Virginia Tech celebrated the accomplishments of its DC Area graduate certificate, master’s degree, and Ph.D. degree candidates with an evening commencement ceremony on December 11. Among the nearly 60 awardees were 45 Innovation Campus Master of Engineering in Computer Science or Computer Engineering graduates, and one Ph.D. in Computer Science.

This is the largest class of Innovation Campus students to graduate during the winter graduation. The uptick demonstrates the Campus’ dedication to closing the tech talent gap in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the region. More than 400 students from the DC Area have been awarded certificates and degrees this academic year; more than 100 of which were Master of Engineering students.

The ceremony, held at the Virginia Tech Research Center – Arlington, featured remarks from: Chontrese Hayes, assistant dean of the graduate school; Barbara Hoopes, interim associate dean for the graduate school; Maria Stewart, associate director for alumni and corporate outreach; Deseria Creighton-Barney, immediate past president of the alumni association board of directors; and Aimée Surprenant, dean of the graduate school.

“According to the Census Bureau, just 8% of the US population complete a Master's degree and only 3% complete the doctoral degree. This is elite company you're in here this evening,” said Surprenant. “I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to the students who have fulfilled the requirements for a graduate degree at Virginia Tech.”

Students are currently taking their courses at the Northern Virginia Center in Falls Church until the Innovation Campus’ first academic building opens in August 2024. At full build, the Innovation Campus will enroll approximately 750 master’s and 200 doctoral students and graduate 550 master’s and 50 doctoral candidates annually.

WATCH THE VIDEO