Been There – Virginia Tech

Been There Virginia Tech is the latest addition to the Campus Collection set of mugs.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, commonly known as Virginia Tech, was founded in 1872 as Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College. The institution began with just 132 students and has grown into one of Virginia’s largest universities, becoming a leading research institution in the United States. Throughout its history, the school has evolved from its agricultural and mechanical roots to become a comprehensive university offering more than 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Here are some symbols and landmarks of the Virginia Tech as seen in the design of the mug:

– Hokie Stone (see the arch on the front of the mug), the distinctive grey limestone used in most campus buildings, has become synonymous with Virginia Tech’s architectural identity. Quarried locally from university-owned land, this dolomite limestone gives campus buildings their characteristic grey, blocky appearance that creates a unified architectural theme. Each piece of Hokie Stone is unique and hand-picked, making every building on campus a testament to the university’s commitment to tradition and craftsmanship.

– Virginia Tech Hokies (athletic teams) compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and have established themselves as formidable competitors across multiple sports. The football program, which has appeared in 27 consecutive bowl games, leads the way in popularity, while other successful programs include basketball, soccer, softball, and wrestling.

– The Virginia Tech Hokies athletic program is recognized by its distinctive “athletic VT” logo, which has become one of the most recognizable symbols in collegiate sports. The maroon and orange logo, designed in 1984, represents the university’s athletic teams across all sports and has helped establish a strong brand identity.

– The name “Hokies” originated in 1896 when O.M. Stull created the “Old Hokie” spirit yell for a competition to create a new cheer for the school. The term “Hokie” was purely creative with no specific meaning at the time, but it has since become synonymous with Virginia Tech’s pride and spirit. The university officially adopted Hokies as the school’s nickname, replacing the original athletic nickname “Fighting Gobblers” which had been used since the early 1900s.

– The Hokie Bird, Virginia Tech’s beloved mascot, evolved from a traditional turkey mascot known as the “Fighting Gobbler” to become the energetic, maroon-and-orange character celebrated today. This iconic mascot can be seen pumping up crowds at sporting events, engaging with students across campus, and representing the university at community functions. The modern Hokie Bird design was introduced in 1987 and has become a symbol of school spirit and pride.

– The Highty-Tighties, Virginia Tech’s Regimental Band, has been a proud tradition at the university since 1893, making it one of the oldest collegiate bands in the nation. This distinguished group, composed entirely of Corps of Cadets members, has performed at presidential inaugurations and won numerous awards for their precision marching and musical excellence.

– Burruss Hall stands as the iconic administrative building and symbolic heart of Virginia Tech’s campus, featuring distinctive Collegiate Gothic architecture and a commanding presence on the Drillfield. The building’s recognizable cupola serves as one of the most photographed landmarks on campus and houses the university’s main administrative offices. Named after Julian Ashby Burruss, the university’s eighth president, this historic structure continues to be a centerpiece of campus life and university traditions.

– Lane Stadium, home to the Virginia Tech Hokies football team since 1965, is known as one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in college football. The stadium’s location atop Spring Road provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and creates an electric atmosphere during game days when “Enter Sandman” plays and fans jump in unison.