Nonprofit “The Hokie Way” Established to Connect Virginia Tech Student-Athletes with Charitable NIL Opportunities

Partnerships to be facilitated by board of directors with the help of aligned collectives

[Blacksburg, VA, July 19, 2022] The Hokie Way, an independent nonprofit organization that will create active engagements for Virginia Tech student-athletes with charitable goals, has launched.

The Hokie Way will raise funds to support charitable organizations across the Commonwealth through the active engagement of Virginia Tech student-athletes who wish to use their names, image, and likenesses (NIL) to advance the work of charitable organizations. With the help of aligned collectives focused on NIL opportunities, The Hokie Way will assist in building cause-marketing partnerships. 

“The Hokie Nation turns out strong to show its support. When we have a hurricane on a Thursday night [football game], we still show up!” said Jim Petrine, President of the Hokie Way Board of Directors. “Our fans are fantastic in that way, and support us greatly. We are the school with the lunch pail which symbolizes how everyone gets involved. That’s the right way to do NIL, and that’s The Hokie Way.”

Members of The Hokie Way Board of Directors include:

• Jim Petrine, President 

• James Pearman, Treasurer

• Jim Cowan, Secretary

• Justin Robinson

• Nick Rush

• Bridget Ryan Berman

• Tyrod Taylor

• Jaila Tolbert

• Kelly Woolwine 

“The Hokie Way is creating an opportunity for Virginia Tech student-athletes to seamlessly leverage their NIL in a way that will shine a light on the tremendous work being done by charitable organizations in Virginia,” said Sara Bohn, Executive Director of the United Way of the New River Valley.  “The exposure will undoubtedly provide additional awareness and resources needed to support people within our communities.”

‘That I may serve,’ is a well-known mantra to all Hokies. The commitment to lifting the human spirit through service is central to the education provided at Virginia Tech. This mantra is embraced and at the heart of The Hokie Way mission. Additional information may be found at www.thehokieway.org.