that professors had to tackle before this semester. “For Arabic, one of our issues is when you’re teaching elementary Arabic, you’re teaching people how to draw,” Sonni said. “The Zoom whiteboard … it doesn’t think of Arabic in mind. One of the things we had to think about was, ‘Okay, let’s get a graphic designer’s drawing pad, so we’re able to use a stylus to write.’” Cooper had to figure out how to develop a virtual lab and how to give students the help they need. Last semester, her students struggled with trying to get help with teaching assistants through Zoom. “Students were having to hop back and forth between Zoom waiting rooms, it was a problem,” Cooper said. “There were some other issues in the spring that made
it frustrating for the students to get help, so they just stopped trying to get help.” Cooper is using Discourse this fall semester, which allows students to use a text queue and voice channels to ask for specific teaching assistants, share their screen and more. The transition to online class also means that aspects of a traditional in-person class, like community building, will be missed. “Normally, this is the first class that (sophomores) are in our department,” Cooper said. “There’s a lot of community building that happens. Of course, we’re losing that, so it’s going to be more of a challenge to build that community.” However, a new format also means an opportunity to develop new skills that can’t be learned in the classroom. “A lot of jobs now, your first interview is going to be a video conference, Skype or Zoom,” Sonni said. “You are expected to be able to use that technology effectively, so when you’re able to do it in a second language imagine how good you’re going to be able to do it in your first language.” Even though this semester is going to look a bit different, professors hope students look to them as an example of resilience and adaptability. “I’m a child of the Lebanese Civil War … growing up my parents had to do a lot of homeschooling. We didn’t even have the internet — that was not an option,” Sonni said. “That, for me, reminded me, ‘Listen, I know we’re all anxious. I’m scared, you’re scared, but I’m here to tell you we’re going to get through this. You’re going to be the COVID generation in the sense that you’ve seen some really disturbing things, but it will help build character, resilience, flexibility, even if we don’t see it.’”
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WELCOME NEW AND RETURNING HOKIES! As we begin classes for the fall semester, in-person and remotely, the spirit of our motto Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) takes on new meaning. Hokies are known for serving our communities, the commonwealth, and the world. This fall we must deepen our dedication to service by taking personal responsibility for the health and safety of those around us. And now, more than ever, we must take the lead in establishing a society free of hate, violence, and racism, in keeping with our Principles of Community. Hundreds of people have worked over the summer to prepare our campuses for a successful and fulfilling fall experience together. The rest now depends on you. I ask each of you to do your part to help us grow stronger as a university, as a community, and as individuals. Hokies can do this! You can do this! Be committed and be well, President Tim Sands
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 7
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‘Since you been gone’: How Blacksburg and Virginia Tech have changed since the start of quarantine From building name changes and businesses closing early, home might look a little different this semester. KYLE BASSETT lifestyles staff writer
March 2020 was no doubt a difficult time for most Hokie Nation members. Many were faced with the difficult decision as to whether or not they should stay in Blacksburg, or head home if travel was possible. All were presented with an almost unpredictable future; one where a fall semester or even a summer in Blacksburg were uncertain. As much time has passed since the university closed in mid-March, there has been a fair amount of change both to campus and Blacksburg. From safety measures to business closures, there is a lot to be noted when coming back to the area. On Aug. 11, the Blacksburg Town Council voted to enact Ordinance 1942, an emergency act to restrict activities around the area that could pose potential health risks during this pandemic. Some of the key points of this ordinance include the restriction placed on restaurants, bars and breweries, where they are only allowed to operate at 50% capacity. Additionally, social gatherings are limited to 50 people or fewer and everyone must practice social distancing. While some eateries in the area such as Boudreaux’s Restaurant and FOAMO Cafe remain temporarily closed due to the pandemic, others have shut down for good. Highway 55, Sycamore Deli and Blacksburg Taphouse are some locations in the area that shuttered their doors in recent months. One of the more notable takeaways from the ordinance is that restaurants and bars must close by midnight, a major change to the nightlife of downtown Blacksburg. Popular spots that, under normal circumstances, would be open past midnight such as Benny Marzano’s, Jimmy John’s and Taco
