Published: June 2, 2021
The Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors met today to consider the recommendations of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s audit of VMI’s diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. Board members determined that most of the recommendations contained in the report should be pursued and have instructed the administration to determine the feasibility of implementation.
Many of the recommendations are already being acted upon by Institute officials. Others can likely be achieved by modifying existing programs to better align with the recommendation(s).
“The investigators highlighted serious allegations which the Board of Visitors continues to address,” said Board of Visitors President John William Boland ’73. “Actions taken today will continue to build on the progress already made as we seek to improve the Institute’s culture and climate to ensure that all cadets, faculty, staff, and alumni feel a part of the VMI experience. Further, we are gratified that the report supported VMI’s policies, mission, and method of education, including the Honor Code and the Rat Line.”
The recommendations made by the commonwealth’s investigative team will be reviewed in detail by a special board committee appointed by Boland. Members of the new Recommendations Review Committee include:
- Thomas Watjen ’76
- David Miller ’70
- Eugene Scott ’80
- Lara Chambers ’03
- Lt. Gen. Charles Dominy (ret.)
- Mike Hamlar
- Richard Hines ’66
- Conrad Hall ’65
- Lester Johnson ’95
The committee will review the remaining recommendations and report back to the Board of Visitors before the scheduled meeting in September. The committee will consider recommendations through the lens of the Institute’s mission and unique method of education.
“We are grateful for many of the constructive recommendations in the commonwealth’s report released yesterday and look forward to working with SCHEV to ensure concerns are appropriately addressed,” said Board of Visitors President-elect Thomas Watjen ’76. “The Board of Visitors takes its oversight responsibilities seriously and will work closely with our new superintendent to ensure that the commonwealth’s recommendations are being implemented consistent with VMI’s mission. The board is confident in Maj. Gen. Wins’ abilities and commitment as he leads VMI into the future.”
