Good morning, Blacksburg.

Holden Thorp, editor-in-chief of Science, visited Virginia Tech on April 22 to challenge researchers to be more open about mistakes and best practices as part of the RISE Lecture Series—he met with local scholars in Blacksburg and Roanoke while citing findings that 76 percent of U.S. adults trust science over many other institutions. This visit aimed to help the research community address ethical challenges and improve public communication.

Brynn McClatchy, a fifth-year architecture student at Virginia Tech (College of Architecture, Arts, and Design), was named Outstanding Undergraduate Student after leading hands-on projects, internships, and overseas studies.

She will graduate in May and plans to move to Richmond to join 3North as a designer while working toward licensure.

Governor Glenn Youngkin broke ground today in Christiansburg on the New River Valley Rail Project that will upgrade railroad tracks and bring Amtrak Virginia service back to the area for the first time since 1979—this project includes a new station platform and other key improvements with full construction set to start this spring and service expected in 2027.

Virginia Tech’s Animal Cancer Care and Research Center treated pet iguana Echo for a cancerous sarcoma near his left eye with advanced radiation treatment—focused to spare his eye—and the Smith family now monitors him closely with no signs of regrowth.

This treatment marks one of the few times such specialized care has been used for an iguana.

Today residents can safely drop off unused prescription drugs at local collection sites from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—an event intended to raise awareness on drug overdose risks and help prevent medication misuse.

After months of restoration following damage from Hurricane Helene — which washed out multiple holes — the River Course at Virginia Tech celebrated its grand re-opening on April 25 at 12 p.m.

Paint Nite: Perfect Spring Lookout

6-8 p.m. — Rising Silo Brewery — $45 per person, supplies included — Unleash your creativity in a fun painting party hosted by The Heartworks Co.