Congressman Griffith Praises Outgoing Virginia Tech President Tim Sands

Ninth District Representative thanks Sands for his service and dedication to the university.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:25am

A grid of stylized, neon-colored Virginia Tech Hokies logos rendered in a high-contrast, silkscreen pop art style, conceptually representing the university's enduring identity and community spirit.The vibrant colors and bold graphics of a Virginia Tech-themed pop art illustration capture the energy and spirit of the university's leadership transition.Covington Today

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued a statement praising outgoing Virginia Tech President Tim Sands for his leadership and commitment to the university during his tenure. Griffith, whose children have attended Virginia Tech, thanked Sands for inspiring growth and opportunity at the school.

Why it matters

Virginia Tech is one of the largest and most prominent universities in the state, so the transition in presidential leadership is an important event for the school, its students, and the surrounding community. Griffith's statement provides insight into how key political figures view Sands' legacy and the future of the university.

The details

Sands announced he will be stepping down as Virginia Tech president in the coming months after serving in the role since 2014. In his statement, Griffith praised Sands' dedication, service, and commitment to the university, and said he appreciated working with the president during his tenure.

  • Sands announced he will be stepping down as Virginia Tech president in the coming months.
  • Griffith issued his statement on April 10, 2026.

The players

Tim Sands

The outgoing president of Virginia Tech, who has served in the role since 2014.

Morgan Griffith

A U.S. Congressman representing Virginia's 9th District, who has children that have attended Virginia Tech.

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What they’re saying

“Ninth District communities and Americans across the country are eager to pursue higher education opportunities at Virginia Tech. Thanks to leaders like President Sands, these opportunities continue to inspire growth, spark curiosity and produce high-quality talents in a diverse range of fields. My children are just some of the many to take advantage of these opportunities.”

— Morgan Griffith, U.S. Congressman

“As someone who enjoyed working with President Sands during his tenure, I appreciated his dedication, service and commitment to Virginia Tech. I join the Virginia Tech community in wishing him and his wife Laura the best.”

— Morgan Griffith, U.S. Congressman

What’s next

Sands will continue serving as Virginia Tech president until his successor is named and transitions into the role in the coming months.

The takeaway

Congressman Griffith's praise for outgoing Virginia Tech President Tim Sands highlights the importance of the university's leadership transition and the impact it will have on the school, its students, and the surrounding community.