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Torgersen addresses conference

By Netta S. Eisler

Virginia Tech Spectrum, October 6, 1994

President Paul Torgersen addressed participants at a Fall Leadership Conference last week. "I want to tell you about some concerns I have, and actions addressing those concerns," he said.

Torgersen showed a slide program that he takes around the state, presenting Virginia Tech's message to legislators and citizens. Typically, he said, he presents his program in an informal setting, such as a Ruritan Club lunch.

His message, he said, is that "higher education is at risk in Virginia. We've gone through serious budget cuts and we can't afford any more." In addition to this message, he said, the program is "a sales pitch for Virginia Tech. There are many Tech alumni out there," Torgersen said. "And there's an incredible amount of alumni loyalty."

The initial success of this year's football team has generated a great deal of enthusiasm, he said.

Torgersen's presentation focuses on citizen's concerns, such as rising tuition costs, and explains why this has happened. It also gives a brief overview of what Virginia Tech offers, and reminds the audiences that Virginia Tech has facilities in every Virginia County.

"I've had fun with it," Torgersen said, "And hopefully at the end of my presentation, the audience feels even better about Virginia Tech."