Bell are now required to cease service at midnight. For those who live in residence halls, life can be seen as vastly different in comparison to years past. Masks must be worn when entering any dorm, and must be kept on until you are in your room. Rooms are now limited to two occupants, and room changes will not be permitted, unless the change is in response to an emergency or a threat to safety. Dining halls will be visibly different as well, both in occupancy and interior appearance. While all dining facilities will be open, they all follow a reduced occupancy limit of 30% of their normal capacity, with limited seating and spacing procedures intended to promote social distancing while inside. Plexiglass dividers have been installed to reduce exposure between workers and dining patrons, and amenities such as chairs and tables will be regularly sanitized. As for changes to campus, one recent change was the renaming of the Lee and Barringer residence halls. On Aug. 13, a vote was held by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors that resulted in the unanimous approval of changing the names of residence halls Lee and Barringer to Hoge and Whitehurst respectively. Both of the aforementioned individuals (Hoge referring to Janie and William Hoge, Whitehurst referring to James Leslie Whitehurst Jr.) in which the buildings have been renamed after are distinguished Black members of Hokie Nation who advocated for social equality in their lifetimes. Signs are posted at the entrance of each building on campus indicating that masks are required for entry in order to promote the safety and well-being of students and
faculty. There are also more hand sanitizer dispensers on campus than before and markers on the ground that promote social distancing measures in places like dining halls. While these changes may not all be surprising, all are new additions to the area that will be a part of Tech’s history. Whether they impact your day-to-day life or are
simply just new changes from what you experienced previously, make sure to take notice when back in Blacksburg.
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ANISHA KOHLI / COLLEGIATE TIMES Students around campus are donning masks as they begin to return for the fall semester, Aug. 17, 2020.
PAGE 8 August 25, 2020
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Gobblerfest goes virtual: How to attend and make the most of one of Virginia Tech’s most valued traditions for the freshman class How to explore hundreds of Virginia Tech’s clubs and organizations from the comfort of your own home. ASHLEY LONG editor in chief
In the wake of COVID-19, some of campus’ most popular events have been moved online. One of these famed traditions is Gobblerfest, a fair that usually takes place on the Drillfield where Hokies are able to explore different student organizations and figure out which ones they may be interested in joining. The event usually attracts thousands of students, which would clearly violate COVID-19 safety guidelines. Thus, the event is being moved online. This year’s virtual Gobblerfest will take place on Friday, Sept. 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. EST. According to the event’s website, “attendees will be able to learn about the wide variety of student organizations on
campus and connect with them in real time. Organizations will be able to be filtered by different categories to allow for easier navigation. Despite the online format, the event is set up very similarly to how it would be in person. Students will still be able to find organizations by genre, ask them questions and get more information about how to join. To attend this year’s virtual Gobblerfest, all students have to do is log into GobblerConnect, go to the Gobblerfest event page and find the tile for the student organization(s) they are interested in. This tile will include both a description of the organization and a link to join a virtual session of some sort – such as a Zoom meeting – where they can meet the leadership and members of the organization. Organizations will be classified under one of 17 different categories ranging from
Fraternity and Sorority Life to Recreation, making the fair easier to navigate. A full list of the participating organizations will be released after student organization sign-ups are complete. Gobblerfest might look a little different this year, but its value to the student body and the freshman class in particular remains unchanged. As stated on the website, the event’s
organizers “encourage everyone to think about connecting with student organizations as an on-going journey that will absolutely be different but no less important than any other academic year.”
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ETHAN CANDELARIO / COLLEGIATE TIMES The Collegiate Times at last year’s Gobblerfest, Sept. 6, 2019.
