Dr. Richard Linton Appointed as President of Virginia Tech

Governor Abigail Spanberger today released the following statement congratulating Dr. Richard Linton on his appointment as the 17th President of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

“Congratulations to Dr. Richard Linton on being selected to serve as the 17th President of Virginia Tech. Dr. Linton’s distinguished career in food science — driving agricultural innovation and combating food insecurity — and extensive experience in academic leadership reflect Virginia Tech’s longstanding commitment to cutting-edge research, service, and real-world impact.

“I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to outgoing President Tim Sands for his unwavering dedication and steadfast commitment to serving students, faculty, and the broader Blacksburg community. His years of service have left a lasting, positive mark on the university and the Commonwealth as a whole.

“I look forward to working with Dr. Linton to make sure Virginia Tech receives the support it needs from the state as we focus on preparing students from across the Commonwealth for lifelong success. As a three-time Hokie — having earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in Blacksburg — Dr. Linton brings a deep understanding of the institution he will now lead. Guided by the university’s enduring motto, ‘Ut Prosim,’ Virginia Tech continues to be a pillar of excellence in higher education, and I am confident that Dr. Linton’s leadership will help propel the university to even greater heights.”

“On behalf of the Commonwealth of Virginia, welcome back to Blacksburg, Dr. Linton. I wish you every success as you begin this exciting new chapter in Virginia Tech’s history.”

In response to this news, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“As the Congressman for Virginia’s Ninth District with family ties to Virginia Tech, it is an honor to work with Virginia Tech’s leadership.

“I am truly excited by the new president being a three-time Hokie, having received his bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees all from Virginia Tech. And his strong background in agriculture makes him a good fit for Virginia Tech.

“My strong relationship with Virginia Tech is grounded in promoting its leading academic and research programs. With the announcement of Dr. Richard Linton as the next Virginia Tech president, I look forward to continuing this positive relationship.

“Additionally, I join the Virginia Tech family in thanking President Sands for his service to our professors, researchers and students.”