Feb. 22, 2026 Editor, The News-Gazette: As a member of the Lexington City Council, I affirm my support of Virginia Military Institute and the critical role that VMI plays in our region’s identity, community well-being, and economic vitality.
VMI stands as a hallmark of academic excellence, principled leadership, and service to the commonwealth. Its mission not only produces graduates of exceptional character, capability and leadership, but it also strengthens the fabric of our local community in many ways. VMI cadets, faculty and staff are active supporters to numerous charitable efforts, community engagement, and public service initiatives.
More broadly, VMI is an essential economic engine for our region. The Institute supports local businesses, generates employment, and attracts visitors and families whose spending contributes to the hospitality, retail and service sectors. In a rural region like ours, that economic impact is especially meaningful by preserving jobs, expanding opportunities, and promoting broader regional development.
VMI alumni serve with distinction across important military, government, business, and educational sectors, reflecting positively on Virginia as a whole and reinforcing our state’s commitment to leadership development and excellence. VMI’s graduates — with high earlycareer earnings and strong employment outcomes — often remain connected to Virginia in their careers, enhancing the commonwealth’s workforce and leadership base. Additionally, VMI’s alumni network is one of the strongest in the country.
I support the mission, resources, and long-term stability of Virginia Military Institute. Its success is integrated with the success of our community on all levels. VMI provides many long-term benefits that cannot be easily replaced. Continued support for VMI is not only an investment in a historic institution, but in the economic resilience, workforce strength, and community vitality of Lexington, Rockbridge County, and the commonwealth of Virginia as a whole. CHUCK SMITH Lexington City Council