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 9
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Give us parking or give us death: Hokies outraged over new policies With parking prices increasing and buses limiting riders, students wonder how they’ll make it to campus. BRANDON ALIMANESTIANO lifestyles staff writer
On July 20, Virginia Tech students noticed a message regarding parking on campus and were outraged. Many fought for change. “As a Hokie alum, I am disappointed with what’s going on,” said Alexis Abell, a recently graduated senior. “The new parking situation doesn’t seem fair to students or the town of Blacksburg.” Virginia Tech decided to change its parking hours, requiring a permit to park on campus from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. seven days a week. While this decision was later modified to exclude weekends, many people are still calling for a change back to the original hours, requiring a pass until only 5 p.m on weekdays. Taren Woelk, a recently graduated senior and former Blacksburg Transit driver, is concerned that this decision hurts drivers as well as the residents of Blacksburg. “The original decision would have totally killed the farmers market, and with the new change it still kills weekday life downtown because people would not be able to park in the Squires lot, and now there’s a bigger (COVID-19) risk towards bus drivers as well as a lot more pressure on them,” Woelk said. In a tweet, Virginia Tech stated, “By charging everyone that utilizes our services, we can strive to keep parking costs down for all.” However, many Hokies who want the decision reversed cite high parking costs as the main issue. “With COVID-19, people have even less money, so why would they make it impossible to go to the gym or the library, which we already have to pay for in fees unless we spend another 300-400 dollars on a parking pass?” said Taryn Hollis, a junior human nutrition, foods, and exercise major. Keri Friedman, a senior studying natural resources conservation, has to work a full-time job and recently moved to Christiansburg because of high rent prices in Blacksburg. “I think that the university is really screwing us over on this one,” Friedman said. “They are creating a problem so they can sell a solution and make big bucks off of students — many of whom have lost summer employment opportunities due to the virus.” With Blacksburg Transit, now reducing bus capacity due to the pandemic, people are concerned if they have any realistic options to get to campus. “What am I going to do if the bus is at capacity when I need to get on, miss my class?”
Friedman said. “No professor will take that as an excuse, and now I don’t know how I’ll even afford to get to and from the campus of a university to whom I pay out-of-state tuition to attend.” Many students were relatively fine with the original rules: no pass required after 5 p.m. It allowed people with evening classes to drive to campus without worrying about having to catch a bus, which is limited at night. “It doesn’t feel like the university cares about my safety,” said Claire Hudson, a senior public relations major. “With the buses on reduced service, and [the inability to drive to campus anymore], I’m concerned that I’ll have to walk more than a mile home at night after my evening classes.” The original rules also allowed many students to drive to campus to attend student organization meetings, many of which are held in the evening. Some may argue that these changes are in place to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. However, not only are they indefinite, but some say that it would lead to more safety concerns. “It’s their responsibility to be there for us and to support us, but all they have been doing is taking advantage of us every chance they can get in order to line someone’s pockets,” Friedman said. On its website, Virginia Tech cited that parking services must be self-funded. Woelk, who created the petition, argues that this burden should not be on our shoulders. “The issue of parking services being required to be self-funded is an issue to fight the state on, not the students,” Woelk said. As of the writing of this article, the petition to change the parking hours back to normal has more than 6,000 signatures. In a recent update from the Virginia Tech Daily, “All employees, students, and visitors will need to display a permit or pay a daily fee to park on the Blacksburg campus beginning Aug. 3, 7 a.m. 10 p.m., Monday through Friday.” “By charging all those who utilize parking services on campus, regardless of what time of day, Virginia Tech will actually be better able to keep parking costs down,” university spokesperson Mark Owczarski said in a statement made to the Roanoke Times. While Virginia Tech has released their Fall 2020 plans for parking, it is unclear whether they will move to restore this basic, limited freedom to its students. @CollegiateTimes
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 11
From tests to testing: How Tech plans to keep campus COVID-free The university requires students wear a mask all semester and recommends they get tested before returning to Blacksburg. KYLE BASSETT lifestyles staff writer
In a few short months, tens of thousands of students will be coming to the Blacksburg area as the fall semester begins. While the vast majority of classes will be online, some students will still be able to attend some classes in person, with on-campus residence halls open for students to live in. Despite the effort to bring students back, there will be significant provisions in place to keep students safe and to minimize the risk of spreading the virus should issues arise. “I know it will be different now compared to my freshman year,” said Francisco Garzon, a rising senior at Virginia Tech majoring in business information technology. “I’m not sure how different it will be by all the measures Virginia Tech is taking, but I’m hoping it will still be an exceptional experience with a range of dining options, new friends to make and taking most of my classes probably from my dorm.” As a precautionary measure to protect students as they return to Blacksburg and begin the semester, university officials are asking students to self-quarantine and wear a face mask for the two weeks leading up to their return to the area. All Virginia Tech students are required to complete an online
coronavirus awareness training program prior to their return to Blacksburg. Face masks, possibly the most visible accessory of this global pandemic, are required to be worn this fall by all students and university employees when in “public or common areas,” including but not limited to
and carried out has been largely adjusted in accordance with the university and the CDC’s recommendations and guidelines to minimize risk. Classrooms will be having desks spaced 6 feet apart, with fewer desks and reduced seating in order to allow for social distancing within the spaces
“Despite the effort to bring students
back, there will be significant provisions in place to keep students safe and to minimize the risk of spreading the virus should issues arise.
