The Major General W. Thomas Rice
Ring Collection

Major General W. Thomas Rice is one of the many distinguished alumni of Virginia Tech. He currently resides near Richmond, Virginia. He graduated with the Class of 1934 with a degree in Civil Engineering and spent four years in the Corps of Cadets.

After graduating, Major General Rice served in WWII and then in the Army Reserves until his retirement. After service to his country, he gave back to Virginia Tech. His many leadership roles included serving as the President of the Alumni Association, Rector of the Board of Visitors, and a member of Hokies for Higher Education, Engineering’s Committee of 100, the William Preston Society, the Old Guard Committee, the President’s Council Membership Committee, the VT Foundation Board and the Executive Committee. This spring, the Corps of Cadets Leadership School was named in his honor. Major General Rice recently echoed the sentiment of the university motto, Ut Prosim, when he remarked, “Do more than the job requires.” This message reflects his commitment to Virginia Tech.

The Class of 2005 is very proud to name our Ring Collection after Major General Rice and hopes that you will come meet and talk with him either at the Ring Premiere or Ring Dance. As the Class of 2005 graduates into the broader community, Major General Rice reminds us of the values, traditions, and memories of Virginia Tech.