The Hokie™ Way Expands Charitable Partnerships Nonprofit enhances the Student-Athlete experience through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Deals

July 27, 2023

[Blacksburg, VA, July 27, 2023] The Hokie Way, an independent 501(c)(3) organization, is proud to highlight the incredible work and positive impact achieved through its charitable partnerships over the past several months. Through strategic collaborations with esteemed organizations, The Hokie Way has harnessed the power of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) of Virginia Tech student-athletes to promote charitable causes and create lasting change in the community.

The Hokie Way's initial roster of charitable partners included the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia, Special Olympics of the New River Valley, Feeding Southwest Virginia, and The Life Ring Foundation. In recent months, The Hokie Way’s Board of Directors approved the American Heart Association, Roanoke Prevention Alliance, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia, and Eastmont Community Foundation as additional partners. While each organization champions various initiatives, they inspire a wave of kindness and compassion across the region.

Matthew Sams, Director of Operations for The Hokie Way, stated, "The past several months have been truly remarkable for The Hokie Way and our charitable partners. Our student-athletes have proven to be incredible advocates, using their platforms to make a real difference in the lives of others. The impact they've had on our partner organizations and the communities they serve is immeasurable, and we are immensely proud of their dedication and passion."

In 2023, Virginia Tech student-athletes have been actively promoting the charitable organizations, dedicating their time and influence to raise awareness and support for the meaningful causes they represent. The Hokie Way is excited to collaborate with these nonprofits, each playing a vital role in improving the lives of individuals and communities across Southwest Virginia.

"We believe in the power of collaboration and are thrilled to align our student-athletes with these impactful nonprofits,” said Jim Petrine, President of The Hokie Way Board of Directors. “By leveraging their NIL, we can amplify the charitable efforts and make a meaningful difference." 

The Hokie Way's upcoming "Countdown to Kick-off Donation Match" campaign, beginning August 1st and leading right up to kickoff at the first Virginia Tech home football game on September 2, presents a significant opportunity for Hokie Nation to make an enduring impact. Generous donors have pledged to match up to $250,000 in donations received during the campaign. Supporting The Hokie Way empowers VT student-athletes in creating a lasting impact with their charitable partners and communities.

Additional information may be found at www.thehokieway.org

About The Hokie Way

The Hokie™Way is an independent 501(c)(3), founded to facilitate the use of the Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) of Virginia Tech student-athletes to help promote charitable causes. For more information, visit thehokieway.org.

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Media Contact:

Robyn Jones

Joba Studio, Inc.

540.553.8143, ext. 2

robyn@jobastudio.com


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