”
indoor spaces such as dining halls, laboratories and residence halls. The plan for testing students and faculty prior to the start and throughout the semester will be handled by the Schiffert Health Center, Tech’s on-campus clinic for all health-related needs. Appointments can be made by phone call or through the center’s website, but must be done prior to arrival. Students moving into residence halls will be able to be tested on their move-in dates should they seek to do so. For those who have classes in person this fall, the way in which classes will be set up
being used to host classes. Classrooms are currently capped at a capacity of 49 students per in-person class, a significant reduction in size from that of a typical Virginia Tech class. Those living in residence halls may be the ones who feel the largest impact of this pandemic’s precautionary measures. Occupants will be required to sign the Residence Life COVID-19 Health and WellBeing Commitment, one portion of their housing contract that outlines the university’s recommendations and stipulations for being able to live on campus with the health
precautions in place. Whether a student lives on campus or off, should they test positive for the coronavirus, they will be required to address their situation based on whether or not they display symptoms. Should someone turn out to be asymptomatic, they will be required to self-quarantine, which means that they are expected to separate themself and to limit their movement to prevent exposure to others. Should someone test positive for the virus and display symptoms, they will be required to self-isolate, which differs from self-quarantine in that they are to completely keep themself away from others in a manner more strict than quarantining. Students living on campus who test positive for the virus regardless of whether they are asymptomatic or symptomatic will be relocated to New Hall West, the campus’s designated dorm for keeping those who have the virus away from the general population. Everyone can stay updated by checking the university’s designated coronavirus update page.
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 13
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Disappointed athletes respond to canceled seasons Players are working hard to ensure they are in top shape for possible spring seasons. AMBER WILLIAMS assistant sports editor
College sports have been greatly affected by the pandemic, with many teams having their fall seasons canceled altogether. This is obviously disappointing for many Virginia Tech athletes who long to play the games they enjoy. It has been especially upsetting
for new softball transfer Morgan Overaitis who transferred in April from Michigan. Overaitis, who was set to play for the Hokies this upcoming season, hasn’t let the absence of games affect her preparation. “During this season we are going to train and prepare for the spring season that’s coming up like we would for any past season,” Overaitis said. “To stay in shape
I’m eating good and working out on my own until facilities open up for our use.” Overaitis feels as though Virginia Tech has taken lots of necessary precautions in order to keep athletes safe, which allows her to be optimistic about a possible spring season. “Although you may not be able to see us play in the fall, just know that we are training hard to be able to have a successful season this spring,” Overaitis said. During this difficult time, Overaitis has been leaning on friends, family and her teammates to stay positive and strong. Angie Benson, No. 77 for the lacrosse team, feels equally upset about her season being canceled. “I’m obviously very sad my fall competition got canceled because we use our fall to prepare for our spring season,” Benson said. “On the bright side our team is big enough to
scrimmage and we are still lucky we get to train and have ways to prepare.” Benson is still hopeful for a season this year. “I’m optimistic about spring . . . but there’s always a chance it may not happen,” Benson said. Despite her positive attitude for the 2021 season, she still worries about how students will respond to all of the precautions on campus. Benson urges everyone to abide by the measures set in place by Virginia Tech in order to protect the campus. “Sports will be back. Without a doubt we will find a way soon,” Benson said.
