Dear Virginia Military Institute Alumni,
I hope this message finds you well. As I reflect on my recent return from our Volunteer Leaders Conference, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride for our collective spirit and unwavering dedication to the values and traditions of VMI.
Firstly, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all those who attended the conference. Your presence and active participation are a testament to the strength and unity of our alumni community. It was truly inspiring to witness the shared commitment to fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among us.
I also wish to express my deep gratitude to all our volunteers around the globe. Your tireless efforts and selfless contributions play a vital role in creating opportunities for our alumni to get together and recall their fond—and maybe even some not-so-fond—memories of VMI. Whether it is mentoring cadets and alumni, organizing events, recruiting, or supporting various initiatives, your dedication is invaluable and greatly appreciated.
During the conference, we had the privilege of hosting a remarkable panel of cadets who shared their experiences and unwavering love for VMI. Their stories were a powerful reminder of the impact our institution has on shaping 21st century leaders and fostering a sense of purpose and excellence. It was heartening to see their passion and commitment, reaffirming the importance of our continued support and engagement.
The VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors has been diligently working on multiple initiatives, again with the generous assistance of volunteers. Our Networking Committee continues to enhance our ability to provide career mentoring and placement support. If you are seeking career opportunities or assistance, it begins with submitting some basic information here, and then someone will contact you: Career Networking | VMI Alumni Agencies.
Our Chapter Operations Committee has recently launched the inaugural Distinguished Chapter Award, which will be presented in 2026 to those chapters going above and beyond in creating opportunities for alumni to gather and reminisce. We are currently developing our annual survey, which will be sent out this fall. From the previous survey, we gained valuable insights into what matters most to our alumni body. We intend to build on this feedback to ensure our resources are being applied effectively.
Of course, we appreciate the service of Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85 and Mrs. Cassandra Wins for their service to the cadets and the Institute these last 4 years. During a time of leadership transition at the Institute, we will appreciate the advances made in recent years and focus on the future of enhancing a robust alumni experience. We know our mission, and we will lean into our purpose in the coming months.
As we move forward, let us remember the values that bind us together as VMI alumni. Our shared experiences and the bonds we have formed are the foundation of our strength. I encourage each of us to continue to foster this unity, support one another, and contribute to the growth and success of VMI.
Thank you once again for your dedication and support of our “I.” Together, we will ensure that the legacy of VMI continues to thrive for generations to come.
Soon, you will receive a save the date for our Farewell to Moody Hall event Sept. 13. There is a group of alumni working diligently to make it special for everyone. We are trying to get every class represented, so mark your calendars.
In the Bonds,
Matthew Hemenez ’90
