What we do
Start with us. We know Virginia Tech. Our caring team wants to get to know you so we can walk with you every step of the way. We are mentors and advocates who can point you in the right direction, be a sounding board, and assist with personal, social, and academic challenges. We’re here to help—and cheer you on from orientation to graduation!
General Support and Advice
Our staff is here to provide support and advice when life throws you a curve. If you are having difficulty in your personal or academic life, we are here to assist you in finding the appropriate resources to help. Quick answers to common concerns are below.
Crisis and Emergency Response
Someone from our office is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additionally, staff from Cook Counseling Center and Housing are also on call during the same hours.
In cases of emergency between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., call 540-231-3787. After hours, the on-call staff member from the Dean's staff may be reached by calling the Virginia Tech Police at 540-231-6411.
Counsel and Referral
Our staff is trained to help you determine the appropriate course of action if you have a crisis, need medical care, or just need to talk. If you need services that we are unable to provide, we will refer you to professionals who can help.
Student Conduct Referral Advising
Call the Dean’s staff office at 231-3787 to schedule an appointment.
Class Absence Verification
Your professors and/or supervisors ultimately decide whether or not you can make up missed classes, assignments, exams, employment, or other activities. If you provide proper documentation, the Dean of Students staff can verify your absence due to life events that are beyond the scope of your control, including:
- Illness or death of a family member or friend
- Off-campus medical appointments or hospital admission*
- Court subpoenas
- Military orders
- Faith-based practices or celebrations
The Dean of Students staff will not provide absence verifications for the following reasons:
- Family celebrations
- Planned events, such as vacations or trips abroad
- Internships, interviews, student organization trips, or academic trips
For absences due to these circumstances, you are encouraged to discuss the reason for absence with your professor and/or supervisor, who will use their discretion when deciding whether or not to allow makeup work.
The Dean of Students staff provides absence verification only. They do not “excuse” or “approve” absences. Faculty have the final decision on the completion of any missed assignments, tests, or other academic commitments. To submit a request please submit an absence verification request and a dean will be in touch.