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Breaking down Virginia Tech football’s offensive line Christian Darrisaw ranks top in the Hokies’ offensive line with Doug Nester in a close second. DEVIN SHEPARD sports editor
With the Virginia Tech football season starting in about a month in some form or another, it’s time to take a deeper look into Virginia Tech’s roster for the upcoming year. Over the next few weeks, we will be delving into the team, position by position, to get a deeper understanding of where we stand as a football team. I will grade every player on the roster on a 1-10 scale and create a makeshift depth chart for the season (Note: These grades are simply my opinions on each player based on prior knowledge, statistics and film study). Grading Scale: 10 - Heisman Candidate 9 - All American 8 - All ACC 7 - Starter 6 - Backup 5 and Below - Not likely to play OT Christian Darrisaw - 7.8/10 Darrisaw is definitely the best lineman on the team and has proven that over the past two years, with 25 starts over that span. He has the requisite athleticism to hold up in pass protection, the strength to be a mauler in the run game and very good technique for such a young player. If he continues to anchor the offensive line with the consistency he has shown the past few years, Darrisaw should be drawing the eyes of NFL scouts very soon. OG Doug Nester - 7.7/10 An All-American in high school, Nester came in as a true freshman last season and almost immediately began dominating competition. An 11-game starter, Nester brings good size to the position and is one of the best run blockers on the team. His ceiling may be an eventual All-American in college and his development figures to be a key factor in determining whether this offensive line will be good or great. OC Bryan Hudson - 7.4/10 Hudson, also a true freshman last season, was a highly touted prospect out of high school and a very good player for the Hokies last season. After starting center Zachariah Hoyt got injured early in the season, Hudson stepped in and solidified the position, making 10 starts. His best trait is
his athleticism as a center. On tape he looks faster than most linebackers, which is key in the run game. He and Nester are both the present and the future of this Virginia Tech offensive line. OT Silas Dzansi - 7.1/10 Dzansi brings somewhat of a veteran presence to a young offensive line. That experience should give him an upper hand in winning the starting right tackle job. He’s started 12 games over the past two years but has had injury issues that have held him back. If he can stay healthy, his size alone should make him a solid player on the right side. OG Lecitus Smith - 7.0/10 Continuing a trend of athletic offensive lineman, Smith, a high school tight end, figures to be the fifth starter on this year’s unit. He brings elite speed to the unit, and he started 12 games last season. Smith is still a bit raw at the position and can make mistakes, but his athletic upside should be important to this team’s success. OG Brock Hoffman - 7.0/10 A big-name transfer from Coastal Carolina last season, many Hokie fans were excited to see Hoffman suit up in the maroon and orange last season. However, NCAA eligibility issues kept him off the field in his first year in Blacksburg. Hoffman brings the requisite size and athleticism to the position, along with a nasty streak that is key for any offensive lineman. However, his technique leaves a lot to be desired. If he cleaned up his game in his year off, Hoffman has a chance to battle for a starting job and be a key part of Virginia Tech’s offensive line this season. OT Tyrell Smith - 7.0/10 Smith, a graduate student, brings veteran experience to a young offensive line, playing in 44 games over the last four seasons. His leadership will be key in developing the young players, even if he doesn’t see the field much. OT Walker Culver - 7.0/10 Culver brings more size and athletic upside to a tackle room already full of it. He was a good prospect out of high school but hasn’t seen the field much in his first few years. However, if Dzansi misses time again, Culver’s athleticism may make him the next man up at right tackle.
AHMED MUSTAFA / COLLEGIATE TIMES Virginia Tech offensive lineman Christian Darrisaw (77) looks at the referee as the Hokies attempt to drive the ball at Alumni Stadium, Aug. 31, 2019.
