Inclusive Excellence

Inclusive Excellence Mission Statement

The Virginia Tech Department of Geography recognizes the value of opportunities and resources within the university community.

In performing this mission, the Department of Geography embraces the Principles of Community. Our department believes in the benefits that come from unique talents and perspectives that facilitate greater creativity and success.

Statement from Tom Crawford, department chair

As the geography department chair, I speak on behalf of the entire department in stating our commitment to work hard to enhance a sense of belonging to all students, faculty, staff and guests. We value diverse perspectives. An important theme of geography is the idea of sense of place. We will strive to continually create a welcoming sense of place. We invite everyone to find your home in geography.  

Committee Members for 2024-25

• Lisa Kennedy (chair)
• Eranga Galappaththi
• Luke Juran
• Jacob Tatum (graduate representative)
• Brenna Demko (undergraduate representative)
• Xavier Burns (undergraduate representative)

Resources for Fieldwork and Field Trips

• Field safety resources for students and faculty - from Virginia Tech's Environmental Health and Safety office
• Field safety plan - to be completed prior to fieldwork or field trips
• Information about Research Ethics and Virginia Tech's Institutional Review Board (IRB)
• Site to initiate IRB review for a research project

Resources for Teaching

• Syllabus Tips and Statements website
• Creating a community of learners 
• Support for first-generation college students
• Assisting students and colleagues in distress (.PDF)
• Mental Health First Aid Training
• Undergraduate Summer Research Internship through the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program