2
M a g a z i n e
Mary Nolen Blackwood almost didn’t
come to Virginia Tech.
Sc i e n c e
As a high school senior in Annandale, Va., her first
choice was an out-of-state college. But when a
scholarship required that she attend a school in
Virginia, she decided on Virginia Tech sight unseen.
“I was the first one in my family to go to college,”
Blackwood, who was one of seven children, said.
“So we didn’t know that you typically visit a college
first.”
C o l l e g e
o f
Also, little did she know that her decision 38 years
ago would later ignite such school spirit that she
now claims a lineage of more than 20 extended
family members who proudly call themselves Hokies.
Issue No.4 Fall 2007
Blackwood’s involvement with the university, particularly the College of Science, as an alumna has
been nothing short of exemplary. She is one of the
school’s most outspoken and influential female
alumni. Most recently, she was named chair of the
campaign committee for the College of Science, an
appointment she considers “very humbling.” With a
goal of $55 million, members of the committee have
dedicated the next few years of their lives to making
sure the financial resources are in place to keep the
college in the forefront of scientific learning, discovery, and engagement (See “Solving Real-World Problems Now” page 6).
In the Beginning, In the Minority
Blackwood excelled in college despite being part
of a distinct minority of women at the school in the
early 70s.
BLENDING
PASSIONS
Alumna combines Hokie Spirit with
service to the College of Science
“I was very happy from the beginning,” she said. “I
loved the school and loved the psychology program.
The only overwhelming thing was that there were so
many men and so few women on campus.”
She recalled that often she was the only female
or one of only a handful of females in a class. The
school’s student body