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May 24: The Pamplin Pulse: Special Tribute to Dean Sumichrast

Editor's Note: This special edition of the Pamplin Pulse celebrates Dean Robert Sumichrast, who will retire from the Pamplin College of Business after nearly 30 years of service at Virginia Tech. The content below includes highlights from Dean Sumichrast’s distinguished tenure at the Pamplin College of Business. Please enjoy the look back!

Retirement Tribute for Dean Robert Sumichrast

In honor of his service to Pamplin and Virginia Tech, members of the Hokie community wish Dean Sumichrast well in his retirement.

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  • General Item
    Dean's Retirement Reception
    Dean's Retirement Reception

    On May 10, 2022, members of the university community gathered to celebrate the retirement of Pamplin College of Business Dean Robert Sumichrast at the Moss Arts Center. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail reception, remarks from Virginia Tech leaders, the unveiling of Dean Sumichrast's portrait, a special tribute video, and more.

Robert T. Sumichrast appointed dean of Pamplin College of Business

In January 2013, Robert T. Sumichrast was appointed dean of the Pamplin College of Business, effective July 1. Sumichrast succeeded Richard E. Sorensen, who retired June 30, 2013, after 31 years of service as dean of the Pamplin College. 

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Robert T. Sumichrast named the Richard E. Sorensen Dean in the Pamplin College of Business
  • Article Item
    Dean Sumichrast unveils plans for $250 million Global Business and Analytics Complex
    Dean Sumichrast unveils plans for $250 million Global Business and Analytics Complex , article

    The future of the Pamplin College of Business was further unveiled to an eager crowd of students gathered in the Pamplin Atrium this past Wednesday. Dean Robert T. Sumichrast led the presentation with a speech highlighting the opportunities surrounding the Global Business and Analytics Complex that will break ground in 2020. This $250 million project will rely on a percentage of private donations—an exciting opportunity for alumni to contribute to the future of Pamplin.

Data and Decision Sciences Building construction underway
Board of Visitors approves design phase for Global Business and Analytics Complex second academic building
Supporting and advancing world-class faculty
Executive business research: Not your typical students, not your usual Ph.D.
DEIB training to amplify Pamplin faculty
Hospitality and tourism management department to be named for Howard Feiertag

Recognition opportunity: Robert T. Sumichrast Innovation and Entrepreneurship Suite within GBAC

Construction continues to progress on the Data & Decision Sciences Building, the first academic building within GBAC. A key milestone in advancing GBAC, in April 2022, the Board of Visitors approved a planning authorization to complete designs through working drawings for the second academic building which will be the future home of Pamplin.

Through the generous contributions of Pamplin Advisory Council members and many other key supporters, the Robert T. Sumichrast Innovation and Entrepreneurship Suite* is included in the design phase for the second building.

This recognition will be a legacy and tribute to Dean Sumichrast’s vision for GBAC and his role in supporting the innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives such as the Apex Center for Entrepreneurs, the Innovate Learning Community, and the entrepreneurship academic ecosystem for Pamplin and the university.

Contribute a gift in honor of Dean Sumichrast

Gifts toward the Robert T. Sumichrast Innovation and Entrepreneurship Suite in honor of Dean Sumichrast can be made through the Virginia Tech Giving Portal. To give:

  • Visit the Giving Portal.
  • Area: College of Business – Pamplin (should be pre-populated).
  • Fund: Global Business Analytics Complex (should be pre-populated).
  • Click “Add Gift to Cart.”
  • In cart, click: “Honorary/Memorial Gifts;” “Yes;” “In Honor of.”
  • In box, type “Robert Sumichrast.”
  • Click “Give Now” to proceed to checkout.

*Please note, all gifts and commitments applied to the naming opportunity in the GBAC building in honor of Dean Robert T. Sumichrast, and such recognition, shall be made in accordance with the Virginia Tech Commemorative Tributes Policy and is subject to approval by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors. 

Make a gift or pledge in support of GBA

Help ensure the full vision of GBAC and its second academic building are realized by making a contribution. Please email pamplin_advancement@vt.edu for giving opportunities and any questions.

Learn More About GBAC

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