OC Zachariah Hoyt - 6.9/10 Hoyt, a longtime Hokie, has been a consistent presence throughout his time as at Virginia Tech. Unfortunately, after winning the starting center job in 2018 and making one start in 2019, Hoyt got injured against Boston College and lost the starting gig. If Bryan Hudson does struggle or get hurt in 2020, Hoyt should be a stabilizing presence in his final year in Blacksburg. OT Luke Tenuta - 6.9/10 Tenuta stepped in as the starter last season after Dzansi went down and struggled at times. The behemoth of a tackle brings great size to the position but needs some more development before he can become a key piece on the unit. OG Jesse Hanson - 6.8/10 Hanson brings a lot of size and strength to the guard position in a similar way to Brock Hoffman. A very good player coming out of high school, Hanson figures to be the heir apparent to Lecitus Smith in a few years.
OT T.J. Jackson - 6.5/10 A redshirt senior, Jackson brings elite size and experience to the Virginia Tech team. He should be a fixture on special teams units and a good presence in the locker room. OT Parker Clements - 6.4/10 Clements, an early enrollee, brings height and technique to the position. He’ll have to put on some weight to play at a high level in the ACC, but he could be a big time player for the Hokies down the road. OC Austin Cannon - 5.5/10 Cannon started two games last season after Hoyt went down and did not play well. He’s at the back end of the center rotation, but if he does end up playing this season he at least has some experience starting.
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Be committed. Be well. Guided by our Principles of Community and current public health guidelines, we recognize that during the ongoing pandemic, we must commit to additional measures to mitigate the health risks and care for each other, especially the most vulnerable. Our daily commitment to the health and safety of our community will be an exercise in living out our Virginia Tech motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).
As members of the community, we pledge to care for the health and well-being of others by personally adopting our Community Wellness Commitment: • We will affirm our commitment to the safety, health, and well-being of our campuses and local communities.
• We will contact our health care provider or an urgent care facility if we believe we are sick or have been exposed to the coronavirus.
• We will affirm that we will support the mental wellbeing of all community members.
• We will support but avoid contact with those who are sick.
• We will wear face coverings/masks in public areas.
• We will follow public health guidelines and medical recommendations to be tested and self-isolate as necessary.
• We will practice physical distancing by maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others. • We will practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and covering coughs or sneezes. • We will stay home and avoid public spaces when not feeling well.
• We will make a list of all others with whom we have had close contact, if necessary, to aid in contacttracing efforts.
vt.edu/ready/well nrvroadtowellness.com FALL 2020
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 17
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Hokie football’s wide receivers and tight ends ranked A graded analysis of who deserves to be listed as the best for their position. DEVIN SHEPARD sports editor
With the Virginia Tech football season about to start in some form or another, it’s time to take a deeper look into Virginia Tech’s roster for the upcoming year. Over the next few weeks, we will be delving into the team, position by position, to get a deeper understanding of where we stand as a football team. I will grade every player on the roster on a 1-10 scale and create a makeshift depth chart for the season (Note: These grades are simply my opinions on each player based on prior knowledge, statistics and film study). Grading Scale: 10 - Heisman Candidate 9 - All American 8 - All ACC 7 - Starter 6 - Backup 5 and Below - Not likely to play
Wide Receivers
Tré Turner - 7.7/10 Turner is well known in Blacksburg and has seen a good amount of success throughout his first two years in the program. He’s a deep threat as a receiver and has all the skills to be an elite player in the ACC. He is very good in contested catch situations and his speed makes him a dangerous threat after the catch. Not to mention his propensity to make plays downfield, running by defenders, which earned him the nickname “Big Play Tré” in just his first year on the team. Unfortunately, Turner showed some inconsistencies last year and struggled with drops throughout the season. If he can get past these mental lapses, and has continued to improve throughout the offseason, Turner has the potential to have his best season so far for the Hokies and be an integral part of the Virginia Tech offense. Jaden Payoute - 7.4/10 A high school quarterback, Payoute’s grade is built almost entirely on his pedigree as an elite high school recruit. Though he is still learning the position, Payoute is undoubtedly one of the most talented players on the team. He has elite speed, size and run after the catch ability as a receiver. If he has developed even a decent route tree after a first-year redshirt he may just breakout as a special player this season.
