Buddhist Monks Welcomed at Virginia State University During Peace Walk

The university hosted the monks for an evening as they continue their 2,300-mile journey from Texas to Washington, D.C.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 9:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A group of 19 Buddhist monks on a 2,300-mile peace walk from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington, D.C. made an impromptu stop at Virginia State University on January 31. The university welcomed the monks, who spent the evening speaking with students, faculty, and staff and enjoying a performance by the Trojan Explosion Marching Band.

Why it matters

The monks' visit to Virginia State University highlights the university's commitment to unity, cultural understanding, and community engagement, as the monks' cross-country walk seeks to promote healing, compassion, and national solidarity at a time when those values are urgently needed.

The details

The monks' visit to Virginia State was a last-minute arrangement, with the university gaining notice of their arrival just that morning. However, the event was coordinated by over 50 volunteers and went smoothly, with the monks being housed overnight in the gymnasium of the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons. During their visit, the monks spoke openly with the campus community, a departure from their usual practice of not engaging in public speaking.

  • The monks began their 2,300-mile peace walk from Fort Worth, Texas on October 26, 2025.
  • The monks arrived at Virginia State University on January 31, 2026, the 98th day of their journey.
  • The monks' journey is set to end on February 11, 2026 when they reach Washington, D.C.

The players

Virginia State University

A historically Black college and university (HBCU) that hosted the Buddhist monks on their peace walk and provided them with a space to rest and engage with the campus community.

Eldon Burton

The Assistant Vice President for Government Relations at Virginia State University, who coordinated the monks' visit to campus.

Gwen Williams Dandridge

The Assistant Vice President of Communications at Virginia State University, who also helped coordinate the monks' visit.

Yourdouns James

The Executive Director of Conference and Event Services at Virginia State University, who collaborated on organizing the event for the visiting monks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Virginia State University is a place where dialogue, understanding, and community matter. We were honored to welcome the monks to campus and provide a space for our students and the Trojan community to engage with a message centered on compassion, unity, and healing—values that strongly align with our mission.”

— Eldon Burton, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations

“We would like to express our deep gratitude to Virginia State University for hosting us last night on Day 98. Thank you for opening your doors and welcoming us with such warmth and kindness. Your generosity, hospitality, and caring spirit made us feel comfortable and at peace during our rest. It is through the warm embrace of places like Virginia State University that this journey is sustained and nourished. You have given us not just a place to rest, but a place to feel welcomed and valued.”

— Buddhist Monks

What’s next

The monks' 2,300-mile peace walk is set to conclude on February 11, 2026 when they reach Washington, D.C.

The takeaway

The Buddhist monks' visit to Virginia State University highlights the university's commitment to fostering unity, cultural understanding, and community engagement, values that are crucial in these challenging times. The warm welcome extended to the monks by the Trojan community exemplifies the power of compassion and the role that HBCUs can play in promoting healing and national solidarity.