News & Notices

The latest data released by the authoritative University of Michigan in its widely respected Survey of Consumer Sentiment has pundits worried. The second monthly drop in consumer confidence of 4.6% suggests declining consumer spending in 2025. The survey reported an unusually high jump of 1% in inflation expectations and a 12% drop in consumer durable buying conditions. Consumers may find the same amount of goods in 2025 unaffordable due to higher prices and a weaker economy. However, cutting American’s “consumerism” may evoke cheers from those who believe Americans are too materialistic.

The Federal Reserve is meeting Tuesday and Wednesday, and a potential interest rate cut could be on the horizon. If it happens, it would be the first cut since 2020.

A Buchanan County native, McClanahan has led the Virginia Tech Foundation since 2021. She was previously a state Supreme Court justice and president and dean of the Appalachian School of Law.

Phil Gramm and Donald Boudreaux’s op-ed “We All Pay the Price for Protectionism” (Aug. 13) is standard fare, and I have little disagreement with it about politically protected jobs and industries. Our “best and brightest,” as they write, fail miserably at driving a complex economy.

I am the founder and CEO of a company dedicated to helping business owners grow their government contracting businesses called BOOST.

When retired Justice Elizabeth A. McClanahan talks with people about how to achieve success, her counsel is straightforward: “Show up with passion, say yes to every viable career opportunity that comes along, and take the initiative to pursue these opportunities.”

Gov. Glenn Youngkin recently named five appointees to the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

Liz Lazor lives and works in California, but the young alumna always remains connected to Virginia Tech and never hesitated when asked to become a tri-chair for Boundless Impact: The Campaign for Virginia Tech.

John M. Pinkerton, the SunTrust Professor Emeritus in the Department of Finance, Insurance, and Business Law in the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech, passed away on May 19.

Derek D. Klock, professor of practice of finance in the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the title of professor of practice emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

Pamplin College of Business recently paid tribute to its 2024 Students of Distinction. Among the honors bestowed were the Ut Prosim Excellence Awards, which are accolades from the college level. These honors included the Outstanding Pamplin Senior Award, H. H. Mitchell Outstanding Leadership Award, College Service Award, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Excellence Award, Dean’s Advisory Board of Students President Recognition, as well as the First Honors Graduates.

Arthur Keown, professor of finance in the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

George Morgan, Truist Professor of Finance in the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1985, Kumar has dedicated his career to expanding Pamplin College of Business’s brand on the international stage.

A discussion led by CNBC’s Brian Sullivan during the Hokies on Wall Street event presented divided views among Virginia Tech alumni when assessing the current economic situation.

Navigating tax season can be a source of stress for many individuals. Virginia Tech finance expert Jesse Lineberry shares ways to stay ahead on tax season to avoid being overwhelmed as the April 15 deadline approaches.