Tayvion Robinson - 7.2/10 A pleasant surprise last season, Robinson, also a high school quarterback, showed high-level maturity and ability as both a slot receiver and a return man. A good route runner and sure handed receiver, Robinson is a very good player underneath. He lacks the athleticism and high end ability to play on the outside, but he may just become one of Hendon Hooker’s favorite targets as arguably the most consistent receiver on the team. Darryle Simmons - 7.0/10 Simmons was a highly touted recruit out of high school but has not seen much playing time yet in Blacksburg. He has very good size and speed and is reminiscent of a certain big-time receiver for the New Orleans Saints on film. It is uncertain how he has played in practice, but he should battle with Payoute for the second outside receiver role opposite Turner this fall. Elijah Bowick - 6.8/10 Bowick brings a nice skill set as route runner and contested catch specialist, he just couldn’t see the field in a crowded receiver room last fall. He has the upside to fight for playing time, but he may not be able to beat out the more talented Payoute or Simmons in training camp. Evan Fairs - 6.6/10 Fairs lacks the upside or athleticism of the aforementioned players, but as a graduate transfer from Kansas, coach Fuente may elect to give him early playing time as the younger receivers continue to develop. Kaleb Smith - 6.5/10 Smith saw some playing time last fall and played well against Boston College, but he seems to be in the same position as Fairs. He is a big bodied receiver without much upside, but he may see playing time due to experience.
LIAM SMENT / COLLEGIATE TIMES The Virginia Tech football team celebrates after scoring a fumble, Nov. 23, 2019.
to wide receiver, Bussel transferred from Fork Union Military Academy a few years ago. He brings some size to the position as a receiver over 6 feet tall, but not much else. Jacob Van Landingham - N/A Van Landingham is very similar to Bussell as a former quarterback still trying to learn the receiver position. Nikia Peerman - N/A Peerman brings size to the receiver position but he likely lacks the athleticism to see the field much at Virginia Tech. William Kakavitsas - N/A Another in the line of tall, slower receivers on the team, Kakavitsas continues a trend forming on the back end of the receiver room.
Tight Ends
Tink Boyd - N/A Boyd was a walk-on coming onto campus a few seasons ago. Though he is only 5-foot-10, he brings a lot of athleticism to the position and has the ability to make some spectacular catches. Boyd may find his way onto the field eventually in Blacksburg.
James Mitchell - 7.3/10 James Mitchell broke out last season playing alongside Dalton Keene and scoring six times. He brings a lot to the position as both a receiver and a blocker, with good ball skills and size. He should be a trusted weapon for Hendon Hooker this fall and possibly one of the better tight ends in the ACC. He has very good speed for the position and his history as a high school basketball player shows in his ability to grab contested catches. If things go well for Mitchell, he may just have a NFL future ahead of him.
