ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Friday, March 1, 1996 TAG: 9603010048
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-8 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
Seventy-five years ago, the president of what was then Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College and Polytechnic Institute persuaded the Board of Visitors to allow women to attend the institution.
They wouldn't just participate in short courses, he said, but would be there as regular students.
The institute became Virginia Tech, and today the university will celebrate the 75th anniversary of women in its ranks. The day will be marked with projects, speeches, banquets, discussions and the dedication of the Women's Center.
"On January 13, 1921, the board voted unanimously to admit women with all courses, with the exception of the military, for the following fall session," wrote Clara Cox in a history of the 75 years. "In September 1921 they came - five full-time and seven part-time women students."
Today, women comprise 41 percent of Tech's student body and about 19 percent of the corps of cadets.
"And although barriers and challenges remain," Cox wrote, "the great strides they have taken over the course of those 75 years provide many reasons to celebrate - and to thank those who took the first steps whenever, wherever, and however they were needed."
The following events are open to the public and do not require reservations:
Noon to 1:30 p.m. Celebration of the history of black women at Tech, held in the Black Cultural Center at Squires Student Center. The presentation will feature an oral history project being conducted by the Women's Center with interviews of black female students, faculty and staff concerning their experiences at Tech.
3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Dedication of the Women's Center. Hancock Hall Auditorium and the Price House. Ribbon cutting at the newly renovated Price House, home of the Women's Center.
Noon, 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.: Atlantic 10 Women's Basketball Opening Round, Cassell Coliseum. Single game or weekend passes are available by calling the Tech ticket office.
The University Bookstore is offering tote bags, T-shirts, buttons and mugs with the 75th anniversary logo. Proceeds from the sale of these items will go to Women's Programs at Tech.
LENGTH: Short : 50 linesby CNB