Pamplin Leadership Award

The Pamplin Leader award seeks students who demonstrate superior intellectual promise and academic performance, dedication to their communities, interest and success in physical fitness and health, and unimpeachable integrity. ONE student may be nominated from each public high school in Virginia. Students who accept this award must also agree to join the Honors College and work toward an Honors Laureate Diploma.

Award
Varies
Deadline
01/07/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. In an essay of 500 words or fewer, discuss your understanding of effective leadership. [1] What are some qualities of effective leadership? [2] How do you measure effective leadership? [3] Describe the qualities of one effective leader you know, including evidence of how they exemplify these qualities. [4] Where, when, and how have you applied these qualities in your own leadership roles to date? [5] How, specifically, do you intend to continue your development as a leader at Virginia Tech?
  2. Please provide the name and email address of your high school guidance counselor/career advisor: Only one applicant from each Virginia public high school may be nominated for the Pamplin Leadership award. This reference certifies that you are the only nominee from your high school.
  3. Student Self-Certification: I certify that I have been notified by my high school that I am the candidate from my high school. I understand each high school can only have one candidate and that my application will not be considered if my high school does not validate my candidacy. I also understand that I am not guaranteed a Pamplin Leader award, and if I am selected, official notification will come directly from the Virginia Tech Honors College, not my high school.
  4. The information I have provided on this application is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I: a) understand that information I have provided on this application is true and complete to the best of my knowledge; b) agree that I will notify the Honors College should information that I included on my application change (intended major, residence, contact information, etc.); c) recognize and understand the requirement to join the Honors College and work toward an Honors Laureate diploma should I be selected as a Pamplin Leader.