Luke Bussel - N/A A former quarterback making the switch
Drake Deluliis - 7.0/10 Deluliis was an exciting prospect for
many Hokie fans coming out of high school a few years ago. He brings elite size to the position at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, but has yet to develop as a receiving threat. He should battle for the backup role this fall with Nick Gallo, and, if nothing else, his size should allow him to bring value to the team as a blocker. Nick Gallo - 6.7/10 Gallo didn’t see the field last year as most of the tight end snaps were taken up by Keene and Mitchell. He is an elite blocker for such a young player, but his lack of speed will limit him in the receiving game. Ty Eller - N/A Eller was a little known transfer out of UNC Pembroke last season, but he looks to be a bit of a faster option at the tight end position if there is a need for a change of pace. Cole Blaker - N/A A former quarterback, Blaker brings more size to the position at 250 pounds; however, it will take more time for him to learn the position. Sam Brooks - N/A Brooks is very fast for a tight end out of high school, which could allow him some upside. He’s only 210 pounds though, so to see the field he will have to put on a lot of weight. @CTSportsTalk
PAGE 18 August 25, 2020
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How Hokies can stay active safely this semester Virginia Tech and the NRV offer many options to help get you in shape while still adhering to COVID-19 safety guidelines. AMBER WILLIAMS assistant sports editor
Welcome (back) to Virginia Tech! This year will be different from what any college student has ever experienced before and will bring new challenges. One of the best ways to handle this stressful time is to stay active. Luckily, Virginia Tech has many opportunities to exercise while staying socially distant. McComas Hall, located on Washington Street, has you covered when it comes to staying fit. The gym reopened on Aug. 18 with new regulations including the requirement of pre-registration. The only exception to this is for those who come in between 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. From 3 p.m. - 11 p.m. Monday through Friday pre-registration is required on the Recreation Sports Portal. Times can be reserved up to a week in advance. Rec Sports is still offering group exercise classes, with the option of virtual or socially
distant in-person classes. In-person classes are limited to a maximum of 15 individuals per class. With the addition of these new class styles, there are new membership options available. There is a $50 Fall 2020 Full Pass which grants access to all virtual and in-person classes, a $25 early bird pass for all classes offered between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m., and a $25 virtual pass for all 20+ classes live streamed each week. There are many different group exercise options including Power Yoga, Cardio Dance, Hokie HIIT, Pilates, Yin Yoga and many more. The full schedule is available on the Rec Sports website. If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, Venture Out is the perfect organization. All activities have been changed to “park and play” meaning participants arrive individually and maintain social distancing at the event. Gear rentals are still available and are thoroughly cleaned between uses. Venture Out has mountain biking, yoga, canoeing and more on its fall 2020 trip
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ETHAN CANDELARIO / COLLEGIATE TIMES A student working out in McComas Hall, Feb. 14, 2019.
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while hiking, making it the perfect exercise during this time. schedule. Venture Out’s challenge course, which is $25 per student, is still in operation on a combination of walk-up and scheduled programs. Intramural Sports are still operating this year with strict protocols and new events. Self-report leagues will involve tennis, golf, disc golf and geocaching. There will be skill competitions for football, soccer and basketball. Tournaments will be played with safety precautions for volleyball, pickleball and badminton. Registration for team sports and singles activities will open Aug. 24 and close Sept. 3 with competition beginning Sept. 14. The New River Valley is also home to some of the best hiking trails in Virginia, so there is plenty to explore while getting out and being active. It’s easy to maintain social distance while hiking, making it the perfect exercise during this time. McAfee
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Knob, Dragon’s Tooth and the Cascades are just a few of the incredible trails located near Virginia Tech. There are plenty of ways to stay active at Virginia Tech this year while staying safe and healthy. Wear your mask, social distance and get active!
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August 25, 2020 PAGE 19
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Hokies gain Villanova wide receiver Changa Hodge WYATT KRUGER sports staff writer
Hokies gain depth with 6-foot-1, 200-pound wide receiver addition.
The Virginia Tech Hokies added a key wide receiver for the 2020 season in Changa Hodge, a redshirt senior from Villanova who is immediately eligible to play. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound wideout led the Wildcats in touchdowns, yards and catches, while notching an impressive 17.2 yards per catch in 2019. Hodge announced his entry into the transfer portal on Twitter on Aug. 3, citing the uncertainty of the upcoming FCS football season as the reason for his decision. Hodge should add depth to the Hokies’ wide receiver group, while also helping recover from the losses of Damon Hazelton and Hezekiah Grimsley to the transfer portal earlier this year. With wide receivers TrÊ Turner and Tayvion Robinson returning as the presumed starters on the 2020 roster, expect Hodge to compete for the third starting spot as fall camp starts up. @CTSportsTalk
The Virginia Tech football team last season, Nov. 23, 2019.
ALEX NAGELI / COLLEGIATE TIMES
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